Detroit Lakes Fishing Report (4/19/25)

There are few things more exciting to a Minnesota angler than seeing the first open water of the year and, from Detroit Lake, south to Lida and west to Boyer, many lakes are now open in Becker, Otter Tail, and Clay counties.  As anglers wait for the walleye, bass, and pike opener on May 10th the question is, where are the panfish?  The good news is, like all species, sunfish and crappie follow predictable patterns each year based on a few factors, including water temperature..  Until lakes inch closer to the 60° mark, you will find panfish staging in pre-spawn locations.  Look for crappies in deeper water (15’-30’), near shallow flats and bays where they will eventually spawn.  Bluegill can be found near deep breaklines in areas with soft bottoms that contain forage. What's more, panfish may be found even shallower, especially during the day.  A 1/16 oz. jig with a minnow or Berkeley gulp is hard to beat right now, but a minnow beneath a small slip bobber is effective too.  Good luck and stay tuned for more panfish tips next week!