Detroit Lakes Fishing Report (4/28/26)

Just like that, the open water season has begun in the Detroit Lakes area. Ice is out on all 412 lakes within 25 miles of DL (and the rest of the state, for that matter). Conditions are shifting with the weather, and fish are responding accordingly. Crappies and bass are sliding shallow on sunny days as water temps climb, making for some solid action up tight near any structure. When temps dip or clouds roll in, expect fish to back off into deeper water, holding along weed edges and transitions. Stay flexible with your approach and you’ll stay on them.  With clouds in the forecast, you may find more fish in the 8’-12’ range.  Start there and work your way shallow casting small shallow diving Rapala crankbaits and 1/16” jigs tipped with plastics.  Once you find the crappies, a plastic under a bobber is hard to beat.  For bass, the same tactics apply, search until you find the school–just up the size of the searchbait you’re using. Some of the best and easiest bass fish of the year is coming up.  Good luck out there and thanks for reading!

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Get on top of the early crappie bite with Baxstar—or come slam bass with me in the new Vexus. Regardless of the species, I want to see YOU on the water with me this spring.

My off-peak season runs through May 31st, and it’s the smartest way to get on the water with me at a better value before peak season pricing and availability take over. If you’ve been considering a trip, now’s your window.

Check availability and see exact pricing for your group below—click any price to view your total and secure your date.