Detroit Lakes Fishing Report (9/1/26)

Welcome to the Extended Edition of this week's Detroit Lakes fishing report — this version contains the depths, presentations, and other tips you won't find anywhere else.  Thanks for reading!

Go deep this week, like Randy Moss!  That reference might date me, but you get the picture. 🏈 Walleyes are holding in 20'-30' on a lot of lakes right now, but there are still good weeds around, so don't give up on the shallower weeds just yet. Crawlers and small minnows on a jig have been the go-to live bait combo, regardless of depth.  Remember, always use the lightest jig possible for the most natural presentation.  Personally, I use a 1/16 oz jig (no heavier than an 1/8 oz) in deep water, and only go heavier if the wind prevents my line from being taut.  (Yes, that’s the correct word, but people will look at you sideways when you use it!)  If you’re using your LiveScope to target suspended fish, your choice of jig weight matters even more.  Light is right!

The crappie bite has slowed a bit along the weedlines this week, but the sunfish are picking up the slack.  Slide out a little deeper and lean on your electronics to find the schools, then work them once you see ‘em.  Stay light on your jig in this scenario, too.The smallmouth bite is in full swing. They're chasing live bait and plastics alike out in 20'+ of water and if you cast just a few feet nearer deep weedlines, you'll find some aggressive largemouth mixed in with them too, and they are usually big!  Pull out the whole arsenal for bass this time of year.  From finesse presentations such as a drop shot, neko rig or ned rig, to heavy jigs, plus Texas, and Carolina rigs, black bass can’t get enough right now!  

If you can swing it, get out before the weekend and catch the tail end of the consistent weather we've had lately. It looks like a turbulent weekend ahead but we all know better than to judge weather more than 12 hours in advance the past few years!  Bob Dylan said it best, “You don’t need a weatherman to tell you where the wind blows”.  Good luck out there and taut lines! 🎣

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The fishing gets better every day. Heading into the fall, all species will be putting the feedbag on as the temps start to drop, and the sun starts to fade earlier.

Now is the time to book a trip with me on the Baxstar boat! New 3-hour evening trip options become available as off season prices kick in after the holiday weekend, making the Baxstar experience more accessible to everyone! You can get out on the water starting at $437, out the door. Click here to book your trip online in minutes. I hope to see you on the water this fall!