Detroit Lakes Fishing Report: Extended Edition (10/13/26)
To you hardcore anglers still reading this report, a tip of the hat–and good luck the rest of the open water season. Here’s the scoop.
Some lakes are turning over in the Detroit Lakes area, and this has caused a break in the action for some anglers. As water in the upper portion of the water column gets colder, it eventually gets more dense than the water at the bottom of a lake. When this happens, it “turns over”, bringing with it lots of junk from the bottom of the lake (sediment, plant matter, nutrients, gasses, etc). This makes for tough fishing, for a number of reasons I won’t go into. Ultimately, bait fish scatter, causing game fish to scatter. Oxygen levels also change, and the water can even get murky for a few days. The good news is, once a lake turns over, fish begin feeding like crazy to put on weight for the winter months. Next week, I’ll shed light on where to find them.
For now, Otter Tail has yet to turn, this week’s picture was taken by Brad Laabs from a recent Otter Tail trip. Greg (pictured) has been fishing with Brad for over 25 years but he still cracks a smile every time he catches an eye. Fish a jig & minnow on weed edges and shoreline breaks.
If you’re hard headed like me, you’re probably still going to hit the water during the turnover. If that’s the case, bring panfishing gear with you. The panfish bite is most reliable. We’re finding them deep, around 20-25’, both suspended and on bottom. A slip bobber with live bait gives you a chance to catch panfish and walleye, so take it easy out there – it will double your odds of catching dinner. Good luck out there!
Last call for fall fishing! My calendar is open through October 25th. I've still got mostly afternoon-evening availability left. The bite is going to heat up soon, so now's the time to book online. I hope to see you on the water very soon!
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