Autumn Bounty on the Mississippi: Walleye, Sauger, and Panfish Thriving Despite Chilly Temps

As of November 22, 2024, the fishing scene on the Mississippi River, particularly around the Minneapolis area, is quite promising despite the chilly autumn weather. ### Weather and Conditions The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. Water temperatures are around 38°F, which is typical for this time of year. The river's water level is currently low, resulting in reduced current flow. ### Fish Activity Walleye and Sauger are the main targets this time of year, and the bite has been consistent. Yesterday saw a good number of quality fish up to 21 inches being caught. The fish are scattered throughout the river, including areas from Lake Pepin to the dam. ### Best Lures and Bait Vertical jigging and using Dubuque rigs have been highly effective. Berkley Powerbait, specifically curly bones, bonefish, rib worms, and ripple shads in green, purple, and white colors, are the top producers. Stickbaits on 3-way rigs are also working well. For those preferring live bait, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler have been successful for panfish like Bluegills, Crappies, and Perch. ### Hot Spots Focus your efforts on the northern part of Pool 4, particularly the upper part of Lake Pepin and areas around Wabasha, which still has a strong Walleye bite. Rock shorelines, wing dams, and areas with wood and weeds are also producing good numbers. ### Additional Tips Use your side imaging to locate schools of fish, as this can significantly improve your chances of a successful catch. With the low current flow, fish can be found almost anywhere in the channel. Overall, it's a great time to be out on the Mississippi River, and with the right gear and knowledge, you're likely to have a productive and enjoyable fishing trip. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.