Frigid Fishing: Reeling in Walleye and Sauger on the Icy Mississippi Near Minneapolis

As of January 2, 2025, the fishing scene on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis is quite unique given the winter conditions. Here’s what you need to know: ### Weather and Conditions The weather is cold, with temperatures in the mid-teens to low twenties Fahrenheit. Ice cover is significant, but there are still some open areas, particularly around the dams and areas with strong current. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise today is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset is expected at about 4:45 PM. ### Fish Activity Despite the cold, winter walleye, sauger, and panfish are active. Anglers have been reporting decent catches of walleye and sauger, especially in the deeper holes and near structure. ### Catches Yesterday, anglers reported catching several walleyes in the 18-22 inch range, along with some saugers up to 4 pounds. Panfish, including crappies and sunfish, were also plentiful. ### Best Lures and Bait For walleye and sauger, using live bait such as minnows, chubs, or willow cats on a jig or 3-way rig is highly effective. Trolling or casting these rigs in the upper channels, especially around areas like Katrina’s Cut on Lake Pepin (a bit downstream but relevant for similar fish behavior), can yield good results. For panfish, small jigs tipped with waxworms or tiny minnows work well. ### Hot Spots - **Ford Dam**: This area is known for its strong current, which keeps the water open and attracts fish. - **Lock and Dam No. 1**: The structure here creates a habitat for walleye and sauger, making it a prime spot for winter fishing. ### Additional Tips Be cautious of ice conditions, as they can change quickly. Always check the ice thickness before venturing out, and consider using a portable ice shelter to stay warm. The Mississippi River in Minneapolis offers excellent winter fishing opportunities, but safety should always be the top priority. Stay warm and tight lines This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.