Hot Walleye Bite on the Mississippi River - Panfish and Catfish Also Cooperating

Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Sunday, May 18th, 2025. Let me tell you, the Mississippi River is absolutely on fire right now for walleye fishing in both Minnesota and Wisconsin sections. These walleyes are in a transitional period which has created some fantastic angling opportunities. The weather today is looking favorable for a day on the water. With water levels running a bit lower than normal due to our relatively dry winter and spring, you'll want to keep an eye out for navigational hazards, especially if you're bringing the boat out. Pool 2 from Ford Dam to Hastings Dam continues to produce exceptional walleye and sauger action. Remember though, it's catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in this section, but the action makes it well worth your time. The tailwater habitat below the locks and dams has been particularly productive. Panfish are also biting strong right now, with bluegill and crappie populations showing good numbers and quality-sized fish. This is partly thanks to reduced ice fishing pressure this past winter due to poor conditions. Channel and flathead catfish numbers are excellent throughout the pools, and they're becoming increasingly active as water temperatures continue to climb. White bass action is picking up nicely too. For pike anglers, the low water levels have concentrated the fish, making for some productive fishing in the backwaters and connected lakes. If you're looking for hot spots, I'd recommend focusing on the tailwaters below the dams for walleye. The bite has been especially good there. For panfish, check out the backwater areas with structure. As for bait and lures, jigs tipped with minnows have been working great for walleye in the current transitional period. Crankbaits and spinners are also producing when trolled along current breaks. For those heading to other waters in the region, Rainy River has been reporting great walleye action with plenty of nice fish still in the river, including big fish, slots, and eaters. This is Artificial Lure signing off. Tight lines, everyone, and I hope to see you on the water this beautiful Sunday! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.