Mississippi River Fishing Report Minneapolis May 2025: Walleyes, Sauger, and Catfish Biting Strong

Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Minneapolis on this fine May 26, 2025. Sunrise was at 5:54 AM with sunset rolling in around 8:24 PM, giving us that sweet, long spring day to put in some hours casting and trolling. The weather’s been mild and steady, perfect for a day on the river. We’re looking at comfortable temps, no major rain in sight, but keep that windbreaker handy just in case. River levels are still running a little low thanks to a dry winter and spring, so watch out for rocks and the odd snag if you’re boating. There’s no real tidal movement here, but the steady current has the fish active and on the move[4]. Fish activity is excellent right now. Walleyes are on fire, especially in Pool 2, which stretches from Ford Dam down to Hastings. These fish are in a post-spawn transition, stacking up below dams and around current breaks. The bite’s been steady all week, and anglers are reporting plenty of action. Remember, Pool 2 is catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass, but don’t let that fool you—the numbers and average size have been impressive lately[3][4]. The best action has come on jigs tipped with live minnows or fatheads. If you’re working the edges during low light, try a soft plastic or throw some crankbaits early and late in the day. Crankbaits are getting hit hard in faster water. Catfish are also biting well—there’s a solid population of channel cats here if you want a tug on your line, with cut bait or stink bait being the top producers[4][5]. Recent catches include good numbers of walleye pulled from just below the Ford Dam, and sauger mixed in, especially on the downstream side of island breaks. Catfish are coming from deeper holes near river bends, and there’s been a few nice crappies and pike reported from backwater areas on small plastics and minnows[4][5]. Hot spots today: focus your efforts below Ford Dam and in the stretch down to the mouth of Minnehaha Creek. Don’t overlook the current seams near Pike Island either—these spots have been consistent for both walleye and catfish lately. To sum it up: it’s a great time to be on the water around Minneapolis if you’re after walleye, sauger, or catfish. Grab your jigs, minnows, and crankbaits, and fish around structure and current breaks—there’s plenty of action to go around. Good luck out there and see you on the river! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.