"Spring Bite on the Mississippi: Walleyes, Bass, and Catfish Thrive in April"

Good morning anglers! Here’s your fishing report for the Mississippi River near Minneapolis on Monday, April 14, 2025. Conditions are shaping up to offer a productive day on the water, so let’s dive in. The weather today features clear skies with a daytime high of 52°F, making it a perfect spring day to wet a line. Sunrise was at 6:38 AM, and sunset will be at 7:55 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to chase your favorite species. Recent snowmelt and rains have caused the water level to rise slightly, adding some current but also improving fish activity in specific areas. Water temperatures hover around 42-44°F. Fish activity has been picking up with the spring season. Walleyes are transitioning into post-spawn behaviors, making them a prime target. Smallmouth bass are also starting to become more active as water temperatures slowly rise. For catfish enthusiasts, the Mississippi remains a premier spot for channel and flathead catfish. **What’s being caught:** Walleyes and saugers have been biting well in pools 2 and 4. Anglers have reported catches of eater-sized walleyes along with some trophies. A few smallmouth bass are being caught near rocky structures. Catfish action is consistent, especially on channel cats, with some flatheads reported around deeper snags. **Best baits and lures:** - Walleyes: Use ⅜-ounce jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in purple, black, or chartreuse. Blade baits like SteelShads, as well as vibrating jigs, work great in current breaks and deeper runs. - Smallmouth Bass: Try soft plastics like tubes in green pumpkin or crawfish patterns near rocky areas. - Catfish: Nightcrawlers, cut bait, or chicken liver fished on heavy rigs in deep holes or areas where slack water meets current are producing results. **Hot spots:** 1. **Pool 2 (near Hidden Falls):** Target current seams and deeper runs for walleye using jigs or live bait rigs. 2. **Lock and Dam No. 1 (Ford Dam):** Fish the eddies below the dam for catfish and saugers. 3. **Pool 4 near Lake Pepin:** A favorite spot for walleyes and saugers, especially trolling crankbaits along breaklines. Please use caution as the river is still carrying some debris from the recent rise in water levels. Keep an eye out for logs and other hazards. Tight lines to everyone heading out today—don't forget your camera for those brag-worthy catches! Stay safe out there and enjoy the spring bite. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.