Walleye Blitz on the Mississippi River - A Fishing Report for May 24, 2025

Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for this beautiful Saturday morning, May 24th, 2025. The Mississippi River is absolutely on fire right now for walleye anglers in the Minneapolis area! These fish are in a transitional period, and they're really biting despite some challenging weather we've had lately with wind and cold conditions[1][2]. Water levels are running a bit lower than normal due to our relatively dry winter and spring. This creates some great fishing opportunities, but keep your eyes peeled for navigational hazards when you're out boating. For today, we're looking at a decent day to be on the water. The walleye and sauger action has been particularly strong in Pool 2 from Ford Dam to Hastings Dam. Remember, it's catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in Pool 2, but the action is well worth it[5]. The post-spawn walleye are still hanging around in the Rainy River, and fishing reports have been very good this past week[4]. If you're heading out today, focus on the tailwater habitats below the locks and dams where the bite has been most consistent[5]. Channel and flathead catfish numbers are excellent throughout the pools, and they're becoming more active as water temperatures climb. White bass action is picking up nicely too[5]. For you pike anglers, the lower water levels have concentrated these predators, making for some productive fishing. You'll find quality pike in the backwaters and connected lakes[5]. Don't sleep on the panfish either! Bluegill, crappie, and bass populations are showing good numbers with quality-sized fish. With the reduced ice fishing pressure this past winter, the open water angling has been exceptional[5]. For hot spots, I'd recommend trying below the Ford Dam early morning, where walleyes have been hitting jigs tipped with minnows. Another productive area has been near the confluence with the Minnesota River, where the mixing waters create a prime feeding zone. Lure-wise, jigs in the 1/8 to 1/4 oz range tipped with fathead minnows or plastics have been producing well. For those targeting catfish, cut bait and stinkbaits are your best bet in the deeper holes. The panfish have been responding well to small jigs tipped with waxworms or tiny crappie minnows. Get out there while the bite is hot! This is Artificial Lure signing off, and remember – the worst day fishing still beats the best day working! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.