Winter Fishing on the Minneapolis Mississippi: Cold, but the Walleye and Crappie are Biting

For January 12, 2025, on the Mississippi River in the Minneapolis area, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing conditions: First off, it's important to note that the Mississippi River in Minneapolis is not a tidal river, so we don't have to worry about tides affecting our fishing. However, other factors like water levels, weather, and time of day are crucial. ### Weather and Water Conditions The weather today is quite cold, typical for mid-January in Minneapolis. Temperatures are in the mid-teens to low twenties Fahrenheit, with a light breeze. The river levels are a bit above normal due to the recent snowmelt and ice formation, but they are slowly dropping as the winter sets in[3]. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise today is at around 7:50 AM, and sunset is at about 4:45 PM. These times are critical for planning your fishing trip. ### Fish Activity Despite the cold, fish are still active, especially in areas with some current and structure. Walleye, sauger, and crappies are the main targets this time of year. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few walleyes and saugers in the deeper pools and near structure like bridge pilings and drop-offs. ### Best Lures and Bait For walleyes and saugers, jigs tipped with minnows or fatheads are working well. Crappies are hitting small jigs and tiny spoons. The key is to fish slowly and patiently, as the cold water makes the fish less active. ### Hot Spots One of the best spots right now is near the Ford Dam, where the current creates a good environment for walleyes and saugers. Another spot is the area around the Lake Street Bridge, where the structure attracts crappies and other panfish. ### Additional Tips Make sure to dress warmly, as the cold can quickly become uncomfortable. Also, be cautious of ice forming on the river, especially in the slower-moving areas. Overall, it's a good day to get out on the river if you're prepared for the cold and know where to look for the fish. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.