Late September finally brought some cool nights and days out here on the prairie. With cooling water temps and shorter days, the walleye bite is getting pretty good in N/E South Dakota.
Much of my fishing life, I’ve ignored the Glacial Lakes area during open water and instead most of my boat angling was done on the reservoirs of the mighty Missouri river. This is ironic because most of my ice fishing is done up here. Earlier this year, I was able to relocate to my wife’s hometown of Aberdeen, SD. It surely beats the 2 1/2 hour drive up north from Sioux Falls like I was use to. Focusing on my new job up here has limited my time on the water, maybe more than I’m comfortable with. With things winding down for the year, I’ve been able to get out more the past couple weeks.
I’ve also got to spend some time on the water with Quintin B. He and I have known of each other for some time – though mutual friends, but never had the opportunity to fish together. He knows these lakes as well as anybody, so it was a treat to be able to have him jump in the boat with me last Sunday. Here’s to many more trips my friend!
Fish have been relating to shallow, wind blown shorelines and points that have deep water close by. These areas that also contain rock and wood have been money. We have been pitching a variety of crankbaits with much success. Rapala Minnow Raps, X-Raps, and RS Shad Raps have been the best. A follow up pass with a soft swim bait has pulled an extra few fish off these same areas after we’ve covered it thoroughly with the cranks. Fish are starting to feed on small frogs and perch (as evidenced after cleaning some) Boat control is key, as a boat too close to these areas will push them off.
This next week is forcasted to have stable weather so I’m certain the fishing will get even better. As I’m typing this, I’m already planning next weekends fishing plans.
Andy
