Pool 4 turns on ~ finally! - Mississippi River – Walleye - Mississippi River – Walleye - Page 2

The last storm dumped a ton of heavy snow in areas that can influence the big river from the Twin Cities on down when melting. And it is melting big time.

Here in Rochester where 12 inches was pretty common for a snow depth we are seeing some light rain and the snow we got is largely gone this morning except in areas where it may have drifted of gotten piled up during removal. Flat areas are showing a ton of green already. I know that the southern sections of the Metro had heavy snow too and that will make its way into the Minnesota River, so those gates may stay open a while. I think pool 5 and points down-river are going to take a hit from this white stuff that fell locally.

RRR made a comment recently that high water had to remain high for a while after spawning to allow the eggs to hatch and the young to orient themselves. I think what’s happening is likely what he is referring to.

As for the slow success, right about now in the cycle is when we begin to see some change-over from bait, hair and plastic tactics to pulling cranks or getting serious on dragging blades. People can get lulled into mediocrity or laziness and not try something because they don’t think its time for the technique. Honestly I think those that are fishing down stream from Baypoint to the head of the lake or lower are the thinkers right now. And with the higher water levels that back channel from the bridge down should be holding some serious weight for those who carefully venture into the area.