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Smallies in the Ottertail River


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This is something I don't hear much about.

Is it a big secret or a big bust? smile.gif

I am getting more addicted to bronzies while fishing the Mississippi around St Cloud, and I just may need to try my luck around Fergus while visiting the cabin.

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Pretty much a bust as far as I can see. Heard about it when I first got here, but didn't fnd much going on. Gotta be better places I'm guessing.

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Far from a bust! From what I hear, Smallies really took off in the river. I have seen people fishing from shore at orwell dam pull in many 3-4 lbers. I have a friend who canoes a un-boatable section of the Ottertail and hammers em. I think the best parts are areas where canoes are the only way you can fish. Too shallow to float a boat. I've seen his pictures...impressive! Remember tho, the river is catch and release only.

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Bass are catch and release every where I go.
wink.gif

I have also heard about these areas where you can only get a canoe into the river.

There are so many darn lakes up there, I never really gave much thought to the river.
I've got my eye on about 200 more lakes I'd like to fish up there, so add another destination to the list possibly.

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Oh, cripes, you let the cat out of the bag BLB. grin.gif

I've had a ton of fun in the OT a couple years ago. Right in downtown Fergus at the power dam. I should go back....

Gissert and I hit Orwell and caught some small smallies a while back. I think we are going to give it another look see sometime in the future. This time with waders, eh Gissert??? smile.gif

We should get together for a morning duck shoot and/or Orwell goose shoot then hit some smallies. Can't beat that on a nice fall afternoon....

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ChuckN -

Why should I use waders? There would be no entertainment for you, LOL.

I am still thinking about taking my flyrod out there for those big buffalo and carp that were rising that day. I need to get back there.

That hunt/fish thought is a GREAT idea. We'll have to do that for sure.

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hi all-
i heard that the smallies were planted up stream from fergus and then all washed down (and now reside) in the orwell area. is this true?

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  • Your Responses - Share & Have Fun :)

    • leech~~
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    • smurfy
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    • CigarGuy
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    • PSU
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    • Mike89
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    • Hookmaster
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