Pine Island report 3/18-3/19

[bturck]

Started out with a half day on Thursday in 28' of water. It was a tough bite. The fish were totally finicky. We were in a house that had produced 25 fish the day before. Started at 1130am and finally moved to 22' at 330p. This depth didn't produce anything so moved to 17' at 400pm and managed several eyes (13-15") for the day.<BR>Friday: Caught several nice sauger out deep, one at 17" with most going around 14-14". Went back shallow 17' again at 400pm and the fish were very aggressive. Managed to ice a 17", 18" and a nice 19" with the rest running at the 14" length.<P>By downsizing to Glow Green Crappie jigs and the smallest minnows we could find we were able to fill out over two days. Large jigs did not produce for us, and it seemed as though it actually spooked the fish. Many would chase, but shy away once they got a good look. We went throught every type and color of jig in the box trying to figure something out. It was definitley one of the toughest bites we had come across this year in four trips.<P>Had a chance to run into CharterBoss at Riverbend on Friday night and listen to some of his War Stories. It was a great social hour (actually 3 hours). We discussed lots of aspects of LOW and I learned a lot from a guy who has spent a conisiderable amount of time on the water there since 1991. Many opinions and theories were discussed however due to the late hour and the extent of the cold ones we tabled any further discusssion until we get back up next week. CharterBoss, thanks for an enjoyable night.<P>Once again the guys at Riverbend did a super job, Kent and Richard always great to see you guys. They are busy moving houses and trying to stay away from the slush holes that starting to present some problems. The weather last night got pretty cool so things were able to firm up again. They are forecasting that for a couple of more days which will be welcome as the meltdown was in full swing on Friday. Hope those who were out had a good time and found some fish. Good luck and hang on. Bill

[New Yankee]

Great post Bill! Still envious that you'll have back to back trips!

[bturck]

NewYankee: Sure hoping the weather holds for just a few more days though. As you know lots of snow on the lake and a big meltdown will turn it into lots and lots of water on top.<P>Too bad you can't make one more run too. Even though the bite was tough it is still worth the drive to this great fishery and we had a great fish fry on Friday night at Riverbend. Take care, talk again soon. Bill

[lakertaker]

bturck - Sounds like you had pretty good fishing late afternoon, we had a so so morning bite on Friday and a terrible afternoon, I caught two fish jigging and the rest were on set lines with Blue Demons and Green, Orange & Red glow jigs 2" off the bottom. We were in 24' of water and did not have an option of moving because of the placement of houses at Border View. Saturday morning was pretty good but the bite died around noon and we packed up and headed for home. The kid did great fishing and of course he out fished the old man, he did manage to get a little wet playing outside on Friday afternoon and lost a boot for a little bit but we managed. I wanted to get over and meet you on Friday but the kid was bushed by 7:00, thanks again for the post on the accomodations and I look forward to your future posts and reply's.<P>lakertaker

[bturck]

Glad to hear that you had fun and the little fisherman showed ya' how its done. I understand being bushed, makes for a long day no doubt about that. Good to hear that you got into some fish though. Happy to hear the accomadations worked out. We will hook up eventually. Making my last trip this Thursday. I would like to make it back up end of May or 1st of June also. Take care. Bill

[New Yankee]

BT - do you do the soft water thing also? Bought an older 18' Lund the other week end (after looking at the prices of new ones :eek and hope to learn the ways of the North walleye fishing soon; this site really helps. <P>Working in ND this week - our computer system will still allow me to access this page - but 'ya never know when big brother may change that <P>Good luck later on - hope the ice holds for you.<p>[This message has been edited by New Yankee (edited 03-22-2004).]