Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Minneapolis, Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The river’s still running high after recent spring rains and snowmelt, so flows are faster than usual. Water temps are warming up, pushing fish into shallower, slower spots, especially along shorelines and behind current breaks.

Weather for today is a cool start in the upper 30s at sunrise, which was at 6:28 a.m., warming up to the low 50s by afternoon with mostly cloudy skies and light winds. Sunset comes at 7:55 p.m. Expect a pretty stable barometer, but riverside conditions could get muddy if another round of rain passes through. No tides to worry about, but rising water has limited some bank access. Still, there’s good action if you pick your spots.

Walleye fishing is on fire right now. In recent days, local anglers have been catching strong numbers of walleyes and sauger, mostly in the 15 to 22-inch range, mainly below the dams and anywhere current breaks ease up. Live bait rigs with fathead minnows or nightcrawlers have performed best, but jigging with a ⅛ to ¼-ounce jig in chartreuse, white, or orange is pulling bites, too. Early morning and late evening are prime times as fish move up to feed[3][4].

Smallmouth bass are starting to turn on. Try soft plastics like tube jigs, Ned rigs, or small swimbaits bounced near riprap, wing dams, or rocky points. Spinnerbaits and crankbaits with a bit of flash are getting reaction strikes, especially when the water’s a little dingy[7][10]. If the river gets murky, upsize to something with more vibration and color, like a black and blue swim jig or a bladed jig. Pairing these with a craw trailer can make a big difference in stained water.

Catfish and perch are active, especially in deeper holes and off current seams. For catfish, cut bait or stink bait dropped below a slip sinker is the ticket. Perch are hitting on small minnows or worms under a float along slower shorelines.

A couple of hot spots right now: check out below Ford Dam (Lock and Dam No. 1) for walleyes and sauger, and the confluence with Minnehaha Creek. Pool 2, especially near the airport and up by Hidden Falls Regional Park, is another solid bet with both shore and boat access[4]. These areas are producing a good mix of species and have some protected current breaks.

As always, make sure you know the latest regulations and stay safe around those fast waters. Good luck out there—tight lines!

Good morning anglers! Here’s your fishing report for the Mississippi River near Minneapolis on Monday, April 14, 2025. Conditions are shaping up to offer a productive day on the water, so let’s dive in.

The weather today features clear skies with a daytime high of 52°F, making it a perfect spring day to wet a line. Sunrise was at 6:38 AM, and sunset will be at 7:55 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to chase your favorite species. Recent snowmelt and rains have caused the water level to rise slightly, adding some current but also improving fish activity in specific areas. Water temperatures hover around 42-44°F.

Fish activity has been picking up with the spring season. Walleyes are transitioning into post-spawn behaviors, making them a prime target. Smallmouth bass are also starting to become more active as water temperatures slowly rise. For catfish enthusiasts, the Mississippi remains a premier spot for channel and flathead catfish.

**What’s being caught:**
Walleyes and saugers have been biting well in pools 2 and 4. Anglers have reported catches of eater-sized walleyes along with some trophies. A few smallmouth bass are being caught near rocky structures. Catfish action is consistent, especially on channel cats, with some flatheads reported around deeper snags.

**Best baits and lures:**
- Walleyes: Use ⅜-ounce jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in purple, black, or chartreuse. Blade baits like SteelShads, as well as vibrating jigs, work great in current breaks and deeper runs.
- Smallmouth Bass: Try soft plastics like tubes in green pumpkin or crawfish patterns near rocky areas.
- Catfish: Nightcrawlers, cut bait, or chicken liver fished on heavy rigs in deep holes or areas where slack water meets current are producing results.

**Hot spots:**
1. **Pool 2 (near Hidden Falls):** Target current seams and deeper runs for walleye using jigs or live bait rigs.
2. **Lock and Dam No. 1 (Ford Dam):** Fish the eddies below the dam for catfish and saugers.
3. **Pool 4 near Lake Pepin:** A favorite spot for walleyes and saugers, especially trolling crankbaits along breaklines.

Please use caution as the river is still carrying some debris from the recent rise in water levels. Keep an eye out for logs and other hazards.

Tight lines to everyone heading out today—don't forget your camera for those brag-worthy catches! Stay safe out there and enjoy the spring bite.

Today, April 12, 2025, fishing conditions on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis look promising for dedicated anglers, despite some challenges. Let’s dive into the details.

The weather for today expects mild temperatures with partly cloudy skies, providing favorable conditions for a day on the water. Sunrise was at 6:34 AM and sunset will be at 7:53 PM, giving plenty of daylight to make the most of the angling opportunities. Water levels remain slightly elevated due to recent snowmelt and rainfall upstream, but conditions are stabilizing, with temperatures hovering in the low-to-mid 40s. The phase of the full moon tonight may add a bit of excitement, as fish activity tends to increase during these times.

In recent days, anglers have reported success catching walleye, sauger, and bass in this stretch of the river. The walleye, in particular, are in their spawning phase and are stacking up near rocky areas with slower currents, typically in 4 to 12 feet of water. Male walleyes are active and eager to bite, while females are still preparing to spawn. Smallmouth bass are another highlight, preferring rocky structures and wing dams, where the current slows down, making these spots prime for targeting them.

For tackling these species, jigging techniques have been effective. Many anglers recommend jig heads tipped with soft plastics in colors like purple and blue or using spinnerbaits for their vibration and flash. For live bait enthusiasts, minnows and nightcrawlers continue to perform well. Snap jigging with blade baits or pitching soft plastics to eddies and shoreline structures has produced steady results.

Catfish are also worth noting, with channel catfish and flatheads being caught in deeper sections or near submerged logs. For catfish, using cut bait or live shad can yield great results.

The hotspots for today include Pool 2, particularly the areas around the Ford Dam and Hidden Falls, which are teeming with walleye and sauger. Another great location is Pool 3 near the confluence with the St. Croix River. Here, anglers can explore wing dams and backwater areas for a mix of species, including smallmouth bass. Be mindful of the water clarity and floating debris from recent weather changes when navigating these areas.

In summary, the Mississippi River near Minneapolis offers exciting opportunities for walleye, bass, and catfish today. Stick to rocky structures, eddies, and slack water near the currents, and use a mix of soft plastics, spinnerbaits, or live bait for the best chances of success. Tight lines!

Today on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, conditions are shaping up nicely for spring fishing. Here’s the latest report as of April 11, 2025:

The weather today is cool and mostly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to low 50s. Winds are light, which offers good casting conditions. Sunrise was at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 7:51 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight to fish comfortably.

The river level remains stable but slightly elevated due to upstream snowmelt, which has increased water flow and created some minor murkiness. This means fish are likely sheltering in slack water areas or along structure such as wing dams, eddies, and submerged vegetation.

Recent catches have been promising. Anglers are reporting good numbers of smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. Smallmouth bass activity has been strong near rocky areas and wing dams, with fish ranging from 1 to 3 pounds. Walleye are showing up in deeper holes and current breaks, with catches between 16 to 22 inches. Northern pike are active along shallow grassy banks, with some larger fish exceeding 30 inches.

For lures, success has been noted with soft plastics like paddle tails or craw imitations in natural colors for smallmouth bass. Spinnerbaits and jerkbaits also remain top choices. For walleye, anglers are finding success with 3/8-ounce jigs tipped with minnows or plastics, particularly in chartreuse or purple colors. For northern pike, larger swim jigs or spoons in bright colors have been productive.

If you’re using live bait, minnows and nightcrawlers have been effective for walleye, while sucker minnows are recommended for targeting northern pike.

A couple of hot spots to try include the stretch near Lock and Dam No. 1 (Ford Dam) and the backwater areas near Minnehaha Creek. The rocky structures and eddies in these areas are ideal for bass and walleye, while the shallower, grassy sections closer to shore are great for northern pike.

Remember to stay safe and dress warmly, as river conditions can be unpredictable this time of year. Tight lines and good luck out there!

April 9, 2025, brought a solid day for anglers on and around the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. Here’s your daily fishing report from a local perspective.

The weather cooperated with milder temperatures reaching the low 60s. Morning and overnight brought light showers, but the afternoon brightened with intermittent sunshine and gentle southern winds at around 5-10 mph. The river level is on the rise, with water temperatures hovering near 44°F in most areas, though some backwaters with darker bottoms are touching 60°F. This temperature shift contributes to increasing fish activity as species like walleyes, perch, and pike enter their prime pre-spawning and spawning phases.

Sunrise today was at 6:36 a.m., and sunset will be at 7:51 p.m., offering an extended window for anglers to hit prime bite times around dawn and dusk. Early morning and evening proved especially productive.

Walleye and sauger are the stars of the show right now. Anglers are reporting good catches of these species in depths of 8 to 16 feet, particularly near rocky or gravelly areas. Female walleyes are beginning to soften, signaling that the spawn is imminent. Jigging with hair jigs, blade baits, or soft plastics like B-Fish-N Tackle Pulse-R paired with 3/16 or 5/16 jigheads has been effective. Purple color patterns are top performers.

Smallmouth bass are becoming active as well, with many moving to areas with consistent current and rocky structure, such as wing dams. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics are working well, particularly in areas with moderate flows. Focus on eddies and calmer waters where bass can conserve energy between feeding frenzies.

Catfish enthusiasts found success too, particularly with channel cats congregating in deeper holes of side channels. Fresh cut bait and nightcrawlers have been the go-to options. Flathead catfish were found near submerged logs and structures. Live bait, like bluegills or bullheads, worked well for those targeting these brutes.

Crappie activity is on the rise, though it’s not yet in full swing. Anglers targeting oxbow lakes and offshoots of the main channel had the most luck, especially in clearer waters for black crappie.

Two hot spots emerged today. First, Pool 2 near the Ford Dam saw solid action for walleyes and sauger. The structure near the dam provides ideal conditions for these species. Second, the backwaters near Hidden Falls Regional Park are heating up for both panfish and predator species like pike.

For bait and lures, consider using:
- **Walleyes**: Purple plastic swimbaits, blade baits, or live minnows.
- **Smallmouth bass**: Spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, and soft plastics fished near rocky structures.
- **Catfish**: Fresh cut bait, nightcrawlers, or live bait.
- **Crappie**: Small jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics in vibrant colors for murkier water.

With the river rising and fish activity increasing, now is a prime time to head out. Tight lines and good luck!

Fishing Report for Mississippi River, Minneapolis – April 4, 2025

The Mississippi River around Minneapolis is offering some fantastic fishing opportunities as spring takes hold. Today started with clear skies, light winds, and mild temperatures in the upper 40s, climbing into the mid-50s by the afternoon. Sunrise was at 6:42 AM, and sunset is expected at 7:42 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight to hit the water.

**Water and Fishing Conditions**
The river is running at a stable level, though slightly low, which is common this time of year. Water clarity has improved, making it easier to target fish in their pre-spawn movements. Walleye, sauger, and a few perch have been actively moving into the river from Lake Pepin, especially in Pools 2 and 4. These conditions are prime for anglers looking to test their skills.

**Fish Activity and Recent Catches**
The walleye bite has been steady, with anglers reporting catches ranging from smaller eating-sized fish to occasional trophies over 25 inches. Sauger action is similar, with good numbers being caught. Some crappies are also showing up in oxbow-like backwaters and slackwater areas. Catfish—mainly channel and flathead—have been slightly less active this early in the season but remain a solid target in deeper holes.

Recent local outings have yielded consistent success on Pool 4, particularly near Red Wing, with fish being caught along wing dams and current seams. Reports indicate that using live bait rigs with minnows has been highly effective, along with jig and plastic combos.

**Best Lures and Baits**
For walleye and sauger, a 3/8-ounce jig tipped with either a fathead minnow or plastic paddletail in chartreuse, white, or blue is hard to beat. If you’re targeting crappies, small tube jigs or curly tail grubs in bright colors like pink or white are performing well. For those trying their hand at catfish, fresh cut bait or live suckers are your best bets for a hook-up.

**Hot Spots**
Two excellent fishing locations to target today are:
1. *Red Wing (Pool 4)*: Focus on areas near the dam, as well as the backwaters and main channel breaks. Look for walleye and sauger along the edges of current seams.
2. *Hidden Falls Regional Park*: This spot near Minneapolis offers calmer water and is great for targeting a mix of species, including crappie, perch, and catfish.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend warrior, today promises a productive day on the water. Keep it simple, stay patient, and let the river deliver its rewards. Tight lines!

Fishing Report for Mississippi River, Minneapolis - April 4, 2025

The Mississippi River around Minneapolis offers an exciting angling experience today, with promising conditions for both seasoned fishers and beginners. Here's the latest:

**Weather and River Conditions**
Today's sunrise was at 6:43 AM, with sunset expected at 7:45 PM. The weather is mild with clear skies, making for perfect fishing conditions. Temperatures are hovering around the mid-50s to low 60s, with light winds from the west. Water levels in the river are stable but relatively low compared to average, aligning with patterns from previous years. This has shifted some fish activity closer to deeper channels and structures such as submerged trees and rock piles.

**Fish Activity and Recent Catches**
Reports indicate strong activity from walleyes, sauger, and perch in particular. Schools of walleye and sauger have migrated upstream from Lake Pepin into the river, frequently found in Pools 3 and 4. Walleyes in the 18–22-inch range and healthy-sized saugers are being caught consistently. Some anglers have also reported catching perch along the edges of weed beds and deeper holes in the main channel.

**Best Baits and Lures**
1. Jigs tipped with live minnows or plastics: Chartreuse, purple, and natural colors are working wonders.
2. Blade baits: Effective in these pre-spawn conditions when used near current seams or drop-offs.
3. Crankbaits and vibrating jigs: Natural shad and blue-black combinations have been a hit for deeper runs.

For catfish, using live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, is highly effective, especially in deep pools with moderate current.

**Hot Spots**
1. **Lock and Dam No. 1 (Ford Dam)**: A prime location for walleyes and sauger, especially using vertical jigging techniques.
2. **Lake Pepin's Channel Edges**: Transition areas between Lake Pepin and the river have been active with perch and the occasional trophy-sized walleye.
3. **Hidden Falls Regional Park**: A great spot for shore anglers targeting channel catfish and smaller gamefish.

**Tips for Success**
Keep it simple. Focus on the current seams and areas with structure like wing dams, submerged logs, or rock piles. Fish are holding near these features due to low water levels and pre-spawn behavior. Using a slow and deliberate presentation will help entice bites.

Enjoy the day out on the water, and happy fishing!

Fishing Report for the Mississippi River Around Minneapolis - April 2, 2025

As spring takes hold, fishing conditions along the Mississippi River near Minneapolis are improving, with open water now accessible for anglers. Today’s sunrise was at 6:45 AM, while sunset will be at 7:35 PM, giving a good window for fishing activity during daylight hours. The weather forecast predicts a mild day with temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s, light winds, and partly cloudy skies, creating favorable conditions for casting your line.

**Fish Activity and Recent Catches**
The river is in its pre-spawn phase for several species, meaning fish activity is ramping up. Recent reports indicate good catches of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleyes, and catfish in Pool 2 and surrounding stretches. Bass anglers are having success with both smallmouth and largemouth, primarily around submerged structures, eddies, and areas with slower current. Walleye catches have been notable, especially in deeper pools and channel edges using jigging techniques. Catfish, including channel and flathead varieties, have been caught near sunken logs and deeper river sections.

Hot spots to check out include the Lilydale Regional Park area in Pool 2, where anglers have reported consistent bass catches, and the Ford Dam area for walleye. Both spots offer a mix of structure and deeper water where fish are staging.

**Recommended Baits and Lures**
For smallmouth and largemouth bass, shallow diving crankbaits, Ned rigs, and soft plastic swimbaits are performing well. Colors like green pumpkin and black-blue laminate are favored. For walleyes, a jig paired with a minnow, or a lipless crankbait like the Rippin’ Rap, has been highly effective, particularly in the early morning and late evening.

Catfish anglers are seeing success with live bait, such as sucker minnows or cut bait. Nightcrawlers are another solid option, especially for channel catfish. Focus on areas where slack water meets the current.

**Additional Notes on Conditions**
The river’s turbidity remains high due to sediment runoff, which can make sight fishing challenging. However, fish are more likely to be found near structure where they can find shelter and food. Water levels and stream flow are near normal for this time of year, ensuring safe and accessible fishing conditions in most areas.

**Tips and Final Thoughts**
Today’s conditions are ideal for fishing in these calmer waters. Be sure to use lures that create vibration or noise to attract fish in the murky water. If you’re targeting walleyes or bass, prioritize low-light periods such as dawn and dusk for the best results. For catfish enthusiasts, targeting deeper pools or eddies with bait rigs will likely yield success.

Remember to dress warmly, as water temperatures remain cold, and always wear a personal flotation device if you’re fishing from a boat. Anglers heading out should prepare for a productive day and keep those rods bent! Good luck!

Hey there, fellow anglers! This is Artificial Lure, your local fishing expert, coming at you with the latest scoop on the Mississippi River fishing scene around Minneapolis. It's Monday, March 31, 2025, and let me tell you, the fishing's heating up faster than my morning coffee!

First off, let's talk weather. We're looking at a partly cloudy day with temps in the mid-50s. The sun's gonna peek out around 6:45 AM and tuck in for the night around 7:40 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Now, I know we don't have tides to worry about here on the mighty Miss, but water levels have been holding steady, which is good news for us river rats.

Alright, let's get to the good stuff - the fish! Walleye and sauger have been the stars of the show lately. We're right in the sweet spot of their pre-spawn feeding frenzy, folks. I've been hearing reports of some real lunkers being pulled in, with a few pushing that 30-inch mark. The bite's been hot in 8 to 12 feet of water, but don't be afraid to go shallower. I even heard about a monster caught in 3 feet!

As for lures, it's all about matching the hatch right now. Jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics have been doing the trick. I've had great luck with a 3/8 ounce jig head and a 4-inch paddle tail in a natural shad color. For you hardware junkies, blade baits and lipless crankbaits in silver or gold have been getting some serious attention too.

Now, if you're looking for some hot spots, I've got two words for you: Pool 2. The stretch between the Ford Dam and Hastings has been on fire. Another honey hole has been around the mouth of the Minnesota River. Just remember to respect those spring fishing regulations, especially for walleye and sauger.

But hey, don't forget about our whiskered friends! Catfish action is starting to pick up too. Cut bait or nightcrawlers fished in deeper holes have been producing some nice channel cats. For you flathead hunters, live bait is the way to go. Bullheads from the Minnesota River have been the ticket.

So there you have it, folks. The fishing's good, the weather's cooperating, and the big ones are biting. Get out there and make some memories! This is Artificial Lure, signing off and wishing you tight lines and full coolers. See you on the water!

Howdy, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 30, 2025. Let me tell ya, spring is in full swing and the fish are biting!

First off, we've got a beautiful day ahead of us. Sunrise was at 6:52 AM, and we're looking at partly cloudy skies with a high of 58°F. The wind's coming from the southeast at about 10 mph, so it shouldn't be too choppy out there. Sunset's at 7:37 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to reel in some beauties.

Now, onto the good stuff. The walleye and sauger bite has been heating up lately. Anglers have been reporting good catches in the 15-25 foot range, especially near wing dams and current breaks. Some real nice-sized ones too, with a few topping 28 inches!

For you catfish enthusiasts, the channel cats are starting to get active. They're mostly hanging out in deeper holes, but as the water warms up, they'll be moving into shallower areas. Folks have been having luck with cut bait and stinkbaits.

As for lures, I've been hearing great things about 1/4 oz jigs tipped with minnows or plastics for walleye and sauger. For those cats, try a 3-way rig with a circle hook and some cut sucker or shad.

If you're looking for some hot spots, I'd recommend trying the area around Boom Island Park or the stretch near the Stone Arch Bridge. The structure there tends to hold a good number of fish this time of year.

One last thing, don't forget about those northern pike. They're getting ready to spawn, so they're aggressive and hungry. Big spoons or inline spinners near weed edges have been producing some real lunkers.

Remember, the walleye and sauger season is catch-and-release only right now, so handle those fish with care. And as always, make sure you've got your 2025 fishing license before you head out.

That's all for now, anglers. This is Artificial Lure signing off. Tight lines and see you on the water!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 28, 2025. It's a chilly morning in Minneapolis, with temperatures hovering around 40°F and partly cloudy skies. The sun's gonna rise at 6:53 AM and set at 7:39 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

Now, let's talk about the river conditions. The Mississippi is running a bit high and fast due to recent snowmelt and rain. The water temperature is around 45°F, which is starting to wake up our fishy friends. There's no tidal report for the Mississippi since it's not affected by ocean tides, but keep an eye on those water levels as they can change quickly this time of year.

Walleye fishing has been picking up lately, especially near the lock and dam areas. Anglers have been having luck with jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in the deeper holes. Some nice-sized walleyes in the 18-24 inch range have been caught in the past week.

Smallmouth bass are also starting to become more active. They're hanging around rocky areas and current breaks. Throw some crankbaits or soft plastics their way, and you might just hook into a chunky bronzeback.

For you catfish enthusiasts, channel cats are biting well on cut bait or stinkbaits in the slower, deeper pools. A few flatheads have been reported, but they're still a bit sluggish with the cooler water temps.

As for lures, I'd recommend having a variety of jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics in your tackle box. Bright colors like chartreuse and orange have been working well in the slightly stained water. Don't forget some live bait options like minnows or nightcrawlers – they're always a solid choice this time of year.

If you're looking for some hot spots, try fishing near the Stone Arch Bridge or the area around Boom Island Park. The structure in these areas tends to hold fish, especially as they start moving into shallower water.

Remember, folks, the ice is off the river, but be cautious of floating debris and swift currents. Wear your life jackets and stay safe out there. Tight lines, everyone!

Howdy, folks! This is Artificial Lure, your friendly neighborhood fishing expert, coming at you with the latest scoop on the Mississippi River fishing scene around Minneapolis. It's Wednesday, March 26, 2025, and let me tell you, things are starting to heat up out there!

First off, let's talk weather. We're looking at a partly cloudy day with temperatures climbing to the mid-50s. The sun's gonna peek out from behind those clouds around 6:55 AM and bid us farewell at 7:38 PM. Now, I gotta warn ya, there's a chance of some thunderstorms rolling in later this evening, so keep an eye on those skies and be ready to head for shore if things start looking dicey.

As for the river itself, we're seeing some decent flow rates. The water level at St. Paul is sitting around 3.8 feet, which is pretty typical for this time of year. The walleye and sauger are starting to get frisky with the spring spawn approaching. Water temps are hovering in the low 40s, which means those fish are gonna be hanging out in the deeper holes and along current seams.

Now, let's talk catches. I've been hearing some good reports coming in from Pool 2 and Pool 3. Anglers have been pulling in some nice-sized walleyes, with a few pushing the 25-inch mark. Sauger numbers have been solid too, with most folks catching their limits without too much trouble. We've also seen a uptick in smallmouth bass activity, especially on warmer afternoons.

For you catfish enthusiasts, the channel cats are starting to wake up from their winter slumber. A few anglers have reported some decent catches using cut bait in the deeper holes.

When it comes to lures, you can't go wrong with a jig and minnow combo right now. I've had good luck with 1/4 oz jigs in chartreuse or orange. For those of you who prefer artificial baits, try slow-rolling a 2.8" Keitech swimbait in the "Sight Flash" color. Blade baits like the Damiki Vault have also been producing well in the current seams.

If you're looking for some hot spots, I'd recommend trying the area just below the Ford Dam or the stretch near Grey Cloud Island. The Pig's Eye Lake area has also been producing some nice catches.

Remember, folks, the bite can be a bit finicky this time of year, so patience is key. Don't be afraid to switch up your presentation if you're not getting any action.

That's all for now, anglers. This is Artificial Lure signing off. Tight lines and stay safe out there!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 24, 2025. It's a chilly morning in Minneapolis, with temperatures hovering around 40°F and partly cloudy skies. The sun rose at 7:06 AM and will set at 7:31 PM, giving us plenty of daylight for fishing.

Now, let's talk about the river conditions. The Mississippi is running a bit high and fast due to recent snowmelt and rain. The water temperature is around 45°F, which is starting to wake up our fishy friends. There's no tidal report for the Mississippi since it's not affected by ocean tides, but keep an eye on those water levels as they can change quickly this time of year.

Walleye fishing has been picking up lately, especially near the lock and dam areas. Anglers have been having luck with jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in the deeper holes. Some nice-sized walleyes in the 18-24 inch range have been caught in the past week.

Smallmouth bass are also starting to become more active. They're hanging around rocky areas and current breaks. Throw some crankbaits or soft plastics their way, and you might just hook into a chunky bronzeback.

For you catfish enthusiasts, channel cats are biting well on cut bait or stinkbaits in the slower, deeper pools. A few flatheads have been reported, but they're still a bit sluggish with the cooler water temps.

As for lures, I'd recommend having a variety of jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics in your tackle box. Bright colors like chartreuse and orange have been working well in the slightly stained water. Don't forget some live bait options like minnows or nightcrawlers – they're always a solid choice this time of year.

If you're looking for some hot spots, try fishing near the Stone Arch Bridge or the area around Boom Island Park. The structure in these areas tends to hold fish, especially as they start moving into shallower water.

Remember, folks, the ice is off the river, but be cautious of floating debris and swift currents. Wear your life jackets and stay safe out there. Tight lines, everyone!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 23, 2025.

Let me tell ya, the weather's been a bit unpredictable lately, but that ain't stoppin' the fish from bitin'. We're lookin' at partly cloudy skies today with temps in the mid-50s. Sunrise was at 7:02 AM, and sunset's gonna be at 7:28 PM, givin' us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

Now, onto the good stuff - the fish! Walleye and sauger have been active lately, especially in the deeper pools and around wing dams. Folks have been havin' luck with jigs tipped with minnows or plastic tails. Don't forget about those jumbo perch, either - they've been hittin' pretty good on small jigs with waxworms.

For you catfish enthusiasts, channel cats are starting to get more active as the water warms up. Cut bait or nightcrawlers have been working well. Some anglers have even been landing a few flatheads using live bait like suckers or bullheads.

If you're after some bass action, both smallmouth and largemouth have been biting. Crankbaits and soft plastics are your best bet for these fighters. And let's not forget about the northern pike - they're always ready to give you a good fight this time of year.

As for hot spots, I'd recommend checkin' out the area around the Stone Arch Bridge or headin' down to Pool 2 near Grey Cloud Island. Both spots have been producing some nice catches lately.

For lures, you can't go wrong with a 1/4 oz jig head in chartreuse or white, paired with a 3-inch curly tail grub. If you're after those walleyes, try a Rapala Shad Rap in blue and silver. For live bait, fathead minnows and nightcrawlers are always a safe bet.

Remember, folks, the river level's been pretty stable, but always keep an eye on it. And don't forget your life jacket - safety first!

That's all for now, anglers. This is Artificial Lure signin' off. Tight lines and good fishin' to ya all!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 22, 2025.

The weather's looking decent today with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 50s. We've got a light breeze from the southeast at 5-10 mph. Sunrise was at 7:12 AM and sunset will be at 7:28 PM, giving us a nice long day on the water.

Water levels are running a bit high but starting to stabilize after all that snowmelt. Current's still swift in the main channel, so be careful out there. Water temp is sitting around 46 degrees.

Fishing's really starting to pick up as we head into spring. Walleye action has been hot, especially near the lock and dam areas. Anglers have been having luck with jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in chartreuse and orange. Some nice 20-inchers have been coming in.

Smallmouth bass are getting more active too. Try working crankbaits or jerkbaits along rocky shorelines and current breaks. A few bruisers over 4 pounds were caught this week.

Catfish have been biting well, particularly in the backwaters and side channels. Cut bait or stinkbaits are your best bet. One lucky angler landed a 15-pound flathead yesterday.

For you panfish enthusiasts, crappies are starting to move into the shallows. Small jigs under a bobber have been productive. Bluegills are biting on worms in the backwater areas.

Some hot spots to check out: the tailwaters below Lock and Dam 1 have been producing nice walleyes. For smallmouth, try the rocky areas around Picnic Island. Catfish have been active near the mouth of Minnehaha Creek.

Overall, fishing is really heating up as we head into spring. Get out there and wet a line! This is Artificial Lure, signing off. Tight lines, everyone!

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 21, 2025.

We're looking at a chilly start to the day with temps around 38°F at sunrise, which is at 7:11 AM. It'll warm up to the mid-50s by afternoon, with partly cloudy skies and light winds. Sunset's at 7:27 PM, giving us a nice long day on the water.

Now, there ain't no tides to worry about on our stretch of the Mighty Miss, but water levels have been pretty steady lately. The river's running a bit high and fast with all the spring melt, so be careful out there.

Fish activity has been picking up as the water warms. We've been seeing some nice walleye and sauger catches, especially in deeper pools and along current seams. A few early season smallmouth bass are starting to show up too.

For walleye, try jigging with minnows or plastics in 15-25 feet of water. Crankbaits in shad patterns have also been productive. Smallies are hitting on tube jigs and small swimbaits worked slowly along rocky areas.

Best lures right now are jigs in the 3/8 to 1/2 oz range, lipless crankbaits, and suspending jerkbaits. For live bait, fathead minnows and nightcrawlers are your best bet.

As for hot spots, check out the area around Pig's Eye Island or try the deep holes near the Ford Dam. The confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers has also been producing some nice fish.

Remember, the walleye and sauger season is catch-and-release only until May, so handle those fish with care. Tight lines, everyone!

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 19, 2025. Spring is in the air, and the fish are starting to wake up from their winter slumber.

First off, let's talk weather. We're looking at partly cloudy skies today with highs around 52°F and lows dipping to 38°F overnight. Winds are light from the southeast at 5-10 mph. Sunrise is at 7:15 AM and sunset at 7:22 PM, so we've got plenty of daylight to work with.

Water temps are hovering around 45-48°F, which means the walleye and sauger are really starting to get active. We've been seeing some nice catches coming in from the tailwaters below the locks and dams. Jig and minnow combos have been the ticket, with chartreuse and orange being hot colors.

Speaking of walleye, the spring run is just kicking off. Anglers have been having good luck trolling crankbaits like Rapala Shad Raps or Flicker Shads in the main channel. If you're shore fishing, try casting jigs tipped with soft plastics or live bait near current breaks.

Bass fishing has been picking up too. Smallmouth are starting to move into shallower water, especially on sunny days. Throw suspending jerkbaits or small swimbaits around rocky points and you might just hook into a chunky bronzeback.

For you catfish enthusiasts, channel cats are biting well on cut bait or stinkbaits fished in deeper holes. We've even heard reports of a few flatheads being caught by anglers using live bait in snaggy areas.

As for hot spots, I'd recommend trying the area around Boom Island Park or the stretch near the Stone Arch Bridge. The river structure there holds a lot of fish this time of year.

Remember, folks, the bite can be a bit finicky with these transitional temperatures, so don't be afraid to slow down your presentation and experiment with different retrieves.

That's all for now, anglers. Get out there and tight lines to ya!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 17, 2025. It's a chilly morning in Minneapolis, with temperatures hovering around 38°F and partly cloudy skies. The sun rose at 7:22 AM and will set at 7:24 PM, giving us plenty of daylight for fishing.

Now, let's talk about the river conditions. The Mississippi is running a bit high and fast due to recent snowmelt and rain. The water temperature is around 42°F, which is starting to wake up our fishy friends. There's no tidal report for the Mississippi since it's not affected by ocean tides, but keep an eye on those water levels as they can change quickly this time of year.

Walleye fishing has been picking up lately, especially near the lock and dam areas. Anglers have been having luck with jigs tipped with minnows or plastics in the deeper holes. Some nice-sized walleyes in the 18-24 inch range have been caught in the past week.

Smallmouth bass are also starting to become more active. They're hanging around rocky areas and current breaks. Throw some crankbaits or soft plastics their way, and you might just hook into a chunky bronzeback.

For you catfish enthusiasts, channel cats are biting well on cut bait or stinkbaits in the slower, deeper pools. A few flatheads have been reported, but they're still a bit sluggish with the cooler water temps.

As for lures, I'd recommend having a variety of jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics in your tackle box. Bright colors like chartreuse and orange have been working well in the slightly stained water. Don't forget some live bait options like minnows or nightcrawlers – they're always a solid choice this time of year.

If you're looking for some hot spots, try fishing near the Stone Arch Bridge or the area around Boom Island Park. The structure in these areas tends to hold fish, especially as they start moving into shallower water.

Remember, folks, the ice is off the river, but be cautious of floating debris and swift currents. Wear your life jackets and stay safe out there. Tight lines, everyone!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 16, 2025.

The weather's looking decent today in Minneapolis, with partly cloudy skies and highs around 45°F. Sunrise was at 7:23 AM and sunset will be at 7:18 PM. No tides to worry about on our mighty river, but water levels are running a bit high after some recent rains.

Fish activity has been picking up as we transition into spring. Walleye and sauger are still the main targets, with some nice catches reported below the dams. A few early season crappies are starting to show up in the backwaters too.

Last week, anglers were having good luck with walleye in the 15-20 inch range, along with some bonus sauger. Most folks are using jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics. For crappies, small jigs under a bobber have been the ticket.

As for lures, I'd recommend having some jigs in the 1/8 to 3/8 oz range, along with some crankbaits like Rapala Shad Raps or Flicker Shads. Don't forget some live bait - fathead minnows and nightcrawlers are always good options this time of year.

For hot spots, I'd suggest trying below the Ford Dam or around the pilings of the Stone Arch Bridge. The mouth of Minnehaha Creek has been producing some nice walleye too.

Remember to bundle up and be safe out there. The water's still mighty cold if you take an unexpected swim. Tight lines, everyone!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for March 15, 2025. Let me tell you, the fishing is really starting to heat up around Minneapolis as we head into spring.

First off, we've got a beautiful day ahead of us. Sunrise was at 7:23 AM and sunset will be at 7:18 PM. Temps are looking to hit the mid-50s with partly cloudy skies and light winds out of the southwest. Water temps are hovering around 45 degrees.

Now for the good stuff - the fish are biting! We're seeing a nice uptick in walleye and sauger activity as they start their pre-spawn feeding frenzy. Anglers have been having luck jigging with minnows or plastics in 15-20 feet of water, especially around current breaks and wing dams. Some real nice eaters in the 15-18 inch range being caught.

Bass fishing is also picking up, with smallmouth starting to move into shallower water. Crankbaits and jerkbaits have been producing well, especially in rocky areas. A few largemouth are being caught on spinnerbaits around wood cover too.

For bait, can't go wrong with minnows right now. Fathead minnows for walleye and shiners for bass. As for lures, I'd recommend having some jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics on hand. Chartreuse and white have been hot colors.

A couple hot spots to check out - the area below Lock and Dam 1 has been producing some nice walleye, and the rocky shorelines around Nicollet Island are holding some good smallmouth.

Remember to grab your 2025 fishing license if you haven't already. Tight lines everyone, and I'll catch you next time!