With a bit of a late start this year, we have quickly made up for it. Ice conditions are very good right now with 14"-20" most places. Snowmobiles are still my conveyance of choice, but truck travel is good in many areas as well.
The perch bite has been very good, with most of the bigger fish showing up shallow, and way off of the beaten path. Smaller fish are everywhere in Leech lake but finding the bigger specimens is the fun challenge that I really enjoy accepting.
There is still a very good "happy hour bite" (4-6:00 pm) for walleyes when you can get on some untouched schools of fish.
Chasing perch during mid-day and then switching to walleyes in the evening is a smart way to stay in consistent action.
It's typical to land a nice bonus burbot or two after the sun sets on our walleye spots.
The crappie action seems to be pretty good, though I will start scouting and fishing for these slabs more in February and March once the walleye bite slows down.
Contrary to popular belief, larger yellow perch can be quite moody, but persistent anglers who are willing to try a few different techniques can usually fool these colorful favorites.
Another overlooked bonus fish on Leech Lake is the lake whitefish. Cousins of the tullibee, they are much tastier, and are excellent eaten fresh. It's a real blast seeing these aggressive and curious fish on our electronics chasing a spoon from the bottom to the ice layer, often several times before biting.
There is a lot more winter left to enjoy so let's get out there!
Cheers and hook-sets!
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