Cold temperatures, wind and rain has been the common theme this past week. All bodies of water in the Hayward area has seen a halt to rising water temperatures. ...more This has affected fish activity. Prior to this we were experiencing close to ideal spawning activity in the shallow bays of most lakes. Since then fish have retreating to deeper waters. The spawn routine of the panfish should pick up again soon providing we can get some sun and warmth.

Most lakes in the area has seen reduced pressure from anglers, mostly due to the weather, rather than desire. Fishing has been tough. Water temperatures were hovering around the mid to lower 50s, but should increase by the weekend. Northern pike and walleye have been the best species during these recent conditions. Anglers are using a live minnow on a jig or under a float for the walleye and fishing the drop edges and deeper submerged weeds. In the evening they will be in more shallow water to feed. Northern are aggressive and will bite on almost anything. Anglers fishing for crappie and walleye have reported a lot of catches and bite-offs. Spinnerbaits, plastics and spoons will also work. Look for the emerging green weeds.

The stage is set for the panfish spawn, all we need is a few warms days and they will be in again. Fish in 2 to five feet of water with minnow under a bobber or a small tube jig for plenty of action. Bluegills can be taken with leaf worms or small feather jigs. Action should be good for fly rod anglers also. Presently they are still in a little deeper water. Start in deeper water and work shallower until you find them.

Bass have been sweeping beds in preparations for their spawn also. Once on the beds these fish are easy prey. Largemouth bass season is open on many lakes, be sure to check the regulations for the lake(s) you will be fishing. Smallmouth is still catch and release only until the middle of June.

Musky anglers have had moderate success since the opener last Saturday. Musky are still relatively shallow so topwater baits should produce if the winds are not to strong. Swim baits, jerkbaits will attract fish also. Smaller baits and a slow retrieve would be best as they are just coming off their spawn cycle and not very aggressive in chasing baits.