How to Fish Lake Minnetonka: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Minnetonka

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 4, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Minnetonka

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-62	Bass are staging near spawning areas, actively feeding while transitioning between winter and spawning locations Fish showing increased activity levels with warming trends, responding well to both aggressive and finesse presentations	Rock and boulder areas adjacent to weed edges near spawning flats First break lines along weed edges in 8-12 foot range Protected bays with emerging vegetation	Hard Jerkbaits with quick, erratic retrieves along weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked steadily through staging areas Ned Rigs worked slowly around rock and boulder areas	Bluegills staging near emerging vegetation Crawfish becoming active around rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	40-50	Crappies are transitioning from deep winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding as they prepare for spawn. Fish are showing clear movement patterns from 20ft basins toward shallow spawning areas, often suspending in 10-12ft depths near structure. Most active during early morning and late evening, with fish becoming more aggressive as water temperatures climb from low 40s into upper 40s. Schools are highly concentrated and relatively easy to locate with electronics.	Deep water breaks and ledges transitioning from 20ft to 6ft, especially those adjacent to spawning bays Dock areas in 8-12ft of water, particularly those with wood posts near deeper water First breaks outside shallow bays and channels in 10-20ft range	Bobbers with soft plastics or minnows suspended 6-8ft down over deeper water Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with Jigging Raps or hair jigs when fish are tightly schooled Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly under bobbers near structure	Minnows - primary forage during pre-spawn period Insects - secondary forage becoming more active as water warms	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter depths to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are moving along migration routes between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning grounds, holding on transition areas like points and breaks	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot transition zones Secondary points with gravel or rock leading to spawning bays Hard-bottom areas near docks in 5-12 foot depths	Ned Rigs worked slowly along rock transitions Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses over rocky points Blade Baits worked through staging areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools in transition areas Young of year perch around rocky structure	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleyes are staging near spawning areas, making gradual movements from winter depths to shallow spawning grounds Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with peak activity during dawn and dusk periods Walleyes are particularly responsive to wind-generated current on rock structures and points	Rock-rubble shorelines and points in 8-15 foot depth range Transition areas between deep winter holes and shallow spawning grounds Wind-blown points and rock flats with adjacent deep water access	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow, subtle presentations Live Bait Rigs with minnows worked slowly along rock transitions Blade Baits worked with controlled lifts near structure	Small to medium-sized perch in transitional areas Minnow schools congregating near spawning areas Small baitfish relating to rock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	48-58	Bluegills are transitioning from winter areas, showing moderate activity levels around warming shallow zones but still somewhat sluggish as noted in recent reports Fish are beginning to stage near spawning areas but not yet on beds, focusing on feeding opportunities around docks and vegetation in protected areas	Docks in protected bays, especially those with depths of 8-12 feet nearby First break lines near emerging weed growth Protected shallow bays with warming water	Bobbers with slow, methodical retrieve and frequent pauses as confirmed effective in recent reports Micro Crankbaits worked very slowly through dock areas Ice Fishing Jigs under slip bobbers for precise depth control	Insects, particularly early spring hatches as noted in reports Small invertebrates in emerging weed growth Zooplankton in slightly deeper water	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Pre-spawn Northern Pike are actively feeding and moving into shallow warming bays and spawning areas, typically in 4-10 foot depths Fish are aggressive and territorial during this period, with increased feeding activity as water temperatures rise	Rock piles and shallow structures in 4-10 foot range where water warms first Areas around docks with nearby vegetation Shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Lipless Crankbaits around emerging vegetation	Bluegills gathering in warming shallows Shallow-running baitfish schools Young-of-year panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	52-64	Pre-spawn muskies are becoming more active as water temperatures rise, transitioning from winter lethargy to more aggressive feeding patterns. They're following baitfish movements to shallow areas and staging near emerging vegetation. Fish are exhibiting increased surface activity and aggressive feeding behavior as temperatures approach the low 60s, particularly during warmer afternoon periods.	Inside weed edges where early-season vegetation is emerging, particularly in areas adjacent to deeper wintering areas Shallow bays and flats that warm up first, especially those with remaining patches of last year's vegetation Points and reef structures that intersect with pre-spawn migration routes	Large Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along weed edges and through emerging vegetation Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses to trigger reaction strikes from transitioning fish Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') targeting warming bays and emerging weed growth	Bluegills concentrating in warming shallow areas Various baitfish species moving shallow with warming trends	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-69	Largemouth bass transitioning through spawn phases, moving between staging areas and spawning flats, with active fish on the bank and near spawning habitat Fish showing preference for isolated vegetation clumps near spawning areas, utilizing these as staging and feeding zones	Submerged vegetation near spawning flats and back bay entrances Shallow banks and spawning pockets, particularly near laydowns Isolated vegetation clumps adjacent to spawning habitat	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around vegetation and spawning areas Swim Jigs for covering water and targeting active fish Grass Jigs for picking apart submerged vegetation	Bluegill beginning their own spawning activity Minnows in shallow water areas	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	54-66	Crappies are actively moving into spawning areas, staging in 8-10 feet near shallow spawning flats and gradually pushing shallower as temperatures rise Fish are becoming more active feeders, particularly around emerging vegetation and dock areas, with peak activity in early morning and late evening	Submerged vegetation in 6-10 feet adjacent to spawning flats Marina and dock areas in 2-5 feet of water Protected cuts and channels with emerging vegetation	Bobbers with soft plastics or live bait, suspended 2-3 feet deep Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to structure Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) for more active fish	Minnows gathering in warming shallows Early insect hatches around emerging vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-67	Actively spawning and pre-spawn behavior with fish moving to shallow rocky areas. Males are guarding nests while females stage nearby in slightly deeper water. Feeding activity concentrated around boulder fields and rock piles, especially during morning and evening periods	Boulder fields in 8-14 feet, especially isolated boulders surrounded by sand Rock piles and reefs in shallow to moderate depths Hard bottom areas near docks with nearby deep water access	Ned Rigs worked slowly around boulders and rock piles Drop Shot with finesse presentations on rocky structure Tubes dragged along boulder fields	Crawfish emerging from winter hibernation Bluegill in shallow spawning areas Small minnows around rock structure	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye are in shallow spawning mode, moving into protected areas near shoreline structure and around docks where they can find warmer water and suitable spawning substrate Fish are staging in pre-spawn and spawning locations, with males staying shallow and females moving in and out of spawning areas	Shallow protected dock areas, particularly those with rock or gravel bottom Wind-blown rock flats and points in 4-8 foot depth range Transition areas between rocks and weeds in 6-12 foot range	Bobbers with live bait positioned just off bottom Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with minnows or soft plastics	Shallow water minnows Small perch Crayfish becoming active in warming shallows	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-72	Actively moving into shallow waters (2-6 feet) for spawning, with males aggressively guarding nesting colonies Feeding patterns intensify in pre-spawn, with fish targeting insects and small invertebrates around emerging vegetation	Shallow protected bays with firm bottom near docks (2-6 feet) Emerging coontail weed edges in 8-12 foot transition areas Protected areas between docks with morning sun exposure	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for skittish fish under structures Live Bait Rigs with small waxworms or euro larvae	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates in vegetation Zooplankton in warming shallows	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	55-68	Pike are actively moving into shallow spawning areas, utilizing docks and shallow structure in 4-10 foot range for both spawning and post-spawn feeding Fish showing strong response to slow-moving presentations, indicating a methodical feeding pattern typical of spring transition	Docks in 4-10 foot range, especially those near spawning bays Rock piles in shallow water Emerging weed edges in protected bays	Grass Jigs worked with slow rolling retrieve from shallow to deeper water Spinnerbaits worked slowly around dock posts and shallow structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve along dock lines	Spawning bluegills around docks and shallow structure Minnow schools moving into warming shallows	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	58-68	Muskies are showing aggressive surface-oriented behavior during the spawn period, particularly active during morning hours with wary boat approaches needed Fish are utilizing emerging vegetation as staging and ambush points, with decreased activity during bright, calm conditions	Lily Pad fields, especially emerging growth areas Inside weed edges where vegetation is starting to develop Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Frogs/Toads worked with long pauses Hard Topwater (Walking) with extended casts Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along weed edges	Bluegill concentrated around emerging vegetation Various panfish species staging in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	63-78	Bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding on spawning bluegills near dock areas and weed edges Fish showing varied activity levels throughout the day, with longer soak times often needed for bites due to post-spawn recovery Moving between shallow flats and deeper weedlines (12-17 FOW) as they establish summer patterns	Clean docks adjacent to bluegill spawning areas, especially where weed rollers have cleared the bottom Weed edges in 12-15 feet of water, particularly where coontail is present Shallow flats with isolated vegetation near spawning areas	Drop Shot worked slowly along weed edges, especially effective when fish are less aggressive Grass Jigs worked around docks and bluegill beds Wacky Rigs dead-sticked in areas where fish are in post-spawn funk	Bluegill - primary forage, especially those preparing to spawn Minnows - secondary forage around weed edges	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Post-spawn crappies are actively schooling and chasing baitfish in the water column, with increased feeding activity observed around docks and shallow structure Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior during calm periods, particularly when schools of baitfish are present	Docks and nearby deeper water transitions where schools of baitfish are present Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas with scattered vegetation Secondary points and channels leading from spawning bays	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with 1/8 oz jigs around baitfish schools Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structure Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) when fish are actively chasing bait in open water	Small baitfish (shad and minnows) in large schools Young-of-year panfish and small juvenile fish	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn smallmouth bass are actively feeding and recovering near transitional areas between spawning flats and summer haunts Fish are establishing predictable daily feeding patterns around hard structure, particularly docks and rock piles as noted in recent reports	Docks with adjacent rock or gravel bottom, confirmed by recent fishing success Rock piles in 8-15 foot range, particularly those near spawning flats Hard bottom transition areas between shallow and deep water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) - proven effective in recent reports for dock fishing Drop Shot - effective for working rock piles and hard bottom areas Ned Rigs - ideal for post-spawn smallmouth around rocky structure	Crawfish - primary forage around rocky areas and docks Small baitfish - becoming more active in warming waters	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-62	Post-spawn walleyes are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer feeding locations Fish are relating to wind-blown structure and showing increased activity during low-light periods	Rock-weed transition zones in 8-15 foot depth range Wind-blown points and rock flats in 12-20 foot depth Secondary breaks adjacent to spawning areas in 15-25 foot depth	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transitions Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along wind-blown structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with minnows on rocky points	Young-of-year perch gathering near weed edges Shallow-running baitfish schools Small minnows in transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills are recovering and actively feeding, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper feeding zones along weed edges Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between different depth zones throughout the day based on light conditions and food availability	Weed edges and coontail beds in 10-15 foot depth range Dock areas adjacent to deeper water Protected bays with established vegetation	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at varying depths to match fish location Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding under docks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around weed edges	Aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans in weed beds Emerging weed-based invertebrates	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	55-75	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding and showing aggressive behavior, particularly around shallow structure and weed edges as evidenced by their response to moving baits Fish are utilizing multiple depth zones from shallow to mid-depth areas (4-17 feet), with a preference for ambush points near forage concentrations	Submerged vegetation edges, particularly in 12-17 foot depth range Docks in 4-10 foot range, especially those adjacent to deeper water Ledges and transition areas where depth changes create ambush points	Bladed Jigs worked over and through weed tops, matching the successful chatterbait pattern from recent reports Spinnerbaits around docks and shallow structure, which has proven effective in 75-degree water Hard Jerkbaits worked along ledges, targeting actively feeding fish	Bluegill, which are consistently mentioned in recent fishing reports General Baitfish, as indicated by the success of baitfish-imitating lures	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	58-68	Post-spawn muskies are transitioning to early summer patterns, actively feeding near emerging weed growth to replenish energy Fish are establishing ambush points along inside weed edges, showing increased feeding activity as water warms	Inside weed edges where new vegetation is emerging Reefs with adjacent vegetation Shallow bays with developing weed growth	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to weed edges Spinnerbaits burned just above emerging vegetation Hard Body Swimbaits worked along reef edges	Bluegill gathering around new weed growth Young of the year baitfish starting to school	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-78	Largemouth bass are actively feeding on the deep weed edges (12-18 feet) during summer, using coontail patches with holes as ambush points Fish are showing a clear pattern of relating to thick vegetation near hard bottom areas, particularly during midday Bass are exhibiting suspended feeding behavior around isolated weed clumps, especially when baitfish are present	Deep weedlines in 12-18 feet with nearby hard bottom or rock Thick coontail patches with holes, especially in 14-16 foot range Boat docks with emerging vegetation Rock points with isolated vegetation clumps	Drop Shot worked slowly along deep weed edges Texas Rig flipped into thick vegetation Grass jigs worked through vegetation holes Ned Rig dragged slowly on hard bottom areas near weeds	Bluegills, particularly around vegetation and dock areas Crappies suspended near deep weed edges Minnows relating to weed edges	Dark Neutrals Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Crappie	65-78	Crappies are suspending near deep weed edges and dock structures, moving deeper during midday heat and shallower during morning/evening feeding periods Fish are schooling around submerged vegetation and suspended over deeper basins, following baitfish movements	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water, especially near channel breaks Shaded dock areas with access to deeper water Suspended schools over 20-25 foot basins during midday heat	Crappie Dock Shooting Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging	Small minnows and shad suspending near structure Aquatic insects around weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-75	Smallmouth bass are transitioning to deeper, cooler water during summer, actively feeding around deep rock structures and hard-bottom areas near steep breaks Early morning activity in shallower zones (especially around rock flats), moving deeper as the day progresses and water warms Actively feeding on the edges of depth transitions, particularly using docks and rock formations as ambush points	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 foot range Docks with adjacent hard bottom Deep weedlines adjacent to rock or gravel bottom Early morning shallow rock flats	Drop Shot with long fluorocarbon leaders Ned Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Medium Diving Crankbaits worked along deep weedlines Tubes dragged on deep rock structures	Crawfish on hard bottom areas Bluegill around dock areas and weed edges Small baitfish relating to deep structure	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-78	Walleye actively feed during low-light periods (dawn/dusk) along transition zones between rocks and weeds, often staging deeper during bright midday hours Fish follow baitfish schools, particularly perch, utilizing wind-driven currents to ambush prey along structure edges	Rock-weed transition zones in 15-25 foot depth range Wind-blown rock flats and points with access to deeper water Deep weedlines adjacent to main lake basin	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along structure edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with crankbaits during day Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') during prime feeding windows	Yellow Perch Minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	65-78	Actively feeding in weed beds and around dock structures during early morning and evening hours Moving between shallow feeding areas and deeper sanctuary areas during midday heat Forming loose schools around submerged vegetation in 10-15 foot depth range	Weed edges and coontail beds in 10-15 foot depth range Dock structures with adjacent deep water access Protected bays with submergent vegetation	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at specific depths Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Crappie Dock Shooting	Aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans in weed beds Zooplankton in open water columns	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	65-75	Pike are actively feeding around rocky structures and weed edges, utilizing these areas as ambush points for bluegill Fish are holding in moderate depths (8-15 feet) during summer heat, moving shallower during morning and evening periods	Rock piles in 8-15 foot depth range, especially those adjacent to deeper water Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range Points and structure with mixed rock and vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked along rock edges and through vegetation Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for imitating bluegill	Bluegill Other sunfish species Young-of-year baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	72-75	Actively patrolling submerged vegetation edges, utilizing dense cover for ambush points in 72-75°F water temperatures Feeding aggressively on larger prey during optimal summer conditions, particularly during early morning and evening periods	Deep weed edges adjacent to open water, especially in areas with complex vegetation structure Points and inside turns of weed beds where vegetation meets deeper water Submerged vegetation patches near shoreline points and bays, taking advantage of the lake's complex shoreline	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges with occasional pauses Spinnerbaits retrieved just above vegetation tops during low light periods Buzzbaits over vegetation mats during morning and evening feeding periods	Bluegill concentrating around weed edges Various panfish species utilizing the abundant vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Minnetonka

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	55-78	Actively feeding in shallow zones (0-9ft) around docks and vegetation, pursuing bluegills and minnows in preparation for winter Most active during wind-blown conditions and showing increased activity around bait concentrations, especially during low-light periods	Protected docks in bays and calm areas, especially those adjacent to vegetation Wind-blown flats with healthy vegetation Shallow channels and matted grass areas where bait is present	Spinnerbaits with bulky trailers worked around docks and over vegetation Structure jigs skipped under docks and worked slowly through vegetation Swim jigs burned over mats and slow-rolled in pockets	Bluegills concentrated around dock areas and vegetation Minnows schooling on shallow flats and around vegetation edges	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	48-58	Actively feeding and schooling in preparation for winter, with crappies positioned slightly deeper than bluegills in the same areas Most active during daylight hours with aggressive feeding behavior, readily hitting baits with little hesitation	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 foot depths Deep basin edges where they transition to feeding areas Channels and drop-offs near shallow feeding flats	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at specific depths Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around weed edges Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) through suspended schools	Small crappie minnows Aquatic insects Small baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	68-72	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding in preparation for winter, with increased activity around hard-bottom areas and docks as evidenced by recent catches Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns with turnover beginning, causing them to adjust their depth preferences and feeding windows	Hard-bottom docks with nearby deep water access Boulder fields and rock piles, especially those near depth changes Points and breaks with rock or gravel substrate	Ned Rigs worked slowly along hard bottom areas Hard Jerkbaits with extended pauses between twitches Bladed Jigs worked around boulders and dock areas	Minnows gathering in schools near structure Insects and smaller prey items near rocky areas Crawfish in rocky areas and around dock pilings	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Walleye	53-56	Walleyes are actively feeding on rock structures and weed edges, with increased activity during wind-blown conditions. Fish are showing both deep and shallow patterns, with some fish relating to deep rock (20-30ft) and others using shallow weed edges (6-8ft) for feeding. Temperature range (53-56°F) indicates prime fall feeding window, with fish becoming more aggressive and schooling around structural elements. Wind-generated currents are triggering feeding activity.	Rock piles and humps in 20-30 foot range with access to deeper water Wind-blown rock flats with current Weed edges and flats in 6-8 foot range, especially near deep water access	Live Bait Rigs with large minnows, especially effective when drifting 1mph over rock structures Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with jigging raps on deep rock humps Trolling Shallow (0-9') during low light periods with crankbaits	Large Minnows Perch Bluegills	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are transitioning to deeper water, congregating in schools at weedline drops in 10-15 foot range, with larger fish holding below smaller ones Feeding activity is concentrated around submerged vegetation edges, with aggressive competition among size classes	Weedline drops in 10-15 foot depth range Deep edges of submerged vegetation Protected bays with remaining healthy weed growth	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Drop Shot Crappie Spider Rigging	Minnows Aquatic insects in remaining vegetation	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	52-68	Active feeding on baitfish schools in wind-affected areas, following forage to deeper water (15-25ft) Transitioning from weedline hunting to open water pursuit of bait balls, especially during falling water temperatures	Wind-blown banks in 20 foot depth range with nearby deep weed edges Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range where vegetation tops out around 10 feet Main lake points and structures adjacent to deep water that concentrate baitfish	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') trolled through bait balls and along weed edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large profile baits matching baitfish schools Spinnerbaits worked along deep weed edges and wind-blown structures	Concentrated schools of minnows/baitfish in open water Larger baitfish relating to deep weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	52-65	Muskie are aggressively feeding to build up reserves for winter, following large baitfish schools and targeting prey around key structure Fish are making seasonal movements to deeper main lake areas, but still utilize shallow feeding windows during overcast conditions or early/late day	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins where vegetation is still healthy Points and reefs that connect shallow bays to deeper water, serving as migration routes Remaining lily pad fields, especially those near deep water access	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and structural transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to deep weed edges Hard Body Swimbaits retrieved with occasional pauses near structure	Bluegills congregating near remaining green weeds Various sized baitfish schools moving along depth transitions	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Crappie	32-39	Crappies are actively schooling in deep basin areas, suspending near the bottom of the school in 20'+ water Fish are responding to slow, subtle presentations and showing a tendency to chase baits when properly triggered	Deep basins with soft bottom adjacent to shallow flats Suspended schools in open water areas 20'+ deep Deep holes serving as winter holding areas	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Jigs Damiki Rig	Insects Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	38-45	Walleye are concentrated near rock piles in mid-depth ranges, showing active feeding behavior during lower light conditions Fish are relating strongly to structural elements, using rock-to-weed transitions as primary feeding zones	Rock piles in 10-19 foot depth range Weed edges in 6-10 foot range Rock-to-weed transition areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Perch Minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	42-52	Schooling in deeper basin areas, typically 15-25 feet, with reduced but consistent feeding activity Moving between deep basins and transition areas near the first break line, following temperature changes	Deep basin areas adjacent to primary break lines in 20-25 foot range Transition zones near coontail weed edges in 12-15 foot depth Protected bays with remaining green vegetation in 10-12 foot depth	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Drop Shot Damiki Rig	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton Dormant aquatic invertebrates	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	32-45	Pike remain active near deep weed edges at 12-17 feet, following a predictable pattern of ambush feeding Fish are less aggressive but still feed regularly, particularly during warmer periods and stable weather	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range Wind-blown points and banks near deep water Channel edges adjacent to shallow flats	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Bluegills concentrating in deeper weeds Schools of winter-pattern minnows Small perch in weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskie become less active but remain predatory, concentrating near deeper structures adjacent to shallow feeding areas Fish typically suspend near primary forage schools, making fewer but more deliberate feeding movements	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range Submerged reefs and rock piles that hold concentrations of winter forage Sharp breaks and points near deep basin areas where baitfish school	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along deep weed edges and structure breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with large soft plastics near suspended bait schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along prominent structure edges where forage concentrates	Schooling Bluegills concentrated in deeper vegetation Winter-stressed baitfish in deeper water columns	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	31-32	Crappies are suspending in deep basin areas between 15-25 feet, typically holding halfway in the water column and moving in loose schools Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with consistent night bite patterns reported Fish showing finicky behavior, requiring frequent bait changes and deadsticking presentations to trigger strikes	Deep basins where breaks end, particularly in 20-25 foot depths Basin edges adjacent to shallow water areas Suspended over deep water in bays like Carson and Harrison	Ice Fishing Spoons tipped with minnow heads, worked with subtle jigging motions Small tungsten jigs (2mm) with plastics, deadsticked after attracting attention Bobber setups with live minnows positioned just above suspended fish	Small minnows, particularly preferred during prime feeding periods Aquatic insects, effective when fish are more finicky Juvenile crappies, as indicated by successful perch-pattern baits	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Walleye	33-35	Walleyes are actively feeding along weed edges during prime periods of dawn and dusk, with some midday activity Fish are relating strongly to the transition areas between weeds and deeper water, especially in 6-10 foot depth range	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water access points Shallow weeds in 6-10 foot range Humps with remaining vegetation	Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively near bottom then lifted Ice Fishing Jigs worked more subtly in the weeds Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along weed edges	Perch and small panfish in weed areas Various minnow species Crappies in adjacent areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	32-34	Large schools of bluegills are roaming basin areas in 10-30 foot depths, with most active feeding periods occurring during mid-day to early evening Fish are suspending at various depths and responding well to both aggressive and subtle jigging presentations, particularly during prime feeding windows	Deep basin areas in 20-30 feet of water, particularly in dirty water bays Weedline edges transitioning into basins, 10-15 feet deep Green weed patches near breaklines and points in 12-20 foot range	Ice Fishing Jigs with light jigging presentation, tipped with waxworms or euro larvae Ice Fishing Jigs with aggressive jigging to attract suspended fish Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with small minnows for suspended fish	Small aquatic insects and larvae Small minnows Micro invertebrates near remaining green vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Northern Pike	32-34	Northern Pike are holding near deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range, actively feeding on multiple forage types including minnows and dead bait on bottom Fish are maintaining consistent feeding patterns near weed flats, showing preference for both live and dead bait presentations	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range adjacent to weed flats Transitions between weed flats and deeper basins Submerged vegetation patches near primary lake basin areas	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with live bait positioned at varying depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked actively to trigger reaction strikes Dead bait presentations on bottom for opportunistic feeding pike	Fathead and sucker minnows Shiner minnows Bluegills	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Minnetonka

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Rock and boulder areas adjacent to weed edges near spawning flats	First break lines along weed edges in 8-12 foot range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Deep water breaks and ledges transitioning from 20ft to 6ft, especially those adjacent to spawning bays	Dock areas in 8-12ft of water, particularly those with wood posts near deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot transition zones	Secondary points with gravel or rock leading to spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rock-rubble shorelines and points in 8-15 foot depth range	Transition areas between deep winter holes and shallow spawning grounds
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks in protected bays, especially those with depths of 8-12 feet nearby	First break lines near emerging weed growth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Rock piles and shallow structures in 4-10 foot range where water warms first	Areas around docks with nearby vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Inside weed edges where early-season vegetation is emerging, particularly in areas adjacent to deeper wintering areas	Shallow bays and flats that warm up first, especially those with remaining patches of last year's vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation near spawning flats and back bay entrances	Shallow banks and spawning pockets, particularly near laydowns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Submerged vegetation in 6-10 feet adjacent to spawning flats	Marina and dock areas in 2-5 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields in 8-14 feet, especially isolated boulders surrounded by sand	Rock piles and reefs in shallow to moderate depths
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shallow protected dock areas, particularly those with rock or gravel bottom	Wind-blown rock flats and points in 4-8 foot depth range
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow protected bays with firm bottom near docks (2-6 feet)	Emerging coontail weed edges in 8-12 foot transition areas
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Docks in 4-10 foot range, especially those near spawning bays	Rock piles in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Lily Pad fields, especially emerging growth areas	Inside weed edges where vegetation is starting to develop
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Clean docks adjacent to bluegill spawning areas, especially where weed rollers have cleared the bottom	Weed edges in 12-15 feet of water, particularly where coontail is present
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Docks and nearby deeper water transitions where schools of baitfish are present	Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas with scattered vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Docks with adjacent rock or gravel bottom, confirmed by recent fishing success	Rock piles in 8-15 foot range, particularly those near spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Rock-weed transition zones in 8-15 foot depth range	Wind-blown points and rock flats in 12-20 foot depth
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and coontail beds in 10-15 foot depth range	Dock areas adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Submerged vegetation edges, particularly in 12-17 foot depth range	Docks in 4-10 foot range, especially those adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Inside weed edges where new vegetation is emerging	Reefs with adjacent vegetation
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedlines in 12-18 feet with nearby hard bottom or rock	Thick coontail patches with holes, especially in 14-16 foot range
Summer	Crappie	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water, especially near channel breaks	Shaded dock areas with access to deeper water
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 foot range	Docks with adjacent hard bottom
Summer	Walleye	Rock-weed transition zones in 15-25 foot depth range	Wind-blown rock flats and points with access to deeper water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and coontail beds in 10-15 foot depth range	Dock structures with adjacent deep water access
Summer	Northern Pike	Rock piles in 8-15 foot depth range, especially those adjacent to deeper water	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range
Summer	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to open water, especially in areas with complex vegetation structure	Points and inside turns of weed beds where vegetation meets deeper water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Protected docks in bays and calm areas, especially those adjacent to vegetation	Wind-blown flats with healthy vegetation
Fall	Crappie	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 foot depths	Deep basin edges where they transition to feeding areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Hard-bottom docks with nearby deep water access	Boulder fields and rock piles, especially those near depth changes
Fall	Walleye	Rock piles and humps in 20-30 foot range with access to deeper water	Wind-blown rock flats with current
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Weedline drops in 10-15 foot depth range	Deep edges of submerged vegetation
Fall	Northern Pike	Wind-blown banks in 20 foot depth range with nearby deep weed edges	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range where vegetation tops out around 10 feet
Fall	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins where vegetation is still healthy	Points and reefs that connect shallow bays to deeper water, serving as migration routes
Winter	Crappie	Deep basins with soft bottom adjacent to shallow flats	Suspended schools in open water areas 20'+ deep
Winter	Walleye	Rock piles in 10-19 foot depth range	Weed edges in 6-10 foot range
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep basin areas adjacent to primary break lines in 20-25 foot range	Transition zones near coontail weed edges in 12-15 foot depth
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range	Wind-blown points and banks near deep water
Winter	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range	Submerged reefs and rock piles that hold concentrations of winter forage
Ice	Crappie	Deep basins where breaks end, particularly in 20-25 foot depths	Basin edges adjacent to shallow water areas
Ice	Walleye	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water access points	Shallow weeds in 6-10 foot range
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep basin areas in 20-30 feet of water, particularly in dirty water bays	Weedline edges transitioning into basins, 10-15 feet deep
Ice	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 12-17 foot range adjacent to weed flats	Transitions between weed flats and deeper basins

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegills staging near emerging vegetation	Crawfish becoming active around rocky areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Minnows - primary forage during pre-spawn period	Insects - secondary forage becoming more active as water warms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Small to medium-sized perch in transitional areas	Minnow schools congregating near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects, particularly early spring hatches as noted in reports	Small invertebrates in emerging weed growth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills gathering in warming shallows	Shallow-running baitfish schools
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Bluegills concentrating in warming shallow areas	Various baitfish species moving shallow with warming trends
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill beginning their own spawning activity	Minnows in shallow water areas
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Minnows gathering in warming shallows	Early insect hatches around emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter hibernation	Bluegill in shallow spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shallow water minnows	Small perch
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates in vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Spawning bluegills around docks and shallow structure	Minnow schools moving into warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Bluegill concentrated around emerging vegetation	Various panfish species staging in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - primary forage, especially those preparing to spawn	Minnows - secondary forage around weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small baitfish (shad and minnows) in large schools	Young-of-year panfish and small juvenile fish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish - primary forage around rocky areas and docks	Small baitfish - becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Young-of-year perch gathering near weed edges	Shallow-running baitfish schools
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans in weed beds
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill, which are consistently mentioned in recent fishing reports	General Baitfish, as indicated by the success of baitfish-imitating lures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Bluegill gathering around new weed growth	Young of the year baitfish starting to school
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegills, particularly around vegetation and dock areas	Crappies suspended near deep weed edges
Summer	Crappie	Small minnows and shad suspending near structure	Aquatic insects around weed edges
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish on hard bottom areas	Bluegill around dock areas and weed edges
Summer	Walleye	Yellow Perch	Minnows
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans in weed beds
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill	Other sunfish species
Summer	Muskie	Bluegill concentrating around weed edges	Various panfish species utilizing the abundant vegetation
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegills concentrated around dock areas and vegetation	Minnows schooling on shallow flats and around vegetation edges
Fall	Crappie	Small crappie minnows	Aquatic insects
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows gathering in schools near structure	Insects and smaller prey items near rocky areas
Fall	Walleye	Large Minnows	Perch
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Minnows	Aquatic insects in remaining vegetation
Fall	Northern Pike	Concentrated schools of minnows/baitfish in open water	Larger baitfish relating to deep weed edges
Fall	Muskie	Bluegills congregating near remaining green weeds	Various sized baitfish schools moving along depth transitions
Winter	Crappie	Insects	Small minnows
Winter	Walleye	Perch	Minnows
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Winter	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrating in deeper weeds	Schools of winter-pattern minnows
Winter	Muskie	Schooling Bluegills concentrated in deeper vegetation	Winter-stressed baitfish in deeper water columns
Ice	Crappie	Small minnows, particularly preferred during prime feeding periods	Aquatic insects, effective when fish are more finicky
Ice	Walleye	Perch and small panfish in weed areas	Various minnow species
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Small minnows
Ice	Northern Pike	Fathead and sucker minnows	Shiner minnows

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Minnetonka

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors