How to Fish Lake Minnewashta: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Minnewashta

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 12, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Minnewashta

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn bass actively feeding while staging near spawning areas, typically relating to submerged vegetation edges Fish transitioning between winter and spawning locations, using varied depths based on daily temperature fluctuations	Deep weedlines at 14-16 feet serving as staging areas Secondary points with submerged vegetation near spawning flats Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Ned Rigs worked slowly along weed edges Drop Shot targeting suspended fish in clear water Soft Jerkbaits with long pauses between twitches	Bluegill concentrating near emerging vegetation Small baitfish relating to weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	55-65	Moving from winter deep water locations (12-18ft) to shallower pre-spawn staging areas (4-8ft), actively feeding to build energy for spawning Showing increased activity during warming trends, particularly during afternoon hours when water temperatures peak	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 foot depth range with proximity to deeper winter holding areas Protected shallow bays and coves that warm faster than main lake areas Dock areas with southern exposure providing warmer water and early season cover	Live Bait Rigs with small presentation suspended under slip bobbers Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through transitional areas Finesse Hair Jigs worked vertically near emerging vegetation	Small aquatic insects emerging with warming water Zooplankton concentrations in warming shallows Small minnows in emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-52	Northern Pike are moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly in protected coves and near emerging vegetation, actively feeding to prepare for spawn Fish are more aggressive during daylight hours as water temperatures slowly rise, with peak activity during mid-morning to early afternoon	Protected back coves with emerging vegetation, especially in areas with soft bottom composition Shallow flats adjacent to the northern channel, particularly areas transitioning from 4-8 feet Emerging weed edges in 8-12 feet of water, serving as staging areas	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow areas, especially near emerging vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily along weed edges and through spawning flats Live Bait Rigs positioned near staging areas for more passive presentations during cold fronts	Bluegills congregating in shallow, warmer bays Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawning activities	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-65	Crappie are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to shallow staging areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are beginning to school up near spawning areas, particularly around docks and other hard cover in preparation for the spawn	Protected dock areas in 5-10 foot depths Shallow coves with hard bottom transitions Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Bobbers	Small insects and larvae Young-of-year bluegill Small minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Transitioning from winter depths to shallower pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Most active during warmer portions of the day, particularly around sunlit rocky areas that warm faster	Rocky points and transitions adjacent to deeper wintering areas Secondary points leading into spawning bays Deep weed edges intersecting with hard bottom areas	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Tubes dragged and hopped on rocky points Drop Shot with subtle movements near deep weed edges	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bluegills holding near deep weed edges Small perch in transitional areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-68	Bass are in varying stages of spawn, with some fish moving shallow to spawn while others remain on deeper edges as evidenced by the fishing reports showing both shallow and deep weedline activity Fish are showing increased sensitivity to pressure, particularly on open flats, requiring finesse presentations as noted in the opener report Post-frontal conditions are pushing larger fish to deeper weedlines while smaller fish remain shallow, suggesting a transitional period	Docks and adjacent shallow areas, particularly those near spawning flats Deep weedlines in 14-16 foot range Protected shallow areas with submerged vegetation	Wacky Rigs worked slowly near docks and shallow cover Drop Shot along deep weedlines Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') near surface in post-frontal conditions	Bluegill - consistently mentioned in reports as primary forage Yellow Perch - successful crankbait pattern indicates presence	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-72	Bluegills moving into shallow spawning areas with warmer water, showing increased activity and aggressive behavior around nesting sites Fish transitioning from deeper winter areas to shallow flats and protected bays where spawning will occur	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and sparse vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Transitional areas near deep weed edges leading to spawning flats Areas adjacent to docks in 4-8 feet of water	Bobbers with small jigs and live bait, worked slowly around spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs near structure Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through transitional areas	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton Small crustaceans	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	45-55	Northern Pike are in pre-spawn to spawning mode, actively moving into shallow areas near vegetation and back coves Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior, targeting bluegills in shallow water as evidenced by recent catches on bluegill-pattern crankbaits	Protected back coves with emerging vegetation, particularly areas with lily pad growth Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water channels Weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range serving as transition areas	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') with slow retrieve as validated by recent success Spinnerbaits worked along emerging weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) mimicking bluegill prey	Bluegill Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are moving into shallow spawning areas around docks and other hard cover, actively feeding on insects and small prey Fish are becoming more aggressive and sight-feeding in the upper water column due to moderate water clarity (8.9ft Secchi)	Docks in protected coves and bays, especially those with deeper water nearby Shallow woody cover and brush piles in 3-8 feet of water Points and channel swings leading into spawning coves	Bobbers with light jigs or live bait, as validated by recent successful reports Crappie Dock Shooting for skittish fish under dock structures Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) for actively feeding fish	Insects, particularly aquatic nymphs and larvae Small bluegills and juvenile panfish Zooplankton in the upper water column	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass are transitioning to spawning areas, moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow rocky flats and protected bays where they'll establish nesting sites Males are actively patrolling and preparing nest sites in 2-6 foot depths, particularly near harder bottom areas adjacent to deeper water access	Protected shallow bays with mixed rock and gravel bottom near deep water access Rocky points and shoreline areas with scattered dock structures Transition areas where deep weedlines meet hard bottom structure	Tubes worked slowly along rocky areas and potential spawning flats Ned Rigs worked methodically around shallow structure and transition areas Soft Jerkbaits fished with a subtle presentation near spawning areas	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy Small bluegills near weed edges Young of year baitfish beginning to appear	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn largemouth are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer locations, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are relating heavily to deep weedlines in 10-12 feet, showing a clear movement pattern to these stable areas	Deep weedline edges in 10-12 feet, particularly where curly leaf pondweed is present Docks adjacent to deeper water, providing shade and ambush points Transition areas between shallow flats and deep weed edges	Drop Shot with finesse baits worked slowly along deep weed edges Wacky Rigs worked around docks and sparse vegetation Soft Jerkbaits worked parallel to weed edges	Bluegill concentrated around weed edges and dock areas Young of the year baitfish beginning to emerge in vegetation	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper staging areas throughout the day	Shallow weed edges in 4-8 feet adjacent to spawning areas Protected areas between docks with emerging weed growth Secondary points with submerged vegetation in 8-12 feet	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near weed edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light tackle around dock areas Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through emerging weed beds	Small aquatic insects and larvae Emerging weed-related invertebrates Small crustaceans in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting shallow areas with vegetation and structure Fish are making frequent moves between shallow warming bays and nearby deeper areas as they establish summer patterns	Shallow back coves with emerging vegetation (5-10 feet) Points and weed edges adjacent to deeper water Dock areas with nearby vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Inline Spinners near emerging vegetation Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses	Bluegills gathering in warming shallows Yellow Perch transitioning from spawning areas Small pike and other baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	65-75	Post-spawn crappie transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish suspending near vertical cover and around deep weed edges, becoming more structure-oriented	Deeper dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near spawning areas Deep weed edges beginning to form at 12-15 feet Secondary points and creek channel intersections near spawning bays	Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Hover/Mid-Strolling	Small insects and emerging aquatic larvae Young-of-year bluegill fry Small minnows and shad	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-72	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting deep weed edges and rocky transition areas Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between shallow and deep water based on light and temperature conditions	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, particularly where they intersect with points or structure Rocky points and current breaks near deeper water Dock areas adjacent to deep water access	Drop Shot along deep weed edges and rocky points Tubes worked slowly along transition areas Ned Rigs for pressured fish in clear water conditions	Bluegills concentrating along weed edges Young-of-year perch becoming active in deeper vegetation Crayfish emerging in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	65-81	Bass are showing a dual pattern - actively feeding early/late in shallow water (2-4ft) and holding on deep weed edges (14-15ft) during midday Fish are suspending near schools of bluegill along weed edges and actively feeding during low light conditions on surface prey	Deep weedlines at 14-15 feet, particularly where scattered clumps create ambush points Shallow vegetation and lily pads in 2-4 feet during morning/evening periods Weed edges adjacent to points where depth transitions from 8-15 feet occur	Drop Shot with slow, finesse presentations along deep weed edges Hard Topwater (Prop) during early morning calm conditions Wacky Rigs worked slowly through scattered vegetation	Bluegill concentrated along weed edges Surface insects during calm periods	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	70-81	Actively feeding around docks and shallow structure, particularly focused on insect forage during summer warmth Showing preference for shaded areas during daylight hours, with increased activity in morning and evening periods	Docks with shade and adjacent vegetation Shallow weed edges in 8-10 foot depth range Protected coves with laydown wood structure	Bobbers with small jigs or live bait presentations Ned Rigs worked slowly around dock posts Crappie Dock Shooting for skittish fish under structures	Various aquatic insects Small crustaceans Tiny baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	70-81	Northern Pike are retreating to deeper weed edges during peak summer temperatures, making feeding forays into shallower areas during early morning and evening Actively ambushing prey near docks and lily pad edges, particularly targeting bluegill populations	Weed edges at 14-15 feet depth, especially near deeper water access Dock areas with adjacent lily pad fields Protected back coves with vegetation	Hard Topwater (Prop) worked with slow, jerky retrieve near surface cover Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through deeper weed edges	Bluegill concentrated around docks and vegetation Perch along deeper weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Crappie	65-80	Crappie are actively feeding on insects around lily pads and suspended near deep weed edges, showing both shallow and suspended patterns typical of summer Fish are showing mixed depth preferences, utilizing both shallow cover and suspended positions depending on time of day and temperature	Lily pad fields with nearby deeper water access Deep weed edges at 15 foot depth contours Dock areas providing shade and cover	Finesse Jigs worked slowly through lily pads and around cover Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) for suspended fish near deep weed edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding deeper	Insects are primary forage based on recent successful catches Small bluegill and juvenile panfish as secondary forage	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	70-81	Actively feeding along deep weed edges during early morning and evening, moving between weedline and nearby structure Shifting to deeper, cooler water during midday when temperatures peak above 75°F, utilizing dock edges and points as transition zones	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, especially where they intersect with docks or points Rocky points adjacent to deeper water Dock structures with access to deep water	Hard Topwater (Prop) during low light periods along weed edges Drop Shot with finesse presentations in deeper water during midday Tubes worked slowly along dock edges and rocky points	Bluegill concentrating around deep weed edges Small baitfish relating to dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Minnewashta

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	56-72	Fish are transitioning from summer to fall patterns, suspending along deep weed edges (14-16 feet) and showing reduced shallow water activity due to warm conditions Feeding windows are more concentrated, with fish relating strongly to the deep weed edge as a primary staging area	Deep weedlines at 14-16 feet, particularly where they intersect with points or other structure Secondary deep grass patches at 15 feet with remaining green vegetation Sparse lily pad fields adjacent to deeper water as temperatures cool	Drop Shot with small profile baits worked slowly along deep weed edges Wacky Rigs fished deliberately through sparse vegetation Ned Rigs worked along deep grass edges for pressured fish	Bluegill concentrated around remaining green vegetation Small insects and invertebrates in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Transitioning from summer dock patterns to deeper structure, remaining active in 73°F water temperatures Feeding actively on insects and small prey around vegetation edges and dock structures	Docks with nearby deep water access Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range Protected coves with remaining vegetation	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at key depths Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Crappie Dock Shooting	Bluegill Aquatic insects Small minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Northern Pike	60-73	Northern pike are actively feeding in shallow to mid-depth areas, showing increased activity in cooling water temperatures (60-73°F). They are utilizing ambush points near docks and coves for feeding opportunities. Fish are responding well to aggressive topwater presentations, suggesting they're actively pursuing prey in the upper water column, particularly during periods of moderate water temperatures.	Docks and adjacent areas, particularly in the northern channel where recent catches have been reported Protected back coves, especially during colder periods Weed edges at 14-15 feet depth, serving as transitional areas	Hard Topwater (Prop) - proven effective in recent reports with jerky retrieval Hard Jerkbaits - effective for active pike in cooling water Spinnerbaits - ideal for covering water between docks and along weed edges	Perch - primary forage based on recent fishing reports Bluegill - secondary forage mentioned in fishing reports	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-68	Crappie are transitioning to deeper water and suspending near deep weed edges, following baitfish schools Fish become more active during low-light periods, moving shallower to feed Schools are tightening up and becoming more concentrated as water temperatures cool	Deep weed edges at 12-15 feet adjacent to points or coves Suspended schools near dock structures in 8-12 feet of water Deep basin areas near structure in 15-20 feet	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill Insects and zooplankton Small crustaceans	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-68	Actively feeding on deep weed edges and rocky points, following baitfish schools as they migrate to deeper water Becoming more aggressive in feeding patterns due to seasonal cooling, with peak activity during afternoon hours when water temperatures are optimal	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, especially where they intersect with rocky structure Rocky points that provide current breaks and access to deeper water Deeper dock areas adjacent to deep weed edges	Drop Shot worked along deep weed edges and rocky points Tubes dragged and hopped along rocky transitions Blade Baits worked through schools of suspended baitfish	Bluegills concentrating near deep weed edges Small baitfish schools in open water adjacent to structure Crayfish active on rocky points	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	34-40	Bluegills are schooling in deeper water near the deep weed edges, with more active feeding during afternoon periods Fish are relating closely to remaining green vegetation in 12-18 foot depth range, utilizing these areas as primary winter holding locations	Deep weed edges in 12-18 feet of water where vegetation is still green Basin areas adjacent to deep weed edges where schools may suspend Transitions between hard bottom and soft bottom areas near deep vegetation	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Live Bait Rigs	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton Tiny crustaceans near vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	38-45	Pike will be actively feeding in deeper weed edges and channel areas (14-15 feet) where panfish congregate during open water winter conditions Fish are likely to position near steep breaks and channel edges that provide quick access to both deep water sanctuary and feeding zones Feeding windows are typically most active during warmer parts of the day when baitfish become more active	Deep weed edges at 14-15 feet adjacent to channel areas Northern channel areas with proximity to back coves Deep points where multiple depth breaks intersect	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Blade Baits	Bluegills concentrated in deeper weeds Yellow Perch schooling along channel edges Smaller pike and other baitfish in deeper areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	During open water winter periods, crappie are typically suspending in deeper water columns, often schooling tightly in areas with minimal current Feeding activity is reduced and concentrated during prime periods, typically during warmer parts of the day Fish are moving slower and require more deliberate, methodical presentations	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer weed edges (around 15-17 feet) Deeper dock areas that provide overhead cover and break from current Deep water gathering points near complex shoreline features	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling Damiki Rig	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill suspended in the water column Zooplankton and micro invertebrates Dormant insects near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills congregate in deep weed edges at 12-18 feet, typically schooling tightly in these winter holding areas Feeding activity is most pronounced during early morning and late afternoon periods, with fish becoming more selective during mid-day	Deep weed edges at 12-18 feet near submerged vegetation Transitions between weedy flats and deeper basins Deeper holes adjacent to remaining green vegetation	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements, particularly effective with live bait Ice Fishing Spoons jigged slowly to trigger reaction strikes Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with small presentations	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton Tiny crustaceans	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	34-39	Northern Pike concentrate in back coves and near channel intersections at 8-14 feet during ice season, actively feeding during prime morning and evening periods Pike position near abundant panfish populations, particularly targeting schools of bluegills and perch near weed edges that remain green under the ice	Weed edges at 14-15 foot depths, especially where they intersect with the northern channel Protected back coves with remaining green vegetation in 8-12 foot range Channel bends and drop-offs where panfish schools congregate	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at various depths to intercept active pike Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes from nearby predators Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows, worked more slowly during mid-day periods	Bluegills concentrated near remaining green weeds Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges and drop-offs	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	34-39	Crappie are suspending in deeper water columns, typically in schools around key structure Feeding activity peaks during early morning and late afternoon, with a focus on small prey items	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer weed edges at 15-17 feet Suspended schools near deep dock structures Deep holes near points and coves	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements Ice Fishing Spoons for aggressive reaction strikes Ice Fishing Tip-Ups for live bait presentation	Small insects and larvae Juvenile bluegill Small minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Minnewashta

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedlines at 14-16 feet serving as staging areas	Secondary points with submerged vegetation near spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 foot depth range with proximity to deeper winter holding areas	Protected shallow bays and coves that warm faster than main lake areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Protected back coves with emerging vegetation, especially in areas with soft bottom composition	Shallow flats adjacent to the northern channel, particularly areas transitioning from 4-8 feet
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Protected dock areas in 5-10 foot depths	Shallow coves with hard bottom transitions
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and transitions adjacent to deeper wintering areas	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks and adjacent shallow areas, particularly those near spawning flats	Deep weedlines in 14-16 foot range
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and sparse vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Transitional areas near deep weed edges leading to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Protected back coves with emerging vegetation, particularly areas with lily pad growth	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water channels
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Docks in protected coves and bays, especially those with deeper water nearby	Shallow woody cover and brush piles in 3-8 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with mixed rock and gravel bottom near deep water access	Rocky points and shoreline areas with scattered dock structures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedline edges in 10-12 feet, particularly where curly leaf pondweed is present	Docks adjacent to deeper water, providing shade and ambush points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow weed edges in 4-8 feet adjacent to spawning areas	Protected areas between docks with emerging weed growth
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow back coves with emerging vegetation (5-10 feet)	Points and weed edges adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Deeper dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near spawning areas	Deep weed edges beginning to form at 12-15 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, particularly where they intersect with points or structure	Rocky points and current breaks near deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedlines at 14-15 feet, particularly where scattered clumps create ambush points	Shallow vegetation and lily pads in 2-4 feet during morning/evening periods
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks with shade and adjacent vegetation	Shallow weed edges in 8-10 foot depth range
Summer	Northern Pike	Weed edges at 14-15 feet depth, especially near deeper water access	Dock areas with adjacent lily pad fields
Summer	Crappie	Lily pad fields with nearby deeper water access	Deep weed edges at 15 foot depth contours
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, especially where they intersect with docks or points	Rocky points adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedlines at 14-16 feet, particularly where they intersect with points or other structure	Secondary deep grass patches at 15 feet with remaining green vegetation
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks with nearby deep water access	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range
Fall	Northern Pike	Docks and adjacent areas, particularly in the northern channel where recent catches have been reported	Protected back coves, especially during colder periods
Fall	Crappie	Deep weed edges at 12-15 feet adjacent to points or coves	Suspended schools near dock structures in 8-12 feet of water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges at 14-16 feet, especially where they intersect with rocky structure	Rocky points that provide current breaks and access to deeper water
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges in 12-18 feet of water where vegetation is still green	Basin areas adjacent to deep weed edges where schools may suspend
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges at 14-15 feet adjacent to channel areas	Northern channel areas with proximity to back coves
Winter	Crappie	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer weed edges (around 15-17 feet)	Deeper dock areas that provide overhead cover and break from current
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges at 12-18 feet near submerged vegetation	Transitions between weedy flats and deeper basins
Ice	Northern Pike	Weed edges at 14-15 foot depths, especially where they intersect with the northern channel	Protected back coves with remaining green vegetation in 8-12 foot range
Ice	Crappie	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer weed edges at 15-17 feet	Suspended schools near deep dock structures

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating near emerging vegetation	Small baitfish relating to weed edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects emerging with warming water	Zooplankton concentrations in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills congregating in shallow, warmer bays	Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawning activities
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small insects and larvae	Young-of-year bluegill
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bluegills holding near deep weed edges
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - consistently mentioned in reports as primary forage	Yellow Perch - successful crankbait pattern indicates presence
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill	Perch
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Insects, particularly aquatic nymphs and larvae	Small bluegills and juvenile panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small bluegills near weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated around weed edges and dock areas	Young of the year baitfish beginning to emerge in vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Emerging weed-related invertebrates
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills gathering in warming shallows	Yellow Perch transitioning from spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small insects and emerging aquatic larvae	Young-of-year bluegill fry
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegills concentrating along weed edges	Young-of-year perch becoming active in deeper vegetation
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated along weed edges	Surface insects during calm periods
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Various aquatic insects	Small crustaceans
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrated around docks and vegetation	Perch along deeper weed edges
Summer	Crappie	Insects are primary forage based on recent successful catches	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish as secondary forage
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating around deep weed edges	Small baitfish relating to dock structures
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated around remaining green vegetation	Small insects and invertebrates in vegetation
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Bluegill	Aquatic insects
Fall	Northern Pike	Perch - primary forage based on recent fishing reports	Bluegill - secondary forage mentioned in fishing reports
Fall	Crappie	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill	Insects and zooplankton
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegills concentrating near deep weed edges	Small baitfish schools in open water adjacent to structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Winter	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrated in deeper weeds	Yellow Perch schooling along channel edges
Winter	Crappie	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill suspended in the water column	Zooplankton and micro invertebrates
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrated near remaining green weeds	Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges and drop-offs
Ice	Crappie	Small insects and larvae	Juvenile bluegill

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Minnewashta

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