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Lake Fishing Report: Upper Red Lake, Minnesota

1. Current Lake Conditions Analysis

Ice Thickness: At 5.73 inches (as of 2025-02-08), the ice is considered safe for ice fishing. However, anglers should monitor ice conditions closely, especially as temperatures may fluctuate over the next week.
Max Depth: The lake reaches depths of approximately 25.6 feet, but most ice fishing activity is concentrated in areas with 15 feet or less of water.
Water Temperature: While not explicitly provided, water temperatures under ice are typically around 32°F, with minimal fluctuation.

2. Species-Specific Locations & Techniques

Walleye

Locations: Focus on shallow reefs (8-12 feet), particularly around the northwest shoreline and near structure like the aforementioned “Reef 14.”
Techniques: Use jigging spoons (e.g., Rippin’ Rap or Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon) in glow colors. Tip with a minnow head for better attraction. Vertical jigging near the bottom or just above weed beds is effective.

Northern Pike

Locations: Target weed edges and structures at depths of 6-10 feet. The east shore near pike-rich areas is prime.
Techniques: Employ large sucker or golden shiner minnows on tip-ups. Useweedless spoons like a Williams Whitefish or large blade baits if pike are active.

Yellow Perch

Locations: Concentrate on shallow bays with sandy bottoms, such as the northwestern shoreline. Look for schools in 6-8 feet of water.
Techniques: Small jigging spoons (e.g., Forage Minnow) and larvae or waxworms are effective. Slow, steady jigging mimics baitfish.

Black Crappie

Locations: Found in deeper holes (15-20 feet) among structure. The eastern basin is a hotspot.
Techniques: Use small jigs (1/16 oz.) with larvae or crappie minnows on a bobber rig. Horizontal jigs like a Genz Worm are effective.

Bluegill

Locations: Target shallow, weedy areas like the northeast shoreline in 4-6 feet of water.
Techniques: Small ice jigs tipped with larvae or waxworms. A light hand is key for these skittish fish.

3. Weather Impact Analysis (7–8 day)

Early Week: Steady cold through February 11 with temps as low as -24°F. Fish will seek comfort zones—deeper for Walleye and Crappie, shallower for Perch and Bluegill.
Mid-Week: Slight warming trend post-February 13 may increase activity. Monitor pressure changes around the full moon on the 12th.
Wind: Gusty winds late in the week may displace snow, affecting ice travel. Choose sheltered areas like the north shore.

4. Location-Specific Tips

Northwest Shoreline: Key for Walleye and Perch. Look for shallow reefs and structural drop-offs.
Reef 14: A known hotspot southeast of the Warroad River, holding Walleye and Crappie.
Sheltered Bays: Protected areas like the northeast bay offer calmer conditions and active Panfish.

5. Time-of-Day Recommendations

Walleye: Prime during low light (dawn/dusk) and around the full moon’s peak activity.
Perch/Bluegill: Active during midday (10 AM – 2 PM) when sunlight penetrates the ice.
Pike/Crappie: Opportunistic feeders but may show increased activity during minor solunar periods.

6. Advanced Techniques

Jigging for Walleye: Use a dead-stick approach with a plain hook and minnow for finicky fish.
Pike Lure Attraction: Move quickly between holes to find active pike. Use tip-ups with sucker minnows.
Crappie Location: Look for suspended schools just above structure. Use electronic depth finders to locate.

7. Regulations & Limits

Daily Limits: Check Minnesota DNR for exact numbers. Likely 4 Walleye (19-21″ slot), unlimited Pike and Panfish. Some species may have specific limits.
Permits: Ensure you have a valid Minnesota fishing license and any required stamps.

This report is designed to maximize your fishing success on Upper Red Lake, combining species-specific strategies with weather insights and local knowledge. Always prioritize ice safety and check local regulations before your trip.

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