I have a buddy who has a family cabin on Namekagon Lake who’s been wanting to take a trip over from the Twin Cities for a weekend. It looks like we’re going to be heading out the weekend of 9/22 with my Ranger.
Obviously I’ve never been on the lake, though looking at the bathymetry it really looks like it has a lot to offer. We’d like to target smallmouth if at all possible, but largemouth are fine as well. I’m guessing the frog bite should be strong at that point in the season if nothing else!
Anybody have any tips or suggestions for me for that time of year? Of course I’d be willing to reciprocate with tips for any of the Twin Cities area lakes if that would be useful to anyone, or could even offer some suggestions for Mille Lacs if you find yourself heading that way.
I’ve read that the lake has a strong crappie population, and we’d not be opposed to breaking out the ultralights and slip bobbering up some dinner if that seems like it’d be a worthwhile endeavor. Fair to assume they should be suspended over mud basins at that time of year? Any general areas of the lake to check out for them?
I’m also not opposed to trying different lakes or even rivers (if relatively easily navigable...) in the area if there are better options, particularly if it improves our chances to get on a good smallmouth bite.
My biggest fear is running into fall turnover. Hopefully it’ll still be a little early for that.
Thanks in advance, guys!