If you are looking for some easy fishing without having to explore the far reaches of Gull, hit the docks in the main basin. All you need is a spinning rod spooled with 8-pound-test line and a 1/8-ounce jig tipped with a 3-inch scented plastic grub or a 7-inch plastic worm. Working that jig around the edges of the docks any time during the open-water season will result in fish. You'll catch walleyes, northern pike and a lot of largemouth bass, some of which will reach 17 to 20 inches.

For more information, visit www.brainered.com.

* * *

Deciding on the species to fish for on many of the lakes in the northwoods of Minnesota has become a quandary. You know there are walleyes on all the rockpiles and sunken islands, but those big beds of cabbage and bulrushes are tempting to the point where you have visions of big largemouth bass jumping to toss the lure. There is a solution to this dilemma. Fish for walleyes in the morning and evenings when they bite the best. Fish for largemouth bass in the middle of the day when they are very willing to smack your bait. You may have to take a few more rods along and an extra tackle box, but it will be worth it.

And don't forget your camera, otherwise, your dad won't believe there were largemouth bass in those "walleye lakes" all these years!