The ‘Eyes Are the Prize Keeping the walleye population in balance is the responsibility of DNR fisheries offices around the state. Needless to say, they have a broad perspective on the management of our state fish. (March 2008).
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"A lot of folks take canoes," Slaughter said. "I just prefer to fish comfortably out of a boat. You can get to the best spots quicker and stay on top of the walleyes easier."
Slaughter said the best spots on opening day are where there is some water running into the lake, so look for the mouths of rivers and creeks. He also keys on necked-down areas where migrating walleyes will congregate and lie in the slow current moving through, and bringing food along with it.
For more information, visit Slaughter's Web site at www.elymnguide.com, or call him toll-free at 1-800-559-9695.
UPPER RED LAKE
The tribal netting on this huge lake in northern Minnesota destroyed the walleye population some years back, but the void that was created was filled by black crappies, and it started a phenomenon that will long be remembered. However, through a joint effort between the Red Lake tribe and the DNR, Upper Red Lake is now back to its peak in numbers of catchable walleyes for anglers.
"If there is one drawback to fishing Red on opener, it's that a lot of people know its potential and there are a lot of boats on top of those walleyes." This statement came from Mark Courts, a Professional Walleye Trail tournament champion and a frequent Red Lake visitor who echoes the sentiments of many who were there last year, which was the first open season for walleyes since the restocking.
"The slot limits are pretty restrictive," Courts said, "but that didn't stop a lot of guys from fishing there. On Red, it's all about catching walleyes, not so much about keeping fish. You have to stay in that 17- to 26-inch slot, with only one over 26 inches, and it's only a two-fish limit. It's pretty restrictive when it comes to keeping fish, but you can catch 100 on opener, and that's what everyone is there for."
Only a portion of the lake is open to non-tribal anglers, so take along a GPS and heed the warning of the DNR to stay east of the longitudinal coordinate of 94° 43' 12.0" W to ensure you are on state waters.
For more information, contact Hillman's Store at (218) 647-8504.
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