As we get deeper into the 2010 angling season, the temperatures begin to play with our “fishing emotions” a bit more than they did in the early part of the year. We see fishing patterns change and the fish get a little more finicky. While some guests swear by the early and late times of the season, July can be just as productive as any other time if you keep a few things in mind.

The first thing you need to do is locate the food source. By this time of the season,  most walleye should be feeding mainly on minnows and smaller fish (perch, tiny walleyes and even a small pike) which makes it so important to locate schools of baitfish. These schools will be looking for the cooler water temps which usually means in the deeper water. If you can find the baitfish, you are sure to find some hungry predators nearby.
One of the things we tell guys before they head out is to fish the windy side of the islands.  Always! The winds will blow the baitfish into a concentrated shoreline area and the feeding fish will follow. This can last for a few hours or a few days. Never give up on a spot just because the winds have died down. If the baitfish are there,  so are the ones we are after.

Lastly, make sure to keep on the move in the summer months. These fish have a tendency to scatter a little more in the heated sunny days. It is less likely that you will catch 100 fish in one spot like you did in late May or June. Try drifting or trolling until you locate these schools. Don’t rule out the shallows either. Give it all a shot until you come across a proven pattern that works for your group. The early and late times of the day have always produced the biggest fish in July as well as the best “relaxation” time on the water.  There is nothing better than a cold beverage, a great Canadian sunset and monster walleye on the end of your line to end a perfect day in the wilderness.

I look forward to hearing from you all soon! Send me an email.
Joe Pichey