Weekly Fishing Report: June 30 - July 7, 2012

Another hot week led to some hot fishing!

Walleyes were very strong in size this past week. Multiple big fish from 25"-29.5" were caught and released throughout the week. The majority of them being caught to the west of Morson on some deeper water humps. Anything that topped out at 15 feet or deeper seemed to be the key. Jigs and leeches/minnows were the best presentation for our anglers. Also reports of lots of 16"-17" fish out to the west towards the Little Traverse basin. and closer to Morson saw lots of 12"-14" fish as well. More than one group noted catching some walleyes casting cranks for smallies as well. A number 7 shadrap was particularly good for one boat, landing good average sized walleyes among a bunch of smallies.

Not many muskie anglers this week, but a couple personal bests up to 46.6" were caught, as well as the usual number of big fish bite-offs by those getting big fish to hit walleye presentations. We will have multiple groups in for the next 4-5 weeks that will be targeting the big fish so I'm expecting some great reports starting this week.

Northerns more active on rock points near some deeper water with the shallows heating up, but white spinner baits in the weeds produced as well.

Water temps still in the mid 70s to mid 80s in shallow bays during the heat of the afternoon. Please use extra caution, particularly when handling big fish. Minimize the fight by netting the fish ASAP, have cameras ready if picture desired and snap one quick one before putting back in the water. Unhooking should be done in the water while fish is in the net or cradle, which is the best practice all season long.

Stay safe out there. Use lots of sunscreen on exposed skin and reapply regularly. Drink lots of fluids and don't be afraid to take a few hours off in the afternoon when the sun is at it's hottest. This is supposed to be fun ya'll...not harder work and more exhausting than your day job.

Cheers.