5/18 RFRG Fishing Report w/Muskie Matt

Water temps have moved to the 54-58 degree range. The warmer water has triggered a stronger bite in the Eagle River area.

Walleyes in the Eagle River area. are hitting well on the standard jig/minnow combo. Use a fathead. Newly emerging weed areas seem to be attracting fish. Mixed bag on sizes.

Crappies in the Eagle River area coming in shallow now. Use a small number six hook, under a slip bobber in the 4-6 foot water depths. A tiny crappie minnow is the bait of choice.

Savvy Eagle River anglers are watching for water temps to rise a bit more. That will bring on the smallmouth spawn. That's a hoot every year. Little bass spinner baits in orange or chartreuse work well, or small Rapalas in a
perch pattern. Just remember until the opening of bass season, it's strictly catch-and-release. But who keeps bass anyway, right?

Muskies in the Eagle River area are up and spawning, and don't be surprised if a big muskie takes a pop at your little walleye or crappie as you bring it in. A 46 inch fish took a tiny one-sixteenth ounce jig and a fathead the other day in the Eagle River area. Like the smallies, any muskie caught before the opening of muskie season (Saturday, May 23rd) must be immediately released, and we hope that all muskies will be released at all times. CPR... catch, photo, release.

We're on our way to another great year of fishing in the Eagle River area, best of luck to all....