Excellent ice conditions and perch fishing this season on Mille Lacs!
Currently there is plenty of ice on the main lake, I would even recommend buying an auger extension if fishing out of a permanent house. Very cold temps and light snow have created ideal conditions for fish houses and mobility.
The perch bite is excellent, with good fishing being reported in many areas of the lake. Over the last couple of weeks, the best fishing I have found has either been in the basin adjacent to deep water mudflats, or on the gravel transitions in about 30'. Either way, deep water seems to be the common factor. On the north end, the deep break has been producing fish as well.
On mild weather days when the perch are more aggressive, rattle spoons and minnow heads produced the fastest action. When the temperature drops, our best technique has been quivering tungsten jigs tipped with bugs, about a foot off of the bottom.
For the walleyes, let's just say the big fish are well fed this season. We are catching some nice fish each trip on rattle spoons. Occasionally the set lines and shiners will out produce the spoon, which is unusual considering this is the most consistent technique on Mille Lacs.
For walleyes, I would recommend finding a spot such as a point on a mudflat. The big key this time of year, is avoiding crowds. It's very important to find a nice quiet spot, and set up for the morning/evening bite.
Good Luck Fishing!
Ryan Kelly
Lagoona Guide Service
651-769-3142
www.fishlagoona.com
fishlagoona@gmail.com