Lakes in the Bemidji area are finally starting to "green-up"
with the recent warmer weather. The lakes reacted quickly to the
increase in water temperatures and there is a definite algae
bloom starting in many area lakes. The extra color in the water
reduces visibility and has a definite impact on feeding patterns
and fish location. Summer fishing patterns developed quickly,
with an almost immediate increase in the day bite for walleyes.
The end of the mayfly hatch caused many species of fish to be in
transition between patterns. They were looking for an
alternative food source to take the place of the insect hatches.
Walleyes have been using several different patterns in a wide
range of depths, but the algae bloom will push walleyes in many
lakes towards shallower water. The reduction in light
penetration through the water because of the algae will allow
walleyes to feed more comfortably in shallow water during the
day. Surface water temperatures in most lakes are in the low to
mid 70s, which is still within