Brainerd & Nisswa MN Fishing Guides

Brainerd MN Fishing Guide

Minnesota bass fishing regulations have changed in recent years. Bass fishing previously was not allowed in Minnesota before Memorial Day weekend. New Minnesota rules allow catch-n-release bass fishing before this time. Brainerd fishing guides can now help clients enjoy great early season bass fishing in Brainerd, Minnesota. Spring has always been an exciting time to fish for largemouth bass on Gull Lake. Bass will typically invade the shallows on the lakes in Brainerd, Minnesota shorty after the ice leaves. Many big bass were caught while anglers fished for crappie but fishermen couldn't intentionally fish for bass in Minnesota until the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. New Minnesota catch-n-release regulations now allow Brainerd fishing guides to pursue largemouth bass two weeks earlier than previous years. This provides visiting anglers the opportunity to extend their Minnesota bass fishing season with catch and release.

Spring Gull Lake Spots

Pre-Season Spots

Nisswa Fishing Guide: Pre-Season Bass

All Brainerd fishing guides has a favorite lure for springtime bass. Mine is a 3/32 oz. green mushroom jig rigged with 7 inch motor-oil power worm. Use the bow mount trolling motor to cruise slowly through the reeds while fan casting in front of the boat. The lake vegetation is sparse this time of year so there is no need to bury the hook in the worm. Pitch the worm out and let it settle to the bottom. Drag the worm a foot or so across the bottom and them pick up the slack. The water is still cold so do not fish too fast. Most fishermen use too light of a hook. Brainerd fishing guides remember every six pound bass which straighten out a hook. Those memories never leave.

Spring Walleye Fishing Guide

Spring Walleye

Brainerd Fishing Guide Locations

The best early season bass locations are shallow flats which contain pencil reeds and a southern exposure. Some of the best pre-spawn areas on Gull Lake are located on the west side of Wilson Bay. The sun warms these areas quickly and provides a jumpstart to the Gull Lake food chain. Pay close attention to any dips or depressions in the bottom of the lake on these large flats. Some of the best spring spots are only 2 to 3 feet deeper than the surrounding areas. Largemouth bass will use these locations for both spawning and feeding. Bass will actively cruise any edges in these locations searching for food. The best locations have a combinations of sand, moss, and thick stands of pencil reeds.

Gull Lake Fishing Guide Tips

Learn more Gull Lake bass fishing tips from Brainerd fishing guides.

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