Latest Report

Mille Lacs Lake Fishing Report

September 28, 2026 By Jake Thompson

This Week's Overview

Walleye action has been excellent this week with cooler temperatures pushing fish into shallower waters. Best action near Garrison and Isle areas. Northern pike are also active with several catches over 30 inches reported.

Current Conditions

🌡️ Water Temp 58°F
👁️ Clarity Good (4-6 ft visibility)
📊 Lake Level Normal
🌤️ Weather Partly cloudy, light winds from the NW

Species Report

Walleye

Excellent

Walleye are biting aggressively on jigs tipped with minnows in 12-18 feet of water. Early morning and late evening have been the most productive. Focus on rocky points and the mud flats near Garrison.

Best Bait: Jig and minnow, Lindy rig with leeches
Best Depth: 12-18 feet

Northern Pike

Good

Pike have moved into shallower bays with the cooling water. Spinnerbaits and large minnow baits are producing well. Several fish over 30 inches reported this week.

Best Bait: Spinnerbaits, large sucker minnows
Best Depth: 6-12 feet

Smallmouth Bass

Fair

Smallmouth action has slowed with cooler temps but fish can still be found around rocky structure. Try tube jigs or crayfish imitations.

Best Bait: Tube jigs, crayfish patterns
Best Depth: 8-15 feet

Hot Spots This Week

1

Garrison Reef

Great walleye action morning and evening

2

Wigwam Bay

Pike feeding heavily in the shallows

3

Myr-Mar Beach

Consistent walleye on the sand/rock transition

4

Rocky Reef (north of Isle)

Mixed bag - walleye and smallmouth

Pro Tips

  • With cooler water temps, slow down your presentation
  • Early morning bite has been the most consistent for walleye
  • Live bait is outperforming artificials this week
  • Check MN DNR regulations - some slot limits in effect

Regulations Reminder

Always check current MN DNR fishing regulations before heading out. Mille Lacs has specific slot limits for walleye that change seasonally. View current regulations →