GRAND RAPIDS — Fishing guide Jeff Sundin says the 2025 walleye fishing opener is going to be a head scratcher, with ice just going out on some of the northernmost lakes in Minnesota, and warmer temperatures in other parts of the state.
Conditions vary widely and Sundin suggests putting some time in to research where you might be headed. He suggested the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource's website, which includes information on the lakes of Minnesota, and current conditions.
According to Sundin, Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake are free of ice, and Ely area lakes look mostly clear. But farther north in the Arrowhead, especially around Grand Marais, some lakes are still locked up with as much as 15 inches of ice.
In addition, opening weekend is often the time anglers target shallow waters near spawning grounds. But Sundin said the fish are on different schedules, depending on location. In southern Minnesota, spawning ended weeks ago. In central Minnesota, it has recently wrapped up. In the far north, it may still be happening.
Bait availability
Minnow shortages have plagued recent openers, but not this year. Sundin said it's the best supply he has seen in six or seven years, where even gas stations have live shiners in stock.
Prices range from $8.99 to $11.99 per dozen, so Sundin recommends handling bait with care and knowing how to legally transport or dispose of it. The longstanding shortage stems from invasive species regulations that restrict where bait can be trapped.
Some people think the regulations are too strict and feel like most lakes in Minnesota are already infested with invasive species.
Sundin said most lakes are not infested with aquatic invasive species, and the DNR reports about 8% have some sort of invasives. Following regulations to protect lakes, like transporting bait between lakes, is making a difference.
Advice for the weekend
Sundin said decency is the key to the weekend. When it comes to public landings or bait shops, he suggests thinking about how you want to be treated and do that for others. Being aware of your speed on a lake when encountering other boats is also foremost in his mind.
In addition, Sundin recommends buying your fishing license early to avoid long lines at bait stores. Rules and regulations vary between lakes, so it is a good idea to know the laws you need to follow on your lake.
Opening fishing usually falls on Mother's Day weekend, and moms can fish without a license over the weekend. For Sundin, the start of walleye season is about more than catching fish —he sees it as a time to make memories. He’ll spend time on the lake with his wife, kids and granddaughter, fit in some yardwork, and make a traditional stop at the greenhouse for Mother’s Day.
"This is a family weekend for us," Sundin said. "With two things happening all on the same weekend, this cannot be a hardcore fishing weekend. It just can't."
Listen to the full conversation from the KAXE Morning Show above.
Planning to fish this weekend? Text KAXE at 218-326-1234 and let us know your opener traditions—or where the fish are biting.
