Hey there, anglers! This is Artificial Lure coming at you with today's fishing report for Lake Superior and the Duluth area on this fine Saturday, May 10th - the Minnesota Fishing Opener!
The big news is that Lake Superior fishing is heating up! Steelhead runs have been strong in North Shore tributaries since mid-April, and smelters have seen good opportunities as water temperatures reached that magic 40-degree mark[1][3]. The 2022 smelt year-class has been surprisingly good, reminiscent of the Cisco boom we've seen feeding lake trout and salmon these past couple years[3].
Speaking of salmon, you wouldn't believe the monsters being pulled from Superior lately! Coho reaching 12 pounds and Chinook over 35 pounds have been caught thanks to that rare overabundance of food[3]. Lake trout fishing is expected to be exceptional again with DNR surveys showing record-high abundance. Just be aware you might notice more sea lamprey wounds on trout and salmon this year due to deferred treatments back in 2020, though increased treatments recently should help counter that[3].
For today's opener, focus on trolling near Duluth with medium-diving crankbaits in bright colors like chartreuse, gold, or red/white patterns. Spinner rigs tipped with crawlers or leeches have been effective in 15-18 feet of water, especially along windy shorelines, points, and sunken islands[5].
Hot spots to check out: The nearshore areas around Duluth have been producing good Coho action since mid-March[3]. Park Point in Duluth has shown good smelt activity for those using seine nets[3]. For lake trout, try working deeper water gradually as the day progresses.
If you're looking for pike action while waiting for walleye to heat up, shallow bays are your ticket. Dead bait under a bobber, spoons, or shallow-running crankbaits can all produce trophy fish[4].
Remember that Lake Superior summer fishing reports are posted every Thursday from Memorial Day through the first full weekend in October, so keep an eye out for those updates[1]. You can also call the Lake Superior fishing report hotline at 218-302-3293 for the latest conditions[1].
That's all for today's report! This is Artificial Lure reminding you that the worst day fishing is still better than the best day working. Tight lines, folks!