October 16th Fishing Report

October 16, 2026

It’s finally feeling like fall. Fishing on the Big Winnie has been steady as water temps continue to fall with the cool mornings we are experiencing. Walleyes have been showing up in good numbers around the Third River Flowage and River Bar. Look to the 6-9ft range in the weeds and right outside of them. Crappies are also an option and continuing to bite. Jig and minnow has been the primary tactic for both. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters. Your Lake Winnie fishing guide.

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September 28th Fishing Report

Walleyes and crappies are showing up in typical fall spots throughout the big lake and Cutfoot. Walleyes have been shallow under 10 ft for the most part on prominent shoreline structures across the lake. 1/16 ounce jigs on the crappies and 1/8 ounce jigs for the walleyes. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters your Lake Winnie fishing guide.

September 21st Fishing Report

Crappies in Cutfoot Sioux have provided plenty of action. Walleyes still remain shallow 6-12 ft on prominent shoreline areas and mid lake structure. Photo courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters your Lake Winnie fishing guide.

September 11th Fishing Report

Trolling spinners on Winnie has been producing some good multi species action. Walleye limits are playing out daily and good perch fishing. Perch are shallow. Pitching jigs and fatheads up shallow has proven effective as well for both walleyes and perch. 6-10 ft for both species. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters.

August 28th Fishing Report

Panfish and walleyes are gearing up for the cooler weather ahead. Cutfoot Sioux, Third River, Sugar Lake can provide some great panfishing opportunities. Walleyes are overall shallow on the big lake right now. 6-12ft. Good algae blooms are making the fish less spooky as well. Allowing some traditional trolling techniques to work extremely well right now. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters. Your Lake Winnie Fishing Guide.

August 21st Fishing Report

Trolling patterns are picking up across the big lake. Spinners and crankbaits have been the go to presentations. Shorelines with decent weeds and rock in 6-9 ft across the lake have been producing good results. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters. Your Lake Winnie fishing guide.

August 14th Fishing Report

Crappies are starting to show up. Trolling little joe spinner in 12-15ft of water has proven effective over the past few days. Shallow water trolling walleyes are playing early in the morning and later in the afternoon. Look for the best weed beds in 6-10ft of water. Photo and report courtesy of Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters. Your Lake Winnie fishing guide.