May 3rd, 2009

Water temp = 67 degrees
The last few days on Ute Lake has produced many fish of all species. The water clarity is excellent until you get up into the river arms. Trolling for Walleye on Friday finally paid off. We were using Reef Runners and Wally Divers trolled in 10-20 feet of water near the shore lines. The structure off of the main points of the lake are still producing Walleye using minnows and a jig, but I had the best luck trolling both the Canadian and Ute arms. Pictured is Louise and Harold Shoemaker from Portalas, N.M. We fished for only 1/2 day, but had a great time. The Crappie weighed in at 2.3 pounds. Here is my report on the various species :

Walleye --- Work the structure on the main lake using minnows in 7-20 feet of Water. Trolling Reef runners and Walleye divers along the shore line in 7-20 feet of water is also producing fish. You should be able to catch about any species trolling as pictured above. All those fish were caught by this method.

Small mouth --- An incredible bite is currently going on. The only problem is that most are 10-12 inches long. Throw grubs along the shore line in light colors to get in on the action.

Large mouth --- They are currently spawning and are very sensitive to about anything around them. Throw past there beds with jerk baits and slowly work the lure by them.

Crappie --- Many limits are now starting to show up at our fish cleaning station at the shop. Most are being caught up the Canadian near the Crappie wall in 6 feet of water. Use minnows and a bobber or throw 2-3 inch white Mister twisters.

White bass ---Many nice sized whites are also being caught. I have not seen many limits, but you should be able to hammer a few of them while you are Walleye/Crappie fishing.

Channel Catfish --- Stink baits up the Canadian or Ute in 2-4 feet of water is producing fish. Some days there are limits and the the next day might only be a few fish. As the water warms this should become more of a consistent bite.

I want to remind you that anyone can use my fish cleaning station at the Tackle Box. Keep it clean like you found it. I am also starting to bait a few holes in the lake for Catfish for some guided cat fishing trips. Call me up if you want to hammer some of these great tasting fish.

FISH-ON,

Rob