🐟 Vermillion Fishing Report Today 🎣

2 weeks ago · Updated 2 weeks ago

Lake Vermillion in Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region is renowned for its diverse fishery, offering anglers a chance at trophy catches and steady action throughout the year. This week’s report highlights the latest verified catches, productive techniques, and key regulations for fishing on the “Big V.”

Content

Weekly Catches
Weather & Marine Conditions
Fishing Conditions & Tips
Regulations & Notices
Fishing Dashboard 🎣
Fishing Spots Map

Weekly Catches

The catches below cover the last 7 days.

Walleye

Walleye action remained steady this week despite a major weather swing, with anglers reporting success using both trolling and jigging techniques. Productive areas included transitions, shallow rock, deep rock, and deep holes, though most spots yielded only a couple of quality fish before the bite slowed. The best results came from making long trolling passes and avoiding repeated drifts over the same water. Jigging raps and spinner rigs also produced fish. The bite is expected to improve as stable fall weather returns.

Most productive on long trolling runs and jigging in varied depths.
Fish were caught in shallow and deep rocky areas as well as deep holes.
Effective baits: jigs, jigging raps, spinner rigs.

Muskellunge (Musky)

Musky anglers continue to target rocky structures and deeper waters as fall approaches. While no trophy-size fish were reported this week, the lake’s reputation for producing giants keeps pressure high. Both casting flashy lures and trolling large baits remain effective, especially near crevices and coves with rocky cover.

Best results from casting in shallows or trolling deeper structure.
Hotspots: rocky points, coves, and deep structure.
Effective baits: flashy lures, large live suckers.

Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth)

Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass remain active, especially during early morning and late evening hours. Anglers found success in weed beds, bays, and rocky islands such as Pencil Island. Both species responded well to jigs, worms, and crankbaits, with Smallmouth noted for their strong fights.

Hotspots: Pencil Island (Smallmouth), western bays (Largemouth).
Best times: early morning, late evening.
Effective baits: jigs, worms, crankbaits.

Crappie

Crappie fishing continues to provide steady action, particularly in shallow bays with rising water temperatures. Anglers reported good numbers in depths of 4 to 8 feet, with small jigs—especially hair jigs and plastics under a bobber—producing the best results. These areas are ideal for both families and experienced anglers looking to fill the cooler.

Best areas: shallow bays, near docks, weed edges.
Effective depths: 4–8 feet.
Top baits: small hair jigs, plastics under a bobber.

Northern Pike & Panfish

While not the primary focus this week, Northern Pike and a variety of Panfish (including Bluegill and Sunfish) are present throughout the lake. Pike are often caught incidentally while targeting other species, especially in weed beds and near drop-offs. Panfish remain a reliable option for steady action in shallow, vegetated areas.

Weather & Marine Conditions

This week saw a massive weather swing, with water temperatures ranging from 60–64°F. The cold front made fishing more challenging, but a warming trend is forecast for the next 10 days, which should improve the bite. Expect classic fall weather with cool mornings and mild afternoons—ideal for extended sessions on the water.

Fishing Conditions & Tips

With the recent weather changes, anglers found that mobility and varied techniques were key to success. Covering new water with long trolling passes and switching between jigging, trolling, and spinner rigs helped locate active fish. As fall progresses, focus on deeper structure for Walleye and Musky, and target shallow bays for Crappie and Panfish. Early and late in the day remain the most productive times for Bass.

Regulations & Notices

Anglers on Lake Vermillion must follow Minnesota’s fishing regulations. For Walleye, the possession limit is four per angler, with only one over 26 inches allowed; all fish between 20 and 26 inches must be released immediately. For Musky, only one fish over 54 inches may be kept per angler. A valid fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 and over. Consumption guidelines recommend limiting meals of larger Northern Pike and Walleye due to mercury advisories.