Fishing Report for 8-13-26

Fishing has been a little slower over the past couple of weeks as we settle into the “dog days of summer.” After several weeks of unusually warm conditions, water temperatures across the Willmar Lakes Area are finally beginning to return to more normal levels, with many lakes now in the mid- to upper-70s. Earlier this summer, surface temperatures on many area lakes reached 85–90 degrees, creating challenging conditions for both anglers and fish. The extreme heat also contributed to reports of fish kills on several lakes, primarily involving Northern Pike.

The warmer water has also resulted in significant algae blooms on some of the shallower lakes, with several becoming noticeably green. At this time of year, anglers may have better luck focusing their efforts on the deeper, clearer lakes, where water conditions tend to be more favorable. As temperatures continue their seasonal decline this fall, the shallower lakes should become more productive again, particularly once water temperatures drop below 70 degrees.

Green Lake has provided the most consistent walleye action throughout much of the summer, with fish being caught in 12–20 feet of water. Diamond Lake has also produced a decent walleye bite at similar depths over the past few weeks. Anglers have continued to find some fish on Big Kandiyohi Lake, which has remained relatively stable throughout much of the summer.

For panfish, Florida Lake has been producing bluegills along the weed lines, with additional bluegill action reported on several of the area’s medium-sized lakes.

As water temperatures continue to cool, conditions should begin to change and provide anglers with new opportunities across the Willmar Lakes Area. Keep an eye on changing water temperatures and adjust your location and presentation accordingly as we transition toward fall fishing.

Fishing Report provided by Tim Swanson, Fisheries Specialist at MN DNR Fisheries Spicer