Where to go?

[CrappieDay]

Hey Larry, am I correct that you still like to chase big smallies? To make a long story short, my father and I were planning a trip Basswood lake in the boundary waters, but we didn't draw a permit. We're planning first week of June. There is an off chance we might still get a permit, but now we're looking at B plans. I really like the rocks and islands of the boundary waters so I've been looking at Vermilion, Burntside, and possibly Rainy. I have a 19' Lund so I can hit some of the bigger lakes. Where would you go (lakes) in MN for quality smallies?

[lunchbox]

Not larry sorry,

Vermilion is a truly beautiful lake, one of the more beautiful, populated, areas i have been to. I know the smallies are nice sized there. I stayed on the Tower (the town) side with my wife and we had quite a blast fishing that lake. I know they have a decent muskie and pike population in there as well. You may want to check the current water levels though, as when I was staying there (1.5 years ago) we had to literally drop from the docks in to the boats the water was down that low. This lead to some interesting motor fouling, but hey, it was a learning experience and we had a blast.
Hope this helps
lunchbox

[CrappieDay]

Thanks for the reply.

[dahlberg]

Mille Lacs has monsters and lots of them. I would try to find water less crowded than Vermillion. There are so many lakes with smallmouths up there it's crazy. Rainy is always a good choice. Lots of size and lots of options.
best,
L

[CrappieDay]

Thanks Larry. I appreciate the advice. By the way, I loved the show on tabletop in Suriname, great show!!!

[dahlberg]

If you are not locked in to Minnesota, you might want to check out Chequamegon Bay, near Ashland, Wisconsin...
best,
L

[CrappieDay]

Thanks for the advice Larry. We may check that out someday. We got lucky and managed to get a permit to the boundary waters, so that is our plan for this year. Thanks for everything.