Your Weekly Guide to Fishing Conditions, Strategies, and Lake Life in Northern Minnesota
Table of Contents
Welcome to the official home of the Kabetogama Fishing Report, your trusted weekly resource for everything happening on and around Lake Kabetogama. Whether you’re an experienced angler, a first-time visitor, or a seasonal cabin regular, this is the place to find accurate, up-to-date information about fishing conditions, water temperatures, seasonal patterns, and local insights.
Brought to you by The Pines of Kabetogama, and broadcast on Lakes Country 104.1, the Kabetogama Fishing Report is your insider’s guide to making the most of your time on the water. Each week, host Jason Sheehan brings together seasoned fishing guides, resort owners, and passionate locals to discuss what’s biting, where to go, and how to land more fish.
Why Follow the Kabetogama Fishing Report?
If you fish Kabetogama Lake—or are planning to—then staying informed about current fishing trends is essential. Conditions on the lake can shift quickly based on weather, water levels, ice-out dates, and seasonal patterns. The Kabetogama Fishing Report provides firsthand, on-the-water perspectives that help anglers adjust their techniques and make smarter choices.
From detailed discussions of walleye behavior to tips for targeting smallmouth bass, northern pike, and perch, this report offers something for everyone. We cover everything from trolling tactics and jig selection to best times of day and water depths. It’s not just a report—it’s your week-by-week playbook for fishing success.
What You’ll Find on This Page
This page is your full archive of the Kabetogama Fishing Report episodes, available to stream or read at your convenience. Each listing includes:
- The broadcast date and topic
- A summary of what was discussed
- Notable guests or guides featured
- Key takeaways and seasonal fishing advice
- A direct link to listen to the episode
Our goal is to keep both casual visitors and avid anglers informed and inspired. By checking the Kabetogama Fishing Report regularly, you’ll be better prepared for your next trip and more confident when you’re out on the lake.
Meet the Voices Behind the Report
The Kabetogama Fishing Report is hosted by Jason Sheehan, owner of The Pines of Kabetogama. Jason combines a passion for fishing with a deep commitment to the local community and tourism. Alongside co-host Ed Gackley, Jason interviews a wide range of guests—from lifelong guides like Wade Watson and Travis Carlson to business owners and park staff—who bring a wealth of experience and stories to each episode.
These interviews give you much more than just numbers or bait suggestions. They offer real conversations about fishing, conservation, family life on the lake, and the unique character of Kabetogama and Voyageurs National Park.
The Best Fishing on Lake Kabetogama
Located just south of International Falls, Lake Kabetogama is one of Minnesota’s most scenic and productive fishing destinations. Known for its abundant walleye, clear waters, and access to the Canadian Shield landscape, it’s a favorite for anglers looking for a mix of natural beauty and consistent action.
The Kabetogama Fishing Report is one of the best ways to stay in sync with what’s happening across the lake—from the bays and bluffs to the weedlines and rock piles. We bring you location-specific tips and advice, whether you’re fishing from a boat, dock, or shoreline.
Subscribe, Share, and Stay Connected
If you find the Kabetogama Fishing Report helpful, we invite you to share it with your fishing partners, cabin neighbors, or anyone headed to the lake. New episodes are added weekly throughout the open water season, with bonus features during winter, ice-out, and peak fall color weekends.
Bookmark this page, subscribe to our updates, and follow us on social media for highlights and special announcements.
Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the water.
September 17th, 2025 – Fall Patterns and Bear Season with Guide Kolby Keeler
The latest Kabetogama Fishing Report features guide Kolby Keeler, who joined us for his third and final interview of the season. Kolby described 2025 as “above average” for fishing on Kab, with strong walleye action and memorable trophy catches — including a 29-inch walleye and a near-record sturgeon encounter.
As September unfolds, Kolby explained how recent weather swings — from chilly 30-degree mornings and strong north winds to 80-degree afternoons — affected the bite. Walleye are holding deeper in the 15–25 foot range, with jig-and-minnow presentations (especially fatheads) producing best. Crappie are beginning to school deeper, perch remain in the shallows, and northern pike are still everywhere.
“Beginning and end of the year always seem strongest,” Kolby noted. “Fall might not be the most comfortable time on the lake, but the fishing only gets better.”
Other highlights include:
- Walleye Outlook – Stable weather should bring stronger reef and jigging action as the lake cools.
- Multi-Species Opportunities – Crappie, perch, and pike all remain active as fall progresses.
- Bear Hunting Insights – Kolby shared how he prepares sites, uses trail mix and sweets for baiting, and the patience hunters need in the stand.
- Grouse Season – With bird season opening, Kolby looks forward to time in the woods with his dog after a busy guiding season.
For Kolby, guiding is more than fishing trips — it’s about giving guests new experiences, whether on the water or in the Northwoods during bear and grouse season.
September 10th, 2025 – Fall Transitions with Guide Travis Carlson
The latest Kabetogama Fishing Report features our third and final conversation of the season with veteran guide Travis Carlson. After a summer of steady action, Travis describes 2025 as one of the strongest years in recent memory — thanks to slot limits protecting the fishery and producing excellent numbers of eater-sized walleyes.
The past week brought strong north winds gusting to 35 mph and daytime highs in the 50s, dropping overnight into the 30s. Despite the cold front, Travis reported a surprisingly consistent bite. Walleyes are beginning to show up in deeper fall spots, with jig-and-minnow presentations leading the way.
“We’re starting to see that classic fall jig-and-minnow bite really pick up,” Travis explained. “But I always tell people — keep a little bit of everything in the boat. Some days it changes by the hour.”
Other highlights include:
- Walleye Patterns – Transitioning into bays, deeper holes, and wind-driven shorelines.
- Multi-Species Opportunities – Strong potential for trophy smallmouth bass and northern pike through late September and October.
- Looking Ahead – With stable weather and warming daytime temps in the forecast, conditions should set up for an excellent fall bite.
As the season winds down, Travis reflected on the value of slot limits, the consistency of this year’s fishery, and the enjoyment of guiding through one of the lake’s best years in a decade.
📞 Book Travis Carlson: traviscarlsonguideservice.com | (218) 235-0289
September 3rd, 2025 – Fall Patterns with Guide Trent Snyder
As summer gives way to crisp mornings and changing leaves, the bite on Lake Kabetogama is entering its fall rhythm. In this week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report, we welcomed back veteran guide Trent Snyder for his third interview of the season.
Trent shared how the patterns he predicted in May and July have held true — from shallow spring jig-and-leech presentations to midsummer reef and rock point transitions. Now, as surface temps cool and daylight shortens, the lake is shifting once again.
“The bite’s going to switch to jig-and-minnow,” Trent explained. “Shiners are becoming active, and that pattern will carry steady through October.”
Highlights from the conversation include:
- Jig-and-Minnow Transition – Walleye are moving off reefs into bay edges and rock points, making vertical jigging the go-to tactic.
- Shiner Activity – The annual shiner run is sparking more consistent strikes.
- Multi-Species Action – Crappies and perch are showing strong numbers, offering variety for anglers through the fall.
- A Strong Year – Trent called 2025 “one of the best years in the past decade” for both numbers and size of walleye.
With cooler temps and fewer boats on the water, fall is one of the most rewarding times to fish Lake Kabetogama. If you’re planning a trip, now is the time to experience steady action and the brilliant colors of Voyageurs National Park.
For more from Trent, visit catchfishhere.com or call 218-839-6844 to book a trip.
August 27th, 2025 – Late August Bites, Fall Turnover, and What to Expect in September with Wylie Snyder
As the final days of summer unfold on Lake Kabetogama, anglers are seeing steady action across species and structure. In this week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report, we catch up with third-generation guide Wylie Snyder of Catch Fish Here, who brings us a detailed update on current conditions, late-summer techniques, and the lake’s transition into fall.
🎣 Consistent Action with Changing Patterns
According to Snyder, 2025 has been one of the most consistent seasons in recent memory. From early summer through late August, steady walleye action has been found across shallow weedlines, mid-lake breaklines, and transition zones in bays. Though a recent midge hatch has briefly slowed the bite in certain areas, fish remain active and catchable with the right approach.
“You just have to adapt,” Wylie notes. “Switching from spot to spot and trying 3–5 different presentations is sometimes what it takes to find active fish.”
🌡️ Water Temps & the Coming Fall Turnover
Water temperatures at the time of the interview hovered between 68–72°F, but cooler nights and recent rain have started to bring temps down. This signals the beginning of the lake turnover—a seasonal mixing event where surface water cools, sinks, and disrupts the thermocline. Wylie explains that this process stirs up baitfish, increases oxygen flow, and often triggers a more aggressive feeding pattern.
“You’ll actually see the water ‘boil’ or bubble during the flip. The bite can turn on like a switch when that happens.”
🛠️ Presentations That Work
- Now: Lindy rigs with leeches and crawlers
- Transitioning to: Jig-and-minnow, spinners, and more aggressive tactics as temps drop
- Best Areas: Bays, breaklines, shallow weed edges (especially in overcast or windy conditions)
While jig fishing has not fully turned on yet, Snyder expects it to come alive as soon as water temperatures drop into the low- to mid-60s.
🐟 Pike, Bass & Perch Report
Wylie reports trophy northern pike still holding in the shallows, active smallmouth bass in the weeds, and a few scattered perch showing up along the edges. Crappie action is minimal, but should improve as temperatures fall into the 50s.
🔮 Looking Ahead to September
Fall fishing on Lake Kabetogama promises to be dynamic. Expect increased feeding windows, more aggressive strikes, and colorful scenery as the leaves begin to change. Snyder encourages anglers to experiment with new techniques and presentations.
“Don’t get stuck in your rut,” he says. “Try something different. This lake offers a wide range of options—and they all work when timed right.”
🎣 Want to fish with Wylie? Visit catchfishhere.com or call 218-839-6842 to book your fall adventure.
August 13th, 2025 – Pro Angler Andy Walls on Tournament Prep, Strategy, and the MN B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trail
This week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report takes a unique turn as we sit down with competitive angler Andy Walls, who—alongside his partner Kyle Wood—is in the midst of an outstanding season on the MN B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trail. Currently sitting in 4th place with 880 points, they’re just six points shy of a three-way tie for first.
Andy and Kyle have been a model of consistency this year, highlighted by a 2nd place finish at Lake Pokegama and solid showings at both Red Wing and Lake Minnetonka. With the championship race this close, every cast matters as they head into this weekend’s Kabetogama stop.
Inside the MN B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trail
The MN B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trail is a competitive circuit hosting four qualifying tournaments across Minnesota each season. Teams of two anglers aim to bring in the five biggest bass of the day—alive and healthy—to the scales. The top two teams in the year-end standings earn a coveted berth to the B.A.S.S. Nation National Championship, where a win could lead to fishing’s ultimate stage: the Bassmaster Classic.
Pre-Fishing & Tournament Prep
For the Kabetogama stop, anglers aren’t allowed on the water until the Thursday before the tournament. Andy describes these pre-fishing days as critical for building a game plan—but also for ruling out unproductive water. While a winning spot is rarely found in practice, identifying promising patterns and adapting on tournament day is key.
Breaking Down Kabetogama
Kabetogama offers both shallow and deep water opportunities in August, thanks to its northern location and cooler water temperatures. Andy plans to focus on areas near deeper basins, where larger predator fish tend to roam. “The structures near deep water hold more of the big fish—walleyes, pike, and bass alike,” he says.
The Weigh-In Experience
Last year’s Kabetogama weigh-in drew the largest crowd Andy had seen all season, and he’s looking forward to another big turnout. Spectators can expect to see trophy-caliber bass, learn from volunteer park rangers, and enjoy food grilled by the Lake Kabetogama Volunteer Fire Department.
Looking Ahead
With points at a premium, Andy and Kyle will be fishing hard to climb into a qualifying spot for the national championship. Whether you’re an avid bass angler or just love the energy of tournament day, this weekend’s event at The Pines of Kabetogama promises big fish and great community spirit.
Listen to the full interview on the Lake Kabetogama Fishing and Recreation Report to hear Andy’s complete tournament mindset, tactics, and love for fishing in northern Minnesota.
August 6th, 2025 – Consistency, Big Pike, and Late-Summer Tactics with Sam Decker
This week on the Lake Kabetogama Fishing & Recreation Report, host Jason Sheehan caught up with rising local guide Sam Decker at Arrowhead Lodge & Outfitters for a detailed look at mid-summer fishing conditions.
Sam reports that this has been one of the most consistent seasons in years, with walleye, pike, and smallmouth all producing steady action throughout July and into August. Mid-lake rock piles and main-lake structures have been key, with fish holding in the 15–25 foot range depending on time of day.
Walleye:
- Best depths: ~20 ft, shallower in early morning, slightly deeper midday
- Baits: Leeches on Lindy rigs or slip bobbers; crawlers in shallower, wind-driven spots
- Tip: On calm, sunny days, slow your presentation way down to tempt lethargic fish
Smallmouth:
- Less targeted in August, but still plenty available
- Shallow shoreline structure and topwater early/overcast days can be hot
- Ned rigs, drop shots, and small crankbaits remain productive
Northern Pike:
- Peak season right now for trophies
- Target thick weedbeds and defined weedlines
- Weedline casting and topwater lures can trigger big strikes
Looking ahead, Sam expects a gradual shift toward jig-and-minnow presentations as water temperatures cool. By September, fish will likely become more aggressive, especially on deeper island points.
Event Reminder:
On Sunday, August 17, The Pines of Kabetogama will host the Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trail weigh-in at 3 PM. The Kabetogama Volunteer Fire Department will be on site serving burgers, dogs, chips, and pop for $10. This is a great chance to see pro anglers bring in big smallmouth bass—everyone’s welcome!
🎣 Book a trip with Sam Decker: (952) 290-3866 | samrdecker82@outlook.com | Facebook: Sam Decker Guide Services
July 30th, 2025 – Mid-Summer Fishing and Community Fun with Kolby Keeler
Summer is in full swing at Lake Kabetogama, and both the fishing and community events are heating up! In this week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report, host Jason Sheehan catches up with Kolby Keeler, manager of Driftwood Lodge and Kab Outdoors, for a deep dive into late-July fishing conditions and what’s happening around the lake.
Kolby reports that walleyes are moving out to mid-lake reefs and humps in 15–25 feet of water, with crawlers and leeches leading the way. While early mornings still produce fish along weedlines, the daytime bite is strongest out deep. Trophy pike have been active, with multiple catches over 40 inches, and smallmouth bass are stacking up near rock piles and sandy flats—perfect timing for the MN B.A.S.S. Team Trail tournament on Sunday, August 17th.
In addition to fishing, Kabetogama is buzzing with community events. This weekend, enjoy live music at Arrowhead Lodge—including bluegrass favorite Tres Osos on Friday night—and don’t miss the all-you-can-eat blueberry pancake breakfast on Sunday at the Kabetogama Town Hall. And mark your calendar for August 17th, when the Lake Kabetogama Volunteer Fire Department will be grilling burgers, hot dogs, chips, and pop during the MN B.A.S.S. weigh-in event at The Pines of Kabetogama.
🎣 Want to fish with Kolby? Call (218) 235-7382 or stop into Kab Outdoors to book your trip.
July 23rd, 2025 – Consistent Bites and Late-Summer Tips with Travis Carlson
This week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report welcomes back Travis Carlson, a seasoned guide who brings timely insights into the lake’s mid-summer patterns. Travis reports one of the most consistent bites in recent memory, with healthy keeper walleyes stacking up on mid-lake humps and reefs in 20–26 feet of water.
Leeches are still his go-to, though crawlers can shine on the right day. Travis emphasizes the importance of mobility—moving from school to school—and using forward-facing sonar to find active fish. He also walks through rigging tips, depth strategies, and how weather plays into bite windows.
Plus, we get a few laughs during the Kab Questionnaire (spoiler: no bananas allowed). Whether you’re fishing solo or planning your next guided trip, Travis’s insights are well worth the listen.
📞 Book Travis Carlson: traviscarlsonguideservice.com | (218) 235-0289
Tight lines, and be well.
July 16th, 2025 – Midsummer Walleye Tactics with Wade Watson
In this week’s Lake Kabetogama Fishing and Recreation Report, host Jason Sheehan sits down with seasoned fishing guide Wade Watson of Voyager Adventures to talk about midsummer fishing on Kab.
Two months after their ice-out conversation, Wade shares how walleye patterns have shifted in warm water, why mid-lake humps and reefs are key locations right now, and his go-to presentations for triggering bites. From Lindy rigs and spinners to smallmouth bass hotspots and pike tactics, this episode is full of practical advice for anglers hitting the lake in July.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
- Where to find walleyes in midsummer (depths & structure)
- Best baits and rigs for warm water fishing
- Smallmouth and pike opportunities in July
For more from Wade visit kabfishing.com
Tight lines, and be well.
July 9th, 2025 – Dog Days, Big Bites: Fishing Kabetogama with Trent Snyder
This week, guide Trent Snyder of Catch Fish Here shares what’s working right now on one of Minnesota’s most iconic lakes, nestled in Voyageurs National Park.
🎣 Key Highlights from the Interview:
Bonus Insights: Why Trent says “don’t leave fish to find fish” and his unforgettable moose sighting on Zelinski Bay.
Mid-Summer Tactics: Focus on reefs and mid-lake humps in 12–20 feet of water. Lindy rigs with leeches and crawlers are producing results, and spinner rigs are effective for covering ground.
Post-Storm Adjustments: Recent rains and thunderstorms have pushed fish deeper, but patience and versatility are key.
Smallmouth Bass Bite: Rock piles in 10–12 feet are holding smallmouths—try tubes and Ned rigs.
Crappie Fishing Reality Check: It’s a challenge in mid-summer; focus on perch or walleye instead.
For more from Trent, visit catchfishhere.com or call 218-839-6844 to book a trip.
Tight lines, and be well.
July 2nd, 2025 – Wylie Snyder (part 2)
In this July 2 edition, we continue our chat with local guide Wiley Snyder. Wiley shares exciting stories from beyond Kabetogama—including guiding sturgeon fishing trips on the Rainy River and bowfishing for carp near the Twin Cities. He breaks down gear, techniques, and even offers advice for aspiring fishing pros looking to turn their passion into a career.
Also in this episode:
🎆 4th of July preview – Live music at Arrowhead Lodge
🚤 Boat parade details – Watch from the water or shore
🎣 Pro tips for catching multiple species while sturgeon fishing
For more from Wiley, visit catchfishhere.com or call 218-839-6842 to book a trip.
Tight lines, and be well.
June 25th, 2025 – Wylie Snyder
In this Kabetogama Fishing Report, we sit down with third-generation fishing guide Wylie Snyder, known locally as “Walleye Wylie.” Raised on the shores of Lake Kabetogama, Wylie shares this week’s fishing conditions, including how the emerging mayfly hatch is influencing walleye behavior, where to find fish, and what presentations are working best—from spinner rigs to live bait setups.
We cover:
- Where walleyes are biting this week (shallow vs. deep)
- Best times of day to fish Kabetogama
- Insights on using Garmin LiveScope for better success
- Multi-species tips for northern pike and smallmouth bass
- What it’s like guiding side-by-side with his dad, Trent Snyder
Plus, Wylie answers the Kab Questionnaire and shares how you can book a guided trip with him directly at catchfishhere.com.
June 18th, 2025 – Sam Decker
This week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report features young guide Sam Decker, who shares insights on fishing techniques for walleye, smallmouth bass, and trophy pike. Sam discusses late-spring conditions on Lake Kabetogama, bait tips, water temps, and multi-species strategies that visitors and locals can use right now. Learn about electronics, spot selection, and a wild 41” pike story that makes this a must-listen episode for any angler hitting the water this summer.
June 11th, 2025 – Kolby Keeler
In Episode 5 of the Lake Kabetogama Fishing & Recreation Report, host Jason Sheehan welcomes Kolby Keeler, longtime guide and manager of Driftwood Lodge and Kab Outdoors, for a firsthand look at current conditions on the lake. This Kabetogama fishing report covers early June walleye patterns, leech presentations, shallow vs. deep bite trends, and tips for targeting pike and smallmouth bass. Kolby also shares memorable stories from the water, including a rare wildlife encounter, and kicks off the debut of the new rapid-fire segment Fish & Tell. Tune in for expert insight, humor, and practical advice straight from the heart of Voyageurs National Park.
June 4th, 2025 – Paul Peterson
In this week’s Kabetogama Lake Fishing & Recreation Report, host Jason Sheehan climbs aboard with Paul Peterson, private tour boat captain and owner of Kabetogama Boat Tours. With a lifelong connection to the lake and a storyteller’s spirit, Paul shares how a childhood spent exploring these waters grew into a passion for guiding others through Voyageurs National Park.
From tales of mischievous first boat rides to sightings of white pelicans and bear crossings, Paul reflects on the moments—both funny and profound—that shape his tours. He opens up about the challenges of navigating Kabetogama’s ever-changing waters, the unexpected friendships that form on board, and why he believes no one should ever be left behind, even if they’re traveling solo.
This is more than a conversation—it’s a ride through the heart of Kabetogama, with a captain who knows every current and cove.
May 28th, 2025 – Trent Snyder
This week’s Kabetogama fishing report features Trent Snyder, a third-generation fishing guide who’s been on Lake Kabetogama since he was 16. Now guiding with his son Wylie, Trent shares stories from decades on the water, reflecting on his family’s roots at Idlewild Resort and the unique bond forged through guiding together.
Trent reports that while recent winds have made lake access tricky, the dock bite has been excellent. He recommends targeting eater walleyes in 25 to 32 feet of water with jig-and-minnow setups, especially as water temps rise and fish begin moving shallower. This Kabetogama fishing report offers timely tips for both seasoned anglers and first-time visitors.
Trent’s favorite time to fish? Early July—when the weather is warm and the bite is steady. He emphasizes that a trip on Kabetogama is about more than catching fish—it’s about enjoying the moment. Listen to the full interview and check back weekly for your trusted Kabetogama fishing report from The Pines of Kabetogama.
Learn more about Trent’s guide service: https://catchfishhere.com
May 21st, 2025 – Travis Carlson
If you’re headed to Voyageurs National Park this spring, Lake Kabetogama is the place to be—and we’ve got the latest fishing intel straight from the source. In this week’s Kabetogama Fishing Report, host Jason Sheehan sits down with veteran fishing guide Travis Carlson to talk early-season patterns, tackle tips, and the magic of spring on one of Minnesota’s most iconic lakes.
🎣 Walleye Fishing Right After Ice-Out
With ice-out just days behind us, Travis shares that water temps are hovering in the mid-40s, and walleyes are transitioning fast. While many anglers think early May means shallow fish, Travis has been finding eater-sized walleyes deeper—around 25–30 feet—on breaks outside major bays.
His go-to spring tactic?
- Vertical jigging with a 3/8 oz jig tipped with fatheads or rainbows.
- Preferred colors: blue, orange, and chartreuse, adjusted for light conditions.
- Line: 8 lb mono for its stretch and simplicity.
Pro Tip: “Trust your sonar and don’t be afraid to move if the fish aren’t active,” Travis advises.
🗺️ Tips for First-Time Kabetogama Anglers
- Early mornings and evenings tend to produce the best bite.
- Slip bobbers off the dock can be surprisingly effective for big walleyes.
- Always carry a detailed map or lake chip for your electronics—it’s easy to get turned around in this water-based national park.
🐟 Beyond Walleye: Pike and Crappie
This time of year, bonus northern pike are everywhere. Travis notes, “You’ll pick them up whether you’re fishing deep or shallow.” Crappies are just starting to move into warm bays and will heat up in the coming weeks.
📞 Book a Guided Trip
Want to experience Kabetogama like a pro? Travis Carlson offers guided fishing trips throughout the season. Visit traviscarlsonguideservice.com or call (218) 235-0289 to plan your adventure.
May 14th, 2025 – Wade Watson
We kicked off our very first Fishing and Recreation Report this week, and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with all of you. Every week this season, I’ll be co-hosting with Ed Gackley to bring you real-time fishing tips, local stories, and outdoor insights from beautiful Kabetogama.
In our debut Kabetogama Fishing Report episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with longtime guide Wade Watson of Voyager’s Adventures. Wade shared some fantastic insights on how this year’s late ice-out is affecting spring walleye behavior and gave us a crash course in early season tactics—hint: go shallow, go slow, and be gentle with those spawning females.
We also had a chance to talk about life at The Pines, what brought our family here, and the incredible experience hosting guests.
