Although a lot of anglers are tired of the challenging lake conditions, extreme cold temps, and high propane costs, the walleye bite has picked up in the past week. When the days get longer all fish species go through changes and, for the most part, the changes are positive. While fishing tends to be more productive, you still need to be on your toes. Just because they are feeding better and longer as our days lengthen, it doesn’t mean they’re going to swim up your fish hole and jump on your leg. You still have to exercise search techniques and find the fish. Panfish are still biting in Otter Tail Lakes Country. Look for flat areas in 9-12 feet of water around standing vegetation. Give tiny spoons a try. My favorite is the smallest Northland Forage minnow they offer; the orange or green ones seem to work no matter the water clarity. Be sure and tip one of the treble hooks with a wax worm or piece of Berkley Gulp. These small spoons attract fish or all sizes and shapes and they will let you know, quickly, if there are fish around. If you should catch a northern or bass while searching a weed flat for panfish, then you’re getting close. The predator fish are always very near the panfish. Look for walleye anywhere from 17-22 and 26-30 feet using fat heads and golden shinder. Northerns can be found around 15 feet using sucker minnows. Good luck fishing in Otter Tail Lakes Country. Content provided by Ross Hagemeister, Meister Guide Service and Ben’s Bait Shop.