Greetings All:
Look for the upcoming list of firearms safety and training seminars I will be conducting throughout the Midwest.
They will cover proper handling and training in both handguns and rifles along with carry/conceal classes.
I will also be doing a series on reloading ammunition, both pistol and shotshells will be included in this informative seminar schedule. Keep checking back here or tune into my radio show on ESPN for further details. You can also e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com for more information.
Regards: Lastcast,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
WHAT A GREAT CHRISTMAS DAY!!!
Greetings All:
Well, had a chance to get out on the Mississippi River today for some Christmas Day fishing. Not another boat in sight. Headed down river in Pool-13 to one of my favorite walleye and sauger holes hoping to maybe catch a few for dinner. Well, Christmas Day was a real winner. Caught and released numerous sauger and walleye and kept a limit for the frying pan. Fish up to 8 lbs. were taken and only the smaller "Eaters" were kept. Those bigger fish were all released safely to fight again. What a great time it was out on the river. The weather was great and the river is wide open to the boat angler. Forecast for the upcoming week calling for temps above average and in the 40's. Sure can't beat that for late December, early January fishing. Nothing more needed than jig & minnow rigs. Both cast and trolled caught fish.
Hope you can get some time to get out while the weather is holding good. The fish are there and they are hungry.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
Well, had a chance to get out on the Mississippi River today for some Christmas Day fishing. Not another boat in sight. Headed down river in Pool-13 to one of my favorite walleye and sauger holes hoping to maybe catch a few for dinner. Well, Christmas Day was a real winner. Caught and released numerous sauger and walleye and kept a limit for the frying pan. Fish up to 8 lbs. were taken and only the smaller "Eaters" were kept. Those bigger fish were all released safely to fight again. What a great time it was out on the river. The weather was great and the river is wide open to the boat angler. Forecast for the upcoming week calling for temps above average and in the 40's. Sure can't beat that for late December, early January fishing. Nothing more needed than jig & minnow rigs. Both cast and trolled caught fish.
Hope you can get some time to get out while the weather is holding good. The fish are there and they are hungry.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
Saturday, December 24, 2011
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!
Just want to wish all of you folks out there in "Outdoor Land" a very Merry Christmas!!!
To everyone that reads my articles, listens to my radio show on ESPN and to all you folks that have contacted me over the year, I hope you have a great holiday season with family and friends.
With that in mind, let's not forget the real meaning of Christmas. Christ the Savior is Born!!!
Best Regards to All,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,Mike Cyze
To everyone that reads my articles, listens to my radio show on ESPN and to all you folks that have contacted me over the year, I hope you have a great holiday season with family and friends.
With that in mind, let's not forget the real meaning of Christmas. Christ the Savior is Born!!!
Best Regards to All,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, December 16, 2011
WEEKEND FISHING LOOKING GREAT!!!
Greetings All:
The prospects for some more great late Fall fishing continue here on the Mississippi River in the Tri-States area. Weather forecast to be great for this time of the year with temps Sunday in the 40's. If you can, get out and enjoy while Mother Nature is still being kind to us. Look for sauger and a few walleye down river from dams in pools 11-12-13 & 14. Jig & minnow rigs great choice. Fish those rocky shorelines and also wing dams. Orange Fireball jigs have been hot tipped with a lively 3" minnow and fished tight to bottom. Some fish are up in tailwaters but mostly still small non-keepers. Plus the boat traffic there is not worth the effort.
Good Luck and save a few for me!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Be sure to join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
The prospects for some more great late Fall fishing continue here on the Mississippi River in the Tri-States area. Weather forecast to be great for this time of the year with temps Sunday in the 40's. If you can, get out and enjoy while Mother Nature is still being kind to us. Look for sauger and a few walleye down river from dams in pools 11-12-13 & 14. Jig & minnow rigs great choice. Fish those rocky shorelines and also wing dams. Orange Fireball jigs have been hot tipped with a lively 3" minnow and fished tight to bottom. Some fish are up in tailwaters but mostly still small non-keepers. Plus the boat traffic there is not worth the effort.
Good Luck and save a few for me!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Be sure to join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
OPEN WATER FISHING A REAL BLAST!!!
Greetings All:
Well, here we are , Mid-December and the old Mississippi River is still open to the boat angler.
For those willing to get out and wet a line there is some great fishing taking place. Funny part is that those anglers fishing up at the dams in Pools 11-12-13 & 14 are catching mostly small non-keeper fish. The real action is down river on the many wingdams and also flats along with very steep tapering rocky shorelines that drop into deep water fast. Both walleye and sauger are using these areas at different times of the day. On cloudy days look for fish to be cruising the shallows looking for forage. On sunny days they are dropping back into deeper locations. Jigs tipped with big minnows in the 3" size range working well. If you like trolling, back-troll 3-way rigs tight to bottom against current for best bait control. Lots of fish available at this time. I was out this morning on this rainy day for a few hours and did quite well on some nice big sauger. Kept a few for dinner and the rest went back to fight again.
Look for excellent fishing conditions to continue with this above average weather which is forecast to last at least through the coming weekend.
Good Luck and enjoy some great river fishing.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com Join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
Well, here we are , Mid-December and the old Mississippi River is still open to the boat angler.
For those willing to get out and wet a line there is some great fishing taking place. Funny part is that those anglers fishing up at the dams in Pools 11-12-13 & 14 are catching mostly small non-keeper fish. The real action is down river on the many wingdams and also flats along with very steep tapering rocky shorelines that drop into deep water fast. Both walleye and sauger are using these areas at different times of the day. On cloudy days look for fish to be cruising the shallows looking for forage. On sunny days they are dropping back into deeper locations. Jigs tipped with big minnows in the 3" size range working well. If you like trolling, back-troll 3-way rigs tight to bottom against current for best bait control. Lots of fish available at this time. I was out this morning on this rainy day for a few hours and did quite well on some nice big sauger. Kept a few for dinner and the rest went back to fight again.
Look for excellent fishing conditions to continue with this above average weather which is forecast to last at least through the coming weekend.
Good Luck and enjoy some great river fishing.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com Join me on Facebook at: Mike Cyze
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
NEW MOSSBERG TACTICAL .22 A REAL WINNER!!!
Mossberg International brings an AR-style platform to you for under $300.
Mossberg International’s new lightweight Tactical .22 combines the look and feel of today’s AR-style platforms with Mossberg International’s reliable and affordable .22 autoloader. Taking cues from the proven 702 autoloader, the Tactical .22 matches an 18” barrel to a quad-rail forend, giving any shooter the opportunity to easily customize the Tactical .22 with lights, lasers or any number of AR accessories currently in the marketplace. The Tactical .22 is available in two stock configurations; a fixed stock with a standard 13” length of pull or a six-position polymer adjustable stock that offers a 10-3/4” – 14.5” LOP that accommodates smaller shooters as well as adults. The Tactical .22 features an integrated A2-style carry handle with rear sight and includes an optional handle-mount Picatinny rail which allows versatility in mounting scopes and other optics while providing the clearance necessary to utilize the open sights. Other features included with the Tactical .22 are sling mounts and a ten round magazine.
Being a Mossberg fan myself for many years, this is a great deal on a great Tactical .22 Rifle.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Mossberg International’s new lightweight Tactical .22 combines the look and feel of today’s AR-style platforms with Mossberg International’s reliable and affordable .22 autoloader. Taking cues from the proven 702 autoloader, the Tactical .22 matches an 18” barrel to a quad-rail forend, giving any shooter the opportunity to easily customize the Tactical .22 with lights, lasers or any number of AR accessories currently in the marketplace. The Tactical .22 is available in two stock configurations; a fixed stock with a standard 13” length of pull or a six-position polymer adjustable stock that offers a 10-3/4” – 14.5” LOP that accommodates smaller shooters as well as adults. The Tactical .22 features an integrated A2-style carry handle with rear sight and includes an optional handle-mount Picatinny rail which allows versatility in mounting scopes and other optics while providing the clearance necessary to utilize the open sights. Other features included with the Tactical .22 are sling mounts and a ten round magazine.
Being a Mossberg fan myself for many years, this is a great deal on a great Tactical .22 Rifle.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
DEER HUNTING GOING STRONG!!
Greetings:
Deer hunting is going strong with many nice deer taken by hunters here in Iowa.
Best results have come from areas that were previously scouted by hunters to locate where deer are moving. Hunters from tree stands and ground blinds are doing equally well.
Make sure you do not trespass on private lands and be sure to clean up after yourself. Don't ruin it for future hunters by abusing your hunting privilages .
Continued good luck and be safe out there in the woods. Always know what you are shooting at!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Deer hunting is going strong with many nice deer taken by hunters here in Iowa.
Best results have come from areas that were previously scouted by hunters to locate where deer are moving. Hunters from tree stands and ground blinds are doing equally well.
Make sure you do not trespass on private lands and be sure to clean up after yourself. Don't ruin it for future hunters by abusing your hunting privilages .
Continued good luck and be safe out there in the woods. Always know what you are shooting at!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Thursday, December 1, 2011
MISSISSIPPI RIVER UPDATE!!
Greetings All:
Well, fishing in the tailwaters at dams 11-12 & 13 are producing some fish. Problem is that most walleye and sauger not much bigger than the minnows you are using for bait. Very few keeper fish at this time. Best bet is to head down river and fish wingdams and fast tapering rocky shorelines. Some keeper fish available at these locations. Look for the long wingdams for best results as they seem to be holding more quality fish. Jig and minnow presentations along with trolling 3-way rigs will work well in these areas. Expect to lose a few jigs to snags. If your not occasionally hanging up, your not in the fish zone.
For the next few days the weather forecast to be a cool and wet one so if your planning on going out, don't forget that rain gear.
Good luck and enjoy the open water fishing that is still available.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, fishing in the tailwaters at dams 11-12 & 13 are producing some fish. Problem is that most walleye and sauger not much bigger than the minnows you are using for bait. Very few keeper fish at this time. Best bet is to head down river and fish wingdams and fast tapering rocky shorelines. Some keeper fish available at these locations. Look for the long wingdams for best results as they seem to be holding more quality fish. Jig and minnow presentations along with trolling 3-way rigs will work well in these areas. Expect to lose a few jigs to snags. If your not occasionally hanging up, your not in the fish zone.
For the next few days the weather forecast to be a cool and wet one so if your planning on going out, don't forget that rain gear.
Good luck and enjoy the open water fishing that is still available.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
GREAT TIME TO HIT THE GUN RANGE!!!
Greetings All:
Well, this time of the year lots of sportsman are looking for something to do. How about going to your favorite shooting range and getting the dust off? If you have not been shooting lately you will be surprised at just how rusty your skills can become.
So go to your favorite sporting goods store, buy a bunch of the shells you need and head for the range. You will be surprised at just how much fun it will be. When your done, you can go back home and spend some time properly cleaning that prize gun of yours.
So with the cold weather about to hit in force, get out to a range near you,,,you'll be glad you did.
Regards:,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, this time of the year lots of sportsman are looking for something to do. How about going to your favorite shooting range and getting the dust off? If you have not been shooting lately you will be surprised at just how rusty your skills can become.
So go to your favorite sporting goods store, buy a bunch of the shells you need and head for the range. You will be surprised at just how much fun it will be. When your done, you can go back home and spend some time properly cleaning that prize gun of yours.
So with the cold weather about to hit in force, get out to a range near you,,,you'll be glad you did.
Regards:,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Friday, November 25, 2011
IT WAS A GREAT DAY FOR A TWOFUR!!!
Greetings All:
Well, after a great Thanksgiving Day yesterday I figured I'd get out and work off some of that great food. Started the day with a great pheasant hunt in which I was lucky enough to get my birds. Nice big roosters with lots of meat. They will taste great broiled in my special wine sauce and covered with spices.
After lunch it was out on the Mississippi River for some great angling. Walleye were kind of off today but the sauger bite was excellent. In just a few hours caught numerous nice chunky fish on jig/minnow rigs. Ran low on minnows and switched over to a 3" plastic shad body, silver sides, black strip on back on a plain jig head and hammered the sauger once again. When the clouds moved in, bite really took off with nice fish the rule. Was fishing in Pool-13, approximately 8 miles downstream from the dam in Bellevue. No other anglers down river at all?, guess they were all up at the dam, LOL.
If you get a chance, try to get out before the weather turns bad. Rain predicted this Saturday but Sunday forecast to be a better day, just much cooler in the mid-30's to mid-40's. So make sure you bring warm clothes.
Good luck and great fishing. Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze, lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, after a great Thanksgiving Day yesterday I figured I'd get out and work off some of that great food. Started the day with a great pheasant hunt in which I was lucky enough to get my birds. Nice big roosters with lots of meat. They will taste great broiled in my special wine sauce and covered with spices.
After lunch it was out on the Mississippi River for some great angling. Walleye were kind of off today but the sauger bite was excellent. In just a few hours caught numerous nice chunky fish on jig/minnow rigs. Ran low on minnows and switched over to a 3" plastic shad body, silver sides, black strip on back on a plain jig head and hammered the sauger once again. When the clouds moved in, bite really took off with nice fish the rule. Was fishing in Pool-13, approximately 8 miles downstream from the dam in Bellevue. No other anglers down river at all?, guess they were all up at the dam, LOL.
If you get a chance, try to get out before the weather turns bad. Rain predicted this Saturday but Sunday forecast to be a better day, just much cooler in the mid-30's to mid-40's. So make sure you bring warm clothes.
Good luck and great fishing. Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze, lastcast13@yahoo.com
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
OBAMA TRYING SECRETLY TO TAKE AWAY OUR 2ND. AMENDMENT RIGHTS!!!
A WARNING TO ALL!!!
Well, once again the Obama administration is working behind closed doors to take away our 2nd. Amendment rights. Obama and the vice pres are set on taking away our right to own firearms of any kind. Look at Obama's last two Supreme Court appointments, both liberal, Anti-Gunners that will work hard to get rid of our 2nd. Amendment. Don't let this happen folks. Everyone from sportsman to the home owner owning a gun for protection will be affected in a grim way if Obama and Joey B. get their way.
Let me ask you?, Can we afford 4 more years of this guy in the White House??? The answer is a resounding NO!!! So unless you do not mind losing your 2nd. Amendment rights to own and carry a firearm, you have nothing to worry about. Obama will do it for you, and that's a fact!!!!!
Regards:
A proud, gun owning, 2nd. Amendment rights believer,,,Lastcast. Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, once again the Obama administration is working behind closed doors to take away our 2nd. Amendment rights. Obama and the vice pres are set on taking away our right to own firearms of any kind. Look at Obama's last two Supreme Court appointments, both liberal, Anti-Gunners that will work hard to get rid of our 2nd. Amendment. Don't let this happen folks. Everyone from sportsman to the home owner owning a gun for protection will be affected in a grim way if Obama and Joey B. get their way.
Let me ask you?, Can we afford 4 more years of this guy in the White House??? The answer is a resounding NO!!! So unless you do not mind losing your 2nd. Amendment rights to own and carry a firearm, you have nothing to worry about. Obama will do it for you, and that's a fact!!!!!
Regards:
A proud, gun owning, 2nd. Amendment rights believer,,,Lastcast. Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
DEER HUNTING OFF TO A GREAT START!!!
Greetings All:
Well, deer hunting in both Wisconsin and Illinois is off to a great start. Lots of nice deer available to the hunter. Hunters using both tree stands and also ground blinds are scoring.
I know it has been said many times before but ALWAYS know what you are shooting at. No one wants an accident on their mind the rest of your life and I don't want anyone getting seriously hurt or killed due to a lack of good judgment.
Hunt the areas where timber meets edges of farm fields where deer can find food. Late afternoon has found many deer on the move in these areas.
Last but not least, remember Fair Chase in your quest for that trophy deer.
Good Luck and be safe in the outdoors.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, deer hunting in both Wisconsin and Illinois is off to a great start. Lots of nice deer available to the hunter. Hunters using both tree stands and also ground blinds are scoring.
I know it has been said many times before but ALWAYS know what you are shooting at. No one wants an accident on their mind the rest of your life and I don't want anyone getting seriously hurt or killed due to a lack of good judgment.
Hunt the areas where timber meets edges of farm fields where deer can find food. Late afternoon has found many deer on the move in these areas.
Last but not least, remember Fair Chase in your quest for that trophy deer.
Good Luck and be safe in the outdoors.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Friday, November 18, 2011
WEEKEND FISHING OUTLOOK GOOD!!
Greetings All:
Well, with another weekend upon us the fishing looks great. Many fish available in pools 11-12-13 & 14. Low water conditions making fish fairly easy. You will need a good assortment of jigs in different weights and colors and some nice big minnows to be successful. Areas like wingdams and river bends are producing nice walleye and sauger. Also fast tapering rocky shorelines holding fish. Fan cast shorelines till contact made. Cast shallow and work jig back down taper into deep water.
Weather forecast to be nice for this time of year but look for windy conditions making boat control tough. All in all it's going to be a great weekend to get out. Bring rain gear since there is a 20% chance of late day showers on Saturday.
Enjoy the river during this late season fishing bonanza that's going on right now.
Good Luck,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, with another weekend upon us the fishing looks great. Many fish available in pools 11-12-13 & 14. Low water conditions making fish fairly easy. You will need a good assortment of jigs in different weights and colors and some nice big minnows to be successful. Areas like wingdams and river bends are producing nice walleye and sauger. Also fast tapering rocky shorelines holding fish. Fan cast shorelines till contact made. Cast shallow and work jig back down taper into deep water.
Weather forecast to be nice for this time of year but look for windy conditions making boat control tough. All in all it's going to be a great weekend to get out. Bring rain gear since there is a 20% chance of late day showers on Saturday.
Enjoy the river during this late season fishing bonanza that's going on right now.
Good Luck,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
GREAT NEW SEMINARS AND CLASSES COMING SOON!!!
Greetings All:
Look here for updates on my new Ammunition Reloading Seminars and Classes coming in the near future. Look for locations at major sporting goods stores, sport shows and also seminars all across the Midwest.
You will be able to learn the in's & out's of safely reloading your own ammunition and saving money to boot.
Learn how to make your own custom loads along with re-using your spent shells. Both Shotshell, rifle and pistol reloading will be covered in these very informative classes.
Keep checking back here for updates and schedules. Hope you attend these classes.
For more information E-mail me.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Look here for updates on my new Ammunition Reloading Seminars and Classes coming in the near future. Look for locations at major sporting goods stores, sport shows and also seminars all across the Midwest.
You will be able to learn the in's & out's of safely reloading your own ammunition and saving money to boot.
Learn how to make your own custom loads along with re-using your spent shells. Both Shotshell, rifle and pistol reloading will be covered in these very informative classes.
Keep checking back here for updates and schedules. Hope you attend these classes.
For more information E-mail me.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Monday, November 14, 2011
EXCELLENT WEATHER EQUALING GREAT RIVER ANGLING!!
Greetings All:
Well, this spell of mild weather has been a bonus to anglers heading out on the Mississippi. Great fishing has been the rule with best results coming to those anglers that are picking their spots wisely.
Some action up at the dams but the real action is still down river on the many wing dams and river bends that are available. Best part is that for the most part you will have these locations all to yourself as other anglers are getting caught up in the crowded tailwater fishing. As far as I'm concerned, that's great with me.
You do not need lot's of tackle. A good selection of jigs in different colors and weights, some plastic tails and of course some nice big, lively minnows in the 3+ inch range. You can vertical jig deep locations or 3-way rig them while trolling into the current slowly and keeping bottom contact.
You can also fan cast likely looking spots and catch fish this way. Which ever method you choose, if you do not get a hit in about 15 minutes of working the spot, move to another spot.
Nice walleye and sauger action going on right now in pools 12-13 & 14.
Get out and enjoy before this nice weather turns to junk.
Good luck and Great Fishing!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, this spell of mild weather has been a bonus to anglers heading out on the Mississippi. Great fishing has been the rule with best results coming to those anglers that are picking their spots wisely.
Some action up at the dams but the real action is still down river on the many wing dams and river bends that are available. Best part is that for the most part you will have these locations all to yourself as other anglers are getting caught up in the crowded tailwater fishing. As far as I'm concerned, that's great with me.
You do not need lot's of tackle. A good selection of jigs in different colors and weights, some plastic tails and of course some nice big, lively minnows in the 3+ inch range. You can vertical jig deep locations or 3-way rig them while trolling into the current slowly and keeping bottom contact.
You can also fan cast likely looking spots and catch fish this way. Which ever method you choose, if you do not get a hit in about 15 minutes of working the spot, move to another spot.
Nice walleye and sauger action going on right now in pools 12-13 & 14.
Get out and enjoy before this nice weather turns to junk.
Good luck and Great Fishing!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
COLD WEATHER BRINGING HOT FISHING!!!
Greetings All:
Well, snow and cold has been the rule as of this post but that has not stopped the Mississippi River from giving up her bounty. Some excellent fishing for walleye and sauger down river from lock/dam 12 in Bellevue. Most anglers still beating the tailwaters to death when the truly great fishing is taking place a few miles away.
Start your search on some of the long wingdams about 5 miles downriver across from the sand prairie area. This is just upstream from the Maquoketa river on the Iowa side of river. 3-way rigging big minnows, (3-4") on front sides of dams working well. Watch your depth finder and look for deep scour holes. Casting 1/4th oz. orange Fireball style jigs tipped with a big minnow also working well.
If you do not locate fish fairly quick, move to another wingdam down river. When you locate the bite you are in for a great time. Fish are aggressive now and hitting hard.
Remember to stay tight to bottom. You may lose a few jigs to snags this way but you will also catch some very nice fish.
Other pools also producing. Was up in Winona, MN and did very well there also. Cold, but hot fishing. If you can, get out before the weather gets really bad and enjoy the action.
If you need more info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com
Good Luck & Stay Warm,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, snow and cold has been the rule as of this post but that has not stopped the Mississippi River from giving up her bounty. Some excellent fishing for walleye and sauger down river from lock/dam 12 in Bellevue. Most anglers still beating the tailwaters to death when the truly great fishing is taking place a few miles away.
Start your search on some of the long wingdams about 5 miles downriver across from the sand prairie area. This is just upstream from the Maquoketa river on the Iowa side of river. 3-way rigging big minnows, (3-4") on front sides of dams working well. Watch your depth finder and look for deep scour holes. Casting 1/4th oz. orange Fireball style jigs tipped with a big minnow also working well.
If you do not locate fish fairly quick, move to another wingdam down river. When you locate the bite you are in for a great time. Fish are aggressive now and hitting hard.
Remember to stay tight to bottom. You may lose a few jigs to snags this way but you will also catch some very nice fish.
Other pools also producing. Was up in Winona, MN and did very well there also. Cold, but hot fishing. If you can, get out before the weather gets really bad and enjoy the action.
If you need more info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com
Good Luck & Stay Warm,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,Mike Cyze
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
SLIGHT "WALLEYE CHOP" DID THE TRICK!!!
Greetings All:
Well, just returned from a few hours on the Mississippi and I have to tell you, fishing was great!!! Slight chop on water made conditions just right.
Forget about those crowds up at the dam. I headed to one of my favorite spots about 8 miles down river and boy O' boy, the fish were waiting.
Was fishing a Northland FireBall jig in bright orange tipped with a 3" minnow and the fish loved it. Location contained a series of drop-offs on a sand flat that got deep quickly. Simply cast the jig shallow and slowly retrieved along the sand bottom. Fish hit this presentation hard.
In a little over a couple of hours, caught and released over 25 keeper walleye and sauger. All released safely to fight another day except a few for tonight's dinner.
As I said in earlier posts, you do not have to get hung up in that crowded tailwater fishing with many boats. Lot's of great fishing action down river away from crowds. In my time down river, never saw another angler all the while I was there.
Hope you can work some time into your busy schedules to get out and enjoy some of the great Fall river fishing that's starting to get hot. Best part is that it's only going to get better all the way to ice-up.
Well folk's, have to go. Time to clean and fillet those beauties for tonight's dinner. Deep fried fillets, homemade cole slaw and some fried potatoes with onions in butter. Don't get much better than that. But don't worry, I'll have some for you also, LOL!!!
If you need more Mississippi River information, contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Also tell your friends about LASTCASTOUTDOORS.COM fishing blog for the latest information on the Mississippi River.
Take Care and I'll See You On The Water,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze.
Well, just returned from a few hours on the Mississippi and I have to tell you, fishing was great!!! Slight chop on water made conditions just right.
Forget about those crowds up at the dam. I headed to one of my favorite spots about 8 miles down river and boy O' boy, the fish were waiting.
Was fishing a Northland FireBall jig in bright orange tipped with a 3" minnow and the fish loved it. Location contained a series of drop-offs on a sand flat that got deep quickly. Simply cast the jig shallow and slowly retrieved along the sand bottom. Fish hit this presentation hard.
In a little over a couple of hours, caught and released over 25 keeper walleye and sauger. All released safely to fight another day except a few for tonight's dinner.
As I said in earlier posts, you do not have to get hung up in that crowded tailwater fishing with many boats. Lot's of great fishing action down river away from crowds. In my time down river, never saw another angler all the while I was there.
Hope you can work some time into your busy schedules to get out and enjoy some of the great Fall river fishing that's starting to get hot. Best part is that it's only going to get better all the way to ice-up.
Well folk's, have to go. Time to clean and fillet those beauties for tonight's dinner. Deep fried fillets, homemade cole slaw and some fried potatoes with onions in butter. Don't get much better than that. But don't worry, I'll have some for you also, LOL!!!
If you need more Mississippi River information, contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Also tell your friends about LASTCASTOUTDOORS.COM fishing blog for the latest information on the Mississippi River.
Take Care and I'll See You On The Water,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
BUMPER BOAT FISHING HAS STARTED!!!
Greetings All:
Well, the bumper boat fishing has started in the tailwaters once again. Packs of boats circle each other aimlessly thinking that that is the hot spot to be. Well folks, don't get caught up in this yearly occurrence. Fact of the matter is that most are just catching "Dinks" with the bigger fish leaving the area with all the commotion above.
Be a smart angler and head down river to one of the many Fall hot spots that never see an angler. Fish those wingdams and river bends where many fish are waiting for your offering. Best part is you can have these hot-spots all to yourself while those "Bumper Boat" anglers fight for position up by the dam.
Remember, NOT ALL Fish will be up at the dam in the Fall!! Many are down river in spots that never see an angler.
So be the smart one my friends and go downriver and find your own private hotspot. You will be glad you did.
Was out this morning, went down river about 7 miles from the dam and caught many nice walleye and also sauger while never seeing another angler except for the ones heading up to the dam, LOL.
So get out and enjoy some great Fall fishing,,,,,,,,,,But not at the dam!!!
Regards: Mike Cyze,,,,Lastcast
Well, the bumper boat fishing has started in the tailwaters once again. Packs of boats circle each other aimlessly thinking that that is the hot spot to be. Well folks, don't get caught up in this yearly occurrence. Fact of the matter is that most are just catching "Dinks" with the bigger fish leaving the area with all the commotion above.
Be a smart angler and head down river to one of the many Fall hot spots that never see an angler. Fish those wingdams and river bends where many fish are waiting for your offering. Best part is you can have these hot-spots all to yourself while those "Bumper Boat" anglers fight for position up by the dam.
Remember, NOT ALL Fish will be up at the dam in the Fall!! Many are down river in spots that never see an angler.
So be the smart one my friends and go downriver and find your own private hotspot. You will be glad you did.
Was out this morning, went down river about 7 miles from the dam and caught many nice walleye and also sauger while never seeing another angler except for the ones heading up to the dam, LOL.
So get out and enjoy some great Fall fishing,,,,,,,,,,But not at the dam!!!
Regards: Mike Cyze,,,,Lastcast
Thursday, October 27, 2011
ZOMBIE MAX SHELL ARE HERE!!!
Greetings all:
Well, the fine folks at Hornady have done it again!!!
Hornady – makers of some of the finest ammunition in the world – have released their new “Zombie Max” zombie killing bullets.
On their website, they have a full page spread about the new ammunition. They make it clear that this is not a joke and that these rounds are real, not toys and not a gag. Check out what the fine folks at Hornady have to say about this new "KILLER" Product.
Till Next Time, Keep your powder dry and be safe in the Outdoors!!!
LastCast,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, the fine folks at Hornady have done it again!!!
Hornady – makers of some of the finest ammunition in the world – have released their new “Zombie Max” zombie killing bullets.
On their website, they have a full page spread about the new ammunition. They make it clear that this is not a joke and that these rounds are real, not toys and not a gag. Check out what the fine folks at Hornady have to say about this new "KILLER" Product.
Till Next Time, Keep your powder dry and be safe in the Outdoors!!!
LastCast,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
COLD WEATHER IS UPON US AND DUCKS ARE ON THE MOVE!!
Greetings All:
Lots of ducks on the move as cold weather takes a grip on the Midwest. Along the Mississippi Flyway, best results have been in backwater sloughs that are near farm fields where birds can go to feed. So far the traditional areas have not produced as well as those small ponds and marsh areas have.
Right now, change from main river areas and look for what I like to call "Pothole & Puddle Ducks". These smaller areas are getting a lot of bird action right now. Most hunters are passing these areas up and are missing some great shooting.
One last thing for now. Afternoons have proven to be producing much better than early morning hunts. You can hit the blind after work for a bit and do quite well.
Dress warm, be safe and remember, ALWAYS know what you are shooting at!!! Also, don't take those far away shots and risk cripples. More birds will come your way.
Have a wonderful time and make some memories.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Lots of ducks on the move as cold weather takes a grip on the Midwest. Along the Mississippi Flyway, best results have been in backwater sloughs that are near farm fields where birds can go to feed. So far the traditional areas have not produced as well as those small ponds and marsh areas have.
Right now, change from main river areas and look for what I like to call "Pothole & Puddle Ducks". These smaller areas are getting a lot of bird action right now. Most hunters are passing these areas up and are missing some great shooting.
One last thing for now. Afternoons have proven to be producing much better than early morning hunts. You can hit the blind after work for a bit and do quite well.
Dress warm, be safe and remember, ALWAYS know what you are shooting at!!! Also, don't take those far away shots and risk cripples. More birds will come your way.
Have a wonderful time and make some memories.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, October 14, 2011
COLD WEATHER ENTERING THE AREA.
Greetings All:
Well, as I write this those very strong North winds are howling outside. Gusts of 40 MPH+ are common and expected to last through Saturday. Biggest problem with the winds is that they are causing the River to "Muddy Up" due to heavy wave action. Water chocolate color now and will take some calming down before good bite returns. Very tough for fish to locate your offering. Earlier today had 3 inch visibility using a bright orange jig, not very good at all. Some panfish, mainly crappie available in back waters and sloughs but tough going there also. Those huge stripers I love to catch in October are there but they cannot find your bait very easy. If you insist on fishing for them, use a small, noisy and flashy crankbait with lots of vibration. This will help some.
On a side note, heavy winds bringing down lots of the great Fall colors. They won't last long at this rate.
Hope you get some time to enjoy the great fishing that is still left before ice-out. Be safe out there and save a few for me. If you need more Mississippi River info, feel free to contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Good Luck and till next time,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water!!!!!
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze.
Well, as I write this those very strong North winds are howling outside. Gusts of 40 MPH+ are common and expected to last through Saturday. Biggest problem with the winds is that they are causing the River to "Muddy Up" due to heavy wave action. Water chocolate color now and will take some calming down before good bite returns. Very tough for fish to locate your offering. Earlier today had 3 inch visibility using a bright orange jig, not very good at all. Some panfish, mainly crappie available in back waters and sloughs but tough going there also. Those huge stripers I love to catch in October are there but they cannot find your bait very easy. If you insist on fishing for them, use a small, noisy and flashy crankbait with lots of vibration. This will help some.
On a side note, heavy winds bringing down lots of the great Fall colors. They won't last long at this rate.
Hope you get some time to enjoy the great fishing that is still left before ice-out. Be safe out there and save a few for me. If you need more Mississippi River info, feel free to contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Good Luck and till next time,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water!!!!!
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze.
Friday, October 7, 2011
WEEKEND OUTLOOK EXCELLENT!!
Greetings All:
Well the weekend is looking great to get out and catch a few fish on the old Mississippi. Water levels still on the low side but that is helping anglers zero in on the fish. Beautiful crappie available in the many backwaters on small minnows either on a small jig or a plain hook fished under a small float.
Some walleye and also sauger starting to show up on the wing dams in the deep water. As a bonus, get yourself a few of those frisky smallmouth bass that are also cruising those wingdams. Jig's and twisters working well for them and also small crankbaits.
Weather forecast to be excellent also this weekend all the way into Tuesday before a slight chance of some rain. That's a very slight chance also.
Colors are in full bloom and winds are starting to bring them to the ground in one last flight. Enjoy the scenery and don't forget to bring that camera. This is a wonderful time to be out on the river seeing God's artwork all around you. It truly is an awesome sight to see the season changing with it's beautiful Fall display of colors. So with that in mind, get out and make some memories.
Good Luck and be safe on the river.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well the weekend is looking great to get out and catch a few fish on the old Mississippi. Water levels still on the low side but that is helping anglers zero in on the fish. Beautiful crappie available in the many backwaters on small minnows either on a small jig or a plain hook fished under a small float.
Some walleye and also sauger starting to show up on the wing dams in the deep water. As a bonus, get yourself a few of those frisky smallmouth bass that are also cruising those wingdams. Jig's and twisters working well for them and also small crankbaits.
Weather forecast to be excellent also this weekend all the way into Tuesday before a slight chance of some rain. That's a very slight chance also.
Colors are in full bloom and winds are starting to bring them to the ground in one last flight. Enjoy the scenery and don't forget to bring that camera. This is a wonderful time to be out on the river seeing God's artwork all around you. It truly is an awesome sight to see the season changing with it's beautiful Fall display of colors. So with that in mind, get out and make some memories.
Good Luck and be safe on the river.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Sunday, October 2, 2011
GREAT FISHING OF FALL IS STARTING!!!
Greetings All:
Well, the GREAT weather continues here in the Midwest and the fishing on the old Mississippi River is starting to really turn on. Low water conditions making finding the fish almost too easy and the savvy angler can really do well now. Those huge stripers are feeding very well along with many other species. Walleye and sauger starting but look for it to get hot as we move through October until ice-up. Lots of crappie in backwaters but getting to them is tough with low water conditions unless you know of a few runs off the main river you can navigate with your boat. Catfish action still excellent and you can use those dip baits this next week as temps are expected to once again rise into the mid to high 70's which will warm waters.
I'll tell you folks, this is going to be a wonderful Fall fishing season if Mother Nature stays on track with some "average" Fall weather and does not throw us a curve.
If you need more specific info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com and I'll be glad to put you on some fish.
In closing, I was out this morning for a few hours at Sun rise and did very well on a mixed bag of big stripers, crappie and a few nice sauger. Nothing like being on the river as the colors are changing and God's artwork is evident all around you.
So make some time before the weather turns for the worst and make some memories on the beautiful Mississippi River.
Good luck My Friends and GREAT Fishing.
Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, the GREAT weather continues here in the Midwest and the fishing on the old Mississippi River is starting to really turn on. Low water conditions making finding the fish almost too easy and the savvy angler can really do well now. Those huge stripers are feeding very well along with many other species. Walleye and sauger starting but look for it to get hot as we move through October until ice-up. Lots of crappie in backwaters but getting to them is tough with low water conditions unless you know of a few runs off the main river you can navigate with your boat. Catfish action still excellent and you can use those dip baits this next week as temps are expected to once again rise into the mid to high 70's which will warm waters.
I'll tell you folks, this is going to be a wonderful Fall fishing season if Mother Nature stays on track with some "average" Fall weather and does not throw us a curve.
If you need more specific info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com and I'll be glad to put you on some fish.
In closing, I was out this morning for a few hours at Sun rise and did very well on a mixed bag of big stripers, crappie and a few nice sauger. Nothing like being on the river as the colors are changing and God's artwork is evident all around you.
So make some time before the weather turns for the worst and make some memories on the beautiful Mississippi River.
Good luck My Friends and GREAT Fishing.
Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Sunday, September 25, 2011
VERY LOW RIVER LEVELS TO CAUSE PROBLEMS AHEAD!!
Greetings All:
Just a month or so ago the Mississippi River was over it's banks. Well, now we are at near record lows in water levels. Not good if this continues into the Winter season . Hopefully the levels will rise a bit again so that major fish kills do not happen this year. River as of this report near 5 feet below where it should be. Lots of exposed structure and shallow areas. In fact, some barge traffic unable to move further South on river due to low water conditions. Lets hope Mother Nature gives us the moisture needed to return levels to normal.
Good Fall striper action starting up on pools 12-13 & 14. It's only going to get better as season moves on into October. Stop back for latest bite information.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Just a month or so ago the Mississippi River was over it's banks. Well, now we are at near record lows in water levels. Not good if this continues into the Winter season . Hopefully the levels will rise a bit again so that major fish kills do not happen this year. River as of this report near 5 feet below where it should be. Lots of exposed structure and shallow areas. In fact, some barge traffic unable to move further South on river due to low water conditions. Lets hope Mother Nature gives us the moisture needed to return levels to normal.
Good Fall striper action starting up on pools 12-13 & 14. It's only going to get better as season moves on into October. Stop back for latest bite information.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Thursday, September 15, 2011
TIME TO GET OUT TO THE RANGE!!!
Hello All:
Before long bird hunting will be upon us. With that in mind I will also start including flyway reports on the ducks and geese here at Lastcastoutdoors. Also, this is the time to get out and shoot some skeet or trap to get that rust off from last year. You will be surprised at just how rusty you can become without constant practice. So with that thought in mind, time to hit the range and shoot a few boxes.
Regards: LastCast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Before long bird hunting will be upon us. With that in mind I will also start including flyway reports on the ducks and geese here at Lastcastoutdoors. Also, this is the time to get out and shoot some skeet or trap to get that rust off from last year. You will be surprised at just how rusty you can become without constant practice. So with that thought in mind, time to hit the range and shoot a few boxes.
Regards: LastCast,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
FALL IS IN THE AIR!!!
Greetings All:
Well, Fall is in the air here in the Midwest. As I type this it is a nippy 38 degrees outside along the Mississippi River. Great news though is that the fishing is starting to get really good as waters cool. From now through October, look for those giant white bass to go on a feeding binge. I have been getting more and more each day with many big fish available.
You bass anglers should hit the backwaters for some late season action. Lots of nice available.
Walleye and sauger anglers, they are still scattered out with some here and there. Look for the bite to inprove with the on-set of cooler weather. You catfish anglers don't give up yet. Still lots of good action in backwaters on dip baits. As water cools, change over to cut baits for best results. I will let you know when that happens.
You panfish anglers, nice crappie starting in back sloughs on minnows. Fish not schooled tight yet so a little moving around is required. Bluegill action near green weeds best with small larvae baits. Weeds will start dying off soon so only fish still green weeds.
Look for a great Fall on the river with lots of great fishing action. If you need more info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Good luck and GREAT fishing: Lastcast,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, Fall is in the air here in the Midwest. As I type this it is a nippy 38 degrees outside along the Mississippi River. Great news though is that the fishing is starting to get really good as waters cool. From now through October, look for those giant white bass to go on a feeding binge. I have been getting more and more each day with many big fish available.
You bass anglers should hit the backwaters for some late season action. Lots of nice available.
Walleye and sauger anglers, they are still scattered out with some here and there. Look for the bite to inprove with the on-set of cooler weather. You catfish anglers don't give up yet. Still lots of good action in backwaters on dip baits. As water cools, change over to cut baits for best results. I will let you know when that happens.
You panfish anglers, nice crappie starting in back sloughs on minnows. Fish not schooled tight yet so a little moving around is required. Bluegill action near green weeds best with small larvae baits. Weeds will start dying off soon so only fish still green weeds.
Look for a great Fall on the river with lots of great fishing action. If you need more info, e-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Good luck and GREAT fishing: Lastcast,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Thursday, September 1, 2011
LABOR DAY ANGLING LOOKING GOOD!!!
Greetings All:
Well, here we are fast approaching the last holiday of the Summer season. With that in mind, fishing on the Mississippi River looks good. Mainly a panfish and catfish bite going on but lots of action to keep you busy.
Use dip baits for the catfish near snag areas for best results. If no action in 10 to 15 minutes, move to another location and try again. When you find the cats you will know it quickly. For the panfish, small minnow for crappie, larvae baits for bluegills. Look for deep water near deadfalls in backwaters for the crappie, fish weed edges for the gills. For you bass anglers, use topwater frogs and also plastic warms for some good bass action in backwaters also. Early and late in day best for bass with late holding the edge in strikes.
All in all, have yourself a wonderful holiday weekend and enjoy some excellent fishing. Loot for a great upcoming Fall fishing season also. Stay tuned here for current updates as fishing gets hot for the cool weather season.
Regards: LastCast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, here we are fast approaching the last holiday of the Summer season. With that in mind, fishing on the Mississippi River looks good. Mainly a panfish and catfish bite going on but lots of action to keep you busy.
Use dip baits for the catfish near snag areas for best results. If no action in 10 to 15 minutes, move to another location and try again. When you find the cats you will know it quickly. For the panfish, small minnow for crappie, larvae baits for bluegills. Look for deep water near deadfalls in backwaters for the crappie, fish weed edges for the gills. For you bass anglers, use topwater frogs and also plastic warms for some good bass action in backwaters also. Early and late in day best for bass with late holding the edge in strikes.
All in all, have yourself a wonderful holiday weekend and enjoy some excellent fishing. Loot for a great upcoming Fall fishing season also. Stay tuned here for current updates as fishing gets hot for the cool weather season.
Regards: LastCast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, August 12, 2011
WEEKEND FISHING LOOKING GOOD!!!
Greetings All:
Look for some good action this weekend on the Mississippi. Excellent catfish on dip baits in backwaters and side sloughs. Nice bass action on topwater frogs in pad fields. Panfish scattered, crappie here and there, gills on weed bed edges. On main river, some really nice stripers showing up on steep tapering sandy banks that get deep fast. Early and late best for stripers. Use a white 1/4th or 1/8th ounce hair jig for great results.
Enjoy yourself and save a few for me!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Look for some good action this weekend on the Mississippi. Excellent catfish on dip baits in backwaters and side sloughs. Nice bass action on topwater frogs in pad fields. Panfish scattered, crappie here and there, gills on weed bed edges. On main river, some really nice stripers showing up on steep tapering sandy banks that get deep fast. Early and late best for stripers. Use a white 1/4th or 1/8th ounce hair jig for great results.
Enjoy yourself and save a few for me!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
RIVER STILL A MESS!!
Greetings All:
Well, the Mississippi is still a mess in pools 12 & 13 with high, dirty water the norm. Lots of floating debris making angling tough. Best bet is get into those backwaters and fish for some nice catfish using stink baits.
Look for river to slowly start returning to normal if forecast rain is not to heavy again. All in all, get out and give it a try,,,it still beats cutting the grass!!!
Good Luck and Enjoy: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, the Mississippi is still a mess in pools 12 & 13 with high, dirty water the norm. Lots of floating debris making angling tough. Best bet is get into those backwaters and fish for some nice catfish using stink baits.
Look for river to slowly start returning to normal if forecast rain is not to heavy again. All in all, get out and give it a try,,,it still beats cutting the grass!!!
Good Luck and Enjoy: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, July 29, 2011
BACK AT LAST!!!
Greetings All:
Finally back after multiple fly-in trips to Canada doing some filming. Lots of fish and bug bites also.
Mississippi river bad shape here in Tri-States area with 13.45 inches of rain in Dubuque area in just 10 hours on Wednesday night. River is very high and very dirty. Good time to get those Honey-Do jobs done and put off fishing till river clears up.
Glad to be back, lets hope for stable weather.
lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Finally back after multiple fly-in trips to Canada doing some filming. Lots of fish and bug bites also.
Mississippi river bad shape here in Tri-States area with 13.45 inches of rain in Dubuque area in just 10 hours on Wednesday night. River is very high and very dirty. Good time to get those Honey-Do jobs done and put off fishing till river clears up.
Glad to be back, lets hope for stable weather.
lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, July 1, 2011
HOLIDAY WEEKEND FISHING OUTLOOK!!!
Well, here we are into the 4th of July Holiday weekend. Seems like Summer is going way toooooo fast. I have coined this the "Bummer Summer of 2011".
For you folks heading out this weekend to fish, look for excellent cat fish action in side sloughs and backwaters. Fish near snags and deadfalls in the deepest water you can find. Use that stink bait and re-bait often to fill the area with scent.
You bass anglers should do well using spinnerbaits rolled slow just under the surface in backwaters. Use loud blades for best results.
Panfish are scattered and water visibilty hampering catching them. Some nice big stripers on flooded sand flat areas on jig/twister rigs.
Have a great holiday weekend and be safe out there.
GOD BLESS AMERICAN!!!!!!!! GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!!!!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
For you folks heading out this weekend to fish, look for excellent cat fish action in side sloughs and backwaters. Fish near snags and deadfalls in the deepest water you can find. Use that stink bait and re-bait often to fill the area with scent.
You bass anglers should do well using spinnerbaits rolled slow just under the surface in backwaters. Use loud blades for best results.
Panfish are scattered and water visibilty hampering catching them. Some nice big stripers on flooded sand flat areas on jig/twister rigs.
Have a great holiday weekend and be safe out there.
GOD BLESS AMERICAN!!!!!!!! GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!!!!!!
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Friday, June 24, 2011
MUDDY WATER HERE AGAIN!!!
Greetings All:
Well, go figure, just in time for the weekend the very muddy water is here. As of this morning, river visibility about 3" max. Terrible conditions for fish to see your presentation. One good thing though is the catfish are biting on "Stink" baits. They can feed by smell and in this water they will sure need it. Nice cats available in backwaters and sloughs near snags laying in at least 4 feet of water.
Most other species are tough right now. Looks like it will take a bit for river to clear up again.
Whatever your plans are for the weekend, a day on the river sure beats cutting the grass!!! Enjoy.
Lastcast,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, go figure, just in time for the weekend the very muddy water is here. As of this morning, river visibility about 3" max. Terrible conditions for fish to see your presentation. One good thing though is the catfish are biting on "Stink" baits. They can feed by smell and in this water they will sure need it. Nice cats available in backwaters and sloughs near snags laying in at least 4 feet of water.
Most other species are tough right now. Looks like it will take a bit for river to clear up again.
Whatever your plans are for the weekend, a day on the river sure beats cutting the grass!!! Enjoy.
Lastcast,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Monday, June 20, 2011
CLEAR WATER CRAPPIE ACTION GETTING HOT!!!
Greetings All:
Was out checking backwater areas in pools 12 & 13. Found some areas with very clear and clean water and the big crappie were loving it. They were holding in 4 to 6 feet of water near deadfalls with green leaves on them. Caught majority of fish on a small 1/16th ounce hair jig. Used 4 lb. test ling and an ultralight rod. Easy to cast and fish not spooked by the light line. Look for crappie action to continue good in these types of clear water areas. You will have to do some searching to locate them but it is worth the effort.
Good Luck & Enjoy The Moment!!! Last cast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Was out checking backwater areas in pools 12 & 13. Found some areas with very clear and clean water and the big crappie were loving it. They were holding in 4 to 6 feet of water near deadfalls with green leaves on them. Caught majority of fish on a small 1/16th ounce hair jig. Used 4 lb. test ling and an ultralight rod. Easy to cast and fish not spooked by the light line. Look for crappie action to continue good in these types of clear water areas. You will have to do some searching to locate them but it is worth the effort.
Good Luck & Enjoy The Moment!!! Last cast,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Saturday, June 18, 2011
SATURDAY MORNING "STINK-UM-UP"!!!
Greetings All:
Was out this morning on the Mississippi for a few hours catfishing and WOW, what a morning!!! Switched over from cut bait to my favorite "Stink-Bait" and really hammered the catfish. A lot of nice eaters in the 2 lb. range with a few big ones up to 9lbs. The big ones were released to fight another day and a few eaters were kept for the dinner table. Best areas were big deadfalls laying in deeper water. Fish up-stream side, tight to bottom. Use about a 3 foot lead from your sliding sinker to your dip worm for best results. Hot and humid weather has really started to turn the catfish on. Remember, not only are they great eating but they are a lot of fun to catch and put up a great fight. Use a long, light action rod for even more of a fight. It will have you smiling.
Hope you get a chance to get out and enjoy.
Good luck,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Was out this morning on the Mississippi for a few hours catfishing and WOW, what a morning!!! Switched over from cut bait to my favorite "Stink-Bait" and really hammered the catfish. A lot of nice eaters in the 2 lb. range with a few big ones up to 9lbs. The big ones were released to fight another day and a few eaters were kept for the dinner table. Best areas were big deadfalls laying in deeper water. Fish up-stream side, tight to bottom. Use about a 3 foot lead from your sliding sinker to your dip worm for best results. Hot and humid weather has really started to turn the catfish on. Remember, not only are they great eating but they are a lot of fun to catch and put up a great fight. Use a long, light action rod for even more of a fight. It will have you smiling.
Hope you get a chance to get out and enjoy.
Good luck,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Friday, June 17, 2011
WEEKEND FISHING LOOKING UP!!!
Fishing should remain good on pools 12-13-14 if heavy rain does not spoil the party and muddy river back up. Gates in Bellevue are now finally down and fish are starting to pattern. Excellent catfish in back sloughs. Good stripers on sandy banks that taper off deep quickly. Panfish still scattered, walleye and sauger spotty. Was out earlier today and did very well. Nice fillets for supper this evening :-))
Check weather reports. Rain, heavy at times is in forecast for the weekend. Hot and very humid also. Don't forget that bug spray!!! Gnats terrible.
Good luck and enjoy the weekend. Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Check weather reports. Rain, heavy at times is in forecast for the weekend. Hot and very humid also. Don't forget that bug spray!!! Gnats terrible.
Good luck and enjoy the weekend. Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Monday, June 13, 2011
FISHING GETTING BACK ON TRACK
Greetings All:
Well, the ole' Miss is getting back to giving up her bounty. River clearing up well and fish are responding. Excellent white bass off flooded sand flat. Jig/minnow rig or plastic tail best. Excellent catfish in back waters and sloughs. Also along rip-rap shores floating a crawler. Walleye and sauger still slow. Panfish action good. Crappie and Gills on a decent bite in backwaters.
Was out earlier today and did well. Multi species day for me. In a few hours caught many nice fish.
Possible rain tonight might muddy river up again, stay tuned for up to date reports here.
Get out and enjoy some great fishing,,,right now!!!
Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, the ole' Miss is getting back to giving up her bounty. River clearing up well and fish are responding. Excellent white bass off flooded sand flat. Jig/minnow rig or plastic tail best. Excellent catfish in back waters and sloughs. Also along rip-rap shores floating a crawler. Walleye and sauger still slow. Panfish action good. Crappie and Gills on a decent bite in backwaters.
Was out earlier today and did well. Multi species day for me. In a few hours caught many nice fish.
Possible rain tonight might muddy river up again, stay tuned for up to date reports here.
Get out and enjoy some great fishing,,,right now!!!
Lastcast,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Thursday, June 9, 2011
BIG STORMS CURTAIL FISHING!!!
Big rain storms that rolled through last night with 75+ MPH winds have turned the river to chocolate. Heavy run-off has made visibility close to zero. It will be quite a few days before it clears up. You might want to reconsider weekend plans if you have them for this coming weekend. More rain forecast the next few days will only add to the problem. Hate to bring this bad news to you but also with gas prices as they are I want to save you a trip if I can. Will keep everyone posted as conditions change.
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Mike Cyze
Regards: Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Mike Cyze
Sunday, June 5, 2011
CATFISH ACTION HOT!!!
Greetings All:
Well, the catfish are on the bite big time. Was out fishing crawlers under a float along rocky rip-rap areas and did very well. You want to position your boat away from rocky shorelines that taper fast into the deep water and cast the crawler into the shore, near structure and let it drift naturally. Cast at a 45 degree angle upstream and let it float down stream. Continue this method and you will succeed. Hook crawler once through the nose so it floats natural and the catfish are loving it. As far as a float? Use one just big enough to suspend the crawler. Stick floats work well for this type of fishing. Hit those long, rocky rip-rap areas and enjoy some great catfishing.
Bring the Sun screen as it's hot out there with the arrival of hot weather along the Mississippi River.
Good luck and have some fun.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, the catfish are on the bite big time. Was out fishing crawlers under a float along rocky rip-rap areas and did very well. You want to position your boat away from rocky shorelines that taper fast into the deep water and cast the crawler into the shore, near structure and let it drift naturally. Cast at a 45 degree angle upstream and let it float down stream. Continue this method and you will succeed. Hook crawler once through the nose so it floats natural and the catfish are loving it. As far as a float? Use one just big enough to suspend the crawler. Stick floats work well for this type of fishing. Hit those long, rocky rip-rap areas and enjoy some great catfishing.
Bring the Sun screen as it's hot out there with the arrival of hot weather along the Mississippi River.
Good luck and have some fun.
Lastcast,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
Saturday, May 28, 2011
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND RIVER PROSPECTS!!!
Greetings All:
Well, here we are, the start of the official, un-official Summer season. Weather sure has been on the cool side and rains have put a kink in most river fishing. Mississippi River still on the high side but you can go out and get a few fish if you pick your spots wisely.
Look for some really nice Stripers on flooded flat areas just off the heavy current of main channel. Some current ok but not real heavy. Cast jig/twister rigs or white hair jigs for best results. If you wish, tip the white jig with a 2" black twister tail. This rig has been hot for me as of this morning.
Walleye action slow due to muddy water making seeing lure by fish tough. Backwaters producing some nice crappie near deadfalls in deeper water. Jig/minnow or minnow under a slip float best.
Bluegill starting near fresh growing weeds. Fish outer edges with small lures and small larva type baits under a small float. Catfish available on cut-baits. Shad guts working well as are livers and also gob of nightcrawler.
Weather forecast to have shower chances every day so bring that rain gear. Also, if your not familiar with the backwaters, make sure you know your way out. It is easy to get lost and confused as how to get back out. Use your GPS if you have one.
Have a wonderful weekend and let's not forget what this Memorial Day is truly about. If you see a young service man or woman, take a moment to thank them for their service.
I find it truly ironic how all these two-bit countries around the world keep knocking America, but they all want to come here for our freedoms and way of life.
GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Lastcast / Mike Cyze
Well, here we are, the start of the official, un-official Summer season. Weather sure has been on the cool side and rains have put a kink in most river fishing. Mississippi River still on the high side but you can go out and get a few fish if you pick your spots wisely.
Look for some really nice Stripers on flooded flat areas just off the heavy current of main channel. Some current ok but not real heavy. Cast jig/twister rigs or white hair jigs for best results. If you wish, tip the white jig with a 2" black twister tail. This rig has been hot for me as of this morning.
Walleye action slow due to muddy water making seeing lure by fish tough. Backwaters producing some nice crappie near deadfalls in deeper water. Jig/minnow or minnow under a slip float best.
Bluegill starting near fresh growing weeds. Fish outer edges with small lures and small larva type baits under a small float. Catfish available on cut-baits. Shad guts working well as are livers and also gob of nightcrawler.
Weather forecast to have shower chances every day so bring that rain gear. Also, if your not familiar with the backwaters, make sure you know your way out. It is easy to get lost and confused as how to get back out. Use your GPS if you have one.
Have a wonderful weekend and let's not forget what this Memorial Day is truly about. If you see a young service man or woman, take a moment to thank them for their service.
I find it truly ironic how all these two-bit countries around the world keep knocking America, but they all want to come here for our freedoms and way of life.
GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Lastcast / Mike Cyze
Sunday, May 15, 2011
MUDDY WATER MAKING FISHING TOUGH!!!
Greetings All:
Well, weekend rains and winds have made the Mississippi quite muddy. Chocolate colored water making it very difficult for fish to see any lure. Best bet now is to head to side sloughs and backwaters to search out the cleanest water you can find. Fish are there, just unable to see your presentation.
Was out this morning for a few short hours and only managed 5 fish. Two sauger and four nice stripers. Hot spot of a few days ago was very tough fishing. Dirty, muddy and fast current. Checked out a few of my favorite sloughs and found some panfish but had to head in due to doing a seminar later today. As Arnold said in his movie though: I"LL BE BACK!!!!
Looking forward to a great Spring of fishing with multiple species coming in. Weather next few days forecast to be sunny and cool. If you can, get out and enjoy.
Till Next Time,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Last cast,,,,Mike Cyze
Well, weekend rains and winds have made the Mississippi quite muddy. Chocolate colored water making it very difficult for fish to see any lure. Best bet now is to head to side sloughs and backwaters to search out the cleanest water you can find. Fish are there, just unable to see your presentation.
Was out this morning for a few short hours and only managed 5 fish. Two sauger and four nice stripers. Hot spot of a few days ago was very tough fishing. Dirty, muddy and fast current. Checked out a few of my favorite sloughs and found some panfish but had to head in due to doing a seminar later today. As Arnold said in his movie though: I"LL BE BACK!!!!
Looking forward to a great Spring of fishing with multiple species coming in. Weather next few days forecast to be sunny and cool. If you can, get out and enjoy.
Till Next Time,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Last cast,,,,Mike Cyze
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
STRIPER EXPLOSION!!!!
Greetings All:
Well, its finally happening. The stripers are going crazy on the Mississippi River in Pool 13. With river still high, look downriver from dam and search out flooded sand flats and back sides of points that break the current. Was out this morning, nice chop on water and fish were going crazy. Beautiful stripers up to 4lbs. plus hit my livewell.
Best presentation was either a white hair jig tipped with a black twister tail in the 2" range or a small sinking stickbait or small flashy crank bait. Cast tight to shore and use a steady retrieve for best results. If you want you can verticle jig deeper areas with bright colored jigs tipped with a minnow. Either way, some really great fishing going on and it's only going to get better through May.
Good luck and save a few for me. Gotta go, time to clean my dinner!!!
Regards: lastcast / Mike Cyze
Well, its finally happening. The stripers are going crazy on the Mississippi River in Pool 13. With river still high, look downriver from dam and search out flooded sand flats and back sides of points that break the current. Was out this morning, nice chop on water and fish were going crazy. Beautiful stripers up to 4lbs. plus hit my livewell.
Best presentation was either a white hair jig tipped with a black twister tail in the 2" range or a small sinking stickbait or small flashy crank bait. Cast tight to shore and use a steady retrieve for best results. If you want you can verticle jig deeper areas with bright colored jigs tipped with a minnow. Either way, some really great fishing going on and it's only going to get better through May.
Good luck and save a few for me. Gotta go, time to clean my dinner!!!
Regards: lastcast / Mike Cyze
Monday, May 9, 2011
FINALLY A FISHABLE RIVER!!!!!
Greetings All:
Well, finally the Ole' Miss is on the retreat in pools 11-12 & 13 and you can once again get out fishing. Backwaters have cleanest waters available with main river still containing lots of floating junk. Some crappie in backwaters and improving. Lots of really nice stripers off sand flat areas where they are schooling minnows and shad. White 1/4th ounce hair jigs are excellent either tipped with a trailer or plane. Cast tight to shore and use a steady retrieve back. Walleye and sauger scattered and heading back to main channel areas.
Be careful running the river and look for semi-submerged trees just under the waters surface. These can ruin your day quickly.
Look for more up to date reports as water warms and fishing really turns on. You can contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com for specific questions on the river.
Regards: Mike Cyze,,,, lastcastoutdoors.com
Well, finally the Ole' Miss is on the retreat in pools 11-12 & 13 and you can once again get out fishing. Backwaters have cleanest waters available with main river still containing lots of floating junk. Some crappie in backwaters and improving. Lots of really nice stripers off sand flat areas where they are schooling minnows and shad. White 1/4th ounce hair jigs are excellent either tipped with a trailer or plane. Cast tight to shore and use a steady retrieve back. Walleye and sauger scattered and heading back to main channel areas.
Be careful running the river and look for semi-submerged trees just under the waters surface. These can ruin your day quickly.
Look for more up to date reports as water warms and fishing really turns on. You can contact me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com for specific questions on the river.
Regards: Mike Cyze,,,, lastcastoutdoors.com
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
BANGIN' THE BIG ONES!!!
Greetings All:
Well, with the last few days being mild, I decided to try something different. Headed out for some night fishing on the Ole' Miss. Fished some known spawning spots and believe me, the fishing was hot!!!
Was casting neutral boyancy stick baits into shallow gravel bed areas with about 3' of water. These were along fast tapering shorelines. Made casts very tight to shoreline and used a nice steady retrieve. I did add 3 small split-shot a foot up on line from lure to keep it nose down. This did the trick as the big fish were smacking it hard. Use flashy colors for best results. Gold and silver flash both worked well. Biggest fish came on a perch colored lure.
Be careful on the river at night. Everything looks different. Wear that PFD for safety!!! Also barges are running so use caution with them.
Caught over 9 big walleye in about 1&1/2 hours with biggest a beautiful 11.7 lb. Female. All fish were released unharmed to fight another day. Handle these big spawners carefully.
Night fishing on the Mississippi River. A treat to be enjoyed on a warm Spring night!!!!
Good Luck and be safe on the river!!!!
Lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, with the last few days being mild, I decided to try something different. Headed out for some night fishing on the Ole' Miss. Fished some known spawning spots and believe me, the fishing was hot!!!
Was casting neutral boyancy stick baits into shallow gravel bed areas with about 3' of water. These were along fast tapering shorelines. Made casts very tight to shoreline and used a nice steady retrieve. I did add 3 small split-shot a foot up on line from lure to keep it nose down. This did the trick as the big fish were smacking it hard. Use flashy colors for best results. Gold and silver flash both worked well. Biggest fish came on a perch colored lure.
Be careful on the river at night. Everything looks different. Wear that PFD for safety!!! Also barges are running so use caution with them.
Caught over 9 big walleye in about 1&1/2 hours with biggest a beautiful 11.7 lb. Female. All fish were released unharmed to fight another day. Handle these big spawners carefully.
Night fishing on the Mississippi River. A treat to be enjoyed on a warm Spring night!!!!
Good Luck and be safe on the river!!!!
Lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Mississippi river Update!!!
Greetings All:
Well, heavy weekend storms still have the river muddied up. You can find some clean water in back sloughs where fish are holding. Main river fishing slow, backwaters picking up. As waters warm, look for some great striper action to start. Biggest problem now is getting the fish to see your bait in the dirty water.
Was out this morning, a few nice sauger in flooded timber. Also some nice stripers, (15 to 17") on flooded sand flats protected from main river current. Fish are available but you will have to work a bit for them right now.
Good Luck: Lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Well, heavy weekend storms still have the river muddied up. You can find some clean water in back sloughs where fish are holding. Main river fishing slow, backwaters picking up. As waters warm, look for some great striper action to start. Biggest problem now is getting the fish to see your bait in the dirty water.
Was out this morning, a few nice sauger in flooded timber. Also some nice stripers, (15 to 17") on flooded sand flats protected from main river current. Fish are available but you will have to work a bit for them right now.
Good Luck: Lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
HIGH RIVER PRODUCING NICE FISH!!!
Greetings All:
Well, river is high but it continues to give up some great fish. Key is picking your spots. Nice sauger and some walleye in flooded timber and brush on down sides of points and islands. Also some really nice 15 and 16 inch stripers located off flooded sand flats near river and incoming stream mouths. Fan cast area with small 1/4th oz. jigs tipped with a 3" plastic shad body. Cast right up to shore and use a nice steady retrieve. When you get into these fish they are really aggressive. Surprised since water still on cold side but they are hungry.
Rain and possible light snow predicted over weekend but so far Sunday said to be a nice day. Get out and enjoy!!!
Last cast,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Well, river is high but it continues to give up some great fish. Key is picking your spots. Nice sauger and some walleye in flooded timber and brush on down sides of points and islands. Also some really nice 15 and 16 inch stripers located off flooded sand flats near river and incoming stream mouths. Fan cast area with small 1/4th oz. jigs tipped with a 3" plastic shad body. Cast right up to shore and use a nice steady retrieve. When you get into these fish they are really aggressive. Surprised since water still on cold side but they are hungry.
Rain and possible light snow predicted over weekend but so far Sunday said to be a nice day. Get out and enjoy!!!
Last cast,,,,,,Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
FIND FISH IN FLOODED WILLOWS
Greetings All:
Well, hit the river early this morning and found high water in pool-13. Ran down river a bit and found some nice sauger and a few walleye holding tight in flooded willows along the down stream side of island points. Small 1/8th ounce jigs tipped with a minnow were pitched into flooded brush and retrieved just like for bass. Fish are holding tight to cover. Down stream side is best due to little current for fish to fight.
As far as color of jigs?, well, black was a hot color this morning but try others until you find what the fish are looking for. Good luck and enjoy your time on the river.
lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Well, hit the river early this morning and found high water in pool-13. Ran down river a bit and found some nice sauger and a few walleye holding tight in flooded willows along the down stream side of island points. Small 1/8th ounce jigs tipped with a minnow were pitched into flooded brush and retrieved just like for bass. Fish are holding tight to cover. Down stream side is best due to little current for fish to fight.
As far as color of jigs?, well, black was a hot color this morning but try others until you find what the fish are looking for. Good luck and enjoy your time on the river.
lastcast / Mike Cyze lastcast13@yahoo.com
Saturday, March 26, 2011
COLD & WINDY IS THE TICKET FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS,,,AT LEAST!!
Greetings All:
Well, look for the weather to be unseasonably cold and windy for about the next week. Add that to a rising river and fishing is tough right now. Some early season crappie in the backwaters but no heavy action yet. Look for clean water close to deep structure and you will find some crappie there. Small minnows are the best bait right now. Fish them VERY SLOW for best results.
Thanks to all the folks that attended my crappie seminar in Lancaster, WI earlier today. Great folks with great questions. Now that season of open water has started, come back often for current updates and locations.
Till NextTime,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water!!!!
Mike Cyze,,,,,,lastcast E-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Well, look for the weather to be unseasonably cold and windy for about the next week. Add that to a rising river and fishing is tough right now. Some early season crappie in the backwaters but no heavy action yet. Look for clean water close to deep structure and you will find some crappie there. Small minnows are the best bait right now. Fish them VERY SLOW for best results.
Thanks to all the folks that attended my crappie seminar in Lancaster, WI earlier today. Great folks with great questions. Now that season of open water has started, come back often for current updates and locations.
Till NextTime,,,Take Care And I'll See You On The Water!!!!
Mike Cyze,,,,,,lastcast E-mail me at: lastcast13@yahoo.com.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
HIGH WATER STARTING!!!
Well, it's happening now. The run-off from up North is arriving and the Mississippi River is going up fast. Most dam's like Bellevue, Iowa are wide open to let water through. Fish are scattering out and with muddy conditions look for main river angling to be almost non-existent. Now is the time to start scouting those backwaters where the fish are moving to escape the strong currents and dirty waters.
Record flooding is projected from heavy snows North and Minnesota received another 14 inches as of this report. Not good for our local areas. Keep checking here for the latest on the fishing conditions on the Mississippi River.
Till Next Time,,,,Take Care & I'll See You On The Water!!!!!
Mike Cyze,,,,,,lastcast
Record flooding is projected from heavy snows North and Minnesota received another 14 inches as of this report. Not good for our local areas. Keep checking here for the latest on the fishing conditions on the Mississippi River.
Till Next Time,,,,Take Care & I'll See You On The Water!!!!!
Mike Cyze,,,,,,lastcast
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Welcome To Another Spring On The River!!!
Greetings All:
It's that wonderful time of the year again and the Mississippi River is open to fishing!!!
I have been out scouting areas and the fish are hungry. Lot's of boats up at dams but don't get caught in that old belief that all the fish are up at the dams. I have been finding excellent concentrations of both sauger and walleye miles down from the dams and best part is no other boats in area. River bends near sloughs, long wingdams and sandy flats all holding very nice fish. Jig and minnow rigs are doing best. I have been using a 1/4th ounce bright orange Fireball jig tipped with a nice big, lively minnow. 3" minnow great. No stinger hook has been needed so far as fish are hitting bait hard. You can also troll stick-baits on a 3 way rig but expect snags in the areas where fish are holding. Start with jigs. I caught some nice sauger on jig and shad bodies, (silver sides, black back stripe). Excellent for locating where fish are holding and really snag resistant.
Make sure boat running well if venturing down river because you will be alone there if help needed. Also bring that cell phone just in case.
Get out and enjoy the great action available on the Old Miss right now. Also check out lastcastoutdoors on Facebook. HAVE A GREAT, SAFE SPRING!!!
LASTCAST,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
It's that wonderful time of the year again and the Mississippi River is open to fishing!!!
I have been out scouting areas and the fish are hungry. Lot's of boats up at dams but don't get caught in that old belief that all the fish are up at the dams. I have been finding excellent concentrations of both sauger and walleye miles down from the dams and best part is no other boats in area. River bends near sloughs, long wingdams and sandy flats all holding very nice fish. Jig and minnow rigs are doing best. I have been using a 1/4th ounce bright orange Fireball jig tipped with a nice big, lively minnow. 3" minnow great. No stinger hook has been needed so far as fish are hitting bait hard. You can also troll stick-baits on a 3 way rig but expect snags in the areas where fish are holding. Start with jigs. I caught some nice sauger on jig and shad bodies, (silver sides, black back stripe). Excellent for locating where fish are holding and really snag resistant.
Make sure boat running well if venturing down river because you will be alone there if help needed. Also bring that cell phone just in case.
Get out and enjoy the great action available on the Old Miss right now. Also check out lastcastoutdoors on Facebook. HAVE A GREAT, SAFE SPRING!!!
LASTCAST,,,,,,,,,Mike Cyze
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