Smallie and largemouth C&R season, North of hwy 53

[OnTheWater]

Does anyone have good suggestions for early season bass, north of hwy 53 (duluth). The C&R season starts on the 13th; and I would rather go north to catch bass, than pay an arm and a leg to catch WI bass. I would prefer to find good lakes close to the Duluth area; due to gas prices, and a tight schedule. Are there any lakes that are better than others?

[T-water]

I think you have a wonderful dilema! If I were you I'd plan on finding a lake that the walleye hunters are not going to be flocking to. You shouldn't have too much trouble finding a lake for smallmouth, I'd just stay away from the big busy lakes. Go north!

[Tom Wilson]

Not to argue, but I would find the busiest walleye water, that you know has a substantial population of Bass. Walley guys don't fish for Bass for the most part, and given the time of year and the theoretical location of the Bass at this time, you would excel, and could be by yourself on that water. Just a thought, but if it's the crowd at the ramps that concerns you, then T water's advice is more sound.

Tom W

[OnTheWater]

I hear ya tom, I'm not concerned with the walleye guys; and I won't be fishing the same areas as them anyways.