What's your best tips for Fall fishing in the Boundary Waters?

Here are some of mine....

Walleye - The big walleyes like to move up into shoreline structure going back to their traditional spawning grounds when the water temperatures are around that magical mid 50s range. The spawning grounds will have more rocks the size of your head rather than gravel type spawning grounds used by bass. This pattern typically lasts for about a week and then they return to their deeper haunts. So, keep an eye on the water temps and if they are in the mid 50s, take a serious look at the shallow spawning grounds that week.

Lake Trout - Once late September arrives lake trout start moving up into shallower water preparing for the spawn. They will move up into 6 to 20 feet of water. 50 degrees or less is ideal surface temps for shallow trout. Troll over the spawning areas from 6 to 20 feet which have rocks about the size of a football. Once you find the trout, casting crank baits resembling ciscoes will be productive.

Pike - Fish the points in the fall. Points are highly productive for all fish, along with surrounding flats. Weed beds next to drop offs seem to always have some pike lurking around. Fish the edges of the weeds. Areas between islands called “saddles” can be a productive area to focus on during the fall period. Another great location is moving water. Fish water flows of any size, from a river, to a creek, to a trickle coming into the lake. You can always find fish of any species hovering around moving water. Try to remember, if you want to catch big fish, fish big lakes. I know big fish can found in smaller lakes, but the majority of trophy sized fish are swimming in big water.

Smallmouth - Towards the end of September and into October, the lakes will begin to turnover and fishing will become very difficult. When this takes place, head to the moving water areas. Rivers do not turnover, they are too shallow. These are areas where a green pumpkin tube along with ¼ oz. jig really shines. Fish the water flowing out of the lake, the river or creek between the lakes and the plunge pool at the far end.

Thanks Mike, this is good stuff.

I didn't know the tip about the walleye. Heck, I didn't know most of it! Thanks, Mike!