They're H E R E ....

Hard to believe that we are staring down mid-summer already! Besides Canada Day (today!) and the 4th of July, the biggest marker thereto is the oft dreaded Mayfly. They began their hatch sporadically late last week and are now in full blossom throughout the park. 

The Hexagenia limbata (or Hex) is the second largest species of mayfly in North America. They are said to be indicators of a healthy ecosystem and provide an important source of sustenance for fish, birds, and animals alike. It is thought that the Hex hatch is synchronized in order to improve the chances that each individual finds a mate. In that case, job well done. The shear amount of bio-mass these insects create is quite remarkable. 

Hexagenia limbata
Photo Credit: Lynette Elliott

While it will inevitably change the fishing some as the hatch evolves, so far the bite has not slowed down. Outgoing guests report great catches of all game fish - although they did note the perch action seemed to taper as the mayflies became more prevalent. 

Last week's guests at South Lake boated 17 walleyes in the mid to upper 20's, including a dandy 29".  All of these came on simple jig and twister tail combos while slow trolling. 

Guests at Central reported aggressive walleyes too, some chasing top water baits like Zara Spooks and others attacking fish alongside the boat!

Guests at Central and Burnt chased the perch hard and both had good numbers right up until the mayfly activity began. 

A first-time guest at Southwest said something to the effect of "I never thought I'd be tired of catching fish, but I might be tired of catching fish... I can barely hold my arms up." #BigHookSouthwestProblems. 

That's how you hold a fish!

The biggest pike reported came from West, who boated a 39" and 41" if memory serves. Several others in the mid-30's were raised around The Park. Weed beds are developing rapidly and anticipation of summer top-water season is high. 

Dry weather persists and fire danger is listed as "extreme" in all of our region. Several new fires popped up near Red Lake due to a lightning storm yesterday. The airport closure will make fighting these extra difficult.

Similarly, water levels throughout The Park remain at historic lows. Many guests who have been visiting our lakes for decades cannot recall ever seeing the water as low as it is now. 

There is a small amount of rain in the forecast tomorrow, at this point, we'll take whatever we can get. Hoping more will materialize soon and the lighting stays away in the mean time. 

A happy Canada Day to all and have a happy and safe 4th of July too!

R

Maybe the most "Canadian" pic of the week in celebration of Canada Day