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Locals give up Leech Lake secrets

Take a closer look at the tackle and strategies anglers might use to catch bass at the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Leech Lake presented by SEVIIN, as local experts share their go-to gear for targeting both largemouth and smallmouth bass.

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Photography by
Chad Eddings
What will anglers use to catch bass when the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Leech Lake presented SEVIIN commences? Here’s a quick look at some of the tackle that could be players.
Anglers have lots of choices when they hit the water, ranging from targeting shallow bass to chasing smallmouth in open waters.
That means anglers will probably have both power fishing gear and finesse rigs ready to go.
Local pro Tadd Johnson said a marabou jig is never a bad idea when heading out on Leech.
Local angler Craig Dickmeyer said frogs are sure to get a reactions from largemouths around the rice growing in the shallows of the lake.
Underspins and soft plastics are good bets for targeting chunky smallmouth.
Ned rigs are certain to play a part in this event, particularly for those betting on the smallmouth bite.
Power anglers can definitely find success with largemouths flipping jigs in the rice.
We headed to a local tackle store to find anglers in the know about the Leech Lake fishery and ask what they would be using.
Big hair jigs are another largemouth option that could definitely play this week.

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