There are a few phrases every Minnesota angler knows by heart. “A dozen shiners” is one of them.
The OG classic walleye order. The default no excuses minnow. Sometimes rare to find in bait shops. The thing you say without even thinking when you walk into a bait shop at 6 a.m. Whether you’re chasing walleyes, crappies, or just trying to look like you know what you’re doing, a dozen shiners is always a solid call.
Twelve shiny, swimmy, highly motivated-to-get-eaten little legends. Big enough to get noticed. Small enough to keep things interesting. If fishing had a comfort food, this would be it.
Perfect for ice fishing, open water, early mornings, late afternoons, and “we’re just going to try one more spot” situations.
If you’ve ever said the words out loud, you already know.
If you haven’t, now’s your chance.
