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Lake of the Woods LOW

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INSIJS
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Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by INSIJS »

Second LOW fishing trip coming up and it’s going to be cold, rainy and snow. This is the annual fall crappie and walleye trip.

How’s fishing been on LOW lately?
Fuck you. :finger: Original RC 2004 & RC Kickball Team. :drinky:
Hector
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by Hector »

Sturgeon fishing is/was great going on many pictures by a few friends.
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INSIJS
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by INSIJS »

Fucking border is still closed. Going to have to fish MN side.
Fuck you. :finger: Original RC 2004 & RC Kickball Team. :drinky:
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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FISHING REPORT 4.19.2023
On the south end… Big Traverse Bay, the big basin of Lake of the Woods, is still ice covered. Some ice anglers with snowmobiles went out ice fishing this past week for big pike and did well. Safety first this time of year. Resorts and outfitters are no longer plowing or monitoring ice roads so experience, having others with you and exercising great caution is vital.

The open water mark has reached the Lighthouse Gap area of Big Traverse Bay. The flow of water from the Rainy River is pushing against the ice pack. Current, sun, wind and rain are all taking a toll on the lake ice.
Spring is a great time of the year to fish back bays which are perfect for smaller boats. There is a very large population of big pike in Lake of the Woods and these bays will be full of them very soon, if not already. Open water is starting to show up in Four Mile Bay, Botic Bay and Zippel Bay.
On the Rainy River… The Rainy River is completely opened up into Lake of the Woods. The Little Fork River let loose into the Rainy Monday. The Big Fork is about to let loose any day. Thankfully, sturgeon will feed in muddy water conditions until the river has a chance to flush itself out.

The walleye season finished up April 14th. Fishing was very good for most, until we received the 70 degree weather. The almost instantaneous hot temps quickly melted the snowpack along the river, pouring muddy water over the ice into the Rainy. The last couple of days of the season were tough. Before that, some 100 fish days and big walleyes were caught.
Sellingguy
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by Sellingguy »

Going to be interesting to see what happens on LOW with a corp investement group buying up Wheelers, Boarderview, Sportsmans and Rainy River Resorts.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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TIPS FOR ANGLERS NEW TO LAKE OF THE WOODS

If you have not fished Lake of the Woods during the open water seasons, it can be intimidating. There are so many different areas to fish, a wide variety of resorts and hotels to stay at around the lake as well as the sheer size of the fishery. Like any new body of water, the first time is the most difficult, but after that first time, it is so much easier. If you have never been to The Walleye Capital of the World or perhaps only ice fished it, open water is an incredible experience. Check out these tips for anglers new to Lake of the Woods.

The first time, make life easy. One of the best tips for anglers fishing Lake of the Woods is there are a number of great options for fishing on a charter boat or with a guide. Especially the first time to the big water, some anglers who own their own boats even find it helpful to jump on-board a charter or with a guide the first time out to get a lay of the land. When you step aboard, nearly everything is provided. Rods, reels, tackle, bait, expertise in navigation and getting you on fish. This make life easy as all you need to do is dress for the weather, bring sunglasses and a camera to record the adventure.

A guide or charter boat makes it so nice. Jump into a vehicle with a few others and drive up. You can focus on each other rather than the weather, navigation and fish.

On the south end… When talking about tips for anglers, charter boats are an enjoyable and successful way to fish the big water. Charters for the most part are on the south end of the lake fishing the Rainy River and Big Traverse Bay which is the big water of Lake of the Woods. When I say big water, I am talking about 25 miles north south by about 20 miles east west. If Lake of the Woods was a great lake, it would be the sixth largest. This can be intimidating and certainly requires a healthy respect.

The thing about the basin is it is loaded with millions of walleyes and saugers. The basin also boasts a strong population of big trophy walleyes as there is a good number of tulibees in the big water. Walleyes will focus on tulibees when they reach that 25 inch mark and these fish enable walleyes to get bigger faster.

Charter boat captains do a good job of sharing info with one another about fish movements, where there are active fish and other variables ultimately leading to a successful trip. Most trips produce walleyes, it’s just a matter of how many and how big.

The basin reaches a maximum depth of about 36 feet deep. This makes the entire body of water fair game for fishing. This is one great big aquarium of life and a big part of Lake of the Woods.

Up at the NW Angle… When considering tips for anglers new to Lake of the Woods, one very enjoyable experience is spending time up to the NW Angle.

Traveling to the Angle is part of the experience and adventure. When driving to the Angle, travelers transit through Canada for about 40 miles before re-entering the U.S. up at the Angle.

Another option is to avoid customs and boat across the lake.

The NW Angle is the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S., is where the 14,552 islands begin and boasts about 12 resorts, some on the mainland, some on islands. The fishing is excellent for multi-species and the scenery and wildlife are even better. Angle resorts have excellent guides that will fish in U.S. waters, Ontario waters or both, depending upon what you are targeting, etc. These guide typically run about a 20′ boat that can navigate to the best and most scenic fishing spots on both sides of the border. If you like fish, most guides do a noon shore lunch that will mess up any fish fry you have at home ever again because they are so delicious and fresh.

Bring your own boat… For anglers who own their own boat and enjoy the challenge of new water, Lake of the Woods has so many good options. Boat ramps are available on the Rainy River, south end of the lake and up at the Angle. Some are public and resorts also offer nice boat ramps with sheltered marinas for a nominal fee.

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Some use their own boats if their boat is large enough and they have a competent captain used to big water. Others use the Lake of the Woods Passenger Service on the lake run through Sportsman’s Lodge which will shuttle you across to your favorite NW Angle resort.

When driving to the NW Angle, anglers must be knowledgeable about credentials to cross into Canada and back into the U.S. again when up to the Angle. A passport, passport card, enhanced driver’s license or combo of a government issued photo ID with a birth certificate are necessary. It is also important to note Canadian Customs looks at a DUI as a felony and you may want to check ahead before crossing the border if someone in your group has a DUI in their past.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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LOOKING AHEAD TO THE 2023 MN FISHING OPENER ON LAKE OF THE WOODS

For some, it’s almost like a holiday. The Minnesota fishing opener is fast approaching and this tradition is one many look very forward to. Lake of the Woods resorts and hotels are open, prepared and looking forward to welcoming anglers for the 2023 MN Fishing Opener.

As happens quite often in the north country, people are asking, “when is spring arriving?” It has been a cold spring and ice still remains on the lake. The lake has opened up in the typical locations, at the mouth of the Rainy River at Lighthouse Gap into the lake, mouth of Bostic Bay at the Morris Point Gap area into the lake, the Angle Inlet area up at the Angle as well as numerous areas between islands. This spring flow, combined with the wind and sun are taking a good toll on the ice. Most are confident the ice, or vast majority of it, will be in the form of soft water come the opener.

The Rainy River, bays, current areas up at the NW Angle and much of the south shore adjacent to the Rainy River and Bostic Creek are already open. This open water will spread and when things happen, they happen quickly. These are also excellent spots to catch early season walleyes, sauger and pike.

How many miles of navigable water is there from the mouth of the Rainy River at Wheeler’s Point upstream to Birchdale? 42 miles. There are 42 miles of navigable Rainy River. Normally with a late spring, there are a lot of walleyes in the river for the fishing opener.

There are a few observations pointing to an epic MN Fishing Opener on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River on Saturday, May 13th. First off, in past years when there has been a late ice out, anglers have done extremely well catching good numbers of nice walleyes. Second, during the spring walleye season, walleye anglers who caught windows of stable weather did excellent. Third, walleyes for the most part have been left alone since mid March. Finally, the walleyes will have just spawned and that means they will be hungry.

Some anglers will focus on the Rainy River. With a colder spring, walleyes will still be in the river. We also know there are walleyes from sturgeon anglers who are catching them unintentionally. Anglers who have fished the river understand they need to go a bit heavier with their jigs as there is current in the river.

Others will target the main basin. Big schools of walleyes will be staged at various spots off of the south shore. Some anglers will catch them shallow along Pine Island. Others will be in front of Morris Point, Zippel Bay, Long Point and Rocky Point. Wherever you like to fish out of, the fish should be there and have not seen a lure in some time.

Don’t be afraid to slide up into shallow water as many years, that can be the ticket. Also don’t be afraid to slowly troll crankbaits. This is a great way to find fish and on some days, despite the cold water, actually out fishes the anglers using jigs.

As far as presentations for the 2023 MN fishing opener, most will be using a jig and a minnow or frozen emerald shiner. Some go to colors are gold, glow, pink, orange and chartreuse, or a combination of them. When hooking your minnow, if you are missing fish, try putting the hook of your jig through the mouth and out the gill of the minnow. Then slide the minnow all the way up to the jig head and place the point of the hook half way back on the minnow. With the stained waters of the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods, walleyes don’t seem to mind. Some make it simple and use a stinger hook.

The NW Angle is actually also poised for a great opener. Ice fishing up there this year was excellent. The fish are there and for those who want to get an early start by fishing the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S., it will be good fishing. Target shoreline structure such as points, neck down areas between islands and transition areas along shore. There are good numbers of fish, an angler simply has to hit a few spots to see what the pattern is.

For some, the MN Fishing Opener is tradition. For some, it’s a holiday. Whatever it means to you, the “opener” is a celebration of fishing for everyone who appreciates fishing in MN.

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Sellingguy
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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The fucking Sturgies have been huge this year.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

Sellingguy wrote: Thu May 04, 2023 6:22 pm The fucking Sturgies have been huge this year.
The Sportsman’s Lodge Annual Sturgeon Classic had a full field of 60 boats and just under 200 anglers that battled it out over two days on Friday May 5 and Saturday May 6 for over $15,000 in cash and prizes awarded. The 17th annual catch and release tournament was headquartered at the beautiful Sportsman’s Lodge and the fishing area was focused on 1.2 mile area right in front of the lodge on the Rainy River. Over 100 sturgeon were caught and released.

Tournament participants not only enjoy a couple of days of sturgeon fishing with friends and family on the Rainy River, an incredible prime rib dinner as part of the tournament fee is part of the tradition as well.

The top two sturgeon of each day were awarded large cash prizes to match their big catch, with third place each day receiving a custom built fishing rod built by Sportsman’s guide, Ralph Christofferson. In addition, many more prizes were awarded for the biggest Bullhead, Sucker, Eel Pout, under 18 years old, and biggest sturgeon caught by a female.

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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

yeah that was true--but so is your statement.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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A SUCCESSFUL 2023 FISHING OPENER ON LAKE OF THE WOODS

WALLEYES CAUGHT AROUND THE LAKE

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Walleyes were caught in many locations during the opener. Anglers fishing the Rainy River overall experienced the normal high water, but nothing out of the ordinary for this time of year. Lots of nice fish pics and reports from the river, although, with decent weather, most ventured out to Four Mile Bay or the big lake itself, Big Traverse Bay.

Four Mile Bay, as it traditionally does this time of year, held good walleyes. When walleyes spawn in the Rainy River, some stay in the river and others slowly make their way back into the lake. 4 Mile Bay is a natural spot to hang out with it’s warmer water, many areas just off of the current and good forage offerings for walleyes. Usually fishing the edge of the river channel as it sweeps water up into the bay is key.

The majority of anglers fished Lake of the Woods along the south shore. There were good reports from the Lighthouse Gap all the way to Rocky Point. The most popular depths were 8 – 15 feet, but walleyes and saugers were caught very shallow around 3 feet and deeper than 30′ as well. As you know, walleyes are not all congregated in one area, especially in a lake with a lot of walleyes.

Up at the NW Angle, great success was also had during the opener. Shoreline structure, points and neck down areas where there is some current was the best. Once again, a jig and minnow was by far the most used presentation. One resort commented on opening morning, guests said they caught walleyes in almost every spot they fished. The action slowed a bit in the afternoon.

Right now is an incredible time to fish Lake of the Woods. The fish are hungry and relatively close to shore. They are caught in the river, bays and along shorelines. The water is cold and the fish are hungry.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT PIKE!

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Pike have been active in back bays. As some of the big females are working there way back to the big lake, there is plenty of action to be had. Some anglers love fishing pike for the action and excitement. Others enjoy eating pike. As long as you filet them to get the “Y” bones out, they are delicious coming out of the cold waters of LOW.

The current limit of pike on LOW is 3, with all fish 30 – 40 inches having to be released. Anglers are allowed to keep 1 fish over 40 inches as part of their daily limit.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report

5.24.2023

On the south end... Walleye and sauger fishing continues to be really good. Most walleyes are spawned out and feeding nicely. Great reports by resort charter boats and others across the lake. A nice mix of eaters (under 19.5"), slot fish (19.5" - 28") and a good number of trophy fish (over 28") caught this past weekend.

The combined limit of walleyes and saugers on the MN side of LOW is 6, with up to 4 of the 6 being walleyes. One trophy over 28 inches is allowed. All walleyes 19.5 - 28 inches must be released.

This is the time for jigging. Most anglers are anchoring up and vertically jigging with a jig and minnow. The best jig colors... gold, orange, chartreuse, pink or a combo of these colors.

Tip jigs with live minnows or frozen emerald shiners. Quick LOW tip... Place the hook of the jig through the mouth of the minnow, out the gills, slide the minnow all the way up to the jig head and hook the minnow through its midsection. This will get you hooking more fish.

Depths again varied from shallow to deep, depending upon where you were fishing. Most walleyes in that 8 - 30 foot depth. Watch your electronics for fish. Not every fish in the lake is feeding on the same forage, hence, varying depths.

The pike continue to be active. Back bays and shoreline structure are the best spots. As the waters continue to warm, lures such as inline spinners, spinnerbaits and crankbaits are producing more pike.

On the Rainy River... Walleye anglers are finding some nice walleyes in the Rainy River. Some walleyes will make their way back to the lake after the spawn, many will stay, some for a while, some all year.

Anchored up or slowly moving upstream with a jig and minnow are the go to techniques. Trolling crankbaits is also working nicely to find fish or fish walleyes spread out on a flat.

The river is a slow rolling, relatively small water nice for boats of all sizes. There are 42 miles of navigable waterway from the mouth at Wheeler's Point east to Birchdale.

The sturgeon season will re-open again July 1st and will continue through May 15, 2024.

Up at the NW Angle... Great walleye fishing this past week. The jig and minnow is again the way to go in this cold water. Points, neck down areas, flats with some current, and areas with shoreline rubble holding nice walleyes.

As is normally the case amongst the islands, a variety of fish are being caught while fishing walleyes. Saugers, pike, smallmouth bass, crappies, jumbo perch and an occasional muskie. Lots of action.

Three ways to travel to the Angle...

1. Drive 40 miles through Canada and re-enter back into MN at the NW Angle.
2. Avoid customs by riding the Lake of the Woods Passenger (charter boat) Service which transports you across the lake to your favorite Angle resort and keeps you in Minnesota.
3. Take your own boat 42 miles across the lake.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report

5.30.2023

On the south end... A great week of walleye and sauger fishing on Lake of the Woods. Lots of limits. Good numbers of fish being caught, which includes eaters, slots and some trophy walleyes to make things interesting!

Most anglers are jigging with a frozen emerald shiner or live minnow. Jig colors to consider are gold with a bright color such as gold / pink, gold / glow white and even gold with some tinsel.

Some reports of spinners starting to work well tipped with a minnow or crawler. A great technique is drifting with a 2 ounce bottom bouncer and spinner rig.

Fish being caught around the lake. Trust your electronics and watch for fish. In addition to the south shore where various schools of walleyes and saugers are living, consider the Garden Island area, Knight / Bridges Island area, and Twin Islands where good fish are being caught.

Most walleyes in that 18 - 24 foot depth.

Good pike reports. Back bays are still holding good eaters and a few big females. Some of the larger fish have made their way to the lake.

On the Rainy River... Walleye anglers are finding some nice eater walleyes in the River. There is always a number of walleyes that stay in the river all year. Whether you like the beauty and secluded feel of the river, have a small boat or simply want to get out of the wind, the river is a great summer spot with little traffic.

Anchored up or slowly moving upstream with a jig and minnow, trolling spinners / crawlers or trolling crankbaits are all effective right now.

Smallmouth bass are plentiful in the Rainy River. Whether you are a bass angler or simply want to mix up species, target feeder rivers, bridges, and areas with rocks.

The sturgeon season will re-open again July 1st.

Up at the NW Angle... Excellent walleye fishing this past week. The jig and minnow is the goto bait. Anglers using spinners with crawlers or minnows and crankbaits are catching lots of fish as well.

Structure around the many islands holding walleyes. Shallow flats areas with current are also heating up.

Great fishing reports from both sides of the border. NW Angle anglers boating into Canada to fish cannot possess or transport any bait, alive or dead. Most are using jigs / plastics, artificial crawlers on spinners and crankbaits with great success. If desired, live bait is available and can be purchased for the day just over the border via boat in Canada, check with your resort for details.

This entire area is great for multispecies action. In addition to walleyes, big pike, smallmouth bass, jumbo perch, crappies,and muskies are also being caught on a regular basis.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report

6.8.2023

On the south end... Lots of limits of nice eaters this week on Lake of the Woods. Anglers are releasing plenty of fish in the protected slot of 19.5 - 28.0 inches, and catching a good number of trophy walleyes over 28 inches.

Water temps are 73 degrees. This means crawler harnesses have really kicked in nicely this week. Using a 2 or 3 hook harness with a crawler teamed up with a weight or bottom bouncer of about 2 ounces is a nice combination and will catch fish.

A tip when pulling spinners, keep just a couple of inches of crawler off of your back hook and pinch off the remainder. The walleyes will still hit your spinner rig and you will hook more.

Some anglers are using a minnow on their spinner rig. Others, especially when on structure, are still jigging with frozen emerald shiners. Good reports on crankbaits as well, both along Pine Island and with lead core in deeper depths.

Walleyes are being caught around the lake with many still adjacent to shoreline structure, although with the warm weather, some fish will be transitioning to the big open mud flats of Big Traverse Bay. Walleyes are being caught in anywhere from 7 - 25 feet.

Good pike reports. Back bays and shoreline structure are holding good numbers of these aggressive feeders.

Some big 14+ inch perch showing up in walleye catches as well.

On the Rainy River... Anglers fishing the river are finding small schools of eater walleyes in various locations. Current breaks, holes and rocky areas are great areas to start.

Anchored up or slowly moving upstream with a jig and minnow is a go to technique. To find fish or catch fish spread out on a flat or along a break, troll spinners / crawlers or crankbaits.

Smallmouth bass and pike showing up as they are in good numbers. For bass, target feeder rivers, bridges, and areas with rocks. For pike, weed beds, bays and feeder rivers to the Rainy River.

Up at the NW Angle... Walleye fishing, both on the MN side and Ontario side of the border, has been super good. Working shoreline structure such as underwater points, neck down areas, flats with moving water and edges of reefs will reward anglers with walleyes.

A jig and minnow continues to be the go to bait. Much like the south end of the lake, spinners and crawlers are coming on strong and are a great way to present your offering to good numbers of fish. Also great reports for those trolling or casting crankbaits catching nice walleyes of all sizes.

When fishing the NW Angle area, expect a variety of species. Smallmouth bass are hanging out amongst rocky points and shorelines. Pike are in bays and underwater points.

The muskie season opens June 17th.
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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2023 MUSKIE OPENER IS JUNE 17TH ON LAKE OF THE WOODS
Any muskie hunter knows that Lake of the Woods is one of the best fisheries of muskie. Anglers come for miles around to fish our trophy waters. So make your plans as the 2023 muskie opener on Lake of the Woods for both the Minnesota and Ontario sides of the lake begins this weekend, Saturday, June 17th.

Lake of the Woods is a world class muskie fishery with over 65,000 miles of shoreline and 14,552 islands.

The majority of muskie anglers are catch and release. Many resorts, especially at the NW Angle, specialize in muskie guides. These muskie nuts keep a good handle on fish movement, lure preference, colors and areas muskies are prevalent. It is also a great way to save time really learning the nuances of becoming a better muskie angler. Check out a list of NW Angle Resorts who can set you up with some of the best guides in the business.

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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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SUMMER STURGEON SEASON OPENS JULY 1ST
The summer sturgeon season is on the horizon. The “keep” season for these monsters runs from July 1st through September 30. One per calendar year is allowed and the length must be 45 – 50″ inclusive or over 75″. Anglers must have a sturgeon tag if you wish to keep a sturgeon. Oct 1 – April 23rd is the catch and release season. If you have never sturgeon fished before you may be asking yourself, “How can I give it a try?”

Sturgeon get much of their attention in the spring but summer is a very productive time to catch sturgeon. Each year Birchdale, located east of Baudette on the Rainy River, holds an International Sturgeon Tournament and the number of sturgeon boated within site of the Nelson Park access is impressive. These fish are feeding up and down the Rainy River throughout the summer months.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report

6.28.2023

On the south end... An incredible week of fishing on Lake of the Woods. The lake continues to put out big numbers of walleyes and saugers of all sizes.

Two areas were the focus this past week. First, rocks. Walleyes love crayfish on LOW and nice fish have been found over various rocky areas targeting crayfish.

The second area that has really fired up nicely is the deep mud. There is usually a transition this time of year. Walleyes are feeding on baitfish and bug hatches.

Did you know when there is a bug hatch, most of those bugs come from the bottom of the lake from the mud in a larval stage? Walleyes love the nymphs of various insect hatches as they emerge from the mud. If that nymph makes it to the surface, it sheds its covering and flies away.

Various techniques are catching walleyes. The most common technique catching walleyes is drifting or trolling crawler harnesses. A two hook snelled spinner with a crawler and 1 -2 ounce inline sinker or bottom bouncer drifted or trolled at 7.5 - 1.25 mph will catch walleyes. Some anglers are using leeches on a snelled spinner with success as well.

A tip for pulling spinners (crawler harnesses)... Try to maintain a 45 degree with your presentation and keep it just off of the bottom. Oftentimes, a fish will feel like a wet sock rather than hitting it hard. Set the hook!

Jigging with minnows or a leech is effective on structure or where fish aren't so spread out.

Trolling crankbaits is an effective way to catch walleyes much of the open water season. Try the first or last couple of hours of the day trolling shorelines in addition to deeper fish over the basin.

Most walleyes are being caught in 12 - 25 feet, with various shallow bites taking place due to available forage in those areas walleyes are taking advantage of.

Other species are also available and often caught by walleye anglers. Pike, muskies, sturgeon, smallmouth bass, jumbo perch, and crappies are a few.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report
7.5.2023

On the south end... An awesome week of summer walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods. Things are constantly changing within the ecosystem from week to week. It is interesting how what is happening up on the north end of the lake isn't necessarily the same as the south end of the lake. It's a diverse body of water. One constant remains, lots of fish are being caught.
Summer patterns are rolling along, always on Mother Nature's timeframe. Some bug hatches this week with many walleyes migrating to the deep mud. Some of these fish are very cooperative, others suspend and are not so willing. Find active fish.
Getting your presentation in front of lots of walleyes, by drifting spinners or trolling crankbaits as an example, will produce fish.
When pulling spinners, try various sizes and colors of blades. Great success was had with a #5 Colorado bronze blade with some orange. Other anglers using smaller #3 blades. Hammered gold combined with brighter colors are good choices on LOW.
Jigging is working well for some anglers, especially those fishing structure like rocky reefs. Whether on top, on the edges or where the rock meets the deep mud, anchoring up in an area with walleyes and vertical jigging with frozen emerald shiners can be very successful.
Walleyes are targeting many different types of forage this time of year. Some are focusing their attention on crayfish. Whether you find them when cleaning fish or they burp them up when you catch them, they are on the menu currently. These would be rocky areas, oftentimes shallow rocks. Try gold and orange colors in these areas.
Minnows and young of the year fish of all types are a staple for LOW walleyes and saugers. Oftentimes, you can see suspended schools of minnows on your electronics. There is a good chance there are walleyes in the area.
Finally, the various hatches of bugs draw walleyes over deep mud. Thousands of larvae expose themselves from the mud and are a great meal. There are a lot of walleyes over deep mud right now.
Walleyes are being caught in anywhere from 12 - 32 feet based on the forage in those areas. Good sonar will help you see walleyes, as well as minnows and bug hatches.
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report
7.12.2023

On the south end... Lake of the Woods is producing good numbers of nice walleyes. Charter captains and guides are definitely on the fish. Walleyes are constantly adapting to forage, water temps, and current conditions. Anglers will be rewarded who do the same.
Getting your presentation in front of lots of walleyes, by drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits is producing nice fish. Speed and presenting your bait where the walleye wants it is key.
Hammered gold combined with brighter colors have been good spinner colors on LOW. When fishing areas with rock, try a bit or orange to imitate crayfish. Over deep mud, try a glow color by itself or with hammered gold.
For those who like to troll, a #7 shad rap or similar lure is catching nice fish. Rotate speeds and colors until you dial in the walleye's preference. Gold / black and pink UV firetiger have been strong colors this past week.
Jigging continues working well for some anglers who are on a good school of fish or fishing the "spot on the spot" on the structure.
Walleyes are living in various depths depending upon the forage they are targeting. Anywhere from 12 - 33 feet is holding fish. Watch your electronics to provide you with signs of bait and fish.
On the Rainy River... Local walleyes (walleyes that live in the river year round) are being caught jigging, pulling spinners and trolling crankbaits. The river receives an influx during the spring spawning and fall run when the fish are chasing emerald shiners up the river.
Target the goto spots until you find the fish. Deeper holes, current breaks and even flats with some current will hold walleyes. Remember, using sonar over slight depressions on flats may not pick up the walleyes. Sometimes it is best to quickly fish those areas.
Sturgeon season is open. Most targeting deep holes or the edges of deep holes with current. Use a sturgeon rig with a 3-4 ounce no roll sinker based on the current loaded with nightcrawlers.
Up at the NW Angle... A great week of summer walleye fishing up at the Angle. Some anglers are jigging, others are trolling spinners and crankbaits. The key, move around until you find active fish. There are plenty of fish to be had and good fishing reports are the norm.
In addition to walleyes, anglers are casting bays, points and weed patches for smallmouth bass and pike.
Muskie anglers are reporting good activity.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

Fishing Report
7.19.2023

On the south end... A great week of fishing on Lake of the Woods. Some anglers are targeting the deep mud on the big basin, while other anglers are targeting rock reefs.
The two most common presentations to catch walleyes right now are drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits. Both do a nice job of covering water and are producing nice fish.
With Big Traverse Bay being a big expanse of water, it is really helpful to use your electronics to search out schools of bait and walleyes. Once you find some signs of life, start fishing.
Try a two hook harness with a hammered gold blade and a nightcrawler. It is helpful to pinch off long crawlers and have just a few inches of crawler off of the back hook. The fish will still hit the crawler and your hooking percentages go up.
If you are trolling crankbaits, part of the fun is figuring out the walleyes that day. What color? Do they want a shad style or minnow style? How fast do they want the lure? Most anglers are trolling from 2.5 - 3.5 mph. Try turning the boat occasionally when trolling to speed up or slow down baits causing reaction strikes.
Jigging with a frozen emerald shiner is still effective, particularly when on a good school of fish or fishing on structure.
Most walleyes are being targeted in 26 - 34 feet. There can always be a shallow bite when forage is present or very early or late in the day. Trolling crankbaits in the evening along Pine Island and areas along the south shore can produce nice fish at times all summer.
On the Rainy River... Walleyes and saugers are being caught with the morning and evening bite the best.
Target high probability spots such as deep holes, current breaks and flats with bait. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is effective and catching a variety of species.
Target smallmouth bass around docks, river mouths, rocks and bridges. Pike on weed edges into the river and the edges of current breaks.
Up at the NW Angle... Great fishing reports this week up at the Angle. A variety of techniques are being used to catch walleyes. With so many rocks and areas with structure, some anglers stick with a jig and minnow or jig and plastic all year long with great success.
Covering water trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is very effective in locating and catching walleyes during the summer months.
Working shoreline structure casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits and swim jigs has been good for a variety of fish. In addition to the most sought after walleyes and saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, jumbo perch, crappies and the predator of predators, muskies, are showing up regularly.
TCSports
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by TCSports »

Hopefully Tackle Terry Tuna is on tomorrow
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

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Fishing Report
7.26.2023

On the south end... Summer fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods and traditional summer patterns are holding true for anglers.
It is helpful to cover water to find fish and keep presentations in front of fish, many of which are out on the deep mud. Some anglers are still sticking to deep reefs which can always be a magnet. Both are putting out walleyes.
Drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits are the go to presentations. Finding where the fish are and changing up color, speed and presentations is key. If the walleyes don't cooperate, try something different move on to another school of fish that might be more active.
Crawler harnesses, use a two hook harness with a hammered gold blade, a bright color or combo of both. Drift or troll at 1 - 1.25 mph.
Crankbaits are catching a lot of fish. Rotate colors and speed to find what the fish want.
Chrome and blue, shiny gold and pink uv firetiger are some good choices.
Alternate speeds, trolling from 2.5 - 3.5 mph. Try turning the boat periodically can trigger strikes.
Most walleyes are being targeted in 26 - 34 feet, with a shallow bite mornings and evenings and when forage is shallow.
On the Rainy River... The morning and evening bite are still the best for walleyes.
Deep holes, current breaks and flats with bait are good spots. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is effective and catching a variety of species.
Cast docks, river mouths, rocks and bridges for smallmouthbass. Pike on weed edges into the river and the edges of current breaks.
Up at the NW Angle... Great multispecies fishing action up at the Angle. With so many rocks and areas with structure, some anglers jigging with a jig and minnow / plastic with great success.
Covering water trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is still effective in locating and catching walleyes that aren't schooled or are spread out.
Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits and swim jigs in high probability spots is effective for a variety of fish. In addition to the most sought after walleyes and saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, jumbo perch, crappies and the predator of predators, muskies, are showing up regularly.
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Hornets
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by Hornets »

weimy froob wrote: Thu Jul 27, 2023 5:22 pm Image

Fishing Report
7.26.2023

On the south end... Summer fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods and traditional summer patterns are holding true for anglers.
It is helpful to cover water to find fish and keep presentations in front of fish, many of which are out on the deep mud. Some anglers are still sticking to deep reefs which can always be a magnet. Both are putting out walleyes.
Drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits are the go to presentations. Finding where the fish are and changing up color, speed and presentations is key. If the walleyes don't cooperate, try something different move on to another school of fish that might be more active.
Crawler harnesses, use a two hook harness with a hammered gold blade, a bright color or combo of both. Drift or troll at 1 - 1.25 mph.
Crankbaits are catching a lot of fish. Rotate colors and speed to find what the fish want.
Chrome and blue, shiny gold and pink uv firetiger are some good choices.
Alternate speeds, trolling from 2.5 - 3.5 mph. Try turning the boat periodically can trigger strikes.
Most walleyes are being targeted in 26 - 34 feet, with a shallow bite mornings and evenings and when forage is shallow.
On the Rainy River... The morning and evening bite are still the best for walleyes.
Deep holes, current breaks and flats with bait are good spots. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is effective and catching a variety of species.
Cast docks, river mouths, rocks and bridges for smallmouthbass. Pike on weed edges into the river and the edges of current breaks.
Up at the NW Angle... Great multispecies fishing action up at the Angle. With so many rocks and areas with structure, some anglers jigging with a jig and minnow / plastic with great success.
Covering water trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is still effective in locating and catching walleyes that aren't schooled or are spread out.
Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits and swim jigs in high probability spots is effective for a variety of fish. In addition to the most sought after walleyes and saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, jumbo perch, crappies and the predator of predators, muskies, are showing up regularly.
Nice catch Weimy!
***THE REAL HORNETS HAS THOUSANDS OF POSTS and joined RC October 4, 2017!***
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VikingHammer
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by VikingHammer »

Hopefully this winter's fishing trip is better than last year's. I've actually been thinking about just going to the big pond. But I read you can't keep pout out of there any more. I actually like pout more than walleye.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

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Fishing Report
8.2.2023

On the south end... Good numbers of walleyes and saugers were caught this week on Lake of the Woods. Summer patterns are greeting anglers with some good fishing.
Summer patterns in these parts are drifting with spinners and crawlers and trolling crankbaits. Yes, some are still jigging, some casting lures, but as a rule, harnesses and crankbaits are catching most of the fish.
The open basin of Big Traverse Bay is the home this time of year to thousands of walleyes and saugers. This huge expanse of mud with an occasional reef is holding a lot of fish. Find bait, find the walleyes.
The basin bite is in typically 28 - 34 feet of water. Schools of walleyes are looking for their next meal. Emerald shiners, tullibees, perch, perch minnows and other small fish are on the menu. Another popular menu item in the mud are blood worms and other insect larvae hatching from below.
Reefs that pop out of the mud flats are magnets for walleyes and other fish. Walleyes can be on top at times, on the edges or adjacent to the reefs in the mud. Good electronics will help you crack the walleye code.
Always remember there are some walleyes roaming the shallows for an easy meal mornings and evenings or when there is easy forage available.
Along with the walleyes and saugers, some big pike, jumbo perch and occasional crappie in the mix.
On the Rainy River... The morning and evening bite continues to be the best for walleyes.
The goto spots on the river are deeper holes, flats with current sweeping over them, and current breaks. Covering water by trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is a good way to find fish.
Sturgeon season is open and those targeting dinosaurs are catching some nice fish. They are also reporting a mixed bag eating their offering of crawlers soaking in the river.
Up at the NW Angle... Another week of good fishing up amongst the islands.
This time of year, covering water by trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses puts anglers offerings in front of a lot of walleyes and will also catch a mixed bag of fish. A mixed bag consists of walleyes, saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, jumbo perch, crappies and muskies.
Jig fishing amongst structure never gets old in these parts and some use this technique all year long with good results.
With 14,552 islands in this part of the lake, casting shorelines, bays, and points is effective. Do a milk run going from spot to spot. Eventually, you will connect with good fish.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

Fishing Report
8.9.2023

On the south end... The dog days of August are upon us and there was some great walleye fishing this past week. As one guide commented, "we have to work for them, but we normally find them. They aren't in the typical spots, but fishing overall has been good."
Even on Lake of the Woods, you gotta find them. When you do, two summer patterns are catching good numbers of fish. Spinners and crankbaits.
Drifting spinners with a fathead, frozen emerald shiner or crawler has been working well. If there is no wind, troll slowly, about 1.25 mph to keep the blade spinning and cover water. Use a one hook harness with the minnows, a two hook harness with a crawler. Gold, gold/red, gold/pink have all been good colors. Mix up colors until you find what is working the best.
Trolling crankbaits has also been catching good numbers of walleyes. Downriggers, leadcore line, snap weights, 4 oz. bottom bouncers with a 6' leader or a deep diving crankbait with braided line are all great ways to get your crankbait down deep. Depths of 30 - 36 feet are depths in the basin is holding a lot of walleyes.
Various reefs are still producing. Some days, fish are on top, other days, they are on the sides or base where the rock transitions to mud. Some days, they might be over mud just off of the reef. Electronics will help you find the fish.
Good numbers of big walleyes caught this week. Big pike, jumbo perch and occasional crappies in the mix.
On the Rainy River... The morning and evening bite continues to be the best for walleyes. Some nice pike and sturgeon caught this week on the river as well.
For walleyes, deeper holes, flats with current sweeping over them, and current breaks are good bets.
Some big pike caught both on the main river and back in some bays casting spinners and spoons.
Sturgeon activity increased this week and some nice fish were caught. The sturgeon keep season is on. One sturgeon 45-50 inches or over 75 inches allowed per calendar year per angler with a sturgeon tag. Many anglers simply catch and release.
Up at the NW Angle... The fish are biting up at the Angle. Walleyes, muskies, pike, smallmouth bass, jumbo perch and crappies this week.
For walleyes, work up and down structure until you find fish. This week, 22 feet of water off of reefs and points was good. Jig with a minnow or pull spinners with a minnow or crawler to cover water.
Muskie anglers are reporting a good number of follows and catches. Not a lot of details provided, other than active fish and good success.
Some big pike caught again this week. Some pike were caught by unsuspecting walleye anglers, others by anglers targeting them casting or trolling. With over 14,000 islands, the spots are limitless.
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

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Fishing Report
8.16.2023

On the south end... A great week of fishing with good numbers and some big fish being caught.
Many of the charter boats are running to the north end of the lake looking for "eater" walleyes, those fish under 19.5 inches. The protected slot limit on LOW is 19.5" - 28.0", which have to be released. Anglers are allowed a combined limit of walleyes and saugers of 6, with up to 4 of the 6 being walleyes. Anglers can also keep on walleye over 28 inches if they so desire. Otherwise, some anglers choose a few pics and a graphite mount then releasing the fish.
Drifting spinners with a two hook harness and a crawler continues to be very good. Gold, gold/red, gold/pink continue to be good colors.
Trolling crankbaits around rock piles or over the deep mud is producing nice fish. Trolling speeds of 2.5 - 3.5 have been working well. Various crankbaits work, rotate until you dial in what the walleyes want. Different shapes, sizes, wobbles, rattles and colors all can make a difference.
The Warrior Boats David A. Andersen Memorial walleye tournament was this past Saturday. The winning team had 5 walleyes for over 43 lbs., over an 8 lb average per walleye. Lots of nice fish caught both pre-fishing and during the Saturday tournament.
Another bug hatch popped up, which is common throughout the summer. Despite the overabundance of food in the lake, good numbers of fish are still being caught. Bug hatches can make fishing more challenging however.
On the Rainy River... Good reports of walleyes this week. Four Mile Bay was holding fish along with various spots throughout the river. Fish caught jigging, trolling spinners and trolling crankbaits.
When walleyes are spread out, trolling is effective to go through small schools of fish.
Some big pike along with numbers of smaller eater sized pike caught both on the main river and back in some bays. Spinnerbaits, inline spinners and bladed jigs with a plastic producing fish.
Reports of pulling spinners catching a variety of species including walleyes, saugers, smallmouth bass, pike and some big crappies!
Once again, some nice sturgeon caught this week. Lots of these big fish jumping throughout the day.
Up at the NW Angle... Another week of multispecies action up at the Angle. Walleyes, muskies, pike, smallmouth bass, jumbo perch and crappies.
For walleyes, work up and down structure until you find fish. On the Minnesota side, various areas north of Garden Island around Oak, Little Oak and Hay Islands producing walleyes.
Spinners / crawlers or trolling crankbaits effective. If on tight structure with fish, jigging with a minnow or plastic working well.
Muskie anglers are reporting some great activity this month. Most anglers have reported good action.
Numbers of big pike caught again this week. There is a strong population of pike over 40 inches in LOW. Many of these fish are caught by unsuspecting walleye anglers or by muskie anglers.
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VikingHammer
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by VikingHammer »

Weimy you live up on LOW?
***** Board warning issued on Oct 02 2023. Used the term "safe space" :irked:

You voted for a traitor not once but twice. Apologize to every American. :lol:
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weimy froob
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by weimy froob »

VikingHammer wrote: Tue Aug 22, 2023 7:09 pm Weimy you live up on LOW?
:lol: no. somehow the LOW people got my email address and send me the updates. i'd rather summer there than walker or the brainerd lakes area though. it sounds like the fishing's been outstanding all summer. :coolio:
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VikingHammer
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Re: Lake of the Woods LOW

Post by VikingHammer »

weimy froob wrote: Tue Aug 22, 2023 7:12 pm
VikingHammer wrote: Tue Aug 22, 2023 7:09 pm Weimy you live up on LOW?
:lol: no. somehow the LOW people got my email address and send me the updates. i'd rather summer there than walker or the brainerd lakes area though. it sounds like the fishing's been outstanding all summer. :coolio:
I've only fished it in the winter time. Love me some eelpout!
***** Board warning issued on Oct 02 2023. Used the term "safe space" :irked:

You voted for a traitor not once but twice. Apologize to every American. :lol:
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