In the far south… It’s ice fishing season and people are out on the ice enjoying everything that comes with it. Resorts are hard at work moving house, strategically trying to figure out where the best fishing spots will be for parrotfish and sauerkraut. The most active depths for fishing this past week continue to be 30 to 36 feet of water.
Just like last week, a large number of smaller walleye have been caught and sorted and are being mixed in with diners (under 19.5 inches), slotfish (19.5 to 28 inches that should throw after a photo) and trophies (28 inches and up). ).
When you see a lot of viewers and non-biters, try reducing the size of your presentation. Using a small bait with a small piece of fish on the jigging line can be productive.
Another technique is to use a lipless crankbait with rattles to not only pull the fish, but to induce some reaction bites.
On your second line, use a set of live pieces 6 inches to 2 feet from the bottom. A plain colored hook with a feather just above the fish has worked well.
In addition to loons and sagers, eelpout (botta), pike, jumbo perch, tullibees and a few crappits and sturgeon have been mixed in.
Remember to keep it clean and remove all trash and debris from the ice. have a plan
Please keep your speed low on icy roads. Driving fast creates a wave under the ice that eventually damages the ice.
In the Rainy River… The morning and evening bite is best for those ice fishing the river for walleyes and salties. Mainly locals at this time of year fish the river as it is close to home and they know the safest ice.
Ice conditions vary on the river as there is current, work through a complex or equipment for safety.
Up in the NW Angle… Some good fish are being caught in the Angle. Resorts are a fishing structure and aim for the deepest mud.
A good mix of walleyes of various sizes, including some big fish over 28 inches. Large pike appear, often surprising walleye anglers. Jumbo perch are also in the mix. Use two-stroke jigging line combined with a deadstick.
Good crappies are being attacked and caught on the Ontario side of the lake between the islands. When fishing in Canada, credentials are needed as ice = land according to customs definitions. Different ice conditions due to neck areas, current, etc. must also be taken into account. Corner stations can help you with this special journey.
To drive across Canada to Angle, you no longer need a COVID vaccination or use the ArriveCan app.
For those looking to access the Angle by bypassing customs, snowmobiling across the lake on the marked trails, using the Lake of the Woods passenger (bomber) service, or flying through Lake Country Air are good options
The fish houses are out until March. A complete list of accommodations, fish house rentals, and fish house rentals to sleep in www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.