In the southern end… Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods continues to be strong with cool temperatures keeping the ice in good shape. Through March 31st, the fish stay until April 14th and the pike season never closes.
Good week of ice fishing. At this time of year, loins and sals can be spread. Success varies from fish house to fish house, but those who work there usually catch a good fish meal before the day is over. Every now and then, good numbers or a trophy are caught.
Remember, the LOW space limit for walleyes is 19.5 to 28.0 inches. Keep diners under 19.5 inches and you are allowed a trophy over 28.0 inches.
Electronics help you see fish as they pass, understand where they are in the water column and how they react to your bait and presentation. If you don’t own electronics, rent them from local resorts and bait shops.
Most fishermen have been reducing their presentations. Using small spoons, a lipless lure to introduce fish and/or a pole with a single hook and a live fish 4-6 inches off the bottom has been effective.
Bright red, pink, wonder bread and gold were good colors last week. .
Huge pike have been active for pike anglers using tip-ups. With the longer days, fish begin to instinctively gravitate towards the next chapter, which is spawning. Once again this week, some monster pike have been caught.
Remember, new fishing licenses are required on March 1st in Minnesota waters.
In the Rainy River… If you’re after walleyes, morning and evening are still the best. A jig and a pool in one hole, a stick with a regular hook in the second hole.
If you’re fishing in Four Mile Bay or the Rainy River, remember that March 1st through April 14th is catch and release only. The big lake is still open for walleye harvesting and jumping until April 14th.
Up at the NW Angle… Another great week of ice fishing on the Angle. Resorts target both areas with structure and deep mud flats, looking for schools of walleyes.
Using the one-two punch, pulling one line and hooking the second has been effective. Depending on where you’re set up, you could be picking up fish all day or doing your best in the early and late hours of the day.
Along with loins, sauers, jumbo perch, pike and eel in the mix.
For those looking to access the NW Angle while avoiding customs, snowmobiling across the lake on the marked trails or using the Lake of the Woods passenger (bomber) service keeps you in Minnesota.
A complete list of accommodations, fish house rentals, and fish house rentals to sleep in www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.