Lake of the Woods Fishing Report

Guides and anglers are on good fish.  Lake of the Woods is known for excellent July and August fishing, and so far fish are cooperating nicely. Many resorts are downrigging as pulling crankbaits is on fire right now. Jig fishing and drifting spinners are also both producing lots of fish. Schools of fish in the middle of the lake in 28-32 feet being targeted by jiggers and crankbaiters. Gold and silver have been strong. White baits seem to be hot right now because walleyes are targeting schools of tulibees. A strong bite near pine island has also been reported.

On the Rainy River, few walleyes are being caught near the mouth of the river and into four mile bay. Water clarity has been an issue with all the rain we are getting this year. Jig and minnow remains best option for catching walleyes with some anglers using a bottom bouncer paired with a stick bait. Most anglers fishing the lake.  Great smallmouth bass bite up and down the river.  Sturgeon “keep” season is now open through Sep. 30th.  

Up at the NW Angle, the bug hatch is over and water temp is around 70 degrees.  Little Traverse and adjacent rock piles are hot.  Resorts and guides are finding walleyes jigging and pulling harnesses with gold, pink and orange jigs and blades in 24 to 30 feet of water.  Garden Island also heating up.  Pulling crankbaits also working well. On the Canadian side, besides hot walleye action, musky action remains hot for these toothy monsters.   Shallow rocks seems best with bucktails and topwater baits.  Smallie and pike action strong.  Resorts, guides, and local events at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.