Wonder Walleye in the Mix

The mayfly hatch happened on parts of the lake this week and has set fishing on fire! Lots of anglers catching limits of walleye and sauger. Trophy and picture worthy walleyes in the mix, usually deeper. Pine Island, Light House Gap, Graceton, and Zippel Bay have been good for jigging 25-30 feet. Long Point to Archie’s Reef jigging 22-26′. Those pulling spinners have had luck in the same areas 10-15 feet. Knight and Garden Island reefs have also been good for pulling spinners 8-16 feet. Hot colors are pink, gold, and orange. Some resorts starting downrigging in similar areas.

On the Rainy River, sturgeon season opened July 1st. Strong currents call for more weight and more crawlers, but hit pockets around 22 feet. Anchor up and fish the bottom. Walleyes and saugers making anglers work a little harder on the river. Evenings best in 16-18 feet.

Up at the NW Angle, walleyes actively filling limits along shorelines of islands. Try shallow depths of 14-16 feet. Jigging with leeches best. Reefs in Little Traverse heating up on flat days. For pike and bass, bays and weed beds. Many muskies caught and released this week, some by walleye anglers. For info on lodging and guides, go to www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.