For passionate walleye anglers, Larry Smith Outdoors is a trusted source of entertainment and education. In a recent episode, Larry Smith teamed up with two of the top walleye tournament anglers in the nation, Tom Huynh and Nate Wolske, to demonstrate the power of forward-facing sonar and share Livescope secrets for targeting big walleyes. Where better to showcase this cutting-edge technology than Lake of the Woods, one of the best trophy walleye fisheries in the world?

Forward-Facing Sonar: The Game Changer

With forward-facing sonar becoming an increasingly popular tool among anglers, the trio of Smith, Huynh, and Wolske set out to show just how transformative this technology can be on Lake of the Woods. Forward-facing sonar, and in this case, more specifically Garmin Livescope, allows anglers to see fish in real-time as far out as 100 feet from the boat, making it easier to identify, track, and ultimately catch the biggest walleyes in the lake.

As more and more anglers adopt this technology, it’s critical to understand how to use it effectively. In the episode, Tom Huynh and Nate Wolske break down the nuances of forward-facing sonar, sharing tips and techniques that can help both novice and experienced anglers elevate their game. From properly interpreting the sonar’s signals to precise lure presentation, they cover the key details that can make the difference between catching a few fish and having a trophy day on the water.

Targeting Trophy Walleyes on Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods is widely regarded as the Walleye Capital of the World, and for good reason. In recent walleye tournaments held on the lake, anglers have consistently caught fish that average over 10 pounds, with some tournament catches reaching an astonishing 11 pounds per fish. This consistent production of giant walleyes has made Lake of the Woods a bucket-list destination for walleye anglers across the country.

During the episode, Larry, Tom, and Nate put their forward-facing sonar to the test, targeting some of the lake’s biggest fish. By carefully studying the Livescope display, they were able to locate individual walleyes, adjust their tactics in real-time, and present their lures directly to the fish. The result? Multiple trophy walleyes caught, providing viewers with a first-hand look at just how effective forward-facing sonar can be when used correctly.

Livescope Tips from the Pros

Tom Huynh and Nate Wolske are known for their success on the tournament circuit, and in this episode, they bring that same level of expertise to the water at Lake of the Woods. Throughout the day, they offer valuable insights on how to maximize the potential of Livescope, sharing practical advice that any angler can use.

One of the key takeaways is the importance of patience. With forward-facing sonar, it’s tempting to chase after every fish that appears on the screen, but Tom and Nate emphasize the value of waiting for the right opportunity. By carefully observing fish behavior and adjusting lure presentation accordingly, they were able to capitalize on the moments when the walleyes were most likely to strike.

They also stress the importance of fine-tuning your equipment. From adjusting the sensitivity settings on your sonar to selecting the right jig or lure for the conditions, Tom and Nate demonstrate how small adjustments can lead to big results. Their expertise and attention to detail are evident in every cast, making this episode a must-watch for anyone looking to up their walleye game.

Lake of the Woods: A Premier Destination for Walleye Fishing

As the episode unfolds, it becomes clear why Lake of the Woods is considered one of the premier destinations for trophy walleye fishing. The sheer size of the lake, combined with its diverse structure and healthy walleye population, makes it an ideal location for using forward-facing sonar to target big fish.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler with years of experience or someone new to the sport, Lake of the Woods offers a unique opportunity to catch trophy walleyes. The addition of forward-facing sonar has only enhanced that opportunity, allowing anglers to unlock new possibilities and elevate their fishing experience to the next level.

The Walleye Capital of the World

As Larry Smith Outdoors wraps up another successful episode, Lake of the Woods continues to live up to its reputation as the Walleye Capital of the World. With forward-facing sonar in hand, anglers like Tom Huynh and Nate Wolske are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, helping to pave the way for a new era of walleye fishing.

For those looking to take their walleye fishing to the next level, there’s no better place to do it than on Lake of the Woods, and no better time than now.

Info on Lake of the Woods

Lodging, Charter Boats and Guides on Lake of the Woods

For walleye anglers, there are few names as synonymous with cutting-edge fishing techniques as Tom Boley. With a wildly popular YouTube channel dedicated to educating and entertaining fellow anglers, Tom has made a significant mark on the walleye fishing world. Recently, he took his skills and knowledge to Lake of the Woods, a destination often referred to as the Walleye Capital of the World, to show just what this legendary body of water has to offer.

Forward-Facing Sonar and Sharpshooting for Walleyes

Tom Boley’s recent trip to Lake of the Woods wasn’t just another day on the lake—it was a masterclass in modern walleye fishing. Armed with forward-facing sonar, Tom used his signature “sharpshooting” techniques, which allows anglers to target specific fish they see on the sonar in real-time. This high-tech approach to fishing has revolutionized how anglers pursue walleyes, making it possible to hone in on the biggest fish lurking below the surface.

In true Tom Boley fashion, his day on Lake of the Woods resulted in some truly impressive catches. With his sharp eye on the sonar and an expertly worked jig, Tom was able to hook into several giant walleyes, showcasing the sheer potential of this incredible fishery.

Must Have Presentations if You are New to Lake of the Woods

If you are new to Lake of the Woods, Tom breaks down a few lures and techniques you will want to bring with.  If you are not new to this body of water, you still may want to pay attention!  A leadcore set up for trolling crankbaits with one of his favorite cranks on LOW and a few specific techniques with spinning rods including some lure and color suggestions.  A practical approach for the average angler to get started in the right direction.

Jigging Giants: The Video

Tom’s trip to Lake of the Woods wasn’t just about the thrill of the catch—it was also an opportunity to share his experience with his loyal YouTube audience. In his video titled Jigging GIANT Walleyes on the Best Walleye Lake EVER!, Tom captures all the excitement, beauty, and skill involved in a day of fishing on Lake of the Woods. From the moment the sun rises over the sprawling water to the heart-pounding action of reeling in a big walleye, the video is a testament to why this lake is revered by anglers across North America.

In the video, Tom provides insights into his approach to fishing Lake of the Woods.  It’s a must-watch for anyone looking to learn more about walleye fishing Lake of the Woods and a great way to experience the thrill of fishing Lake of the Woods from the comfort of your home.

Lake of the Woods: A Walleye Paradise

Tom Boley’s recent trip only reinforces what anglers have known for years—Lake of the Woods is a premier destination for walleye fishing. With its expansive waters, diverse structure, huge flat basin and healthy walleye population, the lake offers endless opportunities for anglers to hook into big fish. Whether you’re using traditional methods like jigging and trolling or modern techniques like sharpshooting with forward-facing sonar, Lake of the Woods consistently delivers.

September and October are two of the best months to fish this legendary lake. As the water temperatures cool, walleyes become increasingly active, feeding aggressively in preparation for winter. This is the time of year when some of the biggest fish are caught, and anglers have the chance to experience the lake at its finest. The fall scenery, with its changing leaves and crisp air, only adds to the experience, making it an unforgettable time to be on the water.

The Best Is Yet to Come

While Tom Boley’s recent August adventure on Lake of the Woods was a big success, believe it or not, the best fishing is yet to come as fall progresses. The combination of cooling water, fish putting on the feedbag, and beautiful fall weather makes this time of year special for walleye anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro like Tom or someone looking to experience the thrill of catching a giant walleye for the first time, Lake of the Woods is the place to be.

So, as the fall fishing season hits its stride, consider a fall trip to Lake of the Woods. Who knows? You might just land the fish of a lifetime and create some lifelong memories.

As the saying goes, the best way to catch a monster walleye, is to fish in a lake that has a lot of monster walleyes!

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Fall is in the air and the fall migration is on. Ducks are flying, geese are landing and feeding and flying over in practice formations to head further south.

Waterfowl hunting. Waterfowl hunting kicks off in early September and remains open until late October. Hunters come to Lake of the Woods, the Rainy River, NW Angle and surrounding fields for some of the best waterfowl hunting in North America during fall migration.  If this is your first time, we recommend contacting one of our outfitters or resorts in getting a “lay of the land” and helping to ensure a successful and enjoyable hunt.  Hunters enjoy a nice variety of puddle ducks, divers, and Canadian geese.

The Fall Migration often gets overlooked.  After all, this is The Walleye Capital of the World and the fish are biting excellent both on the lake and in the Rainy River.  There are also hundreds of thousands of acres (no exaggeration) of cropland around with a stable food source attracting and holding birds.

In addition, Lake of the Woods with it’s diversity of water opportunities is the other vital part of the waterfowl equation that is attractive to a variety of birds.  Diver ducks love the NW Angle and raft up there by the thousands.

Puddle ducks and geese love the thousands of miles of shoreline along the south shore along with the many bays offering cover and a variety of aquatic food options.  The nice thing about water is it is public!  That means with minimal scouting, finding an area of water holding birds, a boat ramp close by, you are in business.

With all of those possibilities, the great waterfowl hunting, and in this case, duck hunting gets overlooked by many.  If you are a waterfowl hunter, you may want to consider a trip to LOW.

Youth waterfowl hunt  

On September 7-8, 2024, waterfowl hunters age 17 and younger, when accompanied by a non-hunting adult (age 18 and older) may take ducks, geese, mergansers, coots and moorhens from ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.

There is also a weekly outlook (PDF) which is updated on Thursdays of each week during the waterfowl hunting season. It is compiled from state and federal wildlife manager reports and waterfowl surveys from across Minnesota.

Some “go to” spots.

1.  Four Mile Bay.  This bay is long and sits between the mouth of the Rainy River and Bostic Creek and the big water of Big Traverse Bay.  In addition to a good population of local birds, the northern flight will use Lake of the Wood on their migration and often stage here until the very cold weather kicks them farther south.  With access points at the mouth of the Rainy River (Wheeler’s Point) and various resort access spots on Bostic Creek, access is good.
2. Bostic Creek.  This area of back water extends from Hwy 11 near Ken Mar Ke Resort all the way into Four Mile Bay.  There is plenty of backwater, cuts in the reeds, and area to set up decoys.  Some hunt the mouth near Four Mile Bay to get the birds coming off of the lake.  After a hunt or two, you will discover the key spots in this area.
3. Zippel Bay.  About the size of an inland lake, long and narrow extending off of the main lake with plenty of duck friendly vegetation and cover, Zippel Bay is a favorite amongst many waterfowlers.  The bay splits into two branches when you get towards the back of the bay with many fingers and reed points to set decoys.  Zippel Bay Resort and Zippel Bay State Park both have boat accesses.
4. Swift Ditch.  Again, a backwater coming off of the main lake with plenty of cover and a favorite place for ducks to stop on their way through.  Located west of Arnesen’s Rocky Point, this area bodes great habitat that waterfowl love.
5. The NW Angle.  With thousands of ducks migrating through the area, the NW Angle can offer, if you hit it right, some of the most memorable duck hunting available.  Often times, some of the best hunting takes place off of a rock point or island sticking out into the lake.  You might find yourself huddled amongst the rocks for cover.  If it works out, a variety of diver ducks will whistle by offering the opportunity for a memorable shoot.  There are backwater spots as well, but most hunt the more open water with decoys.

One of the unique things about duck hunting this area is the wide variety of ducks.  Puddle ducks, divers and even a few sea ducks show up each year.  If you are an avid waterfowler, you recognize the enjoyment of identifying ducks in the area, listening for their different sounds and harvesting a wide variety that perhaps you don’t see back home. Here’s some info from the MN DNR about Zones and Seasons:

MN Early Teal Season.  This season runs from September 1 – 5, 2024.

Layout Boat Hunting.  Lake of the Woods is actually one of the few lakes in Minnesota where layout boat hunting is legal.  Imagine, laying back in your small boat designed for this type of hunting out in the open water with decoys all around you. Groups of diver ducks are buzzing you and your decoys from different directions.  If you haven’t done it, it is one of those hunts that you won’t forget.  There are actually duck hunting guides with layout boats up at the NW Angle.

With the onset of fall, sounds overhead are heard making a lot of noise. Yes, that’s the sound of geese flying overhead practicing their formations as they head to their feeding grounds. It’s a happy sound and can be heard for quite a distance.

Early Goose Hunting is part of the fall migration and the season begins in September and typically runs for 16 days and has a six-bird daily limit for licensed hunters.  This year’s season begins September 1, 2024 and runs through September 15, 2024.

You can find the actual dates at the MN DNR site. The Early goose season is an opportunity to get the first crack at reducing the local good population here in Minnesota.

Public land is also another option if the geese are feeding or resting in wildlife management areas, waterfowl production areas, or other state or federal hunting areas. If you’re not hunting near the water, seek out permission from private land owners before attempting to hunt on dry land.

Be sure to plan your trip to Lake of the Woods soon as fishing is hot and the fall migration is beginning.

For more information see our website at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com

For lodging:  www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging

See our Facebook page at:  www.Facebook.com/LakeoftheWoodsMN

Lake of the Woods was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, August 17, 2024, as 155 Warrior Boats took to the water for the 9th annual David A. Andersen Memorial Walleye Shootout. With two-angler teams aboard each boat, it was a day full of competitive spirit, camaraderie, and incredible fishing. The event, held in memory of David A. Andersen, has grown into one of the premier walleye fishing tournaments, drawing skilled anglers from across the region to Lake of the Woods—often hailed as the Walleye Capital of the World.

This year’s tournament didn’t disappoint. Conditions were favorable, and the anglers came ready to compete. But when it was all said and done, one team rose above the rest with an impressive performance that had everyone talking.

A Day of Fishing Excellence

As the teams launched their Warrior Boats and set out to various spots on the lake, the focus was on finding and landing the biggest walleyes possible. Teams were allowed to weigh in five fish, and it quickly became clear that the lake was producing some serious trophies.

Over the course of the day, anglers used a variety of tactics, from trolling crankbaits, pulling spinners and crawlers, live bait rigs, and other presentations all in pursuit of their five fish limit. It was a battle of both skill and strategy, as teams navigated the lake, adjusted to the conditions, and worked together to bring in the biggest walleyes they could find.

As the weigh-in progressed and numbers started to come in, there was no doubt that this year’s tournament had produced some extraordinary results. The top teams brought in some eye-popping weights, showcasing the incredible walleye fishery that Lake of the Woods continues to be.

The tournament uses the AIM Pro Walleye format of CRR, Catch, Record, Release.  No fish were put in livewells or brought into the scales, but rather, images of them were.

The Winning Team: Heath Hagedorn and Chris Messerschmidt

In the end, it was the team of Heath Hagedorn and Chris Messerschmidt who took home the top honors with an absolutely remarkable total weight of 55.76 lbs. for five walleyes. Their catch left everyone in awe and set a new standard for excellence at the David A. Andersen Memorial Walleye Shootout.

Hagedorn and Messerschmidt’s win was the result of a day filled with precision, skill, and persistence. They worked together seamlessly, making all the right decisions on the water to find and land those monster walleyes. Their incredible performance earned them not only the top spot on the leaderboard but also the admiration and respect of their fellow competitors.

A Growing Legacy

The 9th annual David A. Andersen Memorial Walleye Shootout is much more than just a fishing tournament; it’s an event that brings people together to celebrate the legacy of David A. Andersen and to enjoy the world-class walleye fishing that Lake of the Woods has to offer. Over the years, the tournament has grown, attracting more anglers and sponsors, all while maintaining its focus on community, sportsmanship, and the love of fishing.

The tournament is also a testament to the strength of the Warrior Boat community. With 155 Warrior Boats on the water, it was a powerful display of loyalty and dedication to the brand. The tournament has become a signature event for the Warrior Boat Company, highlighting the high-performance fishing boats that so many anglers rely on to get them to the fish and back safely.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The success of the 2024 David A. Andersen Memorial Walleye Shootout wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the many participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made the event such a memorable one. From the anglers who spent hours preparing for the tournament to the families who came to cheer them on, the sense of community was palpable throughout the weekend.

Mark and Tina Armstrong of Wigwam Resort were once again the hosts of this impressive annual event.

A special thank you goes out to everyone who traveled to Lake of the Woods to be a part of this incredible event. Whether you were a competitor, a spectator, or part of the support team, your presence made this year’s tournament one for the books.

As the sun set on another successful year of the David A. Andersen Memorial Walleye Shootout, plans are already underway for next year’s event. The tournament continues to grow in popularity and prestige, solidifying its place as one of the top walleye tournaments in the region.

Until then, congratulations once again to Heath Hagedorn and Chris Messerschmidt for their remarkable win, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s shootout such a tremendous success. We look forward to seeing you again next year on the beautiful waters of Lake of the Woods!

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Lodging, charters and guides

Ice Fishing Lake of the Woods

There’s something truly special about spending time on the water with family and friends, and for many, Lake of the Woods provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable fishing adventure. Recently, a group of first-timers embarked on a charter boat trip in search of walleyes, saugers, and whatever else might be biting. They weren’t disappointed, experiencing a day filled with excitement, laughter, and the thrill of reeling in fish after fish.

The Start of an Unforgettable Adventure

From the moment the group stepped aboard the charter boat, they knew they were in for a day unlike any other.  The captain, a licensed professional with years of experience on Lake of the Woods, quickly put everyone at ease, explaining the plan for the day and making sure everyone had the gear they needed.

One of the greatest perks of fishing on a Lake of the Woods charter boat is the convenience.  Almost everything is provided: rods, reels, bait, and even the fish cleaning at the end of the day. All the group had to do was bring their enthusiasm and sense of adventure.

Drifting with Crawler Harnesses

The charter captain chose a popular method for targeting walleyes in the area—drifting with crawler harnesses. This technique involves slowly drifting along at about 1 – 1.25 mph, while the bait, typically a nightcrawler on a spinner rig, moves through the water, enticing fish to bite. It’s a tried-and-true method, especially during the late summer and early fall months.

For the group, this was their first experience fishing on a Lake of the Woods charter fishing with crawler harnesses, and it didn’t take long for them to get the hang of it.

Catching Walleyes, Saugers, Perch, and Pike

Once the boat was over walleyes, the group began to reel in fish after fish. The walleyes were the stars of the day, with their distinctive golden scales flashing as they were brought aboard. In addition to the walleyes, the group also caught a number of saugers, a close cousin of the walleye, and equally delicious on the dinner table.

The day’s catch wasn’t limited to just walleyes and saugers, though. The group also landed some nice perch, their vibrant yellow and green stripes with orange fins adding a splash of color to the day’s haul. And for an extra dose of excitement, one lucky angler hooked into about a 30 inch northern pike, a fierce predator known for its sharp teeth and aggressive strikes.

By the end of the day, the group had caught impressive limits of walleyes and saugers, along with a handful of perch and a memorable pike. The smiles on their faces said it all—this was a fishing trip they would never forget.

The Value of a Professional Charter Captain

One of the key reasons the groups have successful days on the water is the expertise and passion of their charter captain. A licensed professional, the captain knew the lake inside and out, from the best spots to fish to the most effective techniques for the time of year. Throughout the day, the captain adjusted their approach as needed, always ensuring the group was on the fish.

The captain also took care of all the logistics, from providing the gear to baiting hooks and netting fish. This allowed the group to focus on enjoying the experience, whether it was the thrill of a big catch or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of Lake of the Woods.

At the end of the day, the captain even took care of cleaning the fish, so the group could head back to their resort with fresh fillets ready for a fish fry—a perfect way to cap off their first Lake of the Woods fishing adventure.

A Perfect Time to Fish: September and October

While the group’s experience was incredible, it’s worth noting that some of the best fishing on Lake of the Woods takes place in September and October. As the water begins to cool, walleyes and saugers go on a feeding frenzy, making this one of the prime times of year to catch fish.

Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned pro, there’s nothing quite like a day spent fishing on Lake of the Woods. And when you’re surrounded by family and friends, with the help of an experienced charter captain, it’s a recipe for a truly unforgettable adventure.

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Lodging, charters and guides

Ice Fishing Lake of the Woods

The time is NOW! Book your exciting Ice Fishing Trip today. Requests are coming in and resorts are already taking reservations for that once in a lifetime ice fishing trip to Lake of the Woods. Did I say, “once”? No, many anglers frequent the waters/ice of Lake of the Woods many times during the winter months. Why? Because this Walleye Capital of the World™ is a first-class fishery and continues to be so. Permanent fish houses, sleeper fish houses, and day wheel-houses make up an entire village with plowed roads and sectioned off areas that are continually being groomed by experienced ice staff.

Yes, winter is right around the corner. The standard joke in northern MN is that we have two seasons. Summer fishing is the greatest as anglers of all ages enjoy the shimmering waters of Lake of the Woods. Soon, however, those shimmering waters start cooling down and currents slow and before you know it you’ll see a skim of ice forming on the bays, the big lake and the river. Then, Winter is on!!!

Very soon harvest will be upon us with wheat being harvested, wild rice being harvested, soybeans ready to ripen and the beautiful fields of sunflowers that have been prepared for harvest. People of the north enjoy all four seasons watching the harvest and preparing for hunting seasons. Resorts have been plenty busy, but are already looking ahead to the winter season.

When the ice first forms on the lake, resort owners and guides are out there immediately measuring the depth of the ice. They want to keep all the visitors to the area safe and won’t allow anyone on the ice until it’s safe. The MN DNR has a great page showing guidelines for safe ice travel and it needs to be adhered to by all.

It’s not too early to book your ice fishing trip now. The books are open but fish houses have been being prepared all season long as they are painted, cleaned and made ready for Winter anglers to arrive.

Planning your next ice fishing trip should be a breeze. Lake of the Woods Tourism has a new website that is very easy to navigate.  Go to www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com and click on the Lodging Tab.  Under that tab you will find many important things. First of all, there is an icon specifically called ice fishing.   That will take you to a list of all the resorts that offer that service.

You will also notice that our Lake of the Woods Area is divided into three different geographical areas. The Rainy River, the South Shore and the Northwest Angle all are unique and offer the best of experiences and lodging facilities. Now if you’d like to scroll down more you can view each resort’s website where you can see their amenities and check out their location and their rates.

Also on that page, you will find a Lodging Availability Form that you can fill out with your requests for dates and lodging. Fill out the form which will be sent to all the resorts. They will respond to you and you will and get your reservation made early. By the time Christmas rolls around, people of often hard pressed to be able to get a reservation.

You might also check our Hot Deals Page where you will find resorts that offer all-inclusive packages and often lower rates. This is a valuable option.

Picture waking up in the morning, getting some grub, then hopping into a heated snow bomber which brings you to your fish house which is already heated. Then proceed to catch fish all day long. It doesn’t get any better than that.

For anglers, the diversity of fish is unbelievable along with areas of the lake. The main basin or Big Traverse Bay is home to hundreds of thousands of walleyes and saugers who roam the entire bay. Then the Northwest Angle, where our 14,552 islands begin, offers many other species of fish including muskie and crappie.  With so many options where do you start!?!

It’s time!! Winter is beautiful and Exciting especially when you come to Lake of the Woods ice fishing.

Check out our website at: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging   or click on the ice fishing tab for all your ice fishing information.

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