Dining-A Pleasure at Lake of the Woods

dining
prime rib flag island resort 300x230 1
Prime Rib at the Islands

Dining at the Walleye Capital of the World™ is a unique and incredible experience. We are speaking of Lake of the Woods. One of the best kept secrets of our area is all of the dining availability here. Between the City of Baudette and the resort area, there are enough dining places for you to eat at a different location every night of the month if you so desire.

Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye Capital of the World with many varieties of fish and other sportsman adventures throughout the area. If you’re planning a vacation and bringing the whole family, it’s also important to plan your dining experience and where you will find it.

Let’s take a dining journey to see what there is to offer. Of course, I will not be able to mention all the possibilities, but I can assure you, each business has excellent choices.  If you are interested in pizza, there are many options both in the City of Baudette and at the resort community.  Subway, Teco’s Tacos and McDonalds are available for quick take-out items as well as a few Mom and Pop restaurants.

As you head towards the lake area, locals will tell you to try the pizza at a couple of resorts where one night is set aside as pizza night with

dining
Homemade Pizza

special homemade pizza loaded with whatever toppings you enjoy. Resorts offer specials to the local clientele and their customers whether it’s prime rib, shrimp, blackened walleye, or liver and onions. How about great Bar-B-Que ribs or all you can eat tacos. Lake of the Woods Dining offers it all. Have you ever eaten walleye cheeks? Amazing!!

Views are very important to enhance the dining experience. Lake of the Woods is divided into three strategic areas:  the Rainy River area, the South Shore and of course, the beautiful Northwest Angle. Choose a resort that is along the river and watch the activity of the many many launches as they travel the river taking their customers out to the great waters to find their favorite dining taste treat….the walleye.

dining
Try a Buffet

Anglers can bring in their fresh catch and chefs will prepare their walleye for the greatest taste treat. Nothing is better than tasting that fresh catch surrounded by your favorite potatoes and salad for your dining pleasure. Some resorts offer burgers or steaks cooked over an open grill even in the cold winter months.

Another area of interest is dining viewing the Big Traverse Bay area. This is the biggest portion of the lake where you actually cannot see land when you’re in the middle of it. It looks like the ocean or even the Great Lakes. Mentioning this, LOW is the largest fresh-water lake next to the Great Lakes. It’s an enormous body of water, sharing its boundaries with the country of Canada. dining

You can see water for miles and miles and the sight is only enhanced while dining on steak sandwiches, shrimp baskets or even walleye cheeks. Each dining facility at Lake of the Woods has its own unique character and it only enhances that dining experience.

How welcoming is it to come in from ice fishing on the big lake to the warm atmosphere of fireplaces and the smell of good food and warm beverages to warm up the body and sooth the soul while dining at some of the best places in the world. Many establishments also offer live entertainment and big screen TVs for your evening entertainment.

Check out our local newspaper, facebook or even the local cable channel to find the greatest menus at each resort. It’s your pick and your taste-buds pleasure for dining at Lake of the Woods.

For more information, see our website at: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com

Click Here for a list of great Lake of the Woods Lodging Options.

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Baked Walleye with Vegetables

walleye

Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 small zucchini, julienned
  • 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 4 walleye fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions

  1. In a nonstick skillet, cook onion in oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Stir in zucchini and mushrooms; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Sprinkle with pepper and garlic powder; stir in lemon juice. Cook and stir 30 seconds longer. Remove from heat; stir in 1 teaspoon cheese.
  2. Place fillets in a 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top each fillet with about 1/4 cup onion mixture. Drizzle with butter and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 18-22 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
walleye

Fishing Report 12.31.2024

On the South Shore…  Ice fishing is in full swing on the south shore of Lake of the Woods, with resorts and outfitters continuing to report solid ice conditions. A colder weather pattern is expected over the next couple of weeks, which will further strengthen ice and ensure safe and productive fishing. Many resorts have sleeper fish houses on the ice, offering anglers the chance to spend extended time fishing in comfort.

Most fishing activity is happening in 24-30 feet of water, where anglers are reporting steady action. While some sorting is required to find keeper-sized fish, buckets are being filled with quality walleyes and saugers. Jumbo perch, northern pike, and large eelpout are also adding excitement to the mix, with a few sturgeon showing up to surprise anglers as well.

Anglers are using the one-two punch of jigging in one hole and deadsticking the second hole.  In the jigging hole, your favorite jigging spoon in gold, glow red, glow white, pink, chartreuse or a combo of these colors.  Rattles can help as well in the stained water.

On the deadstick, a small jig with a live minnow hooked behind the dorsal fin set 6 inches – a foot off of the bottom is working well.

Although every ice road is different, many are now allowing mid-sized vehicles as ice thickness improves. Be sure to check with your ice road operator for specific conditions and weight limits to ensure a safe outing.

On the Rainy River…  The Rainy River continues to produce great results for those heading out. Anglers are catching good numbers of walleyes and saugers, with several nice-sized sturgeon showing up nicely for those angling for them. However, caution remains crucial on the river, as ice conditions can vary significantly due to the current.

Catch-and-release sturgeon fishing has been excellent, offering a thrilling battle for anglers seeking a unique challenge. To stay safe and maximize success, always work with a local resort or outfitter familiar with river conditions.

Up at the NW Angle…  Ice fishing going strong up at the Northwest Angle.  Resorts have fish houses out with anglers already enjoying excellent success.

The NW Angle is delivering its usual consistent fishing, with a nice mix of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, and pike being caught. Resorts and outfitters in the area are working hard to ensure safe ice conditions, with marked trails and ready-to-fish houses set up for a seamless experience.  Check with your favorite NW Angle resort for details.

Good news for snowmobilers: the snowmobile trail from the south end of the lake across the ice to the Northwest Angle is staked and open!  Scratchers are recommended with some melting snow last week.

For more information on fish house rentals, lodging, and updates on ice conditions, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Happy Holidays from Lake of the Woods Tourism! Tight lines and safe fishing!

fishing

My First Day in a Lake of the Woods Fish House This Year… Awesome!!

Joe Henry in a Lake of the Woods fish house with a limit of walleyes and saugers

My First Day in a Lake of the Woods Fish House This Year… Awesome!!

Joe Henry in a Lake of the Woods fish house with a limit of walleyes and saugers

It Never Gets Old

There’s something magical about ice fishing on Lake of the Woods. From the beauty of the frozen expanse to the thrill of reeling in walleyes and saugers, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Minnesota winters. On a recent day out on the south end of the lake, Joe Henry shared his ice fishing report from the warmth of a heated fish house, detailing a strategy that led to an exceptionally productive outing.

Light ice rig, full service ice fishing, Lake of the Woods
Border View Lodge fish house on Lake of the Woods

The One-Two Punch Strategy

The key to success on this particular day was employing the “one-two punch” technique, a tried-and-true method for ice fishing on Lake of the Woods. This approach involves using two fishing holes: one for jigging and the other for deadsticking with a live minnow. This combination covers a variety of fish moods and behaviors, making it highly effective for catching both active and finicky fish.

Joe and his fishing partner relied on two jigging lures that proved to be incredibly effective:

Lindy Rattling Flyer Spoon in red and glow red: The loud rattles and bright colors attracted fish from a distance, enticing strikes.


The Rapala Rippin’ Rap in gold: Its vibration and rattles, combined with the gold color made it irresistible to hungry walleyes and saugers.


Meanwhile, the deadstick setup did the heavy lifting, accounting for the majority of their catches. Joe used a Lindy Tungsten Toad jig in chartreuse, tipped with a lively fathead minnow. The bait was placed about six inches off the bottom, a prime position to tempt walleyes and saugers cruising the lakebed. This setup proved especially effective for the more cautious fish, resulting in steady action throughout the day.

A Day of Nonstop Action

The fish were biting, and the anglers were reeling in walleyes and saugers at an impressive pace. By the day’s end, they had caught more than two limits of fish, a testament to the health and abundance of Lake of the Woods’ fishery. The combination of jigging and deadsticking ensured that they could adapt to the fish’s behavior, maximizing their success.

But the day wasn’t just about the fish—it was about the overall experience. The camaraderie between Joe and his fishing partner, the comfortable warmth of the fish house, and the joy of being out on the ice made for an unforgettable outing.

Comfort and Convenience on the Ice

One of the unique aspects of ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is the full-service experience provided by the local resorts and outfitters. From the moment they arrived, Joe and his fishing partner were treated to top-notch service.

The heated fish house, prepped and ready for their arrival, featured holes that had been drilled and cleaned, with the thermostat set to a cozy 70 degrees. Throughout the day, their ice guide checked in to ensure everything was running smoothly, offering tips and assistance as needed.

At the end of the day, the guide returned to help them pack up their gear and transported them back to the resort in a heated light ice trailer. Once back, their fish were cleaned for travel—a service that makes the transition from lake to home seamless. For those staying overnight, the resort even offers to cook fresh catches, turning a successful day on the ice into a delicious meal.

General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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Snowmobiling in the Lake of the Woods Area: A Winter Wonderland for Riders

Snowmobiles at a NW Angle Resort. Snowmobiling Lake of the Woods

Snowmobiling in the Lake of the Woods Area: A Winter Wonderland for Riders

Snowmobiles at a NW Angle Resort. Snowmobiling Lake of the Woods

Snowmobiling enthusiasts, take note: the Lake of the Woods area in northern Minnesota is a hidden gem for those seeking pristine trails, breathtaking scenery, and unparalleled adventure. While the region is often celebrated for its world-class fishing, it is equally impressive as a snowmobiling destination, offering over 400 miles of groomed trails that weave through forests, along frozen waterways, and across one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States.

Trail Updates and Current Conditions

It is always good news when the trail from the south end of Lake of the Woods near Wheeler’s Point to the Northwest Angle is officially staked. This trail offers locals, visitors and anglers a nice snowmobiling option up to the Angle.  This iconic route connects snowmobilers to the Northwest Angle, the northernmost point in the contiguous United States, creating an unforgettable winter journey.

The Lake of the Woods Drifters Snowmobile Club, located on the south end of the lake, does a nice job on their Facebook page of keeping riders up to date on what current trail conditions are.  As always, riders are urged to exercise caution, especially around ditch grades, creeks, rivers, and beaver pond areas and watch for areas with some brush over the trail.

At the northern end of the lake, the Northwest Angle Edge Riders snowmobile club also does a nice job of keeping riders informed of current trail conditions, both on their Facebook page and their website.  Resorts are open as are trails to the resorts.  For those planning to explore this region, the club recommends working closely with local resorts for guidance and trail updates.

 

A Vast Network of Trails

With more than 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, the Lake of the Woods area is a haven for riders looking to explore the stunning wilderness of northern Minnesota. This extensive trail system offers connections in every direction, making it an ideal destination for long-distance snowmobiling adventures.

To the West: Trails connect to the Roseau County and Kittson County groomed trails, which extend all the way into North Dakota.
To the South: Riders can access the Beltrami Island State Forest trails, offering hundreds of miles of logging trails through scenic forests.
To the East: The Northern Connection links up with the groomed Voyageur Trail West and the Arrowhead Trail, providing additional routes for exploration.
The combination of these trails with the frozen expanses of Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River creates a snowmobiling experience that is as diverse as it is thrilling.

There are two very good snowmobile clubs in the Lake of the Woods area.  

On the south end of Lake of the Woods is the Lake of the Woods Drifters.  Up at the NW Angle is the NW Angle Edge Riders.  Both do a nice job of updating trail reports on their Facebook pages.

Unique Features of Snowmobiling in the Area

What sets the Lake of the Woods area apart from other snowmobiling destinations is its unique blend of natural beauty, extensive trail networks, and the relatively low number of sleds. Riders can enjoy the tranquility of the northern wilderness without the crowds often found at other popular snowmobiling spots.

The region also offers unparalleled variety in terrain, from the wide-open spaces of the frozen lake to the dense forests and rolling hills of northern Minnesota. For those seeking an unforgettable journey, the Can-Am Trail provides access to the Northwest Angle and surrounding islands, offering a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.

Additionally, the area is home to dozens of resorts, providing convenient rest stops where snowmobilers can warm up, grab a bite to eat, and socialize with fellow riders. This combination of natural splendor and hospitality makes Lake of the Woods a snowmobiling destination unlike any other.

Plan Your Adventure

With excellent conditions already reported and more trails opening daily, now is the perfect time to plan your snowmobiling trip to Lake of the Woods. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the sport, this area offers something for everyone, from scenic rides through snow-covered forests to exhilarating runs across the frozen expanse of the lake.

Before heading out, be sure to check trail updates from local snowmobile clubs like the Lake of the Woods Drifters and the Northwest Angle Edge Riders. These organizations work tirelessly to maintain the trails and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

For more information on snowmobiling in the Lake of the Woods area, including maps, trail updates, and lodging options, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Whether you’re drawn by the beauty of the big lake, the challenge of the trails, or the camaraderie of fellow snowmobilers, Lake of the Woods is ready to deliver a winter adventure you won’t soon forget. Dust off your sled, pack your gear, and get ready to explore one of Minnesota’s best-kept snowmobiling secrets!

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General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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Stuffed Walleye

Walleye is the No. 1 game fish in the Midwest. It’s a thrill to catch and tastes fantastic, too. This recipe, created by my husband, is a favorite of my family. Recipe by Kim Leonard. Photo by Taste of Home.

Prep Time 20 min

Cook Time 20 min

Yield 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 bacon strips, halved
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
  • 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed or 1 cup imitation crabmeat, flaked
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 4 cups crushed seasoned stuffing
  • 1-1/2 cups boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 walleye fillets (about 8 ounces each)

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels; drain. In the same skillet, saute the onion, celery and crab in butter until vegetables are tender. Transfer to a large bowl. Add the stuffing, water, salt, pepper and cayenne; toss to moisten.
  2. Place fillets in a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Spoon stuffing mixture over fillets; top each with 2 pieces of bacon. Bake, uncovered, at 425° for 20-25 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
stuffed walleye

Northwest Angle “Northerly Park” Coming Soon

The Northwest Angle is a well-kept secret location to most people. If you look at a map of Minnesota, you will see what is affectionately called…”The Chimney” of Minnesota. This particular parcel of land is part of Minnesota because of a surveyor’s mistake that happened years and years ago.

As a matter of fact, the Northwest Angle, the most northerly point in the contiguous northwest angle United States, can only be accessed in one of two ways. A traveler must cross from Minnesota across the border into Manitoba, Canada and then cross back into Minnesota and travel on to Angle Inlet, a small village that encapsules what is known as the Northwest Angle. It’s worth the trip of course, but it includes driving quite a distance and also using gravel roads to the final destination.

This does not hinder the avid fisherman/tourism who wants to fish these waters close to Canada for walleye, perch, and Muskie among other species. This area also includes a few islands. You can visit Fort St. Charles, a historic spot, and also visit or stay at Oak Island or Flag Island. It must be noted that you must have a passport to travel in and out of Canada and also be checking in at Customs which is also a unique experience. This is done at Jim’s Corner which has been equipped with technology to allow you to check in remotely into Customs.

northwest angle Now if for some reason you don’t want to drive, or can’t cross borders, there is a service offered on the south side of the lake that will transport you across the lake….summer or winter for another unique experience. See www.lowpassenger.com for more info.

There is new happening at the Northwest Angle. Lake of the Woods County Board has approved a park Master Plan for the area and are working to secure grant funding for the project. The Northwest Angle will then be proud to see a “Northerly Park” be constructed for the area. The Grand Forks Herald and writer Brad Dokken has done a great job introducing the public with information about the formation of that park.

Jim’s Corner, will be the site for the Northerly Park on Minnesota’s Northwest Angle. The park will include a visitor center, among other amenities, to replace the remote border-crossing checkpoint currently in place at Jim’s Corner as shown by this 2021 picture. northwest angle

The Master Plan for the new park on Minnesota’s Northwest Angle has been finalized, and the project is now moving from concept to implementation. The “Northerly Park,” as it’s called, will be the first park at the Northwest Angle and the northernmost park in the Lower 48.

According the public works director for Lake of the Woods County in Baudette, Minnesota, the Lake of the Woods County Board approved the Master Plan for the park at its most recent meeting in late November.

Lake of the Woods County in early 2024 contracted with consulting firm Houston Engineering to complete a Master Plan for the Northerly Park. The county board’s approval of the plan is an exciting step forward for the project.

A  group of nine people, mainly Northwest Angle residents, have worked with Houston Engineering to develop the plan. It included two phases of public engagement, both in person and virtually, to develop a list of amenities the park should include.

To date, the ideas for the park include such amenities as a visitor center – either staffed or unstaffed, a lookout tower, interpretive signage, an elevated boardwalk and a dock.

Northerly Park will be situated on 160 acres of county-owned land that includes Jim’s NWA Map Corner, site of an unstaffed U.S.-Canada border check-in kiosk, and a Community Park area closer to the Angle Inlet on Lake of the Woods. As stated in the Master Plan, Northerly Park will be a place for visitors to learn about the “history and natural beauty” of the Northwest Angle area.

A display at Jerry’s Restaurant and Lounge on Minnesota’s Northwest Angle during the public engagement process highlighted some of the likely features that could be incorporated into the Northerly Park that’s being planned on 160 acres of land owned by Lake of the Woods County.

A visitor center that will be patterned after historic Fort St. Charles on Magnuson Island, a viewing tower, playgrounds, paved and gravel trails, pavilion, boardwalk, floating dock, a kayak and canoe launch, signage and vault toilets are among the amenities included in the final Master Plan.

Securing funding for the park is next. The estimated cost for the entire project is just over $2.5 million, according to the final Master Plan. The park’s features will likely be added in phases as funding becomes available.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Minnesota Historical Society and various foundations are among possible grant sources listed in the Master Plan. It is hoped that construction would most likely begin in 2026 rather than 2025, as the timeline for planning and permitting would extend beyond the 2025 season.”

Lake of the Woods historian Joe Laurin (second from left) talks about the history of Fort St. Charles on Minnesota’s Northwest Angle on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022.

Joe Laurin is a Flag Island resident and member of the steering committee and he said he expects a visitor center will be among the first features at the park, along with improved parking and trails, some of which are already in place. A visitor center, he says, will help streamline the process for first-time visitors entering or leaving the Angle.

In addition, Northerly Park will further expand the Angle’s offerings beyond fishing and the Northernmost Point Buoy that’s patterned after the Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West, Florida, Laurin said.

For more information see www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/northwest-angle

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JIMS CORNER

Fishing Report 12.16.2024

On the South Shore…  Ice fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods.  The ice is progressing nicely.  Many resorts have day houses out and are fishing, some have been fishing for a week already.  There are some sleeper fish houses out in some areas.  This is all good news.  

Please remember, ice conditions can vary significantly from one area of the lake to the next.  It is best to work through your favorite resort or outfitter for current ice conditions and weight limits on their specific ice road.   

In Minnesota waters, you can use two lines through the ice.  Most anglers are using the one – two punch, basically jigging in one hole and deadsticking the second.  The jigging line will catch more active fish as well as attract fish to where you are fishing.  The deadstick with a live minnow sitting under a bobber will often catch the more neutral fish.
 
On the jigging line, use a jigging spoon or lure tipped with a minnow head or tail.  In the second hole, a live minnow set about 6″ off of the bottom on a plain hook or some type of ice fishing jig under a bobber will work well.  
 
Colors to consider, gold, glow red, Wonder Bread, pink and orange, or a combo of these colors.  Rippin Raps, jigging rap style baits and more aggressive presentations work well some days.  Pay attention to your electronics and adapt.

Fishing reports have been very good.  Good numbers of walleyes and saugers being caught with some nice jumbo perch, eelpout and pike as well.

Most resorts are transporting guests to the heated fish houses this time of year.  If you have a snowmobile, ATV or side by side, please stay on marked trails for safety.  
 
Some spearing and angling is taking place on Four Mile Bay, Bostic Bay and Zippel Bay.  Good numbers of pike along with some big pike showing up.

On the Rainy River…  The river continues to gain ice.  Some local resorts are fishing with some decent reports of walleyes and very good reports on sturgeon.  Work through a resort for safety.

In addition to angling, some spearing and angling for pike is taking place in back bays off of the river.  

Up at the NW Angle…   Ice fishing has started up at the Angle.  Initial fishing reports are good which is no surprise in these parts.  

Traditionally, most Angle resorts will get houses out and begin fishing December 26th.   Ice is thickening by the day and things are shaping up nicely.  Watch messaging from your favorite NW Angle resort / outfitter for specifics.

There is availability both on the south end, Rainy River resorts and NW Angle portions of Lake of the Woods.  Lots of openings now, get that bonus fishing trip in.

Remember, Lake of the Woods enjoys an extended ice fishing season through March 31st, with walleye and sauger season open through April 14th and a pike season that never closes.  

For more information on lodging and ice fishing packages, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.

Fisherman’s Digest TV Ice Fishes Lake of the Woods

Adrian's fish house with SUV on the ice

Fisherman’s Digest TV Ice Fishes Lake of the Woods

Adrian's fish house with SUV on the ice

Full Service Ice Fishing at it's Finest

Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is a quintessential northern Minnesota experience, and this winter, Fisherman’s Digest host John Bergsma teamed up with the renowned angler Greg Jones to showcase the lake’s legendary ice fishing on national television. Together, they set out for a day of fishing in one of the area’s popular resort day houses, and their adventure delivered everything you’d expect from the “Walleye Capital of the World”—plenty of fish, camaraderie, and a traditional fish fry to cap it all off.

The Perfect Ice Fishing Setup

Their day began like any other ice fishing trip on Lake of the Woods—with a seamless and comfortable setup, thanks to the expertise of the local resort. Known for their full-service approach to ice fishing, resorts in the area go above and beyond to ensure anglers can focus solely on catching fish and enjoying the experience.

The day house, meticulously placed over productive fishing grounds, was ready upon their arrival. Holes were pre-drilled and cleaned of ice, the house was banked for warmth, and the thermostat was set to a cozy 70 degrees. It’s this attention to detail that makes Lake of the Woods stand out as a premier destination for ice fishing.

The Fishing Action

With rods in hand and eyes glued to the electronics, John and Greg got to work. The fishing was classic Lake of the Woods—steady action, a mix of species, and the thrill of landing quality fish. The duo focused on jigging techniques, a proven method for enticing walleyes and saugers under the ice.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

Resorts Deliver the Full Experience

One of the highlights of ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is the convenience and comfort offered by the local resorts. Whether you’re a seasoned ice angler or a first-timer, these resorts make it easy to enjoy the sport without worrying about logistics.

Day houses are a popular option for those looking to spend a day on the ice without the hassle of setting up gear. They are spacious, warm, and equipped with everything you need for a successful day of fishing. Many resorts also provide transportation to and from the fish houses, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

The Day’s End: A Traditional Fish Fry

After a day of successful fishing, John and Greg wrapped up their adventure with one of Lake of the Woods’ most cherished traditions—a fish fry. There’s nothing quite like enjoying freshly caught walleyes and saugers cooked to perfection, especially after spending the day outdoors. The fish fry highlighted the lake’s reputation not only as a top fishing destination but also as a place where anglers can connect with nature and each other in a meaningful way.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

Why Lake of the Woods?

As John and Greg demonstrated during their time on the lake, there’s a reason Lake of the Woods is consistently ranked as one of the best ice fishing destinations in the world. Its vast expanse of frozen waters offers unparalleled opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. With an extended ice fishing season that runs through March 31st, and seasons for walleyes and saugers open through April 14th, the lake provides plenty of time to plan an unforgettable trip.

From the abundance of fish species—including walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, northern pike, and eelpout—to the first-class service provided by local resorts and outfitters, Lake of the Woods truly has it all.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

Plan Your Ice Fishing Adventure

Ice fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods, and now is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. Whether you’re fishing from a day house, spending the night in a sleeper fish house, or joining a guided trip, there’s an option for every type of angler.

For more information about planning your trip, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. The site provides everything you need to know, from ice fishing reports and trail updates to lodging options and tips for first-time visitors.

Fisherman’s Digest has once again captured the magic of Lake of the Woods, and now it’s your turn to create your own memories on this incredible lake. Get ready for tight lines, beautiful scenery, and the thrill of pulling fish through the ice on one of the most iconic lakes in the world.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

Greg Jones, John Bergsma ice fishing
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
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Ice Fishing Season Kicks Off on Lake of the Woods

Ken Mar Ke fish houses. Ice fishing has begun

Ice Fishing Season Kicks Off on Lake of the Woods

Ken Mar Ke fish houses. Ice fishing has begun

Ice Fishing is Here!

The highly anticipated ice fishing season has officially begun on Lake of the Woods in Minnesota, and anglers from near and far are gearing up for another winter of exciting fishing adventures. Known as one of the premier ice fishing destinations in North America, Lake of the Woods offers an unparalleled experience, and this year is no exception.

Marked Ice Roads and Day Houses Ready for Action

Resorts along the south shore of Lake of the Woods are reporting that ice conditions have reached the point where snowmobiles, ATVs, and side-by-sides (SXS) are now being allowed on their marked and groomed ice roads. These carefully maintained trails provide safe and efficient access to some of the lake’s most productive fishing spots.

Many resorts have already placed their hard-sided fish houses, commonly referred to as “day houses,” on the ice. These rental houses provide a warm, comfortable environment for anglers, complete with pre-drilled holes and setups ready for a day of fishing. Resorts that haven’t quite begun yet are reporting that they expect to have houses on the ice within a matter of days or by the upcoming weekend.

Early Ice Conditions Deliver Strong Fishing Reports

As is often the case with early ice conditions, the initial fishing reports have been promising. Anglers are reeling in a healthy mix of walleyes and saugers, the two most targeted species on Lake of the Woods. Alongside these popular fish, there have also been reports of jumbo perch, eelpout, tulibees, crappies, and northern pike being caught.

Much of the ice fishing activity so far has been concentrated along the south shore, where resorts and outfitters have been working diligently to prepare for the season.

NW Angle Resorts Preparing for Ice Fishing

The resorts located in the Northwest Angle, the northernmost part of Lake of the Woods, are also gearing up for the season. Most NW Angle resorts traditionally begin their ice fishing operations on December 26th. However, a couple of resorts are planning to start earlier this year, with some houses expected to be ready this week.

Ice Conditions and Safety Guidelines

One important thing to note is that each resort and outfitter on Lake of the Woods maintains its own ice road. Ice thickness and other safety factors can vary from road to road, depending on location, weather, and ice formation. For this reason, it’s crucial for anglers to work with a resort or outfitter, stay on their marked trails, and strictly adhere to their weight regulations. These measures are in place to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on the ice.

An Extended Ice Fishing Season

One of the unique aspects of Lake of the Woods is its extended ice fishing season. Ice fishing typically begins in mid-December and lasts through March 31st, thanks to the lake’s northern location and its classification as border waters with Canada. Additionally, the walleye and sauger seasons extend even further, through April 14th, offering anglers additional time to enjoy this world-class fishery.

For those interested in targeting other species, the seasons for pike, perch, and crappies never close, providing year-round opportunities for anglers to reel in these popular fish.

Plan Your Lake of the Woods Adventure

Whether you’re an experienced ice angler or someone looking to try it for the first time, Lake of the Woods offers something for everyone. From day houses to sleeper houses, and from hotels to full-service resorts, there are a wide variety of accommodations and services available to make your trip comfortable and memorable.

If you’re ready to experience the thrill of ice fishing on Lake of the Woods, now is the time to plan your trip. Check out LakeoftheWoodsMN.com for everything you need to know, including ice fishing updates, resort options, and details on booking your next adventure.

Lake of the Woods is more than just a fishing destination—it’s a winter tradition that brings people together and creates memories to last a lifetime. So grab your gear, head north, and see for yourself why Lake of the Woods is one of the most iconic ice fishing spots in the world.

Early ice walleye at Ken Mar Ke Resort
Rainy River sturgeon through the ice at Royal Dutchman Resort
Eelpout in fish house Wigwam Resort 121224
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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