Fishing Report 3.31.2025

spring fishing on the Rainy River

On the South Shore…  There is still some ice fishing taking place in a few areas of the lake along the south shore but most resorts and outfitters have pulled their fish houses and called it a good year.  Make sure to call ahead to the resort or outfitter for current conditions if you plan on getting on the ice.  Safety first always.

For those still fishing, some are still targeting walleyes.  There continues to be a good morning / evening bite along the south shore just prior to sunset.  Quality fish are being caught in a number of areas.  fishing

Most still ice fishing are targeting trophy pike.  It was another great week with some big fish caught.  Another week of big fish tipping that 40 inch mark with big girths.  Suckers, frozen alewife and smelt set about a foot under the ice or just off of the bottom have proven effective.  

On the Rainy River…  Spring open water fishing has begun!  The

fishing
Nice Spring Walleye

Rainy River is open in many areas and as of Monday, March 31st, there are two boat ramps open.  The Nelson Park boat ramp in Birchdale and the Frontier Access (about 8 miles to the west of Nelson Park) are both clear of ice.  Boats are running the river and the ice pack is deteriorating by the day.

Initial reports for walleyes are very good with some big fish being caught.  Most are jigging with either plastics or minnows.  Use bright plastics such as chartreuse, orange, pink and white.  for minnows, emerald shiners, fatheads and rainbows have all been productive.  

Trolling crankbaits against the current is also effective and will catch fish.  This is also a good technique to cover water if you are not on fish.

Rainy River walleye fishing is catch and release from March 1st through April 14th on Four Mile Bay and the Rainy River. 

Initial reports for sturgeon are also good.  Anchored up in a hole or on the slope of a hole with a no roll sinker and sturgeon rig is the ticket.  Lots of walleye anglers reporting sturgeon hookups as well.  Here are the seasons for sturgeon fishing…

-Catch and Release Season: May 8th – May 15th and October 1 – April 23rd.
-Harvest Season: April 24th – May 7th and July 1 – September 30.
-Closed Season: May 16th – June 30th.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  It has been a great ice fishing year up at the Angle.  While there are a few locals still getting out, resorts have pulled off their fish houses and called it a year.  

Plan for the MN Fishing Opener which is Saturday, May 10, 2025!

The walleye and sauger season is open through April 14th. Pike fishing never closes, and perch and crappie remain open year-round as well.  You can fish for sturgeon through May 15th.  For more information, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Pike Anglers…Ready for Annual Zippel Bay Northern Pike Tournament?

Zippel Bay Resort spring pike tournament

Pike season on Lake of the Woods never ends.  As we are the border water with Canada, the season is continuous or another way of saying it is it goes all year long.  This gives anglers a fantastic opportunity in April and early May to take advantage of these monsters who are somewhere along in their spawning ritual.  And in Lake of the Woods, there are a lot of big pike!

pike The 28th Annual Ice Out Northern Pike Tournament on Zippel Bay will take place on the weekend of April 26-27th this year. Anglers are already excited and planning for this big event. This past winter of ice fishing has proven that there are monster pike hiding under the waters especially at Zippel Bay. This bay seems to attract the northerns and the spring tournament has seen great success over the past years. Get ready….it’s coming very soon. Check out these winter trophies.

Anglers pull these awesome fighters out of various bays on the lake all spring and Zippel Bay is definitely a go-to spot.  Sometimes mother nature can throw some cold curve balls in the spring month but that’s what makes this stretch of water so special.  Zippel Bay is quite secluded from the main lake, making it easier to hide from cold winds, and anglers will not require the larger boats like on the main lake.  The tournament still has spots available and all are welcome.

Some anglers have had success with dead bait on the bottom or just off of the bottom with a quick strike rig.  There will be others in the tournament who prefer trolling shallow diving crankbaits or casting spoons.  Whatever your flavor, these fish will be ready.

Zippel Bay has a lot of spots to fish but no big water, meaning, most small boats will do just fine in the bay.  That opens things up and levels the playing field for these tournament anglers

pike
double action Pike

with 14 – 16′ boats.

If Zippel Bay Resort is filled up as far as the lodging goes for the tournament, there are many resorts available in the vicinity less than 10 miles away.  Click Here for a list of Lake of the Woods Resorts.

MN DNR’s lake survey verifies the presence of a healthy trophy pike fishery.   Lake of the Woods is managed for a high-quality northern pike population, with a significant component of “trophy” northern pike over 40 inches long. To monitor the size structure of the northern population, it is sampled every 5 years using trap nets at known spawning sites. The northern population continues to be one of high quality, with 19% of the adult population at least 35 inches long, and 5% of the adults 40 inches long, or longer.

During the spawning season, pike head to shallow bays, ditches and streams to find the right conditions to lay and fertilize eggs.  There are many areas around the lake and on the Rainy River the northerns spawn, and one of them is Zippel Bay.

The tourney is made up of two person teams and is a two-day tournament based on weight. This is a fun tournament with locals and visitors alike coming together to target big toothy.  Most teams troll and cast crankbaits. pike Others use dead bait under a bobber in 1 – 8 feet of water.  Most years, dozens and sometimes hundreds of these fish are weighed in and many more caught in the slot (30-40 inches) that were not weighed in but immediately released.

The northern pike regs on Lake of the Woods are as follows:

Lake Of The Woods and Rainy River to dam at International Falls
Northern Pike Continuous 3, all northern pike from 30-40″ must be immediately released. Only 1 northern pike over 40″

Anglers are already getting their boats ready for this year’s  tournament.  If you want to have a blast, check out this tournament at Zippel Bay Resort or just go fish pike on your own.  You truly have an opportunity to catch a trophy of a lifetime.

zippel bay resort aerial shot resort sept 2019.png to the lake Click Here for a list of Lake of the Woods Resorts.

Click Here to view the Lake of the Woods Tourism website.

See our FaceBook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

Zippel Bay facebook is: www.facebook.com/zippelbayresort

 

Lemon Batter Walleyes

walleye recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups

All-Purpose Flour  (divided)

  • 1 teaspoon

Baking Powder

  • ¾ teaspoon

Salt

  • ½ teaspoon

Sugar

  • 1 walleye

Large Egg  (lightly beaten)

  • ⅔ cup

Water

  • ⅔ cup

Lemon Juice  (divided)

  • 2 pounds

Walleye Fillets  (or perch, cut into serving-sized pieces)

  • add

Oil  (for frying)

  • add

Lemon Wedges  (optional)

Directions

  1. Combine 1 cup flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. In another bowl, combine egg, water and 1/3 cup lemon juice; stir into dry ingredients until smooth.
  2. Place remaining 1/3 cup lemon juice and remaining 1/2 cup flour in separate shallow bowls. Dip fillets in lemon juice, then flour, then coat with egg mixture.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1 in. oil over medium-high heat. Fry fillets until golden brown and fish flakes easily with a fork, 2-3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. If desired, serve with lemon wedges.

Lemon-Batter Fish Tips

How do you get batter to stick to fish?

Battered fish is made through a dipping process called dredging, which alternates between wet and dry ingredients. In this recipe, the fish is first dipped in lemon juice, then a flour mixture and finally coated in egg. These three steps provide layers for the batter to properly adhere to the fish, protect the fish from the hot oil and and seals in moisture.

Fishing Report 3.25.2025

ice fishing Lake of the Woods, MN

On the South Shore…  There is still some good ice fishing taking place in a few areas of the lake along the south shore but many resorts and outfitters have pulled their fish houses and called it a year.  Make sure to call ahead or check social media pages for current conditions.  

For those still fishing, some are still targeting walleyes.  There has been a good morning / evening bite along the south shore just prior to sunset.  Some very quality fish are being caught.  Some good walleye fishing along Pine Island as they make their way into the Rainy River and various spots along the south shore for those who spawn in the lake.

fishing
Big Walleye
fishing
Huge Pike

It was another great week of pike fishing for most.  Fish are starting to transition closer to spawning areas as the days get longer.  A number of big fish tipping that 40 inch mark coming topside.  Suckers, frozen alewife and smelt set about a foot under the ice or just off of the bottom have proven effective.  Most pike anglers are fishing in depths, 9 – 15 feet.

On the Rainy River…  The Rain River is still frozen from Nelson Park at Birchdale, MN (30 miles east of Baudette), which is the first full sized boat ramp that opens up, but there is open water appearing and progress has been made.  Things are happening, stay tuned as with the warmer weather, the river should open quickly.

A good reminder, as of March 1st, walleyes and saugers are catch and release only on Four Mile Bay and the Rainy River.  

Sturgeon fishing.  Once the open water appears, sturgeon are active.  Here are the seasons…

-Catch and Release Season: May 8th – May 15th and October 1 – April 23rd.
-Harvest Season: April 24th – May 7th and July 1 – September 30.
-Closed Season: May 16th – June 30th.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  There is a bit of ice fishing still happening at the Angle, but most resorts have pulled off their fish houses and called it a year.  Call ahead if you plan on getting on that last ice fishing trip as some areas with current are opening up and ice guides will keep you safe.  

Fishing remains very good up at the Angle.  The evening bite for walleyes has been super solid.  The pike are active and big, ready to spawn.  Still big numbers of jumbo perch throughout the area.  Very good fishing reports for late ice.  Safety first, please work through a resort or outfitter if you plan on getting out.

Plan for the MN Fishing Opener which is Saturday, May 10, 2025!

The walleye and sauger season is open through April 14th. Pike fishing never closes, and perch and crappie remain open year-round as well.  You can fish for sturgeon through May 15th.  For more information, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

MN-FISH Hosts Anglers Summit in Itasca County and the Grand Rapids, MN Area

MN DNR's Brad Parsons at MN-FISH Summit

MN-FISH Hosts Anglers Summit in Itasca County and the Grand Rapids, MN Area

Table of Contents

MN DNR's Brad Parsons at MN-FISH Summit

Minnesota is known for its world-class fishing, and this March, anglers, fishing industry professionals, and fisheries experts will have a unique opportunity to come together to discuss the future of the sport. MN-FISH is hosting the Anglers’ Summit on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids, MN. This event is open to MN-FISH members and partners and will serve as a valuable forum for discussing the most pressing issues facing Minnesota’s fisheries.

Join us on March 27, 2025 from 9AM to 5PM, for the MN-FISH Angler’s Summit—a unique opportunity to connect with fellow anglers, fisheries leaders, and industry experts to discuss the future of Minnesota fishing.

This day-long free event will bring together the Minnesota DNR and passionate anglers like you to tackle key topics such as:

  • Brad Parsons, head of MN DNR Fisheries, will discuss reasons for wanting to change the state walleye limit from 6 to 4 fish and opening bass to year-round fishing.
  • Forward Facing Sonar
  • How MN-FISH is working to be the voice of anglers in policy and conservation
  • Musky & Northern Pike Management
  • Stocking & its future
  • This summit isn’t just about learning—it’s about making a difference. Your voice matters in shaping the future of fishing in Minnesota, and this is your chance to be heard.

Date: March 27, 2025
Location: Timberlake Lodge, Grand Rapids, MN
Time: Registration at 9:00 AM | Welcome Remarks at 10:00 AM | Closing at 5:00 PM

Space is limited, so secure your spot today! Lunch will be provided.

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to make Minnesota fishing stronger than ever!

A Gathering of Anglers and Experts

The Anglers’ Summit will bring together a wide range of voices in the fishing community, including Minnesota DNR fisheries leadership, anglers, resort owners, bait shop owners, fishing guides, and other key stakeholders. The goal of the event is to create an open discussion about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Minnesota’s fisheries.

MN-FISH Executive Director Mark Holsten emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “We want to bring together DNR fisheries leadership, state anglers, resort owners, bait shop owners, guides, and other stakeholders from the greater Itasca County area to dig into the issues affecting our fisheries so we can make Minnesota fishing even better.”

One of the most anticipated parts of the summit is a presentation from the Minnesota DNR, led by DNR Fisheries Chief Brad Parsons and other local fisheries leaders. This session will focus on proposed changes to fishing regulations, including the statewide four-walleye limit and a year-round bass season. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session, providing valuable feedback to the DNR.

Key Topics to Be Discussed

The summit will cover a variety of topics that impact Minnesota’s fishing community, including:

  • Statewide 4 walleye limit vs 6 with Fisheries Chief Brad Parsons
  • Year-Round Bass Fishing – Should Minnesota allow bass fishing year-round? What are the benefits and potential concerns?
  • Forward-Facing Sonar – How is new technology affecting fishing success and fish populations?
  • Northern Pike Management – Are current regulations effective, and what can be done to improve pike fishing in Minnesota?
  • Musky Management – Understanding the balance between muskies and other fish populations.
  • Fish Stocking and Its Future – How does stocking impact fish populations, and what role does it play in Minnesota’s fisheries?
  • DNR Budget Issues – What funding challenges does the DNR face, and how does it affect fish management?
  • And much more!

This event is designed to give anglers a voice, providing an opportunity to share ideas, concerns, and solutions directly with those who help manage the state’s fisheries.

A Free Event with Lunch Provided

One of the best aspects of the MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit is that attendance is free, and lunch will be provided to all registered attendees. However, space is limited, and seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure a spot, participants must register in advance at MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit Signup.

For those traveling to Grand Rapids for the event, Timberlake Lodge is offering discounted rates for attendees. Additionally, many MN-FISH board members and key figures in Minnesota’s fishing industry will be gathering the night before for an informal meet-and-greet. This is a great opportunity for attendees to network, share fishing stories, and connect with industry professionals in a relaxed setting.

Why This Event Matters

Fishing is a way of life in Minnesota, and the Anglers’ Summit is a chance for those who love the sport to have a direct impact on its future. Whether you’re a casual weekend angler, a fishing guide, or a resort owner, this event offers a unique platform to discuss fishing regulations, conservation efforts, and emerging challenges in the industry.

MN-FISH has worked hard to develop this summit as a bridge between the Minnesota DNR and anglers. By participating in this open dialogue, attendees will help shape policies and management strategies that will keep Minnesota’s fisheries strong for generations to come.

If you’re passionate about fishing in Minnesota and want to be part of the conversation, don’t miss this opportunity. Mark your calendar for March 27, 2025, and join MN-FISH at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids for an important and engaging discussion on the future of fishing in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

For more information or to register for the event, visit MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit Signup.

2025 MN DNR Fishing Regulations
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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The History of Ice Out Dates on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods

Nick Neu, spring walleye fishing on the Rainy River

The History of Ice Out Dates on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods

Table of Contents

Nick Neu, spring walleye fishing on the Rainy River

The transition from winter to spring and the naturally occurring ice out in northern Minnesota is always an exciting time, especially for anglers eager to hit the open water. The Rainy River and Lake of the Woods, two of the most famous fishing destinations in the state, undergo a dramatic change as ice begins to melt, revealing the open water underneath. Ice-out dates vary each year, influenced by temperatures, snowpack, and overall weather conditions. However, over the years, patterns have developed that give us a general idea of when the rivers and lakes become accessible.

The Rainy River’s Ice Out Tradition

For many anglers, spring fishing on the Rainy River is an annual tradition. Every year, people closely watch ice conditions, waiting for the river to open up so they can launch their boats and begin targeting walleyes, sturgeon, and northern pike. The Nelson Park boat landing in Birchdale, Minnesota, is one of the first major access points to open up. Historically, this happens around the third week of March, but there have been years when it has opened earlier or later.

The process of ice-out on the Rainy River can be unpredictable. Because the river has a current, ice melts faster than it does on Lake of the Woods. The first signs of spring typically include darker ice, cracks forming along the riverbanks, and increasing water flow beneath the ice. Warm temperatures and strong currents help break up the ice, and eventually, large chunks begin floating downstream toward Lake of the Woods.

Some years, anglers have been able to launch their boats as early as mid-March, while in colder years, it might take until the end of the month or even early April for the first boats to hit the water. Factors like heavy snow, prolonged cold temperatures, and ice jams can delay the process. On the other hand, mild winters with limited snowpack and warm March temperatures can result in an earlier ice-out.

Lake of the Woods Ice Out Patterns

Lake of the Woods, unlike the Rainy River, is a massive body of water, which means it takes longer for ice to melt completely. While the river might open up in March, the main lake often remains covered in ice well into April. Historically, ice-out on Lake of the Woods occurs between mid-April and early May.

Because of its size and depth, Lake of the Woods requires consistent warm weather and strong winds to break up the ice. Typically, the bays and shorelines are the first areas to open up, followed by the larger sections of the lake. Anglers and resort owners closely monitor satellite images, ice thickness reports, and weather forecasts to predict when boats will be able to access the open water.

Over the years, some of the earliest ice-outs on Lake of the Woods have happened in early to mid-April, while colder springs have pushed the full melt into early May. The walleye fishing opener in mid-May is always a key target date for open water, and most years, the ice is gone by then.

The Role of Ice Out in Fishing and Tourism

The timing of ice-out on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods plays a huge role in the region’s fishing and tourism industry. Many anglers travel from across the Midwest to take advantage of early spring fishing opportunities.

For walleye anglers, the catch-and-release season on the Rainy River is a chance to target trophy-sized fish that are moving upstream to spawn. Sturgeon fishing is also a major draw, as these massive fish become more active in the warming waters.  It’s not just resorts, bait shops, and guides that rely on the ice-out timeline to prepare for the influx of visitors eager to get their boats in the water.  Restaurants, breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, grocery stores, hardware stores and gas stations, just to name a few in this border community, all benefit from the spring tradition.

If ice-out is early, businesses see an extended spring fishing season, which is great for the local economy. A late ice-out, however, can delay the start of the season and frustrate anglers who have been waiting all winter to fish.

Keeping an Eye on Ice Out Trends

With climate trends shifting and winters fluctuating in severity, predicting ice-out has become more challenging. Some years, late-season snowstorms or prolonged cold spells can delay the process, while other years, unseasonably warm temperatures speed things up.

Anglers planning trips to the Rainy River or Lake of the Woods often watch local weather reports, social media updates from Lake of the Woods Tourism, area resorts, and live ice condition reports to get the most accurate information. Lake of the Woods Tourism along with some local resorts provide regular updates to keep visitors informed.

Conclusion

Ice-out on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods is an exciting time for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. While the timing can change each year, history has shown that the Rainy River typically opens up the third week of March, with Birchdale being one of the first boat landings allowing access to larger boats. Lake of the Woods takes longer, often clearing of ice by mid to late April. No matter when it happens, ice-out signals the start of another great fishing season in northern Minnesota, and anglers from near and far will be ready to hit the water.

Joe Henry spring fishing on the Rainy River in snow
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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2025 MN DNR Rainy River Spring Fishing Info

spring fishing Lake of the Woods, MN

Even though Mother Nature blanketed us with 6 inches of snow this past Tuesday, anglers are already excited for spring fishing on the Rainy River.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources put out great information each spring about fishing during this season. There is still lots of ice on the lake and resorts / outfitters still providing some great ice fishing.   Fish houses can remain on the lake through March 31st (depending on Mother Nature), anglers are already getting their boats and their gear ready for the spring run of walleyes on the Rainy.

The Rainy River forms the border between Ontario and Minnesota for its entire length of about 90 miles. Anglers intending to fish Ontario waters of the Rainy River should refer to the Ontario Fishing Regulations Synopsis for details (https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-fishing-regulations-summary).  The Rainy flows from the east to the west finally arriving at the famous Lake of the Woods known as the Walleye Capital of the World™.

spring fishing
Huge Walleye

Walleyes go up-river in the fall chasing shiner minnows and then again in the spring to do their spawning. Here’s when the trophies show up. Whether there are ice burg size chunks of ice floating on the river or it is totally clear, anglers line up along roads and access points waiting to dawn the beautiful waters of the Rainy River.

Rainy River flows out of Rainy Lake near International Falls and forms the border between the United States and Canada at the top of Minnesota. It flows into the famous Lake of the Woods known as the Walleye Capital of the World.

Here’s some great information for the Rainy River Spring Season which extends from March 1-April 14th.

For Walleyes and Saugers: On Fourmile Bay of Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, catch and release fishing is allowed during this time period. All Walleye and Sauger must be returned to the water immediately.

 For Northern Pike: There is no closed season for northern pike on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods. The possession limit for northern pike is three. All northern pike from 30 through 40 inches must be immediately released; only one northern pike over 40 inches may be possessed.

For Lake Sturgeon: Anglers see and often land many sturgeon while fishing the Rainy. However,  no harvest is allowed from Mar 1 through Apr 23. Anglers are allowed to catch-and-release lake sturgeon during this period.

Each spring anglers and local residents watch this body of water for the signs of liquid water to show up. Each year this “ice opener” is documented by the local newspaper and has been recorded since 1934.  The recording place is near the International Bridge connecting the United States and Canada between the towns of Rainy River, Ontario and Baudette, MN.  This early ice out is a welcomed sight for spring fishing where anglers are chomping at the bit to get their boats out into the open water. The Northern Light Region is the official reporter of first “ice-out” over the years.

When planning a spring fishing trip to the Lake of the Woods area, it’s always good to have information on access points. Here is a diagram of all the access points along Highway 11.

spring fishing
Rainy River Access Points
spring fishing
Spring Trophy Walleye

Koochiching County is our neighbor to the east and they are always ready to go to open up the first access point which is at Birchdale MN. This is known as Nelson Park and is a beautiful spot for anglers and early campers to park. This access with a double ramp is north of Birchdale on Koochiching County Road UT 118, which runs from State Highway 11 to Nelson Park. Parking is allowed on the east side of UT 118.

Note: When in that area, be sure to check out the Nelson Store. The only store in Birchdale, it is probably one of the last greatest “all-inclusive” stores around. Because of it’s remote area, they carry a little of everything and is a great pleasure to visit.

Vidas Access:This access with a double ramp is located 1.5 miles east of Clementson at the end  of Koochiching County Road UT 392. Signs have been installed to direct traffic and reduce congestion. Parking is allowed on both sides of UT 392. No camping is allowed from March 1 through April 15.

Frontier Access :This access with a single ramp is located approximately 17 miles east of Baudette along State Highway 11. No parking is allowed along Highway 11. Parking is restricted along Koochiching County Highway 4. No camping is allowed from March 1 through April 15.

As mentioned, Koochiching Country clears accesses in their county along Hwy 11 for spring fishing and then a hand-off is made to workmen in Lake of the Woods County. A great thanks goes out to these laborers who are able to help get spring fishing available.

For lodging at Lake of the Woods see: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

See our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

See more regulations at: Licenses, permits, regulations | Minnesota DNR

Grilled Northern Pike

spring fishing Lake of the Woods, MN

Pike is a freshwater fish that are more commonly found in Northern parts of America. Pike dish texture is firm, flaky and it also offers a mild flavor, comparable to that of salmon and chicken. The key to having a perfect and enjoyable pike slab is cooking it well.  Treating it with spices and herbs brings out its full flavor. 

Ingredients

2 pounds of northern pike fillets

1/4 cup of lemon juice northern pike

1 dash of bottled hot pepper sauce

1/2 cup salad oil

2 tbsp parsley cut up

1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1. Cut pike into 6 pieces.

Step 2. Combine lemon juice, salt, hot sauce, oil, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl then mix for 15-20 seconds.

Step 3. Place the 6 pieces of northern pike in a shallow dish and cover with mixture. Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Turn once and marinate for another 30 minutes.

northern pike
Grilled Northern Pike

Step 4. Once done marinating, take out pike fillets and set aside. (Do not throw out the remains of the marinade. This will be used later on.)

Step 5. Place fish in a well-greased broiler basket and sprinkle with salt. 

Step 6. Grill over medium-hot coals or grill setting Now use the leftover marinade for basting the pike fillets and turn.

Step 7. Grill for 5-8 minutes until the pike flakes easily with a fork.

Step 8. Sprinkle paprika, and enjoy your tasty pike!

 

Fishing Report 3.18.2025

Lake of the Woods, MN ice fishing

On the South Shore…  There is still some good ice fishing to take advantage of if you still have that itch and want to ice some walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, maybe an eelpout and certainly big pike.  

Being up on the Canadian border, the colder temps Lake of the Woods enjoys vs much of the region combined with three feet of ice makes a big difference.  Fish houses are allowed unattended overnight through March 31st.  Some resorts have called it a season, but other resorts still have fish houses out, are still fishing and have availability.   

fishing
Nice Walleye

Fishing reports have been good.  Numbers of walleyes, saugers and perch.  Using electronics is super helpful with some larger walleyes swimming through suspended. 

fishing
41 Inch Pike

It was a great week of pike fishing for most.  Good numbers of fish and some big fish tipping that 40 inch mark coming topside.  Suckers, frozen alewife and smelt are working well. Putting baits 1 foot under the ice or right off bottom has been effective.  Most pike anglers are fishing in depths, 9 – 15 feet.

On the Rainy River…  The Rain River is still frozen from Nelson Park at Birchdale, MN (30 miles east of Baudette) and to the west, which is where most anglers spring fish.  The ice is showing signs of deteriorating in places.  The river is open water about 20 miles east of Birchdale near Loman.  Things are happening.  

A good reminder, as of March 1st, walleyes and saugers are catch and release only on Four Mile Bay and the Rainy River.  

Sturgeon fishing.  Once the open water appears, sturgeon are active.  Here are the seasons…

-Catch and Release Season: May 8th – May 15th and October 1 – April 23rd.
-Harvest Season: April 24th – May 7th and July 1 – September 30.
-Closed Season: May 16th – June 30th.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Fishing remains very good up at the Angle.  There is still some ice fishing happening with some, and others have called it a season.  Call ahead if you have that itch for one last ice fishing trip.  

Walleyes, saugers, perch, crappies and pike are in good numbers.  

The walleye and sauger season is open through April 14th. Pike fishing never closes, and perch and crappie remain open year-round as well.  You can fish for sturgeon through May 15th.  For more information, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Exploring the History and Resources of the NW Angle and Beyond

Joe Laurin, Lighthouse Boat Tours up at the NW Angle

Exploring the History and Resources of the NW Angle and Beyond

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Joe Laurin, Lighthouse Boat Tours up at the NW Angle

Most people travel to the Northwest Angle for its world-class fishing and breathtaking scenery, but there’s so much more to discover in this unique and remote part of Minnesota. Now, thanks to Lighthouse Boat and Snowmobile Tours, visitors have a new way to explore the hidden gems of the area. This exciting adventure service, created by retired Polaris engineer and avid explorer Joe Laurin, has gained attention for its historical and scenic boat tours. Recently, Prairie Sportsman TV joined Laurin on one of these excursions to showcase the history, wildlife, and untouched beauty of the Northwest Angle.

Prairie Sportsman TV

The team from Prairie Sportsman TV recently traveled to the NW Angle to film an episode featuring Lighthouse Boat Tours. The show captured the magic of exploring the area by boat, highlighting Laurin’s passion for the region’s history and natural beauty. The episode showcased the untouched wilderness of the Angle, bringing attention to its lesser-known landmarks and the thrill of navigating through the maze of islands.

A New Way to Experience the Northwest Angle

While the NW Angle is well-known for its fishing, few people realize just how much history and adventure lie within its thousands of islands. Laurin has spent years uncovering these secrets, and now he’s sharing them with visitors through guided boat tours.

Lighthouse Boat Tours takes passengers on an unforgettable journey, highlighting fascinating locations such as:

  • Fort St. Charles – A historic fur trading post from the 1700s.
  • Massacre Island – Named for a tragic event in the area’s past.
  • Abandoned Gold Mines – Evidence of prospectors searching for treasure in the early 1900s.
  • Pictographs and Petroglyphs – Ancient rock carvings left by Indigenous people.
  • WWII Prisoner of War Camps – Remnants of past wartime history.
  • Interior Lakes and Waterfalls – Hidden gems rarely seen by visitors.

Laurin first introduced the Lake of the Woods Explorer App, which provides information about these sites for self-guided adventures. Now, with his Coast Guard license, he can personally guide visitors on these journeys, offering in-depth knowledge and storytelling along the way.

Tour Options for Every Explorer

Lighthouse Boat Tours offers several pre-set tours as well as custom trips. Each excursion provides a mix of history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

  • The Essentials Tour: Stops at Fort St. Charles, Cheerio Beach, Massacre Island, and the Northernmost Point Buoy.
  • The Loop Tour: Includes Pinnacle Rock, waterfalls, pictographs, an old cemetery, and abandoned gold mines.
  • Custom Tours: Guests can request specific stops, such as traveling to Kenora, Ontario, for shopping and dining before cruising back through the islands.

For those looking for a high-speed adventure, Lighthouse Tours also offers Jet Ski tours, where visitors can bring their own watercraft and follow along on an exhilarating guided ride.

Winter Exploration by Snowmobile

Lighthouse Boat Tours isn’t just for summer. In the winter months, the adventure continues with guided snowmobile tours through the frozen wilderness. With thousands of miles of trails and countless islands to explore, snowmobiling in the NW Angle is an experience like no other. As with the Jet Ski tours, guests must provide their own machines, but Laurin’s expert guidance ensures a safe and unforgettable journey.

A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

The Northwest Angle has long been known for its incredible fishing, but Lighthouse Boat and Snowmobile Tours is showing visitors a whole new side of this unique destination. From ancient pictographs to abandoned gold mines, there’s a story behind every island. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a new adventure, these tours offer an unforgettable way to experience the beauty and history of the Lake of the Woods region.

For more information or to book a tour, contact Lighthouse Boat and Snowmobile Tours at flagislandlighthouse@outlook.com or call 763-350-4700.

Joe Henry and Bret Amundson at the NW Angle Buoy
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
Lodging and Fishing Options
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