Sportsman’s Lodge Sturgeon Tournament Benefits Take a Kid Fishing

Sportsman's Lodge sturgeon tournament

Sportsman’s Lodge Sturgeon Tournament Benefits Take a Kid Fishing

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Sportsman's Lodge sturgeon tournament

Fishing Guide and Promoter doing it for the kids

When Brian “Beef” Sathre isn’t teaching, coaching, or firefighting, he is most likely fishing. Beef also knows how to run a sturgeon tournament.  A local fishing guide and promoter, Beef has a heart for getting kids involved in fishing. For the past 14 years, he has served as the tournament director and emcee for the Sportsman’s Lodge Annual Sturgeon Tournament. You might ask, “What does a sturgeon tournament have to do with kids?” In the case of this tournament, Sportsman’s Lodge, with the help of Beef, ensures that all proceeds go toward the Lake of the Woods chapter of Take a Kid Fishing.

At Sportsman's Lodge, The Entire Team has a role in this event

Sportsman’s Lodge has been the longtime host of this event.  Their entire staff works tirelessly making sure this event goes off, as they say, “without a hitch.”  And they do.

It is often said, it is the little things that make the big difference.  

“Here at Sportsman’s Lodge we couldn’t be more proud of this event.  We open up our facility at no charge.  So much planning takes place behind the scenes from the front staff, to food service, to fishing guides and the entire staff working together as team.

The impacts this event makes on the entire Lake of the Woods community and certainly Take a Kid Fishing makes us so proud.” explain Jeff Andersen, General Manager, Sportsman’s lodge.

Beef Has A Long History with Take a Kid Fishing

Beef was actually active in the Take a Kid Fishing organization well before he moved to the Lake of the Woods area. Back in the day, when he was a college student at Bemidji State University, he served on the Take a Kid Fishing board of directors in Bemidji, MN. The seed was already planted.

About 14 years ago, then-owner of Sportsman’s Lodge, Gregg Hennum, asked Beef to emcee the Sportsman’s Lodge sturgeon tournament. Beef not only accepted the challenge—he had some ideas of his own. As time went on, with help from others, he took the lead and decided to build it up to what it is today.

Today, the tournament is as much a reunion for those who fish it year after year as it is a fishing tournament. “It’s one of those deals where you’re competing with everyone in the room, but there is so much more camaraderie than there is competitiveness. Competitors who come year after year become friends. You might not see one another for a year, but when that time comes, it’s like old home week,” explains Beef.

Why Take a Kid Fishing up at Lake of the Woods, don't all of the kids already fish?

“People would be surprised,” explains Beef. “Being a teacher, you hear the stories firsthand—’I wish I had the chance to go fishing.'”

The organization covers a large area, stretching from International Falls to the east and past Roseau to the west.

“It’s pretty cool. When kids reach their last year of eligibility for Take a Kid Fishing, which is based on age, they can write an essay that can actually qualify them for a Minnesota Lifetime Fishing License. This area gives away a few each year.”

About the Tournament

As you may have gathered, this event is about so much more than just the tournament.

That being said, the tournament can host up to 60 boats, with multiple anglers per boat. There is typically a waitlist of 10 to 15 boats.

The MN DNR sets boundaries, and tournament organizers actually place buoys at those boundary points.

One boundary is downstream from Sportsman’s Lodge, just into Four Mile Bay. The upstream boundary is located just a short distance upstream, within sight of the tournament headquarters.

When someone catches a sturgeon, one of three tournament boats will assist in getting length and girth measurements. The sturgeon category is the largest; however, there are also categories for kids, ladies, eelpout, and suckers.

This is an individual tournament, meaning there are no teams. Anglers are technically fishing against the others in their own boat.

Yes, some participants are competitive, but with sturgeon fishing, it’s all about soaking worms—and anyone can win!

Anglers arrive for a rules meeting and giveaways on Thursday evening. They fish the tournament on Friday and Saturday, followed by a prime rib dinner and awards banquet on Saturday night.

Take a Kid Fishing

Take a Kid Fishing is a nonprofit organization dedicated to introducing youth to the joy and experience of fishing, especially those who may not otherwise have the opportunity.

“It is so great to see so many come together for the purpose of benefitting the kids,” explains Deb Anderson of Linder’s Hideaway Cabins and volunteer for Take a Kid Fishing.  “The Sturgeon Fishing tournament at Sportsman’s Lodge really helps kids involved with Take a Kid Fishing from a large area.  We get 9 – 14 year old kids from all over the state and beyond.  Some kids are up visiting grandma and grandpa or another relative and it’s great.  The event is just wonderful.”

The Lake of the Woods chapter of Take a Kid Fishing focuses on giving kids a day they’ll never forget by pairing them with experienced anglers and volunteers for a guided fishing adventure on Lake of the Woods based out of Sportsman’s Lodge.

This event includes a day of fishing out on the big lake followed by a picnic, prizes, and plenty of smiles. The goal is not only to teach kids how to fish, but also to encourage a love for the outdoors, promote conservation, and create lasting memories with positive mentors.

The Lake of the Woods community has embraced the program, with generous support from local resorts, guides, businesses, and volunteers who come together to make this event possible each year.

A sincere “Thank You” to all involved.

Bryan "Beef" Sathre in a Lake of the Woods charter boat
Sportsman's Lodge Sturgeon Tournaments, boats on the Rainy River
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Sportsman's Lodge sturgeon tournament boundaries
Sportsman's Lodge sturgeon tournament meeting and dinner
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Grilled Campfire Trout Dinner

trout

Fresh Water Trout are abundant in the northern part of Lake of the Woods, however, very often anglers are surprised when a trout shows up on the south side of the lake also even though they’re fishing for walleye. Then they get another taste treat!

Ingredients

  • 4 bacon strips
  • 2 dressed trout (1 pound each)
  • 4 lemon slices
  • 1 small onion, halved and sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
    trout
    Photo by Taste of Home
  •  
  • CARROTS:
  • 4 medium carrots, thinly sliced
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Dash pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Lemon wedges

Directions

  1. Cook bacon until partially cooked but not crisp; drain. Place each trout on a double thickness of heavy-duty foil (about 20×18 in.). Place lemon and onion in the trout cavities; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wrap trout with bacon. Fold foil around trout and seal tightly.
  2. Place carrots on a double thickness of heavy-duty foil (about 20×18 in.); sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dot with butter. Fold foil around carrots and seal tightly.
  3. Grill carrots, covered, over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add trout packets to grill; cook 20-25 minutes longer or until fish flakes easily with a fork and carrots are tender. Serve with lemon wedges.

Fishing Report 4.15.2025

On the South Shore…  For the vast majority of anglers, ice fishing is over for the year, and what a great year it was.  You may hear of a few hardcore ice guides still gaining access in places targeting pike, but overall, we will now start watching for open holes appearing in the ice, the Rainy River making its presence known outside the Lighthouse Gap and satellite images from clear days showing progress up until the MN Fishing Opener.  

The spring walleye season is complete as of April 14th.  As far as the lake goes, the focus now is pike up until the MN Fishing Opener on Saturday, May 10th. 

Ditches are running and soon bays will pop open enabling anglers to target huge pike while they head to spawning areas.  Pike fishing is year round on Lake of the Woods and can be excellent during the spring in back bays. fishing

Some anglers will use dead bait much like they do on a tip up.  Others will cast spoons or troll crankbaits.  Pike fishing in the back secluded bays along the south shore of Lake of the Woods offers a unique fishing opportunity you don’t need a big boat for and it can produce trophy sized pike.

The limit of pike on the Minnesota side of Lake of the Woods is a daily limit of 3, with all pike 30 – 40 inches having to be released.  An angler is allowed one trophy pike over 40 inches per day.  Some anglers choose to get measurements, take some pictures, release the fish and get a graphite mount.  All good options.

On the Rainy River…  The spring walleye season is in the books!  Overall, big numbers of walleyes caught and released on the Rainy River (along with some absolute giants).  Thank you to all who traveled up, had patience with some long lines, helped out others and shared in this spring tradition of catching walleyes (and sturgeon). 

A sincere thank you to all who help this spring tradition happen behind the scenes.  Koochiching County did a great job clearing ice from the boat ramps on the river as soon as possible.  Many agencies work together to make this tradition safe, respectful and enjoyable.  Again, thank you.

The Wheeler’s Point boat ramp at the mouth of the Rainy River located 12 miles north of Baudette is open.  Thank you to a number of resort owners combined with some visitors in boats working together to drill holes, make waves, and coax the last remaining stubborn ice away from the ramp.  It is teamwork like this that makes the resort / fishing community in these parts special.  

Initial reports for sturgeon are excellent.  71 inch sturgeon SJR 500 tournament 040725 Good numbers being caught and released.  Anchored up in a hole or on the slope of a hole with a no roll sinker and sturgeon rig is the ticket.  A sturgeon rig is about an 18 inch leader with a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook loaded with crawlers or crawlers and emerald shiners.  Local resorts and bait shops have all the equipment you need.  

Sturgeon fishing is open through May 15th.  Here are the specific 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…  With many areas of open water showing up along with some heaves and cracks, travel on the ice up at the Angle is pretty much finished up.  You may see a local in an airboat which can traverse over both ice and open water delivering mail to the Oak Island post office or bringing supplies to a resort, but the watch for open water is on.  

For now, folks will be fishing pike and sturgeon and paying attention to aerial images of open water and ice out on the lake until the MN Fishing Opener on May 10th.  Time to make plans!  For more information on spring and summer fishing, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Jen Pudenz and Adventuress Magazine Shine Light on Women in the Outdoors on Prairie Sportsman TV

Ice fishing lake of the woods mn

Jen Pudenz and Adventuress Magazine Shine Light on Women in the Outdoors on Prairie Sportsman TV

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Ice fishing lake of the woods mn

The world of hunting and fishing has long been filled with stories of adventure, passion, and tradition. For a long time, most of those stories focused on men. But that is changing fast, and one woman helping to lead the way is Jen Pudenz, editor and founder of Adventuress Magazine—the only all-female hunting and fishing magazine in the country.

Jen recently visited the Northwest Angle on Lake of the Woods, Minnesota’s northernmost point, where she joined host Bret Amundson to film a segment for Prairie Sportsman TV. Together, they ice fished for walleyes and saugers, sharing laughs, swapping stories, and showing viewers that the outdoors is for everyone.

Jen Pudenz is a true adventuress. She grew up hunting and fishing with her family and has made it her life’s mission to encourage more women to step into the outdoors. Through Adventuress Magazine, she shares real-life stories from women across the country, showcases expert tips and gear reviews, and helps break down barriers that sometimes keep women from getting involved.

“Women have always been part of the outdoors,” Jen says. “But for too long, we haven’t seen ourselves represented in magazines, on TV, or in the industry. That’s what Adventuress is all about—giving women a voice and a place in this world we all love.”

Her trip to Lake of the Woods was a special one.  The NW Angle is known for its world-class ice fishing, incredible scenery, and friendly community.  Jen and Bret spent their time fishing in heated fish houses, riding across miles of ice in bombardiers, and chasing the thrill of a bending rod and a heavy fish on the line.

Lake of the Woods is a favorite destination for anglers of all skill levels. During the winter months, fish houses are spread across the ice, with many targeting walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, and even the occasional northern pike or eelpout.  Jen caught on quickly, jigging with spoons and using deadsticks to tempt the fish below.  With help from local guides, she experienced the full adventure—great fishing, good friends, stunning sunsets, delicious NW Angle meals and the peaceful beauty of the frozen North.

More Women Are Getting Outdoors

Jen’s work reflects a growing trend in both the fishing and hunting industries—more women are getting involved.  According to the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF), 2023 saw over 19.8 million female fishing participants in the U.S.—the highest number ever recorded. Women now make up about 37% of all anglers.

In the world of hunting, the trend is similar.  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that the number of female hunters has grown steadily over the past 15 years.  Women now make up more than 10% of hunters nationwide, and those numbers continue to rise.

Why the increase?  Many women say they enjoy the challenge, the peace of being in nature, and the opportunity to harvest their own food. Social media, online communities, and leaders like Jen are also helping to make the outdoors more welcoming and accessible.

Various women’s programs offer support, education, and community for women new to hunting and fishing. And as more women take on leadership roles in the outdoor industry—whether on magazine covers, in television shows, or guiding trips—more doors are opening.

Making the Outdoors More Inclusive

Jen believes the future is bright for women in the outdoors, but also knows there is still work to be done. “It’s not just about having pink camo or women’s sizes anymore,” she explains. “It’s about respect, knowledge, and equal opportunities. Whether you’re on a bass boat, in a deer stand, or out on a frozen lake, women belong.”

Through Adventuress Magazine, she is creating a space where women can learn, share, and be inspired. Whether it’s a mom introducing her kids to fishing or a teen trying bowhunting for the first time, their stories matter—and Jen is making sure they’re told.

Her time on Lake of the Woods was just another step in a bigger mission. Sharing that experience with a TV audience through Prairie Sportsman helps spread the message even further: the outdoors is for everyone. If you love nature, adventure, and the thrill of the catch, you have a place here—no matter who you are.

To learn more about Jen and Adventuress Magazine, visit www.adventuressmagazine.com.

And to plan your own ice fishing adventure on Lake of the Woods, visit www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, there’s a spot on the ice—and a fish on the line—waiting for you.

Jen Pudenz, Bret Amundson, Ray Ruiz, Danny Amundson, Joe Henry at northernmost point buoy
Jen Pudenz and Bret Amundson, ice fishing the NW Angle
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Spring Birding at Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods in Minnesota comes alive each spring, offering an unforgettable birding experience that draws nature lovers and adventurers alike. As winter slowly retreats, the region’s diverse habitats burst into a vibrant tapestry of life. canada jay Both resident birds that brave the cold winter months and migratory visitors returning from farther afield create an incredible spectacle for anyone with a pair of binoculars in hand.

A Birding Paradise Across Varied Landscapes

The spring season at Lake of the Woods offers an array of clementson rapids with pelicans birding opportunities. Whether you’re an avid birder or a curious traveler looking to immerse yourself in nature, the region’s well-known spots – the Rainy River, Big Traverse Bay, and the Northwest Angle – each provide a unique bird-watching experience. The varied landscapes, from winding rivers to expansive bays and rugged shorelines, cater to a wide range of bird species and create ideal environments for nesting, feeding, and resting.

Along the Rainy River, a natural border and a vital waterway, bird enthusiasts can witness the striking contrast between early-spring waterfowl and songbirds that have persisted through the winter. The river’s banks and the adjacent wetlands are perfect for spotting species such as the Canada Jay and the Red-winged Blackbird.

As the snow melts and the river begins to flow freely, it attracts a host of waterfowl like Mallards, Teal, and even rare sightings of the Bufflehead. These areas, with their mix of open water and dense vegetation, create excellent viewing opportunities from well-placed trails or a quiet boat ride along the water’s edge. One of the most beautiful sights in the area is the return of the birding white pelicans landing near the Clementson Rapids. Hundreds of these birds swim and fish these waters creating a beautiful spectacle. These birds are huge and the suckers coming down from the rapids are their feast.

Moving over to Big Traverse Bay, the expansive stretch of water offers yet another dynamic birding environment. This region is particularly popular among birders due to the convergence of different habitats – rocky shorelines, marshy islands, and thick forests. Here, early migratory songbirds begin to return, filling the air with their melodic calls. Look for warblers, thrushes, and even the occasional rare sighting of a flycatcher. The bay’s clear waters also attract diving birds such as the Common Loon and kingfisher Kingfisher. The combination of clear skies and reflective waters makes Big Traverse Bay a photographer’s dream, capturing the intricate interplay of light, water, and birdlife.

At the far northern tip of the area, the Northwest Angle provides a rugged and serene setting that contrasts with the more accessible birding spots. This region, often less crowded, offers solitude and intimate encounters with nature. Here, the transition from winter to spring is most dramatic. The pristine forests that surround the lake are home to resident species that endure the harsh winter, such as the Northern Cardinal and Blue Jay, while migratory birds add bursts of color and song as they arrive. The Northwest Angle’s trails and secluded coves are ideal for those who enjoy hiking and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.

The Benefits of a Local Guide

For visitors who want to make the most of their birding adventure, hiring a local fishing guide can be an excellent choice. These experts know the intricacies of Lake of the Woods’ shoreline habitat, both on the lake and the river, ensuring that you get to see the best birding spots that might be hidden from the casual observer. Their local knowledge not only increases the chances of exciting sightings but also enriches the experience with insights into the ecology and history of the area.

More Than Just Birding

While birding is a highlight of spring at Lake of the Woods, the region offers much more than just natural beauty. After a day filled with bird-watching and exploration, visitors can relax in a range of comfortable lodging options, from cozy lakeside cabins walleye retreat 0002 1024x683 1 to charming lodges. The area’s delightful restaurants and bars serve up local specialties that cater to every palate. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day of hiking or a light snack paired with locally brewed beer, the culinary offerings around the lake are sure to satisfy.

Furthermore, the area is well-equipped with numerous public parks and trails that make it easy to plan day trips or longer excursions. With a wealth of outdoor activities available, including boating, fishing, and hiking, Lake of the Woods is a destination that caters to a variety of interests. The ease of access to these amenities and the natural wonders of the region make it a perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Planning Your Visit

Planning a spring birding trip to Lake of the Woods is a rewarding experience, where every turn reveals something new and beautiful. Before setting out, visitors can explore detailed information about local attractions, lodging, and dining options at www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com. This comprehensive resource is an excellent starting point to plan itineraries, learn about upcoming events, and connect with local experts who can provide insider tips on the best times and spots for bird-watching.

It’s always amazing to see the beautiful

birding

Bald Eagles that stay year round and also the osprey which is a cousin to them.  Don’t forget to look in the fields because there you will often find large, long-legged birds called sandhill cranes. This area sees many of these pairs as they feast on the new growth of spring. birding

In conclusion, spring birding on Lake of the Woods is an experience that encapsulates the magic of nature’s seasonal transition. With its diverse landscapes, rich array of resident and migratory birds, and the support of local guides and amenities, the region is a veritable paradise for bird lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are drawn by the calming flow of the Rainy River, the vibrant waters of Big Traverse Bay, or the tranquil beauty of the Northwest Angle, a visit to Lake of the Woods promises to be an adventure filled with wonder, discovery, and the captivating melodies of springtime birds.

For lodging availability see: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

Also keep track of the area by viewing facebook at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

Crispy Fish Batter

fish

Make it yourself!!

Key Ingredients:

  1. All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture.
  2. Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness
  3. Baking Powder: Helps batter rise and ecome lighter.
  4. Cold sparkling water: Creates a light, airy texture
  5. Vegetable oil: for Frying
    fish
    photo by Taste of Home
  6. Seasoning to taste. Paprika adds to the color of the fried fish.Crispy Fish Batter

Preparation

  1. Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper and garlic powder (if using)
  2. Gradually add liquid: Whisk in cold sparkling water or beer until the batter is smooth and slightly thick. Avoid overmixing
  3. Rest the batter: Let it sit for a few minutes.
  4. Dip dried fish in batter
  5. Fry in oil that is about 350 degrees.

Fishing Report 4.8.2025

fishing

On the South Shore…  There is still some ice fishing taking place by some hardcore ice anglers, but most have called it a good year.  For those still getting out on the ice, fishing has been good.  Most resort ice accesses have been closed for the year.  Safety first always.

Ditches are running along the south end of the lake which means water is running into the bays.  Moving water will soon pop open the bays and anglers will be out open water targeting huge pike while they head to spawning areas.  Pike fishing is year round on Lake of the Woods and can be excellent during the spring in back bays.

On the Rainy River…  Spring open water fishing began over a week ago and has started out very good with some big walleyes being caught and released! 

fishing
Rainy River Spring Walleye

As of April 8th, the Rainy River is open to the west of Baudette and gaining every day.  With warm temps in the weekly forecast, not only will the ice deteriorate quickly, but the walleye bite should get even better.  Weather forecast in the next week shows 60’s.

There are three boat ramps open.  The Nelson Park boat ramp in Birchdale, the Frontier Access (about 8 miles to the west of Nelson Park) and the Vidas boat ramp just east of Clementson and the Rapid River.  

Most walleye anglers are jigging with either plastics or minnows.  Use bright plastics such as chartreuse, orange, pink and white.  Some are slowly drifting a jig with a minnow such as emerald shiners, fatheads or rainbows.  

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.

fishing 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.  A sturgeon rig is about an18 inch leader with a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook loaded with crawlers or crawlers and emerald shiners.  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.  There are many areas showing open water primarily where there is current.  Progress to open water is being made.  

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 on spring and summer fishing, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

2025 Rainy River Update: Spring Fishing is Excellent

Sturgeon on the Rainy River

2025 Rainy River Update: Spring Fishing is Excellent

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Sturgeon on the Rainy River

Fishing Starting Out HOT

The Rainy River is open and spring fishing is starting out absolutely excellent. When asking a local resort owner how many fish are in the river, his answer was, “It’s loaded.” Reports of good numbers of walleyes, a lot of slot fish (19.5 – 28.0) inches and some huge trophy walleyes over 28 inches as well.  If you ever had a desire to experience some of the incredible spring walleye fishing that has made the Rainy River famous spring of year, now is the time!

Boat Ramps are Open

Currently, the Nelson Park boat ramp in Birchdale, the Frontier boat ramp, and Vidas boat access are all open.  The river is making progress and others are anticipated to open any time. Having a number of boat ramps open helps divide out the number of trucks and trailers between a few access vs just one, making life easier and wait times to get your boat in very nice.

Lots of Walleyes are in the River

Every year is different. Some years, we are waiting for the walleyes to slide in the river. This year, it appears (and many resort owners and guides already knew this) that good numbers of nice walleyes were already in the river. This is coming true as fishing has been good for most. In addition, the size of the fish are across the board, including the big females most want to get their hands on.

The walleye season on the Rainy River and Four Mile Bay is catch and release only right now. The walleye season goes through April 14th on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River. If you are fishing Four Mile Bay or the Rainy River, the season for walleyes and saugers is catch and release only from March 1st through April 14th. The season will open up again for the MN Fishing Opener on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

If you are fishing the lake (either ice fishing or open water fishing if the open water makes it to the lake before April 14th), the normal keep limit applies. Anglers can keep a combined limit of 6 walleyes and saugers, with up to 4 being walleyes. All walleyes between 19.5″ – 28.0″ must be released. Anglers are allowed to keep one walleye over 28 inches.

As is true in all of Minnesota, there is a one day possession limit for anglers. Remember, if you have fish left over from the day before, they count against what you can keep today! We are lucky to have a liberal limit which allows most groups to eat some fish while up and also bring a meal of fish home.

Sturgeon Fishing Starting out Hot

Sturgeon anglers are also reporting excellent fishing with numerous fish being boated.

There are two sturgeon fishing seasons on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, a catch and release season and a harvest season in which you can keep one fish per calendar year. The harvest season runs from April 24th – May 7th and July 1 – Sept. 30. The catch and release season runs May 8th – May 15th and Oct. 1 – April 23rd. This means from May 16 – June 30, no sturgeon fishing. The rest of the year, you can fish for sturgeon. See MN DNR Fishing Regulations for more info.

The MN DNR estimates there are over 100,000 sturgeon over 40 inches in the Rainy River.  Fish also live in the lake, but the Rainy River is typically the hot bed of sturgeon fishing.

Sturgeon fishing has increased in popularity.  There are a ton of fish, the fish are huge, they fight like heck and fishing the Rainy River doesn’t require a big boat.  It is beautiful, relaxing and for most, they have a very good chance at catching the largest fish of their lifetime.  Check out this article on Sturgeon Fishing for the Beginner.

Spring fishing is tradition in these parts.  It is the first time of the year for many they get their boat in the water.  It is a chance to catch good numbers of walleyes and a walleye of a lifetime during a time when most areas are closed to walleye fishing.  For many, it is a long time tradition passed down from generation to generation.  Maybe this would be a good year to give it a try.  Now is the time!

spring fishing on the Rainy River
General info… Lake of the Woods Area
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Considerations in Planning a Trip to Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods, MN

Planning a trip to Lake of the Woods in Minnesota can be one of the most exciting parts of your fishing season. With so many options available, it’s important to think through a few key details before you hit the road. planning a trip Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, Lake of the Woods offers world-class fishing, beautiful scenery, and a variety of lodging and meal options to suit any group. Here are some things to consider when planning a trip to this great north country.

Fishing on Your Own Boat or with a Charter

One of the first decisions you’ll want to make is whether you’ll be planning a tripbringing your own boat or booking a charter or guide. If you have your own boat and experience fishing large lakes, bringing your own boat gives you more freedom to move around. You can try different spots, explore different areas, and go out on your own schedule.

For those who bring their own boat, many will choose to fish the big waters of Big Traverse Bay.  On most days, it is very navigable.  On windy days, many anglers will have a good backup option such as the 42 miles of the Rainy River, one of the bays that hold good fish or trailering to a leeward access and fishing near shore.

When planning a trip consider that charter boats and guides take a lot of the work and guesswork out of the equation. They provide the boat, tackle, bait, and a professional captain who knows where the fish are biting. For people who are new to the lake or just want a relaxing and fun experience, charters are a great option. Many visitors love the ease of stepping on the boat and letting the guide do the rest. Plus, your fish are often cleaned and bagged for you at the end of the day.

Choosing What Part of the Lake to Stay On

Lake of the Woods is a big body of water with several areas to stay. Each area offers something a little different. planning a trip

If you stay on the Rainy River, you’ll enjoy great river fishing. Spring and fall are the most popular times of the year for the river, but as many locals know, the river actually holds good fish year-round.  It’s also a beautiful area if you like a mix of lake and river experiences.

The south shore of Lake of the Woods, near places like Wheeler’s Point, Bostic Bay, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, Long Point and Rocky Point, is another popular part of the lake to stay. From here, you have access to the big water of Lake of the Woods, called Big Traverse Bay. Charter boats are common here, and many resorts offer easy access to some of the best walleye fishing in the Midwest.

If you’re looking for a remote getaway, the Northwest Angle might be for you. It’s the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S. and is known for its beautiful islands, world-class fishing, and peaceful setting. You can only reach it by driving through Canada or by taking a boat or plane from the south end of the lake which keeps you in MN. It’s worth the extra effort for those wanting a unique adventure.  When planning a trip, know that Lake of the Woods Passenger Service is on board for your convenience for traveling to the Islands of Oak and Flag and the Northwest Angle itself. That’s a great way to experience this impressive lake. planning a trip


Meals and Lodging Options

When it comes to meals and lodging, Lake of the Woods has something for everyone. You can choose from full-service resorts, cozy cabins, hotels, or villas. Decide whether you want to cook your own meals, dine at local resorts and restaurants, or go all-in with the American Plan. Dining is always a great experience with professional chefs at most all resorts.

The American Plan includes your lodging, meals, and fishing in one package. It’s a great option for those who want an easy, all-in-one experience where everything is taken care of. Many resorts on the lake offer this package and it’s popular with families, groups, or anyone wanting a stress-free trip.

Use LakeoftheWoodsMN.com to Plan Your Trip

A helpful tool in planning your visit is the Lake of the Woods Tourism website. planning a trip This website has everything you need to get started. You’ll find info on resorts, guides, charters, fishing reports, lodging, and much more. There’s even a lodging availability request form where you can enter your travel dates and preferences, and resorts will reply directly to you with openings.

Planning a trip to Lake of the Woods is half the fun. With a little thought about where you want to stay, how you want to fish, and what kind of meals you prefer, your trip can be exactly what you’re hoping for. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something special about Lake of the Woods.

For more information and Lodging see: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

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

Fried Fish Sandwich Meal

fried fish sandwich

Ingredients

Oil for deep-fat frying

1 cup all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 cup very cold beer or nonalcoholic beer

fried fish sandwich
Photo by Taste of Home

1 large egg, lightly beaten

4 walleye fillets

TARTAR SAUCE:

2/3 cup chopped dill pickles

1/2 cup mayonnaise

3 tablespoons finely chopped onion

Dash pepper

COLESLAW:

3 cups coleslaw mix

1/3 cup coleslaw salad dressing

4 brioche hamburger buns, split and toasted

Lemon wedges, optional

Directions

  1. In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, baking powder and seasonings. Stir in beer and egg until smooth. Dip fillets in batter; allow excess to drip off.
  2. Fry fish in hot oil in batches until golden brown, 2-3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
  3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine all tartar sauce ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
  4. In another bowl, combine coleslaw mix and dressing.
  5. On each bun bottom, layer fish, prepared coleslaw and tartar sauce. Replace tops; serve with lemon wedges, if desired.