There has been a trend over the past few years, maybe longer. Right before and during the traditional MN Gun Deer Season, fall walleyes, massive in size, are in the Rainy River. Will this year be one of those years? The one thing is for sure, if you are reading about it after the fact, you may have missed out.
Is this year prime for massive fall walleyes in the Rainy River?
Only Mother Nature knows. Every year is different. Some years, there is good flow and cooling temps. Other years, the flow is low and it is a warm fall. Who knows why some years produce decent numbers of walleyes while other years, the river is loaded and there are some giants amongst the schools.
There are a lot of seasoned anglers who have a lot of years of fall fishing on the Rainy River under their belts. With that being said, again, Mother Nature dictates and often blows away even the best hypothesis.
There is no doubt as we get towards the end of October, many outdoors-people minds turns to hunting. Very understandable. With that being said, having the chance to hit the river just one more time before ice up could be the best and most memorable trip of the year for massive fall walleyes.
Fall, 2025.
The fall of 2025 has been unseasonably warm. The river is low as is the current. With that being said, there are shiners in the river and good numbers of walleyes. We know there are some big fish in the river as they are being caught. The question, will the really big girls come in for dinner? Only Mother Nature knows, but things could be shaping up for some great late fall walleye fishing.
What is the go to presentation?
No surprise to many, it is jigging. When the current is low, anglers can use 1/4 – 1/2 ounce jigs. When increased current, it is important to have heavier jigs. With the stained water, the walleyes don’t seem to mind. When we mention heavier jigs, it is good to have them up to 1.5 ounces just in case. In most cases, a smaller jig will suffice if you are fishing out of the current. The boy scout motto, “Always be Prepared”.
There are a number of jigging techniques on the Rainy River that can be effective. One technique is to anchor up and vertically jig over the side of the boat. Depending upon the current, your line may be a bit downstream, but that can be ok. It is good to use a jig that can “thunk” the bottom once in a while, which can attract walleyes.
Another technique is to purposely have a bit more angle in your line. Especially in current, pull the jig forward in the current and let it drop back until you feel it hit bottom. Lift it off a bit sharper next time. Maybe shake the jig, hold it steady. It is up to us as anglers to figure out what the walleyes want.
Jig colors?
With the stained waters of Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, big walleyes are typically interested in gold, orange, chartreuse, and glow or a combo of such. There are other nuances some use for jigging. In the stained water, noise can be helpful. Rattles, blades and spinners all add not only sound but also in some cases, extra flash.
Bait.
As far as the bait on the jig, emerald shiners are the go to. Emeralds are native to the Rainy and is one main reason the walleyes are there. Emeralds run up the river in the fall. There is no for sure reasoning why they run. I have heard theories such as it is food related or the shiners are running to toughen up for the winter, getting re-slimed in the big schools. Nobody really know. What we do know, big fall walleyes love them and stay close.
Yep, it gets a bit cold outside on the back end of October into November. If you can handle the weather, the reward could be massive numbers of big fall walleyes and perhaps that fish of a lifetime!
This is a special week for deer hunters in Minnesota as well as other states where deer hunting is popular. Although many have already been hunting with bow, crossbow or through the youth deer hunt or special hunts in high density areas, the actual traditional deer hunting opener for gun hunting is fast approaching. It is a special time to get in nature, continue long standing traditions and for some, even shoot a deer. Hardcore deer hunters are probably dialed in when it comes to taking care of the animal after the harvest, but even skilled hunters can pick up some nice pointers through these nicely done videos put out by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
One of the main skills a deer hunter needs is how to gut a deer. If you have never done it, don’t worry, it isn’t that difficult. In this video, all they use is a knife and a zip tie! What is the zip tie for? Actually, it isn’t a bad idea. They actually zip tie the small intestine just in front of the anus for feces from the deer doesn’t come in contact with the meat. That is a new one for this deer hunter and not a bad idea.
Some choose to bring a few extra tools with them in the woods such as disposable gloves, hunter’s field saw which makes life easy for cutting through the pelvis bone and ribs, opening up the deer to air to be not only cleaned out easier but to cool down the meat.
There is also a tool called a “butt out” field dressing tool. In essence, this eliminates the need for a zip tie as you basically insert this tool in the anus of your big game. This makes it so the feces doesn’t come out. It also makes it easy to cut around and pull out this part of the internals when all of the entrails are freed and ready to be rolled out of the cavity of the deer.
For many, knowing how to gut a deer is the most crucial step. It is helpful to carry a rope or strap to be able to drag your gutted deer to your ATV, UTV or truck for further transport. Make sure to tag your deer in the field when you shoot it. You also need to register your deer within the next 48 hours and before it is processed privately or commercially. That can be done online, over the phone or at a deer registration station.
If you are good with a smartphone, it is very easy to register it online. You will then write the registration numbers on the tag which is on the deer. I even do a screenshot of the registration just in case the tag would get lost, for using it later at the butcher shop if I bring my deer in to be processed, etc.
In today’s world, there are a lot of butcher shops who will process your deer. This is more expensive, but makes life easy. In this case, all you have to do is gut the deer and they will do the rest. You even have the chance to pick out what cuts you want, if you want ground, sausage, bacon, etc. made from your venison.
Some might choose to process the deer on their own. This involves skinning and quartering the deer. This can be done in the field, as the following videos show, or back in your garage or shed later.
Regardless of how you process your deer, the big thing to remember is take good care of the meat. If it is warm out when you harvest your deer, that might mean getting some big bags of ice into the cavity of the deer to cool it down and keep it cool. As the saying goes, what starts out right, ends right.
Here are two more videos, one on skinning a deer, the other on quartering a deer. For some who hunt elk, moose or other really big game, the practice of quartering your animal, putting the meat in special bags and hiking the meat out in back packs is protocol as the animal is just too large to drag, there is difficult terrain to manage, etc. This practice can certainly be used for deer as well.
Taking care of your deer is important to maintain the quality of the meat but also ethical to make sure the animal harvested goes to good use. These videos, regardless of what level hunter you might be, are helpful. If nothing else, even experienced hunters can learn a different technique or perspective.
We wish all hunters the very best in the field this year. Take the extra time to be safe and take precautions while hunting. Enjoy this outdoor activity that is so near and dear to the hearts of so many. Good luck!
Get ready to catch those walleyes and perch through the ice. This combination of lemon juice, basil and other seasonings is fantastic. Maybe even try grilling them while on the lake during hard water season. Recipe by Taste of Home.
Ingredients
1 pound walleye, pike, perch or trout fillets
2 teaspoons butter, softene
Walleye Delight Recipe by Taste of Home.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1-3/4 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
Directions
Coat an 18-in. square piece of heavy-duty foil with cooking spray Place fillets on foil. Spread with butter. Sprinkle with lemon juice, basil, lemon-pepper and garlic salt. Top with mushrooms.
Seal foil tightly. Grill, covered, over medium-hot heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Carefully remove foil to allow steam to escape.
Everyone at Lake of the Woods is excited about Ice Fishing this winter. We must preface this article by stating that we don’t have ice here just yet. Mother Nature has decided to give us some mild temps and that is nice for travel but it is slow in making ice. The Rainy River is a good indicator and it’s fun to watch as the current gets slower and slower during the late fall season. Temperatures are dipping at night and any day now we will see a skim of ice on the bay.
Caution and Safety are very important words for this beginning ice season. MN DNR gives some great guidelines and we are recommending that you contact your favorite outfitter before trying the ice.
You, for sure, don’t have to be a professional and you don’t have to hold back from a new experience of ice fishing. Everyone of all ages and genders can have this exciting time. You don’t have to buy expensive fishing poles or tackle or even expensive outer wear. “Come as you are!” and be ready to reel in an adventure of a lifetime. Of course, once you’ve put your hand to this great outdoors experience, you’ll be “hooked” and after the first time you won’t be a novice anymore!
What is your favorite species? Lake of the Woodsis the largest fresh water lake next to the Great Lakes in the United States. There are 14,552 islands and over 65,000 miles of shoreline to capture your attention at any time. It is the home of walleye, sauger, northern, perch, smallmouth bass, black carp, tullibees, eelpout and muskies.
However, as wonderful as open water fishing is, fishing through the ice has become an exciting national favorite. The waters of Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River will soon freeze over completely r and suddenly you will see a whole city of houses
This Novice caught her first walleye of the Season on the ice on Lake of the Woods MN
placed in various spots on the lake. It has been said that the “city” consists of
thousands of ice houses of many varieties and colors. A site to behold!!! Let’s describe this experience from the eyes of a novice angler.
First, choose the resort of your preference and let them drive you on a well-maintained ice road (actually plowed and graded) in a track vehicle fully equipped to take you up over an island and out to the great expanse of ice and snow. Ice can reach depths of over 50” throughout the winter.
Before your arrival, guides have gone out to the ice “shacks” and opened holes, turned up the furnaces, and placed poles and bait for your use. These little houses are toasty by the time you arrive and you’ll be taking off a few layers of clothing to get ready for the catch.
Bring along a thermos of coffee and your favorite sandwiches or snacks and now you are ready for a full day of fishing fun. There is no other sport that compares to this!!! So Exciting!!! An added benefit is that many of the houses are now equipped with bathrooms inside the houses – especially nice for the ladies and children. Many “shacks” are also equipped with small stoves and a few pans to use for heating up your meals. No need for a refrigerator…..haha.
The guides will set you up, teach you to feel the bottom, teach you how to jig and what color to use to lure (pun intended) those fish up the holes and into your bucket and eventually to your table. Exciting? The sounds of excitement will be heard house to house as screams of delight are heard when that fish flies out of the hole. Every fish caught is an extreme accomplishment no matter what size it is. There is no greater exciting time than pulling a fighting fish through that hole. Everyone is hooting and hollering and celebrating your catch.
Soon, limits of fish are caught and you look out over the horizon and it seems as though creation smiles at you as you will see some of the most gorgeous sunsets to ever behold.
Guides that have checked on you many times during the day will now arrive again to transport you back to your favorite resort. Now….you are no longer a “novice” but an experienced angler. Men and women alike can’t wait to return to these waters year after year for their fishing fun. That’s especially true of this author!! Come…there’s lots of room!!!
On the South End… A good week of fall walleye fishing on Big Traverse Bay. Anglers reported nice numbers of fish. Fish continue to be found in different locations along the south shore in 15–22 feet of
Boy with a Huge Fall Walleye
water, setting up nicely for the upcoming ice fishing season.
Water temperatures continue to cool at a moderate pace. According to the Lake of the Woods Tourism Wave Buoys, the Big Traverse Bay surface temperature is now 49°F, down from 53°F last week. As water temperatures drop, walleyes are sliding shallower and feeding heavily in preparation for winter, which means the bite is only getting better.
The best presentation remains vertical jigging with a frozen or live emerald shiner. A few anglers are still finding success trolling crankbaits to cover water, but the classic jig-and-minnow bite is tough to beat right now.
Fall Walleye caught on a Charter
Hot jig colors this week include orange/chartreuse, gold/orange or solid gold combined with pink, and glow white.
Expect a nice mixed bag of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, and the occasional crappie or northern pike. The fall transition bite has been consistent and action-packed.
On the Rainy River… Emerald shiners have moved into the Rainy River, though large schools have yet to arrive. Still, walleye reports were solid this week with plenty of fish being caught. Anglers are working current breaks, deeper holes, and weed edges, primarily jigging with a frozen or live shiner. Others are trolling crankbaits to cover water and locate active fish.
Sturgeon fishing is good with many anglers catching multiple fish per trip. A classic sturgeon rig loaded with crawlers — and optionally tipped with a shiner or two — is effective. The catch-and-release sturgeon season is in effect.
Up at the Northwest Angle… Fishing continues to be excellent across the islands and reefs of the Northwest Angle on both sides of the border. A jig and minnow remains the go-to tactic on points, reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions. Anglers are catching walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, smallmouth bass, and pike in good numbers.
Muskie anglers are also finding good success as cooling water temps have fish on the move. Fall is prime time for trophy muskies over the 50-inch mark, and anglers are reporting plenty of follows and hookups on both artificial and live bait.
Guides still have openings for that last fall trip, or, bring up your own boat. Lodging, guides and ice fishing packages at LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.
On the South End… A very similar report to last week with another great week of walleye fishing on Big Traverse Bay. Strong numbers of walleyes are set up in traditional fall locations across the south shore of the lake. In front of Pine Island, Morris Point Gap, in front of Zippel Bay, Long Point over to Twin Islands. This is also setting up nicely for ice fishing!
The bite is very good and will even get better as water temps decrease. From the Lake of the Woods Wave Buoys, the water temp last week was 55 degrees. It is down to 53 degrees this week.
Big Fall Walleye caught on Lake of the Woods MN
The best bite this week is in 17 – 25 feet. Vertical jigging with a frozen or live emerald shiner is definitely the goto presentation, however, some anglers are still trolling crankbaits with good success.
Hot jig colors this week were orange / chartreuse, gold / orange or gold, pink, and glow white. When hooking the minnow on a jig, place the hook of the jig through the mouth and out the gill of the minnow, pushing the minnow as far up towards the jig head as possible, and then hook the minnow about half or 2/3 of the way back on the minnow. In the stained waters, the walleyes aren’t as picky and your hookups will increase.
Expect a mixed bag of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch and an occasional crappie or pike in the mix.
Rainy River… Emerald shiners are in the river but not in big numbers yet. There are decent numbers of walleyes with some good reports this week. A jig and frozen or live shiner along current breaks, deeper holes, and weed edges, while others were covering water trolling crankbaits.
Big Fall Walleye
Normally, emerald shiners are the go to bait. Fall is when bait dealers net, freeze and package emerald shiners which are used all year long. Consequently, some live shiners are currently available.
Sturgeon anglers are reporting some nice fish, and in many cases, good numbers. A classic sturgeon rig with crawlers (optionally tipped with some shiners) has been effective. The sturgeon catch-and-release season is upon us and continues through April 23, 2026.
Northwest Angle… Walleye fishing continues to be excellent on both sides of the border. Again, a jig and minnow on points, over reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions is catching good numbers of walleyes with saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, smallmouth bass and pike.
Muskie anglers are reporting good activity with cooling water temps. Fall is one of the best times of the year to pursue trophy fish over that 50 inch mark in these parts.
With a mild weather forecast for this time of year, some great fall fishing is still available. Charter boats and guides are still available through October, or bring up your own boat. You don’t have to travel far to find good numbers of walleyes this time of year. For fishing info, guides, fall hot deals and resort packages, visit https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/fall-fishing-rainy-river-boat-ramps/
The Rainy River in northern Minnesota has long been known as one of the best walleye fisheries in North America. Each fall, anglers from near and far gather along its banks to enjoy the incredible autumn bite — and one event that has become a true fall tradition for walleye anglers is the Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament, hosted by Border View Lodge.
On Saturday, October 11th, Border View Lodge hosted the 15th Annual Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament, drawing 75 teams to compete for the title of Chili Bowl Champions right in the heart of walleye country.
A Celebration of Fishing, Friendship, and Fall Tradition
This annual tournament has grown from humble beginnings into one of the most anticipated fall events on the Rainy River. Anglers of all experience levels — from seasoned pros to local weekend fishermen — come together for a day of camaraderie, fun, and some friendly competition on the water.
Teams of two anglers each set out to find and measure their best five walleyes throughout the day. What makes the Chili Bowl so special is that it embraces both modern technology and conservation. The tournament uses the popular Fish Donkey app, which has become a favorite among competitive anglers. Participants take a photo of each fish on a ruler or “bump board” for an official measurement, followed by a second “hero” shot — then the fish is quickly released back into the water.
This catch-photo-release format keeps things simple and fair while being exceptionally conservation-minded, ensuring every walleye caught during the tournament goes right back into the Rainy River to fight another day.
Big Fish and Big Smiles
This year’s tournament did not disappoint. The team of Chris Philen and Tony Boyd took home the top honors with an incredible total weight of 35.70 pounds for their five walleyes — averaging over seven pounds per fish! Congratulations to Chris and Tony for an outstanding day on the water and for joining the ranks of past Chili Bowl champions.
As part of the event’s lighthearted tradition, the winning team celebrates by eating chili out of the famous Chili Bowl trophy, a quirky and beloved ritual that captures the fun, community spirit of the event.
From Humble Beginnings to a Premier Fall Event
When the Chili Bowl first began 15 years ago, it was a much more relaxed, local-style tournament. In the early days, teams were only allowed to weigh walleyes under the protected slot of 19.5 inches, and the format involved bringing fish to the scales right at Border View Lodge. It wasn’t unusual to see pontoon boats full of friends anchored along a river edge, jigging up walleyes while enjoying the crisp fall air — and maybe even taking a mid-day break to enjoy a bowl of hot chili right at the lodge.
Over time, the event has evolved, much like the sport of fishing has evolved. The switch to a catch-and-release format through the Fish Donkey app brought new excitement and opportunity, as anglers can now register and release walleyes within the protected slot range of 19.5 to 28 inches. In the past, a fish in the slot, or a walleye over 28 inches, wouldn’t count.
The modern format ensures accurate measurements, quick verification, and excellent fish care — a win-win for both anglers and the fishery.
A Prime Rib Finish
While chili remains a fun theme, the menu has certainly been elevated over the years. Today, participants are treated to a delicious prime rib dinner at Border View Lodge following the tournament. The dinner provides the perfect ending to a full day on the water — a time to swap stories, celebrate the winners, and share laughs over a hearty meal.
The Border View Lodge team truly rolls out the red carpet for anglers. From the well-organized event logistics to the warm hospitality, every detail reflects their commitment to making the Chili Bowl a highlight of the fall season. Many anglers return year after year, and the positive buzz from participants shows just how special this event has become.
Over time, the event evolved along with technology. The switch to a catch-and-release format through the Fish Donkey app brought new excitement and opportunity, as anglers can now register and release walleyes within the protected slot range of 19.5 to 28 inches. The modern format ensures accurate measurements, quick verification, and excellent fish care — a win-win for both anglers and the
As part of the event’s lighthearted tradition, the winning team celebrates by eating chili out of the famous Chili Bowl trophy, a quirky and beloved ritual that captures the fun, community spirit of the event.
Looking Ahead to 2026
If this year’s tournament is any indication, the Chili Bowl’s popularity will only continue to grow. Registration is already open for the 2026 Chili Bowl, and spots are expected to fill quickly. The entry fee is $300 per team, which includes not only tournament participation but also the prime rib dinner and lots of giveaways provided by the generous sponsors and hosts.
For anglers looking for a fun, friendly, and exciting fall fishing event — surrounded by the beauty of northern Minnesota and the thrill of the Rainy River walleye run — the Chili Bowl is the perfect choice.
So grab your favorite fishing partner, charge your smartphone for those Fish Donkey hero shots, and get ready for another memorable year at the Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament at Border View Lodge — where fishing, friendship, and fall tradition come together on the Rainy River.
What is the fall run of walleyes on the Rainy River?
Each fall, as the days begin to get shorter and the water starts to cool, emerald shiners, a favorite of Lake of the Woods walleyes, begin to enter the Rainy River in good numbers. Naturally, walleyes from Lake of the Woods are close behind. This annual fall tradition sets up an incredible walleye bite on the Rainy River.
When does the fall run of walleyes begin?
Only Mother Nature knows for sure, but typically it begins in mid September and continues through the fall until ice up.
What do anglers use to catch fall walleyes?
Can you still catch walleyes on the lake?
Absolutely, in fact walleyes school up in the fall across the south shore and amongst the many islands of the NW Angle of Lake of the Woods. As winter is approaching, walleyes are putting on the feedbag, often setting up some of the best fishing of the entire year.
If you’re asking yourself, “Where should I go ice fishing this winter?” the answer many seasoned anglers and families agree on is Lake of the Woods, Minnesota — the Walleye Capital of the World. Each winter, this massive northern lake transforms into a thriving “ice city” of heated fish houses, plowed ice roads, and friendly resorts that make ice fishing easy for everyone — even if you have no experience or equipment.
Why Lake of the Woods Is Ideal for Beginners and Groups
If your family or group wants to experience ice fishing but doesn’t have gear, knowledge, or a snowmobile — no problem. Lake of the Woods is famous for full-service ice fishing, where resorts and outfitters handle everything.
Here’s what’s included when you book:
Heated fish houses (usually around 70°F) — no freezing on a bucket here!
Pre-drilled holes and a clean, ready-to-fish setup.
Transportation to and from the house via heated track vehicles or plowed ice roads.
Guides who check in regularly, help you catch fish, and even clean your catch.
Optional “catch and cook” dinners — many resorts will fry up your fresh-caught walleyes with all the sides.
You simply show up, hang up your jacket, drop a line, and start catching fish.
What Makes Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing So Special
Lake of the Woods is one of the most productive walleye fisheries in North America. Millions of walleyes and saugers roam its waters, providing steady action and the chance to catch trophy fish. It’s also home to northern pike, perch, eelpout, and even an occasional sturgeon through the ice.
Because of its reliable ice conditions and massive size, fishing remains consistent all winter long — from early December through March.
Add in friendly resort staff, incredible sunsets over the snow-covered lake, and the camaraderie of fishing with friends and family, and it’s easy to see why thousands return year after year.
Where the Ice Fishing Happens: Two Main Areas
1. Big Traverse Bay (South Shore)
This expansive area stretches roughly 30 miles north-to-south and 25 miles east-to-west — it’s big ice! Resorts and outfitters constantly track fish movements and move houses accordingly to keep guests on active schools of walleyes and saugers. Depending on the bite, you may fish near shore or miles out on the ice.
Located at the northernmost point of the continental U.S., the Northwest Angle is another world-class ice fishing area. You can drive there through Canada or take the Lake of the Woods Passenger Service, a bombardier ride across the frozen lake that stays entirely in Minnesota. Once you arrive, outfitters provide the same full-service experience — heated houses, gear, guides, and great fishing.
Getting There and Getting Around
Resorts make access to your fish house and ice fishing simple and safe.
Early season: guests are transported by heated track vehicles or light ice rigs.
Mid to late season: plowed ice roads allow guests to drive personal vehicles right to their fish house or resort bombardiers and track rigs transport guests right to their fish house.
This extensive infrastructure — maintained by resorts and local businesses — is part of what makes Lake of the Woods the easiest and safest place in Minnesota to experience ice fishing.
What to Expect Beyond the Fishing
Ice fishing at Lake of the Woods is about more than catching fish. It’s a social and relaxing winter getaway. You’ll enjoy:
Warm, comfortable fish houses with panoramic winter views.
Great conversation, laughter, and maybe a hot meal cooked or even a few of your favorite beverages right on the ice.
Resort amenities such as restaurants, bars, and lodging options.
Unique and fun bars out on the ice including the Igloo Bar and the Angry Walleye!
Beautiful northern Minnesota winter scenery and wildlife.
Families, couples, corporate groups, and friends all find their own kind of magic out on the frozen lake.
How to Start Planning Your Ice Fishing Trip
If you’re wondering, “How do I start planning my Lake of the Woods ice fishing trip?” — here’s what to do next:
You’ll find a list of resorts, sleeper fish houses, and outfitters, along with rates and photos.
Choose your style:
Day house trip – return to your warm resort cabin or lodge room each evening.
Sleeper fish house – stay overnight right on the ice.
Book early! Prime weekends fill quickly.
Pack light: the resort provides nearly everything. Bring warm clothes, snacks, and your favorite beverages.
Experience Full-Service Ice Fishing — Lake of the Woods Style
This winter, discover why Lake of the Woods is the premier destination for full-service ice fishing in Minnesota. Whether it’s your first time dropping a line or your hundredth, the combination of great fishing, professional guides, and comfortable accommodations make it an unforgettable experience.
Warm fish houses, friendly faces, and world-class walleye fishing — that’s Lake of the Woods.
Summary: Full-service ice fishing on Lake of the Woods in Minnesota—heated fish houses, guides, plowed ice roads, and resort amenities. Ideal for families, groups, and first-timers.
Plan Your Ice Fishing Adventure
Warm fish houses, friendly faces, and world-class walleye fishing—Lake of the Woods makes winter easy and unforgettable.
Lake of the Woods, Minnesota is a top choice thanks to full-service resorts, heated fish houses, guides, and reliable ice conditions from early winter through March.
Full-service ice fishing packages include heated fish houses, drilled and cleaned holes, transportation to the fish house or an ice road so you can drive yourself to the fish house, guide check-ins and fish cleaning.
In addition, there are a wide variety of lodging options including cabins, villas, suites and lodge rooms.
Eat out or cook your own meals. Many of the resorts offer great food and fun bars. There is also the option of cooking your own meals in your cabin. Some guests do both!
Visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com for resort listings, sleeper fish houses, rates, and availability. Book early, choose day-house or sleeper, and confirm transportation or ice-road access.
Lake of the Woods is considered The Walleye Capital of the World. The focus in these parts is primarily walleyes and saugers, with chances for perch, northern pike, and eelpout. Action is consistent all winter.
There are some ice anglers that target sturgeon through the ice, primarily on safe stretches of the Rainy River.
Up at the NW Angle, in addition to walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, eelpout and pike, there are resorts that specialize in targeting big crappies!
2 large sweet red peppers
Walleye with a Cornmeal Crust
4 large ears sweet corn, husks removed
3 tablespoons canola oil, divided
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1-3/4 teaspoons salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
3 tablespoons butter
Directions
Broil red peppers 4 in. from the heat until skins blister, about 15 minutes. With tongs, rotate peppers a quarter turn. Broil and rotate until all sides are blistered and blackened. Immediately place peppers in a large bowl; cover and let stand for 15-20 minutes.
Meanwhile, brush corn with 1 tablespoon oil. Transfer to an ungreased 13×9-in. baking dish. Cover and bake at 350° until tender, 30-40 minutes. Peel off and discard charred skin from peppers. Remove stems and seeds. Finely chop peppers. Cut corn from cobs.
In a shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper and cayenne. Coat walleye in cornmeal mixture.
In a large skillet, saute mushrooms in butter until tender. Add peppers, corn and remaining salt; saute 2-3 minutes longer.
In another large skillet, fry fillets in remaining oil for 2-3 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve with corn salsa.
Winter employment is available at Minnesota’s Lake of the Woods! Lake of the Woods comes alive with energy and opportunity. As one of the best ice fishing destinations in the world, our area welcomes thousands of visitors eager to experience the Walleye Capital of the World — and that means resorts, hotels, ice guides, restaurants, and local businesses are buzzing with activity. To keep things running smoothly, we rely on great people — and this winter, many employers are hiring!
Work Where You Love to Play
Are you looking for a change? Maybe you’re an adventure seeker who loves the outdoors? Why not work in a place that others dream of visiting? Many resorts, hotels, and supporting businesses around Lake of the Woods are now hiring for the winter season.
If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “I could live here,” this might be your moment to make it happen. Most people regret not taking more chances in life — here’s one worth taking.
Imagine living in an area people travel across the country to fish, hunt and vacation. Spend days off setting the hook and exploring new areas. This is available right now!
Because of it’s world class fishing and strong tourism, Lake of the Woods boasts a number of strong businesses in the hospitality industry such as resorts, hotels, bars, and restaurants with a myriad of good positions that need to be filled each and every year.
Business owners in these parts value good employees and they are well compensated for their hard work and dedication. In addition, there are lots of opportunities to gain valuable skills and move into management positions as well.
A Thriving Place to Work and Live
Lake of the Woods isn’t just a great place to fish, hunt, and enjoy the outdoors — it’s also an excellent place to build a career or start a business. The region enjoys a steady flow of visitors, a growing local economy, and a strong community built on education, healthcare, and opportunity.
Our county features quality healthcare, top-rated schools, and a welcoming small-town spirit. From the many new developments, fun new coffee houses and eateries as well as the convenient amenities that make life enjoyable, right here in the north country.
Resort and Hospitality Opportunities
Winter is one of the busiest seasons at Lake of the Woods, thanks to our consistent ice, daytime walleye bite, and world-class resort community. Resorts across the south shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle are gearing up for a busy season and need dependable staff.
Positions include:
Ice guides
Front desk and lodging staff
Housekeeping
Cooks and servers
Bartenders
Marketing and business management
Maintenance and transportation
This is hospitality at its finest — and many couples find success working together in these seasonal or year-round roles.
Finding Openings
If you have a favorite resort, don’t hesitate to give them a call. Many positions aren’t always listed online, but resorts are hiring now. It’s been said that 80% of job openings are never advertised — a simple phone call or email can go a long way and shows initiative.
People stay in Lake of the Woods County because of the people. We take pride in our community, our outdoor heritage, and our commitment to creating a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
As winter approaches, now is the perfect time to consider making Lake of the Woods your new home — or at least your new adventure. Work in the heart of one of Minnesota’s most beautiful and exciting destinations.
Lake of the Woods — where opportunity and adventure meet.
Lake of the Woods, Minnesota is a top choice thanks to full-service resorts, heated fish houses, guides, and reliable ice conditions from early winter through March.
Full-service ice fishing packages include heated fish houses, drilled and cleaned holes, transportation to the fish house or an ice road so you can drive yourself to the fish house, guide check-ins and fish cleaning.
In addition, there are a wide variety of lodging options including cabins, villas, suites and lodge rooms.
Eat out or cook your own meals. Many of the resorts offer great food and fun bars. There is also the option of cooking your own meals in your cabin. Some guests do both!
Visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com for resort listings, sleeper fish houses, rates, and availability. Book early, choose day-house or sleeper, and confirm transportation or ice-road access.
Lake of the Woods is considered The Walleye Capital of the World. The focus in these parts is primarily walleyes and saugers, with chances for perch, northern pike, and eelpout. Action is consistent all winter.
There are some ice anglers that target sturgeon through the ice, primarily on safe stretches of the Rainy River.
Up at the NW Angle, in addition to walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, eelpout and pike, there are resorts that specialize in targeting big crappies!
