Fishing Report 4.30.2025

On the South Shore…  The focus along the south shore is now on watching the ice disappear from back bays, big pike moving into ditches and shallow bays to spawn, and, of course, the ice out on Big Traverse Bay.  Ice across the big lake is black and deteriorating quickly.  Bays are open or partially open, and with every warm day, the ice continues to retreat.

From now until the Minnesota Fishing Opener on May 10th, anglers are targeting northern pike in the bays and sturgeon in the Rainy River.

Ditches are running with spring meltwater, and shallow bays are opening up fast. This is the prime window for finding huge pike staging for the spawn—a rare spring fishing opportunity not available in most parts of Minnesota.

Spring pike can be caught in a variety of ways. Fishing with dead bait under a bobber, casting spoons, or trolling shallow-running crankbaits are all effective techniques. Target shallow bays along the south shore like Four Mile Bay, Bostic Bay, and Zippel Bay for a chance at a true trophy.

The pike limit on the Minnesota side of Lake of the Woods is three fish per day. All pike between 30 and 40 inches must be released, but anglers can keep one pike over 40 inches. Many anglers opt to take measurements and pictures before releasing their catch, then order a replica mount to preserve the memory. Ryans first big sturgeon Border View Lodge 042825

On the Rainy River…  Sturgeon fishing is in full swing—and the bite has been excellent. Anglers are catching good numbers of these prehistoric giants, and the Rainy River is one of the best places in North America to hook into one.

They are sturgeon throughout the entire river.  Four Mile Bay at the mouth of the river has been holding good numbers of nice fish.  Otherwise, most anglers are targeting holes up and down the river.

To stay on the bottom in the stronger current, most anglers are using 4 to 6-ounce no-roll sinkers combined with a traditional sturgeon rig. A typical setup includes an 18-inch leader with a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook, baited with nightcrawlers or a combination of crawlers and frozen emerald shiners. Local bait shops and resorts are stocked with everything you’ll need for sturgeon success.

fishing
73.25 inch sturgeon

Sturgeon season is open through May 15th, with important dates to keep in mind:

Harvest Season (keep one sturgeon per calendar year, 45-50″ or over 75″): April 24 – May 7 and July 1 – September 30.

Catch and Release Season: May 8 – May 15 and October 1 – April 23.

Closed Season: May 16 – June 30.

If you plan to keep a sturgeon during the harvest season, remember you must purchase a $5 sturgeon tag ahead of time. Sturgeon are excellent smoked, and many anglers enjoy their rich flavor.

The Minnesota DNR estimates there are around 100,000 sturgeon over 40 inches long between Morson, Ontario, and the mouth of the Rainy River. The sturgeon population is strong—and getting even stronger.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Progress continues at the Northwest Angle with more open water showing up daily. Other than a few local airboats making mail and supply runs, ice travel is finished for the season.

The focus now is on open water preparations and the May 10th fishing opener. Resorts and guides at the Angle are already gearing up for the spring and summer fishing seasons.

Given the strong ice fishing season and healthy lake conditions, expectations are high for excellent open water fishing again this year.

Now is the time to plan your spring or summer trip! For fishing reports, resort info, and trip ideas, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

Pan-Fried Breaded Trout

Trout

Here’s another trout recipe in case you hook one while fishing in the waters of Lake of the Woods. 

Ingredients

  • 4 lake trout fillets (about 8 ounces each)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup bacon-flavored crackers, crushed
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
    Trout
    Photo by Taste of Home
  • Pinch pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • Lemon wedges and/or minced chives or parsley, optional

Directions

  1. Rinse fish in cold water; pat dry. In a shallow bowl, combine the cheese, cracker crumbs, cornmeal, garlic salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat eggs and milk. Dip fish in the egg mixture, then gently roll in the crumb mixture.
  2. In a large skillet, fry fish in oil for 3-4 minutes on each side or until it flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with lemon, chives and/or parsley if desired.

Wonderful Wildflowers of Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods in Minnesota bursts into color each summer as wildflowers bloom across the forests, ditches, and meadows. From early June through mid-July, the area becomes a haven for flower lovers, nature photographers, and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.​ wildflowers

Wonderful Wildflowers are known to make their appearance at Lake of the Woods. The woods and the ditches come alive with vibrant colors and start dotting the landscape with their beautiful adornment. Various Gardening Clubs start using their expertise in beautifying the land and also want to educate others to the natural beauty that is provided by Mother Nature.

The plants of the wild flourish alone and unattended. The humus of the forest floor provides nutrition; the rains offer need water. They form buds, bloom, develop seeds, in their own way and in their own time. More than two million orchids blanket the Lake of the Woods area. The showy lady’s-slipper is one of 43 orchid species that grow in Minnesota. Many people consider it the most beautiful flower in the state.

🌸 The Star of the Show: Showy Lady’s Slipper

wildflowers Minnesota’s state flower, the Showy Lady’s Slipper, is a rare and beautiful orchid. It has white petals with a pink “slipper” pouch and grows in wet, sunny areas like bogs and ditches. These flowers can live up to 100 years and take about 15 years to bloom. Because they are protected by law, it is illegal to pick or dig them up—but you can take as many photos as you like!​

In 1990, the governor of Minnesota declared 81 miles of Highway 11 a Minnesota Wildflower Route, in honor of the hundreds of thousands of Showy Lady’s-Slippers growing within sight of the road. The state put up signs depicting the Showy Lady’s-Slipper to mark the route, and pledged to expand the highway only to the south, protecting the masses of Showy Lady’s-Slippers on the north side of the road. The local people and wildflower enthusiasts gather in June for the annual “Wildflower Route Celebration”.

The best place to see them is along the 81-mile Wildflower Route on Highway 11, especially near Williams, Minnesota. Each June, the town hosts the Wildflower Tour, starting at Lady Slipper Park. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided 4-mile walk, with over 100 types of wildflowers marked along the way. Garden club members are stationed throughout the route to answer questions and provide educational pamphlets. There’s even a scavenger hunt and snacks!​

🌼 Other Wildflowers to Look For

While the Showy Lady’s Slipper is the main attraction, many other wildflowers bloom in the area:​

  • Yellow Lady’s Slipper – A bright yellow orchid with wildflowers burgundy sepals.
  • Wild Rose – Pink blooms with a sweet scent.
  • Yarrow – Clusters of small white flowers.
  • Bracken Fern – Large, feathery green fronds.
  • Blue Flag Iris – Purple-blue flowers found in wetlands.
  • Marsh Marigold – Bright yellow flowers in wet areas.
  • Columbine – Red and yellow bell-shaped flowers.
  • Fireweed – Tall spikes of pink flowers that bloom after fires.
  • Pasqueflower – Lavender petals that bloom early in spring.
  • Western Prairie Fringed Orchid – A rare white orchid found in wet prairies. MN DNR​

🌿 Plan Your Visit

The Wildflower Tour in Williams is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Lake of the Woods. The tour is self-guided, so you can go at your own pace. Remember to bring your camera, stay on marked paths, and never pick the flowers. For more information, contact Pat at 1-218-783-2091 or email troskey@wiktel.com.​

To learn more about Minnesota’s wildflowers, visit Minnesota Wildflowers.​

Enjoy the fresh air, take in the colors, and see what nature has been up to after the winter!​

 We have over 50 resorts to serve you with great accommodations, great restaurants and of course, there’s always great fishing here.

Check out all of your options at www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

 www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com

or www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

Fishing Report 4.22.2025

fishing

On the South Shore…  The focus along the south shore is watching the ice disappear from back bays, big pike sliding into the bays and ditches for the spawn and of course ice out on the main lake (Big Traverse Bay).  

From now until the Minnesota Fishing Opener on May 10th, anglers will be targeting northern pike (and sturgeon on the Rainy River).

Ditches are running and shallow bays are starting to pop open. Now is the time when the big pike are moving in, staging for the upcoming spawn.  This is a great spring fishing opportunity not available in most parts of the state.

fishing
Big Sturgeon

Various techniques for spring pike are effective.  A dead bait under a bobber, casting spoons or trolling shallow crankbaits all can be effective. However you fish, shallow bays along the south shore such as Four Mile Bay, Bostic Bay and Zippel Bay are a prime spot to hook into a true trophy.

The pike limit on the Minnesota side of Lake of the Woods is three fish per day. All pike between 30 and 40 inches must be released, but one pike over 40 inches can be kept. Many anglers choose to take measurements and photos, release their fish, and order a replica mount to remember the catch. All great options!

On the Rainy River…  Now that walleye season is closed, sturgeon fishing is in full swing and the bite is very good.  Anglers are catching solid numbers of these prehistoric giants. Some of the feeder creeks have opened up, increasing the current. That added flow has lowered visibility of the water a bit, but sturgeon primarily feed by scent, so fishing has not been affected.

fishing
Big Lake Sturgeon

Most anglers are using 4 to 6-ounce no roll sinkers with their sturgeon rigs to stay on the bottom in the heavier current. A typical sturgeon rig includes an 18-inch leader, a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook, and baited with nightcrawlers, or crawlers paired with frozen emerald shiners. Local bait shops and resorts are well-stocked with everything you’ll need.

The sturgeon season is open through May 15th. Here are the upcoming dates to keep in mind:

Catch and Release Season: May 8 – May 15, and again October 1 – April 23.

Harvest Season: April 24 – May 7, and July 1 – September 30.

Closed Season: May 16 – June 30.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Progress is being made with more and more open water this week. Other than some local airboats, travel on the ice is pretty much done.  The focus is on the upcoming open water season.  Resorts and area guides are already preparing.

Based on the ice fishing season, expectations for fishing success naturally are high.  Lake of the Woods is healthy.

Now’s the time to plan your spring or summer fishing trip!  For fishing reports, resort info, and more, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

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.

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.

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