Great Lake of the Woods Hunting – Be Safe!

Minnesota is a hunting paradise thanks to millions of acres of public hunting land. But finding a great place to hunt is often as challenging as the actual hunting. hunting hunting

Minnesota hunters are fortunate that the search is not nearly as difficult as it is in many states, where public land is rare. The most commonly hunted public lands in Minnesota are state wildlife management areas (WMAs), state forests, national forests and federal waterfowl production areas (WPAs). Be sure to check the Minnesota DNR website for complete details on seasons and licensing.

Lake of the Woods County, a hunting haven, offers thousands of acres of public hunting lands in addition to the waters of the Rainy River, Big Traverse Bay on the South Shore and the Northwest Angle. Ample hunting opportunities of all kinds exist including field hunting, jump shooting, and hunting over decoys, river, sloughs, big water, islands and more.  Here are some examples of the species you will find in this area.

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Grouse Hunting

GROUSE: Lake of the Woods County offers thousands of acres of hunting land with three species of grouse, the ruffed, spruce and sharp tailed. Dirt roads, walking trails and ATV trails cross thousands of acres at Beltrami Island State Forest, Lake of the Woods Forest and Pine Island.

Grouse hunters must wear at least one visible article of clothing above the waist that is blaze orange or pink. This could be a hat, jacket or hunting vest. Remember to stay abreast when walking with other hunters in the woods so you remain visible and behind the line of fire.  Ruffed and Spruce grouse season is now open running until January 1, 2025. The Ruffed & spruce grouse combined limit is 5.

HUNTING HAVEN FOR DEER:  Soon, Lake of the Woods will declare its “National Orange Season”. This is affectionately labeled as everyone wears orange during the season for the beautiful Whitetail deer. With so much public land, deer hunting opportunities abound. Both archery and rifle seasons are permitted in this part of Minnesota. Locals joke that there are probably more deer in Lake of the Woods County than people. Trophy bucks are shot each and every year in the area.

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This Whitetail Buck was searching for doe along this very colorful tree line. 

Your deer license and site tag comes as a two-part form. The upper half is the site tag for tagging the deer in the field. The lower half is the deer license and registration slip. Hunters must do the following:

  • Detach the site tag from the deer license/registration slip.
  • Before moving the deer, the hunter whose name is on the license validates the tag by using a knife or similar sharp object to cut out the notches indicating the month, date and time of day the deer was killed (AM/PM).

Hunting season is unique at Lake of the Woods because avid sportsmen can don blaze orange for whatever hunt they want and then they can get in their boats and hunt for that trophy fish. Big Traverse sees walleye, perch and northern moving towards the bays and the river area when the waters start to dip in temperature.

Shiner Minnows travel up the Rainy River and do their spawning and the walleyes that are hungry all the time, chase them up-river.  The bite is still on and anglers can launch their boats easily up-river at Vidas Landing, Frontier Landing and Birchdale Park.

All are dressed for the cooler temperatures found during hunting season and cooler waters underneath their boats. Catch hunting and Release is practiced during this time of year which protects the great fishery of Lake of the Woods. Fish for that trophy walleye but don’t be surprised if you happen to snag a sturgeon. What a fight they give the anglers, but once again it’s catch and release.

So, get out your orange duds and make sure you have your poles in good condition and come hunting at Lake of the Woods for the time of your life!!!

For more information and lodging opportunities, visit our website at www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com

For lodging see: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

Also see our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

 

Need a Change? Amazing LOW Employment Opportunities Available

employment
Checking the Ice

Are you seeking an employment change?  Maybe you are an adventure seeker?  Work up at Lake of the Woods!  Many resorts, hotels and others are Now Hiring.  Did you know most people regret not taking enough chances in life and simply settling?  Are you someone who has visited Lake of the Woods and thought, “I could live here?”  This is a great time to consider Lake of the Woods.

Lake of the Woods isn’t just a great place to fish, hunt and enjoy the great outdoors, it’s an excellent place to find good employment and do business. Not only is there a steady flow of visitors, there is a thriving local economy that boasts an educated workforce, world-class technology and an abundance of resources for those recipe interested in opening, relocating or expanding a business. This area is a dream getaway.  Lake of the Woods employment opportunities abound.

People visit Lake of the Woods County for the stunning international waters and the breathtaking scenery of Northern Minnesota. Lake of the Woods offers four seasons of world-class fishing, a hunter’s paradise and a vast array of outdoor recreation.  Winter is one of the busiest seasons at Lake of the Woods.  The world class ice fishing, consistent ice conditions, daytime bite, millions of walleyes and saugers, and great resort community cater to anglers from many regions. sunset lodge

Many couples have found success working amongst the resorts as there are a number of important jobs available.  This is hospitality at its finest.  Imagine the possibilities, ice guide, front desk, housekeeping, cook, servers, marketing and business managers, and bartenders.  Lots of opportunities right now across the lake as resorts have openings and are staffing up.

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Northwest Angle

Do you have a favorite resort?  If so, give them a call and inquire directly about openings.  Opportunities await across the lake (and river).

Employment Opportunities!  Have you ever thought about working in an area you love to vacation?  There are a variety of opportunities and many have taken the step to work where they play and area businesses are hiring.  Imagine fishing, hunting and simply living in an area people travel across the country to get to!

Right now, area resorts are looking for valued employees for a variety of positions.  Whether it is an ice guide, working the front desk, cleaning rooms, food service, various hospitality positions, outside maintenance, marketing and the list goes on.

A listing of local resorts can be found on the Lake of the Woods Tourism lodging page.  Resorts are hiring on their resort websites, some on Facebook, and some positions may not be listed at all but there is still a need.

employment It is sometimes good if you are looking for work, to simply pick up the phone, call and inquire about open positions.  It has been said about 80% of potential open positions are not advertised for.  As a candidate for employment, this is also a good technique that also shows your willingness to work.

Quality healthcare and education.  People stay in Lake of the Woods County because of the community. We take pride in our outstanding healthcare and nationally-recognized education with Lake of the Woods Schools ranking very high in Minnesota schools. There are positive things happening all around, such as the Lake of the Woods International Arena, a great international bridge to Canada, new owners of Lake of the Woods Foods, Caribou Coffee, and a sweet distillery on Main Street.

As the winter months approach, many of the resorts are looking for good people to takeGet Hooked for Life advantage of excellent Lake of the Woods employment opportunities. Again, winter fishing on LOW is known to be some of the best in the world. Look no further than Here for many of the employment vacancies!

Right now there are openings and various area employers would love to meet with you. Visit www.gethookedforlife.com for more valuable information and also www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com.  Another good option is to look at the Lake of the Woods Tourism Lodging page.  Many of the resorts and hotels are hiring for a variety of positions, email them or give them a call.

Also see our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

 

 

Why Anglers Should Head to Lake of the Woods and Rainy River During Deer Hunting Season

Joe Henry, Rainy River fall walleye

Why Anglers Should Head to Lake of the Woods and Rainy River During Deer Hunting Season

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Joe Henry, Rainy River fall walleye

Deer hunting season is nearly here, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, it brings an annual dilemma: to hunt or to fish? While Minnesota’s deer hunting season is a tradition passed down through generations, there’s another activity competing for attention in the north woods—walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River. This time of year presents a unique opportunity for anglers to catch some of the largest walleyes of the season, all while others are occupied in deer stands. If you’re an angler—or even a hunter who’s already filled your tag—there’s no better place to be than these world-class fishing waters.

A Bounty of Walleyes During the Fall

Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River are famous for their autumn walleye runs. In late October, emerald shiners, a small baitfish, begin their spawning run up the Rainy River. As they move upstream, they draw in schools of hungry walleyes, creating one of the most exciting fishing windows of the year. Walleyes chase these shiners aggressively, giving anglers the chance to hook into trophy-sized fish.

This “walleye run” is no secret among seasoned anglers. Each year, as deer hunters prepare to take to the woods, those who prefer to fish—or those who bag their deer early—find themselves reaping the rewards on the water. The walleyes that are caught during deer hunting week are often some of the biggest and most impressive of the season. The combination of cooler water temperatures, abundant baitfish, and fewer crowds makes this time perfect for landing your next personal best.

Why Choose Fishing Over Deer Hunting?

For those torn between hunting and fishing, it’s important to remember that deer hunting season is relatively short and steeped in tradition. For many, it’s a non-negotiable event. However, if you’re someone who either doesn’t hunt, or if you’ve already had success in the woods, the opportunity to switch gears and enjoy some of the finest walleye fishing of the year is too good to pass up.

The great news is that Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River are both fishing hot spots this time of year, with reports of strong walleye activity. Anglers have been catching walleyes in front of Pine Island in about 20 feet of water, as large schools of these fish are feeding on shiners. Whether you prefer jigging or trolling with crankbaits, you’ll find success as these fish are actively feeding in preparation for the winter months.

The Rainy River: A Prime Spot for Fall Walleyes

The Rainy River stretches over 40 miles, from 4 Mile Bay near Lake of the Woods all the way to Birchdale, offering anglers plenty of room to find a quiet, productive spot. Walleye fishing on the river can be fast and furious, and the chance of landing a trophy fish is always high. Anglers have reported catching fish throughout the river system, making it an excellent alternative if you want to avoid the open waters of the lake or if the weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Many anglers choose to jig while targeting these fish in the river. Live bait, particularly shiners or minnows, are popular choices, but artificial jigs work just as well. For those who prefer covering more ground, trolling crankbaits is another effective method. Both techniques have proven successful in recent weeks, and the fishing is only expected to improve as the season progresses.

The Northwest Angle: A Hidden Gem

While Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River are known for their fantastic walleye fishing, the Northwest Angle offers even more opportunities for anglers this time of year. The Angle is famous for not only walleyes but also muskies and crappies. Many anglers travel to the Angle specifically for the chance to catch a monster muskie. Fall is prime muskie season, and fish over 50 inches are common. Anglers can either cast or troll for muskies, with both techniques producing impressive results.

For those interested in panfish, fall crappie fishing at the Angle is exceptional. The crappies tend to school up, with most fish falling in the 11 to 15-inch range, making for a fun and rewarding day on the water. It’s not uncommon to pull in a few 14-inch slabs, which are the kind of fish crappie anglers dream about.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Opportunity

The combination of a strong walleye bite and the relative quietness on the lake during deer hunting season creates the perfect conditions for a successful fishing trip. Many hunters are in the woods, which means fewer boats on the water and less competition at the boat ramps. You’ll have more of the lake to yourself, which can make the experience even more enjoyable.

For those traveling to Lake of the Woods or the Rainy River during this time, local resorts are well-prepared to welcome both hunters and anglers. Accommodations, bait, and guides are available to ensure your trip is a success, whether you’re on the hunt for a trophy walleye or simply want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the area.

The Best of Both Worlds

Whether you’re a dedicated angler or a hunter looking for a change of pace after a successful day in the stand, the fall walleye run on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. With the chance to catch some of the biggest walleyes of the year, and the beautiful fall scenery, it’s no wonder so many outdoors enthusiasts choose to spend their time on the water during deer season.

So, this November, if you’re in the north woods, why not take advantage of the amazing fishing opportunities that Lake of the Woods has to offer? You just might catch the walleye of a lifetime.

walleye fishing lake of the woods
Lake of the Woods Fishing
Nicole Stone, fall Rainy River walleye

New Signs Guide Travelers Through the Northwest Angle

2024 NW Angle billboard, new signs at NW Angle

New Signs Guide Travelers Through the Northwest Angle

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2024 NW Angle billboard, new signs at NW Angle

A Welcomed Update

The Northwest Angle, a hidden gem at the northernmost point of the contiguous United States, is known for its welcoming spirit and scenic beauty. This year, several signs in the region have been updated or newly created to enhance the experience for visitors. These signs are essential in helping travelers navigate through the Angle’s winding roads and remote pathways, offering both direction and a warm introduction to this unique corner of Minnesota.

Updating the Old to Meet Modern Needs

Among the recent changes are six signs that have been guiding travelers for over 20 years. These signs, weathered by time but essential for navigating the remote roads, were in need of a facelift. Some of these are critical directional signs that assist visitors in making the right turns as they travel through Canada en route to the Angle. These signs have now been updated, ensuring that travelers have clear and concise directions, whether they are seasoned visitors or first-time adventurers.

One of the key locations where signage plays a vital role is at Jim’s Corner. For many visitors, Jim’s Corner is the first real indication that they are about to enter the heart of the Northwest Angle. Here, several signs have been updated to guide travelers to their final destination, whether it’s a resort tucked away on the shoreline or the popular boating launch point at Young’s Bay. With these fresh, easy-to-read signs, the process of navigating this sometimes-confusing area has been significantly improved.

New Signage to Greet and Guide

Beyond the updates to these long-standing signs, the Northwest Angle has also introduced a few new signs that are helping to modernize its image while keeping the charm intact. At the entrance of the NW Angle, a new billboard greets visitors with a warm welcome, setting the tone for their adventure in this magical place. This new billboard doesn’t just serve as a visual marker—it embodies the essence of “Minnesota Nice” that the Angle is known for.

In addition to the billboard, another new sign has quickly become an essential tool for visitors. About a year ago, a detailed map of the Northwest Angle was installed. This map showcases the entire region, highlighting various landmarks, resorts, and areas of interest. The map has become invaluable for those unfamiliar with the area, offering a clear overview that helps them get their bearings.

This new map can be found in two key locations: Jim’s Corner and next to the northernmost buoy near Young’s Bay. These two spots are often the first stops for travelers entering the Angle, making it an ideal place for visitors to get acquainted with the layout of the region. Whether someone is heading to a cozy lakeside cabin, launching their boat, or planning a day trip to one of the region’s many attractions, the new map ensures they’ll have a clear sense of where they are and where they’re headed.

A Tradition of Warmth and Hospitality

The Northwest Angle has always prided itself on being a welcoming place, offering unmatched hospitality to those who make the journey. The addition and updating of these signs further solidify that tradition. For those unfamiliar with the area, the Angle can feel remote and hard to navigate, especially as it requires crossing into Canada to reach. But with the newly updated signage, travelers can feel confident in their journey, knowing they will be guided with care.

What’s more, these signs serve as a reminder that while the Northwest Angle is remote, it is also a vibrant community that is ready to embrace visitors with open arms. The updated directional signs, the welcoming billboard, and the new map all work together to enhance the overall experience of exploring the Angle, making it easier for everyone to appreciate the region’s beauty and charm.

Navigating the Magic of the NW Angle

Whether you’re dropping a boat in at Young’s Bay, looking for your resort, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, the new and updated signs are there to make the journey smoother. With the perfect blend of modern convenience and classic Minnesota hospitality, the signage throughout the Northwest Angle continues to reflect the heart and soul of this one-of-a-kind destination. So next time you find yourself in this northern paradise, take a moment to appreciate the thoughtful details that help make the Angle such a magical place to explore.

NW Angle directional sign 2024
New NW Angle Map near Buoy
NW Angle Resorts directional sign

Ladies…It’s Time to Plan Your Ice Fishing Trip

Ladies!—Are you planning your Ice Fishing Trip yet? Don’t just send the guys out on that lifetime adventure of fishing the waters of Lake of the Woods. Plan your trip now for the Ladies adventure through one of 50+ resorts to choose from at this fine destination. ladies

girls gone 1Yes, anglers come in all genders, ages, shapes and sizes to Lake of the Woods. This renown fishery is located at the top of Minnesota at Lake of the Woods. Lake of the Woods is the largest freshwater lake next to the great lakes showcasing 317,000 acres in Minnesota. It is international as it shares its waters with both the United States and Canada. Lake of the Woods has 65,000 miles of shoreline and 14,552 islands.

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Multi-Generational Fishing

Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye Capital of the World™. These waters are famous for their fishing, hunting, wildlife and recreational opportunities. Open water fishing remains the favorite for most people, however, hard water (ice fishing) has become a main event of the winter season featuring thousands of fish houses and wheelhouses taking up residence on the frozen waters. It’s a sight to behold as you approach the landscape of an actual fishing village.

So…ladies….why not gather your friends and have yourself a great vacation being a lady angler. There are women’s fishing groups that have been formed such as WAM, WI WOMEN’S FISH so it’s no longer a novelty for ladies to enjoy this fine sport. One of our local resorts here hosts a Girls Gone Fishing group each year. The event draws from many localities and be sure to know that the ladies have a great time fishing and also gathering for other activities. sleeper house inside arnesens

As a matter of fact, many anglers bring their young girls with them as they teach them the skills of fishing for walleye and other species of fish on both open and hard water. Young ladies feel the thrill of catching their first small or trophy fish and it gets imbedded in their memories as one of the greatest experiences ever. Remember, this doesn’t have to be a once in a lifetime experience. Why not make it an annual event or better yet summer and winter season experiences.

Bachelorette parties are becoming more and more popular during the winter season.  Whether ladies are staying in nice sleeper fish houses or ice fishing during the day in a day house and actually staying in a hotel or cabins on shore, there are lots of memories made.

There is not a lack of fun things to do in the area.  In addition to ice fishing, shopping, cute coffee shops and a wide variety of bars and taverns, some with live music.

Don’t forget about the two bars located out on the frozen Lake of the Woods.  The Igloo Bar is out of Zippel Bay Resort and the Angry Walleye is out of Cyrus Resort.

Now ladies…. Ice fishing these days has taken on a new look. Most outfitters are seeing that