There are many ways to stay connected to Lake of the Woods. Social media, our website LakeoftheWoodsMN.com, resort fishing reports, etc. Another great way that sometimes gets forgotten about are webcams around the lake. Webcams allow guests who can access the internet to see conditions in real time the conditions, weather, waves, boat activity, and just life up at Lake of the Woods based on where the camera is located. There are many webcam options on Lake of the Woods, the Rainy River and up at the NW Angle.
On the southwest portion of Big Traverse Bay is Arnesen’s Rocky Point. This is a great area to watch a variety of boat and ice fishing traffic coming and going from the resort. Arnesen’s looks out over Muskeg Bay on the southwest corner of Lake of the Woods.
Typically, there will be boat traffic from April into November and then based on Mother Nature, some ice traffic with the snowmobile trail and sometimes bombardiers if the river ice gets thick enough. Other views include views of the docks and resort area. The camera is preset to move to different positions. This is also a fun camera to check out.
Not only is it fun checking out the conditions of the lake, the webcam gives a fun look at the outside activities at a popular sport fishing resort.
The busier times are normally in the morning just before and after sunrise when people are headed out fishing or around supper time when anglers are coming in off of the ice or via boat for a bite to eat in the Rock Harbor Lodge.
Overlooking the Rainy River, Border View’s cam is perfect to see charter and boat activity in the open water months. If you are an early riser, check out how early fishing guides will be down getting boats, tackle, bait, lunches, etc ready to roll for a day of charter fishing on Lake of the Woods. It is also fun to watch the variety of birds and wildlife on the webcam.
Don’t forget what some call the “boat parade” each morning during the traditional fishing season starting with the MN Fishing Opener in May and extending through October. There are a number of resorts along the Rainy River and each day, right around 8am, the charter boats will make their way out of the river, through Four Mile Bay and out on to Lake of the Woods. The goal is to put their customers on schools of walleyes, making memories and making sure there will be a fish fry of fresh walleyes and saugers if so desired.
During ice out and ice in, this is a great vantage point to see what ice conditions are on this stretch of the Rainy River.
Located on the bottom of their website’s homepage is Dale’s on Lake of the Woods webcam. This webcam gives a great view of the lake just to the east of twin rocks and to the west of Long Point overlooking Big Traverse Bay.
With sleeper fish house rentals, beautiful camping facilities, ice access for customers of theirs and a boat ramp, there is lots to see as this camera overlooks the access on the shores of Lake of the Woods.
Whether it’s ice transportation, boats, checking out the snow falling or the wave action on the main lake, this camera poses a beautiful view.
Located on the south shore of Big Traverse Bay, which is the big basin of Lake of the Woods, is Morris Point Lakeview Lodge. This is a great camera to get views of the big water. Whether it is a beautiful sunny and calm day or Mother Nature whips up something special to make the water churn, this is a fun camera to watch.
Check out ice anglers accessing the ice road in the winter. During the open water months, watch anglers work the shoreline or perhaps check out the activity during one of their Saturday evening fish frys.
If you have ever been to the NW Angle, you may have been through the ice access or harbor at Young’s Bay Resort. It is a hub of activity and where the main ice road heads out to island resorts and in some cases, where local resorts access the lake.
In addition, during the open water season, this is the main harbor to boat out to the resorts, cabins and other attractions throughout the NW Angle islands and even Ontario islands on the western side of Lake of the Woods.
This camera focuses on the boat ramp, harbor, ice access and even picks up some of the northernmost point buoy and Jerry’s Bar and Restaurant.
A main travel route for travelers coming to Lake of the Woods, highway 72 runs north and south where it meets Hwy 11 just to the east of Baudette. This camera provides a view of weather conditions and is in an area with beautiful scenery to watch the various colors of the foliage change throughout the year.
Located in Lake of the Woods County, this webcam gives an idea of weather conditions and provides a good view of highway 11 which runs east and west across the south end of Lake of the Woods and is a main travel route.
This camera also picks up the railroad tracks which are active with trains heading across the south end of Lake of the Woods.
Webcams are also great to view the variety of bird activity throughout the year. There is a great migration both in the spring and fall that is exceptional, as well as a resident population of birds unique to this northern Minnesota area.
Weather events are also very interesting to viewers. Being nice and cozy while checking into the various weather events in the area is something of interest to many. From the beautiful sunrises and sunsets to storms moving through the area, they are all part of life and interesting at the same time.
It is also interesting to see the various perspectives from the Rainy River, big open waters of Big Traverse Bay and the islands area of the NW Angle.
There are many great ways to keep in touch with Lake of the Woods. Another option you may just want to add to your routine are webcams. What a fun way to keep in touch in real time with The Walleye Capital of the World.
The jig bite for walleyes is pretty famous on Lake of the Woods. Although there are many techniques that catch walleyes, a jig and a minnow is definitely a staple presentation that catches thousands of walleyes and saugers. In this episode, Bergsma is fishing with a couple of anglers who also have a lot of experience both fishing and fishing Lake of the Woods, Jimmy Ney and Greg Jones.
John Bergsma with Destination Outdoors and Fisherman’s Digest is no stranger to Lake of the Woods. Back in the day when he was fishing professional walleye tournaments, this body of water was a consistent stop for many of the tournaments. His history here along with strong friendships in the area bring him back a couple of times per year.
The trio is showing off the jig bite that is prevalent on Lake of the Woods. As a rule, find an area where the walleyes and saugers are living, anchor up and jig off of the bottom. The fish will move around and in most cases, find you.
With the stained waters of Lake of the Woods, jig colors like gold, glow white, glow red, orange, pink and chartreuse are great colors. Resorts and local bait shops carry a selection of jigs that work well. Many anglers prefer using a jig that has a combo of gold and another bright color or colors. Lots of options.
For bait, frozen emerald shiners are a staple in these parts. Emerald shiners are netted in the fall and as they are a sensitive minnow, are hard to keep alive. Consequently, bait dealers will freeze them and they are used all year long. Fatheads, rainbows, chubs, leeches and even a piece of crawler will do well on a jig as well.
As a little twist, the guys also used a drop shot for walleyes. Normally a bass technique, this technique proved effective for walleyes, saugers and perch as well. With a little twist, a couple of beads were added near the hook as an attractor.
As often happens on this body of water, the group found walleyes. Big walleyes, eaters, little fish and some multi species as well.
For those who don’t have a fishing boat or perhaps don’t have the confidence to go after the jig bite and fish the larger waters of Lake of the Woods, charter fishing is going strong this summer on Lake of the Woods. There are normally openings at resorts this time of the year and what a great way to spend time with family, friends and corporate groups.
Charter boats will accommodate up to 6 anglers (6 is the magic number due to the Coast Guard license restrictions). Some resorts will allow smaller groups and simply combine them.
A normal day is after a good breakfast, step aboard just before 8am and return to the docks around 5pm. Don’t worry about fish cleaning, the guides will handle that!
Some enjoy a fresh walleye dinner that first night in camp. Resorts will often cook your fresh catch. Others will have their own fish fry back at their cabin. What you don’t clean and eat, package up and bring home. In Minnesota, you are allowed to bring one limit home per person. This your possession limit.
Fishing on Lake of the Woods brings a good level of success. There are literally millions of walleyes and saugers along with a variety of other species you may catch such as jumbo perch, trophy pike, smallmouth bass, crappies and more. Resorts and local bait shops are willing to help get you started on where to fish. There are a variety of boat ramps in the area, some public, some at resorts. If you want to make life even easier, simply get a reservation on a local resort’s charter boat.
Open water fishing takes place from May through October on the lake, with an extended season on the Rainy River. If you like catching walleyes, now is a great time to carve out time in your calendar. Life is passing by, make sure to enjoy it. You deserve it!
Celebrate our nation’s great Independence Day at Lake of the Woods this year.
Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye Capital of the World™. Lake of the Woods is known as having the finest and healthiest fishery around. Hundreds of anglers visit the lake during all seasons and have great adventures each time. Whether fishing on “hard water” or “soft water”, success is always guaranteed.
Currently the open water season is proving to be one of the best. Check out our fishing report on our website at www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com. You’ll find all of the details you need there whether limits of fish or lodging. Celebrate this great fishery with us.
This northernmost area which borders the US and Canada holds many great events throughout the year. The annual County Fair has just finished and now we are looking to celebrate July 4th. This writer has lived in many locations, but since living in the northland, I
must say that there is no finer display of fireworks anywhere else.
The community comes together to offer the public and vacationer a great holiday experience. This year is no exception. Our neighboring town of Roosevelt has an Annual Flea Market and Vendor Swap inviting entrepreneurs and craftsmen from all areas. This event runs from July 3rd and 4th from 8 am to 6 pm each day. Roosevelt is right on Hwy 11 and the flea market is just to the north of the Highway.
In Baudette, the celebration starts off on Wednesday, July 3rd with a Fish Fry hosted by the Women of Today at the Moose Lodge. This features the delicious walleye, baked beans coleslaw, garlic butter potatoes, dinner roll and desserts. Be sure to come early as they serve only until the food is gone.
Later that evening from 8 pm until midnight there will be a street dance with music by Late Nights. This is hosted by our local American Legion and Muni. It’s always great fun and a great time to be reacquainted with old friends.
Thursday, July 4th is a time to celebrate all day. Start the day off with breakfast from 8 am until noon sponsored by the Ladies of the Moose. Scrambled eggs, pancakes, French Toast and many fixings are on the menu.
An all-popular event is the Firecracker 5K Walk/Run where all ages can participate. Same day registration starts at 7:30 am with the race time at 8:30 am Registration takes place at
Timbermill Park on the East Side of Baudette. Lake of the Woods track team and CHI Lakewood Health are sponsoring this event. Almost a hundred people participate with any volunteers helping.
We have a beautifully restored Baudette Depot in our town and they also celebrate the 4th by opening their doors for exploration from 10 am -5 pm. This is located on he north end of Main Avenue. They will be serving popcorn, lemonade and coffee throughout the day.
At 11 am, the American Legion Post 217 is having a Flag Ceremony at the famous Willie Walleye Hill. Locals and visitor alike are invited to watch as the enormous American Flag is raised flying as a beautiful symbol of our freedom.
Leave the Flag Ceremony at 11:30 and head to the VFW where the VFW Post 723 will be serving a pie and ice cream social.
Now comes another highlight of the celebration with the Kiddie Parade starting at 12:30. The Main Parade will start at 2 pm and travels from south to north on Main Ave. Parade Route starts at CHI LakeWood Health Center and the Baudette Arena.
Other events happening throughout the day include: Root Beer Flats from 12-3 pm in front of Lake of the Woods Distilling Company. Bingo from 3-5 pm at the American Legion Club, a Bobber Race located on the Rainy River sponsored by the Rotary Club at 6 pm, a free movie at the Grand Theater at 7 pm showing “Trolls Band Together” and also the Community Band performing from 7-8 pm in front of the Distillery.
Now comes the most beautiful event of the day to celebrate the 4th.
Baudette’s famous fireworks!! For a small town, this community outdoes itself showing this display. Fireworks are set off over the Baudette Bay with hundreds of spectators watching!!! The fireworks mirror off the water and the crowd oohs and awws watching this incredible collection set off. Thanks to many organizations and volunteers that contribute to continue this great celebration. Make your plans now to visit and celebrate with us at this beautiful location.
The NW Angle. It is the northernmost point of the contiguous United States, it is where the 14,552 islands of the lake begin and it is home to 15 very picturesque resorts and cabin rentals. People travel here to experience world class fishing, breathtaking beauty and to simply relax. One of the things that makes this area so special are the considerations needed when traveling here. You see, if you drive to the Angle, you must travel through 40 miles of Canada. There is another way, however, in which you can remain in Minnesota, avoid customs and still reach one of the most beautiful destinations on earth. Simply travel across the lake via boat!
Being an exclave, meaning a portion of Minnesota is completely surrounded by territory of another, in this case Canada, it is important to understand the different options of travel. Traveling to the NW Angle can be done a number of ways.
Fly to the Angle
If you are a pilot and own a plane with floats, you can fly up and land on the water near the resort you are staying. Easy, beautiful and popular amongst those who have float planes. Interestingly enough, planes also come up in the winter and land on the ice with skis on the plane. A local resort plows and maintains a runway when ice thickens, and in these parts, it thickens!
Drive to the Angle
A second way to travel to the Angle, as long as you have the proper credentials to cross into Canada, is to drive there. From the south end of the lake up to the Angle takes about an hour, with 40 miles of the journey in Canada. The drive is beautiful and many visitors have fun stopping at the small grocery store in Sprague, MB on their way up or back to pick up some Canadian foods not offered in the states.
Credentials needed to enter Canada. A passport, a passport card, an enhanced driver’s license or a government issued ID combined with an original birth certificate. Canada also does not allow crossing into Canada if you have a felony on your record. A DUI is looked at as a felony per Canadian law, whereas it is looked at as a misdemeanor in the U.S.
Depending upon the offense, a non-resident of Canada may be able to apply for a certificate of rehabilitation, which if granted, would then make it again possible to travel via land into Canada.
Take Your Own Boat
The third way is to boat across the lake, staying in Minnesota waters and avoiding U.S. and Canada Customs. It is important to note, Lake of the Woods is a big lake. Across the water from the south shore up to the NW Angle, it is a 35-40 mile trip depending upon where you depart. If it gets windy, this lake can whip up some big waves. Boating across is really an option for an experienced boater with a good sized boat and motor with some good electronics which helps the journey be even that much easier.
Make Life Easy: Boat Across Using the Lake of the Woods Passenger Service
Another very convenient option is to use a passenger service. The Lake of the Woods Passenger Service offers (for a fee) a passenger service across the lake on one of their charter boats. Many who use a guide or rent a boat up at a NW Angle resort are taking advantage of this option. Parking is easy and a licensed charter captain leads your journey north via 27′ and 30′ charter boats designed to handle big water. The passenger service will drop you off at the NW Angle resort you are staying at and arrange for your return trip south when your vacation nears it’s end.
Another option is to put your people and gear aboard a charter boat and follow behind the charter in your own boat. This not only can make the ride much more comfortable for passengers but also lightens the load of your own boat making it more seaworthy. It also helps that a big charter boat is handling the navigation and breaking down the waves for you across the lake.
There are some guides up at the Angle who are planning on picking up guests on the south end, weather depending which makes traveling to the NW Angle that much easier. Communicate with your resort for all of the options.
Considerations if boating across on your own. Traveling across on your own can be a very viable option or a “not so good” of option depending upon a number of things. Here are a few considerations.
Is your boat seaworthy enough to cross 35 miles of big water?
How reliable is your motor?
How experienced is the captain?
Do you have flexibility in your schedule if weather is not good?
How seaworthy are your passengers on the boat?
Do you have reliable electronics and do you know how to use them?
is your bilge pump working?
Safety Equipment and considerations.
Is everyone wearing an approved personal flotation device (PFD)
Have you checked all necessary safety equipment? (Fire extinguisher, throw cushion, marine band radio, cell phone with portable battery charger, flares, whistle, etc)
Do you navigation lights work? Do you have a spotlight or bright flashlight?
Have you contacted the resort or people at your final destination and communicated your travel plans?
Have you mapped out your route?
Where are you going to put in and depart from?
Have you lightened up your load for the boat to be safe?
Is your gear in waterproof bags or containers?
Do you have Navionics on your phone as a backup for navigation?
Have you checked the weather forecast?
Where can I launch and park my truck and trailer? There are a number of resorts who allow you to park your truck and trailer at their resort for a small fee if you are traveling up to a NW Angle resort. It is a good idea to contact these resorts and communicate your plans to make sure you know where to launch your boat and where they would like you to park your vehicle.
South Shore Parking Options…
–Arnesen’s Rocky Point. Located on the SW corner of the lake, Arnesen’s has a new harbor, a boat ramp and plenty of land for parking your rig.
–Wigwam Resort. Located on Wheeler’s Point, Wigwam is a couple of blocks away from the Wheeler’s Point public access.
–Border View Lodge. Border View Lodge is also located in the Wheeler’s Point area and is right next to the Wheeler’s Point public access.
Traveling to the NW Angle is a very special experience. This year for many, the normal way to travel up is going to be different. Once there, the few extra hurdles will be well worth it. With that being said, we all have to error on safety first. If you have any questions on traveling across the lake, we encourage you to contact your favorite resort or you can certainly contact us at Lake of the Woods Tourism as well. Have fun, enjoy the adventure, be safe.
The next time you’re up to Lake of the Woodsdon’t forget your golf clubs. There’s always time to squeeze in a quick round or maybe you only have time for 9 holes. The best part about Lake of the Woods is the variety of recreation you can enjoy while you’re vacationing here. Lake of the Woods is a renown fishery and is known as the Walleye Capital of the World. After you’ve caught your limit and have eaten at one of the local dining areas that fix your catch of the day. Head out to the Course and hit a few balls.
If you’re staying near Baudette on the Rainy River or at any of our south shore resorts, Oak Harbor Golf Course is your stop. This beautiful 18 hole, par 72 championship course will provide golfers of all skill levels and abilities with fair, enjoyable and exciting
golf experiences. The vintage front nine, created in 1968, offers a true and natural layout nestled along the Rainy River with scenic fairways carved into mature and heavily wooded confines. Also check them out at: www.facebook.com/oakharborgolflakeofthewoods/
The newly designed back nine is a Scottish link style with fairway and greenside bunkers, large ponds and quick greens. It features a fairway bunker that is self-proclaimed to be the world’s largest walleye attraction. Located 9 miles north of Baudette, Minnesota on Highway 172. The course itself is 6549 yards long from the tips.
The greens are firm so even some the best will be challenged. Oak Harbor Golf Course also comes with a full bar and grill which is quite the eye catching hangout after a round to have some of your favorite beverages. Tournaments, leagues, and events are held here and can be viewed on the course webpage.
Youth are taught to golf through the high school program at Lake of the Woods Schools. They have had great success over the years as they compete in tournaments around the area.
The Northwest Angle Golf Course also provides a chance to golf will visiting. The course has 2 grass greens and 7 sand greens. The sand is local sand and is firm so you can actually putt on it. As Risser says, “Sometimes it isn’t as smooth as the grass so you have to hit the ball a bit harder.” Everyone is putting on the same green so it is equal across the board.
Yes, it’s still open. Yes, 9 holes with sand greens. Unique hazards – deer, geese and other critters on the fairways . Small clubhouse, men’s and women’s leagues. On-site post office . Owned by Judy and George Risser. 223-8001.
There is an etiquette to using sand greens that is good to know. A special two sides rake is used to groom the green. One side of the rake is toothed to create grooves in the sand. The other side is smooth to create a smooth putting surface to the hole. Two holes border the water, holes #4 and #5. The scenery on this course cannot be beat. And neither can the hospitality.
Angle Inlet, MN is a small community and having a golf course is a privilege. There are leagues, tournaments, etc. just like a normal golf course. The course rents clubs, has balls and tees and actually has two golf carts for rent that they keep in the storage sheds across the road. “Everyone is welcomed” so come and enjoy.
The next time you are up to fish or on vacation throw the clubs in the car, you never know if you will need them for a quick round or two.
There are a lot of great resorts on Lake of the Woods. One resort received very special recognition this week by a national media outlet, USA Today. Ballard’s Resort, located on the Rainy River, was chosen in a reader’s choice poll as one of the 10 best fishing lodges in the U.S.
“This winter, we received an email notifying us that we were in the running. You never know how legitimate these things are. And then last week, we received notification that we were number nine on the list. Today we saw the article,” explains Jessie Anthony, one of the owners and operators of the resort.
“This award is very humbling,” explains Anthony. “We are so incredibly proud of our entire crew. It feels really good!”
Ballard’s Resort has been around 63 years when it was originally founded by Keith and Rosie Ballard. Keith Ballard was only 47 years old when he passed away. With the future of the resort in question, a 21 year old son, Steve Ballard, took on the responsibility of ownership.
In 1989, Gary Moeller joined the business and began working with Ballard’s. In the early 2,000’s, Moeller became a partner and is still active in the business today. During the summer months, you will find him running Ballard’s Black Island, a resort on an island located on the Ontario side of Lake of the Woods. The rest of the year, he works out of the Rainy River location.
In 2004, with Jessie Anthony’s father, Steve Ballard, eyeing up retirement, Nick and Jessie Anthony made the decision to join Ballard’s and are leading the business along with Gary Moeller to this day.
This is the segment of the USA Today article that spoke of Ballard’s Resort.
No. 9: Ballard’s Resort – Baudette, Minnesota
Situated on the shores of Lake of the Woods, a paradise for anglers in North America, four-season Ballard’s Resort matches guests with guides who know the region’s waters, fishing hot spots, and seasonal patterns so you can snag trophy walleye, perch, northern pike, and sturgeon. Relax in a tidy cabin or in the spacious lodge with a bar, restaurant, and calming waterfront views.
People are a big part, and often the most important part, of any business, certainly a resort. “We are so thankful for a great staff,” Jessie Anthony exclaimed as she reflected on the article and recognition.
Resort owners work very hard. Some compare the profession and commitment to a dairy farm, as there is always something to do and you typically work long hours. Every once in a while, something reminds these entrepreneurs why they do what they do. I think it is safe to say, this is certainly one of them.
Any muskie hunter knows that Lake of the Woods is one of the best fisheries of muskie. Anglers come for miles around to fish our trophy waters. So make your plans as the 2024 muskie opener on Lake of the Woods for both the Minnesota and Ontario sides of the lake begins this weekend, Saturday, June 15th.
Lake of the Woods is a world class muskie fishery with over 65,000 miles of shoreline and 14,552 islands.
The majority of muskie anglers are catch and release. Many resorts, especially at the NW Angle, specialize in muskie guides. These muskie nuts keep a good handle on fish movement, lure preference, colors and areas muskies are prevalent. It is also a great way to save time really learning the nuances of becoming a better muskie angler. Check out a list of NW Angle Resorts who can set you up with some of the best guides in the business.
For those that just love the sport, here are some tips on safely practicing catch and release:
CAREFUL HANDLING MAKES CATCH-AND-RELEASE WORK
A big muskie is an old muskie. Females require 14 to 17 years to reach 30 pounds. Northern pike grow even more slowly. Once taken out of the water and hung on a wall or carved into fillets, a trophy is not soon replaced by another fish of its size. So, the key to creating trophy northern pike and muskie fishing is catch-and-release angling. Unfortunately, some fish are mortally injured by improper handling and cannot be successfully released.
All northern pike and muskie are difficult to handle because of their slippery hides, lack of good handles and sharp teeth. Big fish are particularly troublesome because of their great size and power.
The first step to successfully releasing fish is to use artificials rather than live bait. The second step is to keep the fish in the water if at all possible.
Caught on artificials and handled carefully, nearly all fish can be returned with no permanent injury. Here are some effective methods, courtesy of Muskie Canada, for handling large northern pike and muskie:
Hand release. Grip the fish over the back, right behind the gills (never by the eye sockets!) and hold it without squeezing it. With the other hand, use a pliers to remove the hooks, while leaving all but the head of the ;fish in the water. Sometimes hooks can be removed with the pliers only; the fish need never be touched.
Landing net. Hooks can be removed from some fish even as they remain in the net in the water. If that’s not possible, lift the fish aboard and remove the hooks while the fish is held behind the head and around the tail. To better restrain large fish, stretch a piece of cloth or plastic over the fish and pin it down as if it were in a straight jacket.
Stretcher. A stretcher is made of net or porous cloth about 2 to 3 feet wide stretched between two poles. As you draw the fish into the cradle and lift, the fold of the mesh supports and restrains the fish. This method requires two anglers.
Tailer. Developed by Atlantic salmon anglers, a tailer is a handle with a loop at one end that is slipped over the fish’s tail and tightened. The fish is thus securely held, though the head must be further restrained before the hooks are removed.
If you must lift a big fish from the water, support as much of its body as possible to avoid injuring its internal organs.
Never grip a fish by the eye sockets if you intend to release it. By doing so you abrade its eyes, injure the surrounding tissue and may cause blindness.
Muskie anglers are a very passionate breed, often fishing from dawn to dusk. They also have the deepest respect for muskies and overall do an excellent job of making sure these ultimate predators return to the water unharmed.
Best of luck to all muskie anglers not only this weekend but this year. The muskies have been active this spring, are in good numbers and should be active.
Cyrus’s Flag Island Resort Open for Business up at the NW Angle
One of the Northwest Angle’s premier resorts on beautiful Flag Island, located in the northernmost portion of Minnesota’s Lake of the Woods, has been purchased and is open for business!
Cyrus Resort, owned by Justin and Tanya Ferguson, is a longstanding, family-owned resort on the south end of Lake of the Woods with a stellar reputation for modern accommodations, strong customer service, successful fishing guides and delicious meals. The Ferguson’s are bringing that same level of care and expertise to the north end of the lake with the newly named, Cyrus’s Flag Island Resort.
“Tanya, myself and our family are super excited to bring the same level of excellence of Cyrus Resort on the south end of Lake of the Woods to the new Cyrus’s Flag Island Resort up at the NW Angle. As a family-owned resort, we believe in forming long term relationships with our valued guests and take pride in extending that same culture to our Flag Island location,” explains Justin Ferguson.
“The NW Angle is a premier destination for fishing, exploring, birding and simply the sheer beauty of the 14,552 islands that begin in this area,” explains Joe Henry, Executive Director, Lake of the Woods Tourism.
“From a fishing perspective, this area is tough to beat throughout both the open water and ice fishing seasons. It has earned a world class reputation and is stellar for walleyes, muskies, smallmouth bass, crappies and pike, just to name a few. Having the Fergusons invest in the Angle and make this kind of commitment with Cyrus’s Flag Island Resort makes the entire area stronger. I know the NW Angle resorts and entire community are excited to welcome them to the Angle.”
Cyrus’s Flag Island Resort offers a variety of accommodations, which includes 25 cabins with amenities, hotel rooms and a full-service bar and restaurant. Each cabin offers that NW Angle ambience with a special view.
The resort has an extensive protected harbor with new docks and plenty of space for both private boats and charter boats located right in the middle of a fishing paradise.
Maps are a great asset to any location when visiting an area. GPS is a great invention to have as a separate device or on your phone, however, this writer likes to study a map on a larger scale so that she can see the lay of the land or water and the routes she will be taking to get to those spots.
Here’s where Lake of the Woods Tourism
has done an excellent job in furnishing you, the researcher, with many maps of the area at the top of the nation. Whether you are looking to fish these pristine waters bordering the United State and Canada, or snowmobile over the beautiful forest areas, or flying over the frozen lake on snowmobile to the northernmost spot in the United States (the Northwest Angle) or simply finding a park to rest at and enjoy the scenery, the website has maps to help you navigate.
Simply go to www.lakeofthewoodsmn.comand move your curser to the Maps and Trails tab. Hover over that tab and it will list all of the maps and information that is
available.
Have you ever read a Lake of the Woods fishing report and wondered where an island or reef being referred to was? With 14,552 islands alone, Lake of the Woods Tourism has provided you with a Navionics interactive map. The lake map is all of Lake of the Woods, both U.S. and Canadian sides. It also shows depths, reefs, islands and more.
You can zoom out to get the lay of the land or zoom in to look for a “spot on a spot”. This tool is one you can use at your desktop or on your mobile device anywhere you are connected to the internet to explore the many hot spots of The Walleye Capital of the World.
Lake maps are a great way to learn more about the body of water you intend to fish as well as navigation. With a lake the size of Lake of the Woods, using tools like this can add to a safer, easier and more successful adventure on the water.
Mobile app for your phone. Navionics Boating USA app for Android and Apple is $10. This app is very detailed and can be a nice tool to learn more about navigation, fishing spots and actually works as a backup device on the water.
You can also target the NE corner of Big Traverse Bay around the Knight and Bridges Islands area using that Navionics Lakemap.
Lake of the Wood is divided into three separate locations. The Rainy River area encompasses all the resorts that are along the Rainy River which leads to the big lake.
The South Shore area features resorts that are located right on the shores of the Big Traverse. The next area forms the chimney of the state of Minnesota. This is the area called the Northwest Angle and is the northernmost point of the contiguous United States.
Other features on the website feature ATV trails through the beautiful Beltrami Forest. Roads here wander through virgin forest areas where the first settlers to the area camp for homestead. Faunce Tower is in the midst of the forest and stands as a monument to past and future visitors.
Let’s not forget the availability of snowmobile maps also on the website. These maps feature the John Beckel Northern Connection trail, routes through the city of Baudette, and also trails that connect up with neighboring towns. You can click on these maps and run
them off on your computer or you can also contact the snowmobile clubs to receive a physical copy of those maps. See:(20 +) Lake Of The Woods Drifters Snowmobile Club | Facebook or NORTHWEST ANGLE EDGE RIDERS :: Home (nwaedgeriders.org).
A map within the city of Baudette will show you parks and walking trails throughout the city to walk safely and enjoy the quiet of this small town area.
You might even decide to bring your pedal bike the see the sites in this north country. Our website also has a map for biking trails.
You can see that Lake of the Woods Tourism and many other organizations have worked together to provide you all the information that is needed for you to be prepared to come and have the most enjoyable vacation you can get. Be sure to plan your next visit to this beautiful North Country.
May your hats be big…Your mint juleps fine…Hey all you ladies…
It’s fishing derby time!
The 11th Annual Girls Gone Fishing tournament will be held again this year at River Bend Resort on the weekend of June 1st. The tournament is located on the Rainy River towards the northern end of Wheelers Point, MN. What started out as a lighthearted outing between just a hand full of women has turned into a two-day extravaganza. This year’s theme is the Kentucky Derby so get your costumes ready to enjoy fun and festivities.
“Participants are not only fishing in a tournament” Says tournament organizer and River Bend Resort owner Brandi Johnson. “These ladies take fun to extreme with costumes, decorated boats, and participate in quite a few other activities” Brandi continues “All in the name of women having fun inside of a little friendly competition that has grown to pay out fairly big prizes”.
An idea of getting all the girls together for Girls Gone fishing fun and competition, has remained just that. However, over the past several years it has grown into the event not to miss. “River Bend’s Girls Gone Fishing” is not only a fishing tournament. It is a “Costume Contest”. It is a “Best Guide” competition. It is a “Best Decorated Boat” extravaganza!! It is the event of ALL events this side of the Mississippi and this far north of the lower 48!!
Some ladies fish on their own. Most decide to allow their male counterparts to guide them. It’s okay to let the guys in on some of the fun after all.
One great option some Girls Gone Fishing take advantage of is to hire a guide or a charter boat and fish two or even three teams of 2 ladies per boat. Talk about fun! Everything is provided, rods, reels, tackle, licensed charter captain, etc. And these guides know where the fish are!
Guys are allowed to guide, but cannot fish. They can certainly help take fish off of the hook and bait hooks, which makes it nice for some of the ladies who don’t fish
all that often.
To sign up for the 2024 tournament, simply fill out thisonline applicationor print it off and send it in.
Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye Capital of the World™ and is one of the healthiest fisheries around. Check out the MN DNR website to find out about limits and licenses. This time of year the waters of the big lake are so fresh and that makes eating those walleyes extra special. Bring your catch to the kitchen staff and they will cook up a fine meal to be remembered as one of your best feasts ever.
Tournament Date: June 1st – Rules Meeting: May 31st at 7:00 PM
$250 Per Team: Entry fee includes meal, door prize tickets, and tournament shirt.
Prizes throughout the weekend include: best dressed Kentucky Derby team, best-decorated boat, best-dressed guide, top guide, horse race winners, and more.
Registration can be picked up at River Bend Resort, The Walleye Inn, or filled out and sent electronically, or downloaded and mailed in with your entry fee.
Here’s a look at the schedule for the upcoming weekend.
Friday, May 31st
5-7pm: Registration
7-7:15pm: Welcome/Rules Meeting
7:15-8pm: Horse Racing Games (River Side)
8pm-Midnight: Music & Bonfire
Saturday, June 1st
8-8:55am: Boat Inspections River Bend Docks
8:55am: National Anthem
9am: Boats Released & Girls Gone Fishing Tournament Begins!
4pm: Boats Must Be At (or in sight of) River Bend Docks
4-5pm: Weigh-Ins
5pm: Group Picture in Tourney Shirts (Hill Side in Front of Cabin 4)
5:15-6pm: Break to Change Into Costume (Kentucky Derby Theme)
6-8pm: Fish Fry (Bring your ticket to the bar to get it stamped)
7:30pm: Awards & Raffle
8:30-1am: Band
Be sure to check out the Lake of the Woods website at: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com
For additional lodging click on the Lodging tab.
See our FaceBook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn
Also see RiverBend’s FaceBook page at: www.facebook.com/riverbendresortlow
Where can I launch and park my truck and trailer? There are a number of resorts who allow you to park your truck and trailer at their resort for a small fee if you are traveling up to a NW Angle resort. It is a good idea to contact these resorts and communicate your plans to make sure you know where to launch your boat and where they would like you to park your vehicle.
The tournament is located on the Rainy River towards the northern end of Wheelers Point, MN. What started out as a lighthearted outing between just a hand full of women has turned into a two-day extravaganza. This year’s theme is the Kentucky Derby so get your costumes ready to enjoy fun and festivities.
An idea of getting all the girls together for Girls Gone fishing fun and competition, has remained just that. However, over the past several years it has grown into the event not to miss. “River Bend’s Girls Gone Fishing” is not only a fishing tournament. It is a “Costume Contest”. It is a “Best Guide” competition. It is a “Best Decorated Boat” extravaganza!! It is the event of ALL events this side of the Mississippi and this far north of the lower 48!!
