Lake of the Woods MN Fishing Report..May 13, 2026

fishing report lake of the woods south shore nw angle rainy river walleye

The MN Fishing Opener kicked off Saturday, May 9th and walleye season is officially underway on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River!

It was a cold and windy opener day, which pushed some anglers away from the main lake spots they had originally planned. But that’s the beauty of this fishery — with protected bays, 42 miles of navigable Rainy River, and up at the NW Angle, countless islands to slide behind, there’s always fishable water no matter what the weather throws at you. For most anglers who adapted, some good walleyes and saugers were caught.

It has been a cold spring, and spawning activity is still being reported on the Rainy River. Reports of males milking when caught are coming in, and some anglers found big females still holding in their traditional mid-April areas. The spawn is running later than usual this year, but that means the best fishing is still ahead. As the less windy days arrive and waters warm through this week and the forecast ahead looks beautiful the bite will only improve. This fishing report is sure to keep anglers informed and prepared.

What’s Working: Presentations and Techniques

The go-to presentation — and this comes as no surprise — is a jig and frozen emerald shiner. Traditional colors are producing well, including gold mixed with glow white, pink, orange, or chartreuse. Stick with these proven combinations and you’ll be in good shape.

Vertical jigging is deadly on staged fish — anchor or spot-lock over structure and work a jig vertically to keep your bait in the strike zone. Fan casting shorelines is effective for covering water and locating active fish by casting jigs to shallow structure and working them back to the boat. 

As a rule, walleyes are near the shore throughout Lake of the Woods. The late, cold spring means walleyes haven’t pushed deep yet — they remain accessible in shallow, near-shore areas. 

Up at the NW Angle, points and neck-down areas are key. These natural funnels concentrate fish and create perfect ambush points, and on windy days, running to the island side offers both shelter and structure. Along the south shore, near-shore rock piles and sand-to-gravel transitions are holding fish. 

The Rainy River and Four Mile Bay remain loaded with walleyes staged later than normal due to the cold spring and will be hot spots well into the week.  The bite has been light, pay attention as some fish have been less aggressive.

Pike Fishing — A Silver Lining on Windy Days

With the wind on opener, a number of anglers headed to the back bays to target pike — and had great success. 

Pike regulations: limit is 3 fish per day with one over 40 inches allowed. All pike 30–40 inches must be released immediately.

Sturgeon Season Update

The sturgeon harvest season has closed, but catch-and-release opportunities remain open through May 15th before the season closes May 16 through June 30.

Catch and release: May 8–15, 2026 Closed: May 16–June 30, 2026 Harvest season resumes: July 1–September 30, 2026

Know Your Limits

The combined walleye and sauger limit is 6 fish total, with up to 4 being walleyes. All walleyes between 19.5 and 28.0 inches must be released immediately, with one walleye over 28.0 inches allowed. A 2026 Minnesota fishing license is required.

Fishing Guides Available

Fishing guides from the Rainy River, Lake of the Woods and NW Angle resorts are ready to put you on fish. Everything is provided — boat, tackle, bait, and the local expertise that makes all the difference. Book now, as prime dates fill quickly.

For resort information, lodging, and guide services visit lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging/ and for complete fishing information visit lakeofthewoodsmn.com.

Stay connected on social media for daily updates all week long!

 
fishing report lake of the woods south shore nw angle rainy river walleye
fishing report lake of the woods rainy river nw angle south shore walleye northern
Open Water Fishing on Lake of the Woods & the Rainy River (Summer & Fall): FAQs

Open water fishing on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offers some of the most consistent and rewarding fishing in North America. From late spring through fall, anglers experience everything from easy, action-packed summer fishing to trophy opportunities in the fall.

Whether you’re fishing the expansive waters of Big Traverse Bay, the scenic Rainy River, or the island-rich Northwest Angle, this is a destination where both beginners and experienced anglers can succeed. With full-service resorts, experienced guides, and millions of fish, planning your trip is easier than you might think.

Open water fishing refers to the season when the lake is free of ice, typically from May through October. This includes both summer fishing and fall fishing, each offering different patterns, techniques, and opportunities for anglers.

Lake of the Woods is known for its abundant walleye population, consistent fishing success, and ability to produce quality fish throughout the open water season. Anglers regularly catch walleyes in high numbers, along with trophy-class fish, making it one of the most reliable walleye fisheries anywhere.

Fishing is excellent throughout the entire open water season:

  • Early Summer (May–June): Walleyes are often shallower and very active.
  • Mid-Summer (July–August): Fish spread out, often over deeper mud basins and structure.
  • Fall (September–October): Big walleyes feed aggressively, especially in the Rainy River and nearshore areas.

There is always a productive bite happening somewhere on the lake.

Lake of the Woods offers three distinct fishing areas:

  • South Shore / Big Traverse Bay – Known for open water walleye fishing, especially over deep mud flats.
  • Rainy River – A scenic and protected option, excellent in both summer and fall.
  • Northwest Angle (Lake of the Woods) – A remote area with thousands of islands, offering incredible structure fishing and multi-species opportunities.

Each area provides a different experience, and many anglers return to explore them all.

The Northwest Angle is the northernmost point of the contiguous United States and part of Lake of the Woods. Known for its rugged beauty and more than 14,000 islands, it offers outstanding fishing for walleyes, muskies, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. For anglers looking for a remote, scenic, and structure-rich experience, the Angle is hard to beat.

Yes. The Rainy River is excellent throughout the open water season. In the summer, it provides a calm, scenic alternative to the lake and is great for walleyes, bass, and pike. In the fall, it becomes a hotspot as walleyes follow emerald shiners into the river, creating outstanding opportunities for big fish.

Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offer a wide variety of species:

  • Walleyes (primary target)
  • Saugers
  • Northern pike
  • Smallmouth bass
  • Crappies
  • Muskellunge (muskie)
  • Yellow perch

This diversity makes it ideal for both serious anglers and families looking for steady action.

No. Many resorts offer full-service fishing packages that include guided charter boats, equipment, bait, and fish cleaning. It’s an easy and stress-free way to experience the lake, especially for beginners or visitors traveling from out of town.

Absolutely. With high fish populations, simple and effective fishing techniques, and knowledgeable guides, Lake of the Woods is one of the most beginner-friendly fishing destinations anywhere.

Techniques vary throughout the season, but common methods include:

  • Spinner rigs with crawlers
  • Jigging with minnows or soft plastics
  • Trolling crankbaits to cover water

Guides and anglers adjust techniques based on fish location and seasonal patterns.

Depths vary depending on the time of year and location, but anglers commonly fish between 15 and 35 feet during the open water season. Fish may relate to mud flats, reefs, points, or shoreline structure depending on conditions.

If fishing with a guide or charter, you typically only need:

  • A valid Minnesota fishing license
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
  • Food and beverages

Most equipment and gear are provided.

Yes, within Minnesota fishing regulations. Many anglers enjoy a traditional shore lunch or bring fish back to their resort for a fresh fish fry—one of the highlights of a trip to Lake of the Woods.

Planning is simple. Start by selecting a resort that fits your style, whether you’re looking for a full-service experience, family-friendly lodging, or a remote getaway. Many resorts offer packages that include lodging, meals, and guided fishing. Booking early is recommended, especially for peak summer and fall dates.

From easy, action-filled summer fishing to trophy opportunities in the fall, Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offer an experience that’s hard to match. With beautiful scenery, abundant fish, and full-service options, it’s a destination anglers return to year after year.

Fishing Report 11.18.2025

Fishing Report from Youngs Bay at the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods shows a skim of ice

On the South End…  A very similar fishing report to last week as it’s late fall, rifle shots ring out periodically as hunters harvest whitetail deer around the area and just a few anglers are taking advantage of the late fall bite.  

The walleye and sauger bite continues across the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Fish continue to be staged in various areas along the south shore and are biting.  Not many are fishing this time of year as the traditional firearms deer hunting season is in progress in MN.

Fishing Report from Youngs Bay at the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods shows a skim of ice
Skim of Ice showing up at the Northwest Angle

The best action remains in 15–25 feet of water. The water temperature has dropped to 40°F, and the fish are active.

Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner or live minnow continues to be the top presentation. Gold, orange, pink and glow colors remain strong.  

Ice is showing up in harbors and back bays.  On average, ice fishing kicks off around December 10, though Mother Nature will ultimately decide when it’s time. Resort guides and outfitters who work the ice daily will monitor conditions closely and let everyone know when the ice they’re on is ready.

Fishing Report shows a skin of ice on the Rainy River of Lake of the Woods
A Skim of Ice forming on the Rainy River and the current slowing

On the Rainy River…  Walleye fishing continues to be very good in the Rainy River. A nice mix of “eaters” along with slot fish and a few trophies being caught.  A jig and minnow remains the go-to, and anglers are focusing on edges that walleyes follow, current breaks, and deeper holes.

Those who fish during the deer hunting season are often rewarded and we heard that again this past week.  Good numbers of walleyes were consistently in the report.  

Some thin ice is appearing on parts of the the river as of 11-18-25.  Anglers are certainly looking ahead to ice fishing.

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Some back bays and marinas with ice this past week.  All part of the progression as there is a bit of late fall fishing going on, but most are looking forward to ice fishing.  

For those getting on the water still, good numbers of walleyes are being caught on both sides of the border.  Location of the fish is setting up nicely for ice fishing.  It won’t be long!

Check out info about Lake of the Woods ice fishing on our new ice fishing page at https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/ice-fishing/.

Fishing Report 11.11.2025

This boy caught a huge fall walleye on the Rainy River near Lake of the Woods MN.

On the South End…  A strong late-fall walleye and sauger bite continues across the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Fish continue to be staged in various areas along the south shore and are biting.  Not many are fishing this time of year as the traditional firearms deer hunting season is in progress in MN.

This boy caught a huge fall walleye on the Rainy River near Lake of the Woods MN.
Boy with Fall Walleye Caught on the Rainy River at Baudette MN Lake of the Woods.

The best action remains in 15–25 feet of water. The water temperature has dropped to 42°F, and the fish are active.

Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner or live minnow continues to be the top presentation. Gold, orange, pink and glow colors remain strong.  

On average, ice fishing kicks off around December 10, though Mother Nature will ultimately decide when it’s time. Resort guides and outfitters who work the ice daily will monitor conditions closely and let everyone know when the ice they’re on is ready.

fishing report includes this web came from Border View Lodge at Lake of the Woods
Web Cam on the Rainy River shows the current slowing getting ready for ice.

On the Rainy River…  Walleye fishing right now is good in the Rainy River. A mix of “eaters” along with slot fish (19.5–28 inches) and occasional “pig” being caught.  A jig and minnow remains the go-to, and anglers are focusing on edges that walleyes follow, current breaks, and deeper holes.

Those who fish during the deer hunting season are often rewarded.  There are some boats on the river, but most anglers are in the woods!  

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Some back bays froze up with a skim of ice this past week.  All part of the progression as there is a bit of late fall fishing going on, but most are looking forward to ice fishing.  

Once again, those out pursuing walleyes or muskies are being rewarded with great results.  

Big numbers of walleyes are being caught on both sides of the border.  Location of the fish is setting up nicely for ice fishing.  It won’t be long!

Check out info about Lake of the Woods ice fishing our new ice fishing page at https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/ice-fishing/.

Fishing Report 11.4.2025

Boy with nice walleye caught on the south shore of Lake of the Woods MN

On the South End…  A strong late-fall walleye and sauger bite continues across the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Fish are staged and hungry, setting up beautifully for the start of the upcoming ice fishing season. On average, ice fishing kicks off around December 10, though Mother Nature will ultimately decide when it’s time.

Boy with nice walleye caught on the south shore of Lake of the Woods MN
Boy with nice Fall Walleye

Resort guides and outfitters who work the ice daily will monitor conditions closely and let everyone know when the ice they’re on is ready.

The best action remains in 15–25 feet of water along traditional fall locations from Pine Island to Morris Point Gap, Zippel Bay, Long Point, and over to Twin Islands. The water temperature has dropped to 45°F, and fish are actively feeding as they transition into winter patterns.

Fishing With Brandi Johnson shows a great Fall Walleye on Lake of the Woods MN
Brandi Johnson with a Fall Walleye on Lake of the Woods MN

Vertical jigging with a frozen or live minnow continues to be the top presentation. Gold, orange, and glow colors remain productive, with combinations of gold/orange and pink doing especially well. Some anglers are still covering water by trolling crankbaits, but most agree the jig bite is unbeatable right now.

The fall fishing is consistent and action-packed — expect a nice mixed bag of walleyes, saugers, perch, and occasional pike. This bite is also setting the stage for what looks to be another excellent early ice season!

On the Rainy River…  Good numbers of walleyes have moved into the Rainy River and fishing has been strong. Anglers are catching a nice mix of “eaters” along with slot fish (19.5–28 inches). A jig and minnow remains the go-to bait choice, and anglers are focusing on current breaks, deeper holes, and river bends.

As tradition goes, the deer hunting season timeframe often produces some of the biggest walleyes of the year — while some folks are in a tree, others are on the river catching trophies!

Up at the Northwest Angle…  Once again, fishing is excellent. Walleyes are stacked up on points, reefs, and mud-to-rock transitions, and when you find them, it’s game on. A simple jig and minnow is all you need for steady action on both walleyes and saugers, along with perch, crappies, and pike.

Anglers are reporting strong numbers of fish across both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the islands. Resorts and guides continue to offer lodging, late-fall open-water trips, and upcoming ice fishing packages as the season shifts.

Fishing Report 10.20.2025

big fall walleye caught on a charter on the south shore of Lake of the Woods

On the South End…  A very similar report to last week with another great week of walleye fishing on Big Traverse Bay.  Strong numbers of walleyes are set up in traditional fall locations across the south shore of the lake.  In front of Pine Island, Morris Point Gap, in front of Zippel Bay, Long Point over to Twin Islands.  This is also setting up nicely for ice fishing!

The bite is very good and will even get better as water temps decrease.  From the Lake of the Woods Wave Buoys, the water temp last week was 55 degrees.  It is down to 53 degrees this week. 

big fall walleye caught on a charter on the south shore of Lake of the Woods
Big Fall Walleye caught on Lake of the Woods MN

The best bite this week is in 17 – 25 feet. Vertical jigging with a frozen or live emerald shiner is definitely the goto presentation, however, some anglers are still trolling crankbaits with good success. 

Hot jig colors this week were orange / chartreuse, gold / orange or gold, pink, and glow white.  When hooking the minnow on a jig, place the hook of the jig through the mouth and out the gill of the minnow, pushing the minnow as far up towards the jig head as possible, and then hook the minnow about half or 2/3 of the way back on the minnow.  In the stained waters, the walleyes aren’t as picky and your hookups will increase.

Expect a mixed bag of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch and an occasional crappie or pike in the mix.

Rainy River…  Emerald shiners are in the river but not in big numbers yet.  There are decent numbers of walleyes with some good reports this week.  A jig and frozen or live shiner along current breaks, deeper holes, and weed edges, while others were covering water trolling crankbaits.

big fall walleye caught on charter on Lake of the Woods MN on the south shore
Big Fall Walleye

Normally, emerald shiners are the go to bait.  Fall is when bait dealers net, freeze and package emerald shiners which are used all year long.  Consequently, some live shiners are currently available.  

Sturgeon anglers are reporting some nice fish, and in many cases, good numbers.  A classic sturgeon rig with crawlers (optionally tipped with some shiners) has been effective. The sturgeon catch-and-release season is upon us and continues through April 23, 2026. 

Northwest Angle…  Walleye fishing continues to be excellent on both sides of the border.  Again, a jig and minnow on points, over reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions is catching good numbers of walleyes with saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, smallmouth bass and pike. 

Muskie anglers are reporting good activity with cooling water temps.  Fall is one of the best times of the year to pursue trophy fish over that 50 inch mark in these parts.

With a mild weather forecast for this time of year, some great fall fishing is still available.  Charter boats and guides are still available through October, or bring up your own boat.  You don’t have to travel far to find good numbers of walleyes this time of year.  For fishing info, guides, fall hot deals and resort packages, visit https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/fall-fishing-rainy-river-boat-ramps/

Fishing Report 10.14.2025

Fishing on the South Shore of Lake of the Woods MN produced this giant walleye

On the South End…  Good numbers of walleyes are being caught in numerous locations across the south shore.  More “fall-like” weather is starting to slowly bring the lake temps down which is a benefit to walleye anglers.  The current water temp on the lake is 55 degrees.

The best bite this week is in 17 – 27 feet. Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner is definitely the goto presentation, however, some anglers are still trolling crankbaits with good success.

Fishing on the South Shore of Lake of the Woods MN produced this giant walleye
Giant Walleye caught by Chris Philen on the south shore of Lake of the Woods MN

Hot jig colors this week were gold or gold combined with other bright colors such as orange, chartreuse, pink, and glow white.  Lake of the Woods has stained water from the natural tannins in the water which keeps the walleyes and saugers biting throughout the day.    

Expect walleyes of all different sizes, saugers, jumbo perch and an occasional crappie or pike in the mix.

Rainy River…  Emerald shiners are in the river as are some nice walleyes.  Anglers fishing the river, overall, pulled in nice numbers of fish this past weekend.  Some were working a jig and frozen shiner along current breaks, deeper holes, and weed edges, while others were covering water trolling crankbaits.

Sturgeon fishing continues to be good.  A classic sturgeon rig which is a 3 ounce flat no-roll sinker teamed up with an 18″ heavy mono or fluorocarbon leader and a 3/0 circle hook loaded with crawlers (optionally tipped with a shiner) has been effective. The sturgeon catch-and-release season is upon us and continues through April 23, 2026. 

Northwest Angle…  Walleye fishing continues to be consistently very good throughout the island region of Lake of the Woods.  Both sides of the border are producing nice numbers of fish that are becoming increasingly active with dropping water temps.

Big muskie produced while fishing at the Northwest Angle at Lake of the Woods MN
Big Muskie caught in Lake of the Woods at the Northwest Angle of MN

A jig and minnow on points, over reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions is catching walleyes combined with saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, smallmouth bass and pike. 

Fall crappie anglers continue to take advantage of the season finding nice slabs in various locations around points and in deeper water off of structure.  

Muskie activity continues to increase with cooling water temps.  Most anglers are casting for fish, but fall is also a time to troll points and other areas of structure which often produces some nice muskies. 

Charter boats and guides are still available through October, with a few still fishing into November.  A great time to get that last fall trip or make plans for ice!  For fishing info, guides, charters, resorts, and lodging, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/lodging.

Fishing Report 10.7.2025

walleyes and jumbo perch fill a cleaning table at a resort on the south shore of lake of the woods mn

On the South End…  Walleyes are stacking up along the south shore.  Weather has been unseasonably warm and water temps are holding in the low 60’s.  Despite the “summer like” weather, days are getting shorter and this is kicking fall patterns into gear.

Big Fall Walleye on a private boat with a group called Walleyes Unlimited caught on the south shore of Lake of the Woods MN
Big Fall Walleye caught by an Angler with Walleyes Unlimited on Lake of the Woods MN

Additionally, more traditional fall temps are in the forecast and this too will turn the walleyes on even more. The best bite this week is in 17 – 27 feet. Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner this time of year is definitely the goto presentation, however, those trolling crankbaits are still having good success. 

Hot jig colors.  Lake of the Woods has stained water from the natural tannins in the water.  This causes the walleye and sauger bite to be good during the day.  Stained water is also conducive to certain colors, specifically gold or gold combined with other bright colors such as orange, chartreuse, pink, and glow white.

walleyes and jumbo perch fill a cleaning table at a resort on the south shore of lake of the woods mn
Walleyes and Jumbo Perch make these anglers very happy with their catch on Lake of the Woods MN

Various schools of walleyes are located across the south shore in areas such as Pine Island, Lighthouse Gap, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, Long Point, and Twin Islands.  All year long, walleye anglers have been catching good numbers of bonus jumbo perch.  The lake is full of them and that trend continues. 

Rainy River…  Emerald shiners continue moving into the river with walleyes following. The bite is good, but cooler weather and water temps will kick things into high gear. A jig and frozen shiner along current breaks, deeper holes, and sand flats.

Sturgeon action remains good. A classic sturgeon rig with crawlers (optionally tipped with a shiner) has been effective. The sturgeon catch-and-release season is upon us and continues through April 23, 2026. The Rainy River offers about 42 miles of navigable water from Wheeler’s Point through Baudette to Birchdale, with numerous public ramps for access.

Northwest Angle…  Walleye fishing is just flat out very good right now, and has been all summer.  Good fishing on both sides of the border.  Again, a jig and minnow on points, over reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions. Saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, smallmouth bass and pike are in the mix. 

Fall crappie anglers are reporting nice catches.  A jig and minnow off of points and in deeper water off of structure.  Electronics help to find the crappies.  

Muskie activity traditionally increases as days get shorter and water cools.  We have one of the two and things will only get better into the rest of October.  

Get in on a last minute fall trip and plan for ice…  Charter boats and guides are rolling through October, a few into November.  Fishing is excellent and now is a great time to slide up.

Fishing Report 9.30.2025

nice walleye off of Oak Island on Lake of the Woods MN

On the South End…  Walleyes continue to congregate along the south shore, and despite unseasonably warm weather, anglers are putting good numbers of fish in the boat. The best bite has slid slightly deeper this week to 22–30 feet. Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner remains the top producer. Hot jig colors have been green, gold, orange, chartreuse, and glow white; on certain days, pink or plain gold still shine. nice walleye off of Oak Island on Lake of the Woods MN

Schools of walleyes are located across traditional stretches, Pine Island, Lighthouse Gap, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, Long Point, and Twin Islands, with bonus jumbo perch mixed in. While jigging is the go-to, some anglers continue to pull spinners with crawlers or troll crankbaits to cover water when marks are scattered. Expect shoreline activity to strengthen further as temperatures cool.

Rainy River…  Emerald shiners are trickling into the river, and walleyes are following. The bite is improving by the day; a real cool-down will kick things into high gear. Work a jig and frozen shiner along current breaks, deeper holes, and sand flats.

huge fall pike
Josh Beckel Fishing Guide with Huge Fall Pike

Sturgeon action remains strong. A classic sturgeon rig with crawlers (optionally tipped with a shiner) has been effective. Reminder: sturgeon harvest season is open through September 30, switching to catch-and-release October 1 – April 23, 2026. The Rainy River offers about 42 miles of navigable water from Wheeler’s Point through Baudette to Birchdale, with numerous public ramps for access.

Northwest Angle…  Excellent walleye fishing continues on both the Minnesota and Ontario sides. The program is simple and productive: a jig and minnow on points, over reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions. Saugers, jumbo perch, and pike are also showing up consistently. 

It’s prime time for fall crappies.  Many anglers are finding nice fish around islands and off of points. Muskie reports are strong as water temps edge downward, with follows and hookups on shoreline structure.

Plan your fall trip…  Excellent fall fishing typically runs into November. If you’re looking for that last good open-water trip before ice season, now’s the window.

Fishing Report 9.23.2025

fishing

On the South End…  Walleye action has been excellent along the south shore in 17 – 27 feet of water. Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner continues to be the top producer, with anglers reporting strong numbers of both walleyes and saugers. Jig colors making a big difference this week include gold/red, green, plain gold, white, pink, and gold/orange.

fishing The fall bite is setting up nicely, with fish spread out across a variety of locations. Anglers are targeting traditional spots like Pine Island, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, and Long Point, but schools are showing up in other nearshore areas as well. Jumbo perch remains a nice bonus, adding variety to the bucket alongside limits of walleyes and saugers.

While jigging has been the go-to, some anglers are still pulling spinners with crawlers or trolling crankbaits to cover water effectively, proving all three techniques can produce depending on conditions. As water temps continue cooling and daylight shortens, expect shoreline activity to strengthen even more in the weeks ahead.

The 10 day forecast shows warm temps and very low precipitation, a great stretch of fall weather ahead.

Rainy River…  Emerald shiners are starting to show in the river, and walleye fishing in the river this week was good. The bite will only improve as the shiner run builds. The most effective presentation remains a jig and frozen emerald shiner, worked along current breaks, holes, and sand flats.

Sturgeon activity is also strong this fall. A sturgeon rig loaded with crawlers, sometimes tipped with a shiner, has been the winning setup. Remember, the sturgeon harvest season is open through September 30, switching to catch-and-release October 1 – April 23, 2026. fishing

The Rainy River offers 42 miles of navigable water from Wheeler’s Point through Baudette and east to Birchdale, with numerous boat ramps for access.

Northwest Angle…  Fishing is excellent up at the Angle, with strong numbers of walleyes and saugers keeping anglers busy. Crappies are also in the mix, and many are being found around islands and over basin mud. Structure such as reefs, neck-down areas, and mud-to-rock transitions remain key.

Muskie activity is ramping up as water temps cool, with both follows and successful hook-ups being reported. Pike and smallmouth bass remain solid backup options, with pike coming from weedy bays and smallmouth relating to rocky points and shorelines.

With dropping water temps and shorter days, the bite across Lake of the Woods will only continue to get better.  For more information on fishing, guides, charters, resorts, and lodging, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com

Fishing Report 9.16.2025

perch

On the South End…  Walleyes are setting up in good numbers in 22 – 27 feet of water, with the bite excellent as we move deeper into fall. Vertical jigging with a frozen emerald shiner has been the most popular and productive technique, but anglers are also having success pulling spinners with crawlers and trolling crankbaits to cover water.

Water temps remain in the low 60s, and fish are starting to slide into a variety of locations adjacent to the south shore. Anglers are reporting limits of walleyes and saugers, with some jumbo perch showing up in the mix as well. As the days shorten and the waters cool further, expect shoreline activity to steadily increase. perch

The areas in front of Pine Island, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, and Long Point area are all holding fish.  Jumbo perch have been in very good numbers all year and are a welcome bonus.

Rainy River…  There are some emerald shiners that have entered the river, but the big push has not arrived yet. Still, anglers are finding walleyes in the system and catching fish fairly consistently.  It will only get better as water temps cool down and days get shorter.

The go-to presentation remains a jig tipped with a frozen emerald shiner. Working fishy areas in the river such as holes, bars, current breaks, and flats will produce walleyes.

In addition, sturgeon activity is picking up as fall progresses. A sturgeon rig with a load of nightcrawlers, sometimes paired with a frozen shiner, has been the winning setup. The sturgeon “harvest” season runs through September 30, with catch-and-release beginning October 1 and running through April 23, 2026.

There are 42 miles of navigable river from the mouth of the river at Wheeler’s Point down through Baudette and east to Birchdale with many boat ramps along the way.

Northwest Angle…  Up at the NW Angle, fishing remains excellent with big numbers of walleyes and crappies keeping anglers very busy. The incredible variety of structure—islands, neck-down areas, reefs, and mud transitions—is producing fish consistently.

Muskie anglers are also reporting success, with both follows and catches coming as fish ramp up feeding in the cooling water. Pike remain a mainstay in the mix, while smallmouth bass continue to provide action around rocky points and shorelines.

As the waters continue cooling, anglers can expect the shoreline bite and river action to only get better in the coming weeks.

For more information on fishing, guides, charters, resorts, and lodging, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.