Planning a trip to Lake of the Woods in Minnesota can be one of the most exciting parts of your fishing season. With so many options available, it’s important to think through a few key details before you hit the road. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, Lake of the Woods offers world-class fishing, beautiful scenery, and a variety of lodging and meal options to suit any group. Here are some things to consider when planning a trip to this great north country.

Fishing on Your Own Boat or with a Charter

One of the first decisions you’ll want to make is whether you’ll be bringing your own boat or booking a charter or guide. If you have your own boat and experience fishing large lakes, bringing your own boat gives you more freedom to move around. You can try different spots, explore different areas, and go out on your own schedule.

For those who bring their own boat, many will choose to fish the big waters of Big Traverse Bay.  On most days, it is very navigable.  On windy days, many anglers will have a good backup option such as the 42 miles of the Rainy River, one of the bays that hold good fish or trailering to a leeward access and fishing near shore.

When planning a trip consider that charter boats and guides take a lot of the work and guesswork out of the equation. They provide the boat, tackle, bait, and a professional captain who knows where the fish are biting. For people who are new to the lake or just want a relaxing and fun experience, charters are a great option. Many visitors love the ease of stepping on the boat and letting the guide do the rest. Plus, your fish are often cleaned and bagged for you at the end of the day.

Choosing What Part of the Lake to Stay On

Lake of the Woods is a big body of water with several areas to stay. Each area offers something a little different.

If you stay on the Rainy River, you’ll enjoy great river fishing. Spring and fall are the most popular times of the year for the river, but as many locals know, the river actually holds good fish year-round.  It’s also a beautiful area if you like a mix of lake and river experiences.

The south shore of Lake of the Woods, near places like Wheeler’s Point, Bostic Bay, Morris Point, Zippel Bay, Long Point and Rocky Point, is another popular part of the lake to stay. From here, you have access to the big water of Lake of the Woods, called Big Traverse Bay. Charter boats are common here, and many resorts offer easy access to some of the best walleye fishing in the Midwest.

If you’re looking for a remote getaway, the Northwest Angle might be for you. It’s the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S. and is known for its beautiful islands, world-class fishing, and peaceful setting. You can only reach it by driving through Canada or by taking a boat or plane from the south end of the lake which keeps you in MN. It’s worth the extra effort for those wanting a unique adventure.  When planning a trip, know that Lake of the Woods Passenger Service is on board for your convenience for traveling to the Islands of Oak and Flag and the Northwest Angle itself. That’s a great way to experience this impressive lake.

Meals and Lodging Options

When it comes to meals and lodging, Lake of the Woods has something for everyone. You can choose from full-service resorts, cozy cabins, hotels, or villas. Decide whether you want to cook your own meals, dine at local resorts and restaurants, or go all-in with the American Plan. Dining is always a great experience with professional chefs at most all resorts.

The American Plan includes your lodging, meals, and fishing in one package. It’s a great option for those who want an easy, all-in-one experience where everything is taken care of. Many resorts on the lake offer this package and it’s popular with families, groups, or anyone wanting a stress-free trip.

Use LakeoftheWoodsMN.com to Plan Your Trip

A helpful tool in planning your visit is the Lake of the Woods Tourism website. This website has everything you need to get started. You’ll find info on resorts, guides, charters, fishing reports, lodging, and much more. There’s even a lodging availability request form where you can enter your travel dates and preferences, and resorts will reply directly to you with openings.

Planning a trip to Lake of the Woods is half the fun. With a little thought about where you want to stay, how you want to fish, and what kind of meals you prefer, your trip can be exactly what you’re hoping for. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something special about Lake of the Woods.

For more information and Lodging see: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging

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