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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closed Season: May 16 – June 30.

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

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

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