On the South End…  The fall transition is underway, and the bite has been excellent. Anglers are reporting limits of walleyes in 20–34 feet of water, with two main techniques leading the way: drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits. Productive spinner color patterns this week have been gold with red, silver with blue, and gold with pink. Water temperatures from the wave buoys are running 65–67°F, showing that cooler weather is beginning to move things along nicely.

It continues to be a great year for jumbo perch, with good numbers mixed in with the walleyes. 

On the Rainy River…  Signs of fall are showing. Water temps are cooling, and more bird activity along the river typically means more baitfish are present. Soon, emerald shiners will begin their annual migration into the river, followed closely by big numbers of walleyes—what anglers call the fall run. Already, some anglers are boating nice walleyes while targeting the river. Sturgeon fishing is also picking up, with reports of fish over 60 inches landed this week. As water continues to cool, both the sturgeon and walleye bites will only get better.

Up at the NW Angle…  Fishing remains strong on the Minnesota side of the Angle, with good limits of walleyes being caught. The deep mud of Little Traverse Bay is holding pods of walleyes and saugers, and anglers are finding success by making long drifts or trolling passes to pick off nice eater-sized fish. Jumbo perch and the occasional pike are also showing up in the mix.

Multi-species anglers are enjoying consistent action as well. Muskie anglers are reporting steady activity, and smallmouth bass fishing continues to provide great action around islands, reefs, and rock piles.

This weekend marks the annual Buoy Bash Celebration at the Angle. Best of luck to all participants fishing in the Max Multi-Species Fishing Tournament!

Great fall weather and fishing is upon us.  Book your fishing trip now!  More info at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com