Fisherman’s Digest TV Ice Fishes Lake of the Woods

Full Service Ice Fishing at it's Finest

Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is a quintessential northern Minnesota experience, and this winter, Fisherman’s Digest host John Bergsma teamed up with the renowned angler Greg Jones to showcase the lake’s legendary ice fishing on national television. Together, they set out for a day of fishing in one of the area’s popular resort day houses, and their adventure delivered everything you’d expect from the “Walleye Capital of the World”—plenty of fish, camaraderie, and a traditional fish fry to cap it all off.

The Perfect Ice Fishing Setup

Their day began like any other ice fishing trip on Lake of the Woods—with a seamless and comfortable setup, thanks to the expertise of the local resort. Known for their full-service approach to ice fishing, resorts in the area go above and beyond to ensure anglers can focus solely on catching fish and enjoying the experience.

The day house, meticulously placed over productive fishing grounds, was ready upon their arrival. Holes were pre-drilled and cleaned of ice, the house was banked for warmth, and the thermostat was set to a cozy 70 degrees. It’s this attention to detail that makes Lake of the Woods stand out as a premier destination for ice fishing.

The Fishing Action

With rods in hand and eyes glued to the electronics, John and Greg got to work. The fishing was classic Lake of the Woods—steady action, a mix of species, and the thrill of landing quality fish. The duo focused on jigging techniques, a proven method for enticing walleyes and saugers under the ice.

Throughout the day, they pulled in a variety of fish, filling their bucket with eater-sized walleyes and saugers. These species are the hallmark of Lake of the Woods, and their abundance ensures that anglers almost always go home with a successful haul. The camaraderie between John and Greg made the day even more enjoyable, as they swapped stories, tips, and laughs while reeling in their catches.

Resorts Deliver the Full Experience

One of the highlights of ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is the convenience and comfort offered by the local resorts. Whether you’re a seasoned ice angler or a first-timer, these resorts make it easy to enjoy the sport without worrying about logistics.

Day houses are a popular option for those looking to spend a day on the ice without the hassle of setting up gear. They are spacious, warm, and equipped with everything you need for a successful day of fishing. Many resorts also provide transportation to and from the fish houses, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The Day’s End: A Traditional Fish Fry

After a day of successful fishing, John and Greg wrapped up their adventure with one of Lake of the Woods’ most cherished traditions—a fish fry. There’s nothing quite like enjoying freshly caught walleyes and saugers cooked to perfection, especially after spending the day outdoors. The fish fry highlighted the lake’s reputation not only as a top fishing destination but also as a place where anglers can connect with nature and each other in a meaningful way.

Why Lake of the Woods?

As John and Greg demonstrated during their time on the lake, there’s a reason Lake of the Woods is consistently ranked as one of the best ice fishing destinations in the world. Its vast expanse of frozen waters offers unparalleled opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. With an extended ice fishing season that runs through March 31st, and seasons for walleyes and saugers open through April 14th, the lake provides plenty of time to plan an unforgettable trip.

From the abundance of fish species—including walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, northern pike, and eelpout—to the first-class service provided by local resorts and outfitters, Lake of the Woods truly has it all.

Plan Your Ice Fishing Adventure

Ice fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods, and now is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. Whether you’re fishing from a day house, spending the night in a sleeper fish house, or joining a guided trip, there’s an option for every type of angler.

For more information about planning your trip, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. The site provides everything you need to know, from ice fishing reports and trail updates to lodging options and tips for first-time visitors.

Fisherman’s Digest has once again captured the magic of Lake of the Woods, and now it’s your turn to create your own memories on this incredible lake. Get ready for tight lines, beautiful scenery, and the thrill of pulling fish through the ice on one of the most iconic lakes in the world.