The wait is over! Ice fishing season has officially kicked off at Lake of the Woods, and initial reports are nothing short of incredible. Anglers are already bringing in walleyes, saugers, and jumbo perch across multiple areas of this well known and consistent fishery.

Safety First – Always

As with any early ice season, safety must be your top priority. Ice conditions can vary dramatically from one location to another, and each ice road operator or resort may have different conditions on the ice road they are operating on. This is why working through established resorts and outfitters is so important during this time of year.

Most resorts and outfitters will transport you to their fish houses early in the season. Many will also allow you to use your own transportation within their recommended weight levels once conditions permit. Always stay on marked trails, adhere to posted weight limits, and never wander off on your own. There are plenty of fish where houses are being placed—there’s no need to take unnecessary risks.

South Shore – Fish Houses Are Ready!

Across the South Shore, ice fishing is in full swing! Many resorts have fish houses out on the ice and ready to fish. These heated houses come with holes already drilled and cleaned, so you can start fishing immediately upon arrival.

The Fishing Report: Initial reports are excellent with walleyes, saugers, and jumbo perch in the mix!

Proven Tactics: Be brilliant at the basics by utilizing the one-two punch of jigging one line and deadsticking the second line.

• Jigging Line: Use a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head or tail, or try an attractor like a Rippin Rap
• Deadstick Line: Set up a plain hook or small ice fishing jig with a live minnow, typically positioned 6 inches to a foot off the bottom
• Hot Colors: Gold, glow red, glow white, pink, orange, and chartreuse are producing fish

Rainy River – Ice Coming Along Nicely

Ice is forming well on the Rainy River, though the current requires extra caution. Work exclusively through a resort or outfitter when fishing river ice—this isn’t negotiable given the current conditions.

Initial resort reports indicate some nice walleyes and sturgeon are being caught. Remember: Safety first!

Northwest Angle – Excellent Early Reports

The Angle ice is coming along nicely, and resorts have been busy checking ice, marking ice trails, and placing houses. Some airplane traffic is already moving through designated ice areas that have been properly checked and marked.

Fishing Report: Initial fishing reports are very good! Contact your favorite Angle resort or outfitter for current ice conditions and reservations.

Transportation Update: Basically snowmobile traffic so far up at the Angle. Snowmobile trails are currently in the process of being marked and staked.

Important Date: The plan for the snowmobile trail to be marked and staked from the south shore of Lake of the Woods up to the Angle is Monday, December 15th—but stay tuned for the official announcement.

Perfect Timing for December Fishing

The cold weather in the forecast ahead is welcomed by resorts, outfitters, and ice anglers alike. Ice fishing has begun, and December fishing is traditionally excellent at Lake of the Woods. With safe ice forming across the lake and fish cooperating, there’s no better time to book your trip.

Whether you’re a seasoned ice angler or new to the sport, Lake of the Woods offers world-class fishing opportunities. Work with local resorts and guides who know the ice conditions, follow their safety protocols, and get ready for some incredible fishing action.

For more information about Lake of the Woods ice fishing, visit our ice fishing page at https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/ice-fishing/.