Lake of the Woods MN Fishing Report..June 2, 2026
Summer is settling in on Lake of the Woods, and the fishing is following right along. Water temps are climbing, the walleyes are feeding, and there’s good action to be found from the south shore all the way up to the NW Angle. Here’s where things stand this week across the system.
Big Traverse Bay (South Shore)
The walleye bite has been good, and it keeps getting better as the water warms. The Lake of the Woods Tourism wave buoys are reading surface temps of 65 to 69 degrees right now, and the fish are responding to it. Most anglers are working 20 to 27 feet of water and vertical jigging, which has been the bread-and-butter approach for finding good numbers of walleyes and saugers.
With the stained waters of Lake of the Woods, a gold jig paired with a bright color such as pink, orange, glow white, or chartreuse is hard to beat. Tip it with a frozen emerald shiner or a live minnow and the walleyes and saugers have a tough time resisting. Color and contrast do a lot of the work in this kind of water, helping fish key in on your presentation.
Mornings and evenings, some anglers are trolling shorelines with crankbaits and having good success. Walleyes take advantage of a variety of forage opportunities both offshore and close to shore, so don’t overlook the shallows. And remember, not every walleye in the lake is doing the same thing. There are a lot of opportunities out there, and finding the pattern that’s working on a given day is half the fun.
For anglers who want to keep things simple, the resort charter boats are dialed in on nice schools of walleyes. Guides and charter captains take the guesswork out of it. Step aboard and everything’s included. Rods, reels, bait, a licensed charter captain, and fish cleaning upon return are included. Dress for chilly mornings and layer up as it can get warm during the afternoon. Bring your sunglasses and sunscreen, and pack a good camera. Memories will be made.
Rainy River
The Rainy River is still holding some nice walleyes along with a mixed bag of other species, making it a great option for anglers who like variety. Typical river structure like holes, flats, weed edges and shoreline structure can all hold fish.
Smallmouth bass have been especially active. Try current breaks, shoreline structure, rocky areas, and the water near bridges, all of which give smallmouth the ambush points they like.
Nice pike can be found around docks, weed edges and in the bays and feeder rivers that enter the Rainy River.
A note for the sturgeon crowd: the sturgeon season is currently closed and will reopen July 1st.
NW Angle
Up at the NW Angle, the jig bite for walleyes is on. One of the things that makes the Angle special is the choice it offers, Some anglers slide over the border to fish Ontario waters, while others prefer to stay in Minnesota waters. Both are available to you, along with all 14,552 islands. There’s a good fishing spot and an adventure around just about every corner. Expect strong multispecies action up here, with walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, and smallmouth bass all in the mix.
This area is nice for small boats as well. With so many islands, the water isn’t so big and there is always a leeward shoreline or island to fish behind.
Mark your calendars: muskie season opens Saturday, June 20th on both sides of the border. Lake of the Woods is a world-class muskie fishery with good numbers of fish and a healthy population over 50 inches, and the NW Angle resorts sit right in the middle of prime water. If muskies are on your list, this is the place and the time.
Before You Go
A quick reminder on the regulations. The combined walleye and sauger limit is 6 fish total, with up to 4 being walleyes. All walleyes between 19.5 and 28.0 inches must be released immediately, with one walleye over 28.0 inches allowed. A 2026 Minnesota fishing license is required.
June, July and August are great months to be on Lake of the Woods. Warm days, excellent fishing, and a comfortable stay at one of the area’s resorts add up to the kind of trip that’s worth making. Resort fishing guides and charter captains are ready to put you on fish, with everything provided and the local know-how that makes the difference. Prime dates fill quickly, so it’s worth booking ahead.
For resort information, lodging, and guide services, visit lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging/, and for complete fishing information visit lakeofthewoodsmn.com.
Stay connected on social media for daily updates all week long!
Guides and charter boats have found good fish and despite the cold weather, wind and pressure systems, nice catches have been coming in.
Open Water Fishing on Lake of the Woods & the Rainy River (Summer & Fall): FAQs
Open water fishing on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offers some of the most consistent and rewarding fishing in North America. From late spring through fall, anglers experience everything from easy, action-packed summer fishing to trophy opportunities in the fall.
Whether you’re fishing the expansive waters of Big Traverse Bay, the scenic Rainy River, or the island-rich Northwest Angle, this is a destination where both beginners and experienced anglers can succeed. With full-service resorts, experienced guides, and millions of fish, planning your trip is easier than you might think.
What is open water fishing on Lake of the Woods?
Open water fishing refers to the season when the lake is free of ice, typically from May through October. This includes both summer fishing and fall fishing, each offering different patterns, techniques, and opportunities for anglers.
Why is Lake of the Woods considered the “Walleye Capital of the World”?
Lake of the Woods is known for its abundant walleye population, consistent fishing success, and ability to produce quality fish throughout the open water season. Anglers regularly catch walleyes in high numbers, along with trophy-class fish, making it one of the most reliable walleye fisheries anywhere.
When is the best time to fish during the open water season?
Fishing is excellent throughout the entire open water season:
- Early Summer (May–June): Walleyes are often shallower and very active.
- Mid-Summer (July–August): Fish spread out, often over deeper mud basins and structure.
- Fall (September–October): Big walleyes feed aggressively, especially in the Rainy River and nearshore areas.
There is always a productive bite happening somewhere on the lake.
Where should I fish on Lake of the Woods?
Lake of the Woods offers three distinct fishing areas:
- South Shore / Big Traverse Bay – Known for open water walleye fishing, especially over deep mud flats.
- Rainy River – A scenic and protected option, excellent in both summer and fall.
- Northwest Angle (Lake of the Woods) – A remote area with thousands of islands, offering incredible structure fishing and multi-species opportunities.
Each area provides a different experience, and many anglers return to explore them all.
What is the Northwest Angle and why fish there?
The Northwest Angle is the northernmost point of the contiguous United States and part of Lake of the Woods. Known for its rugged beauty and more than 14,000 islands, it offers outstanding fishing for walleyes, muskies, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. For anglers looking for a remote, scenic, and structure-rich experience, the Angle is hard to beat.
Is the Rainy River good for fishing in the summer and fall?
Yes. The Rainy River is excellent throughout the open water season. In the summer, it provides a calm, scenic alternative to the lake and is great for walleyes, bass, and pike. In the fall, it becomes a hotspot as walleyes follow emerald shiners into the river, creating outstanding opportunities for big fish.
What fish can I catch during open water season?
Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offer a wide variety of species:
- Walleyes (primary target)
- Saugers
- Northern pike
- Smallmouth bass
- Crappies
- Muskellunge (muskie)
- Yellow perch
This diversity makes it ideal for both serious anglers and families looking for steady action.
Do I need my own boat or fishing equipment?
No. Many resorts offer full-service fishing packages that include guided charter boats, equipment, bait, and fish cleaning. It’s an easy and stress-free way to experience the lake, especially for beginners or visitors traveling from out of town.
Is this a good destination for beginner anglers?
Absolutely. With high fish populations, simple and effective fishing techniques, and knowledgeable guides, Lake of the Woods is one of the most beginner-friendly fishing destinations anywhere.
What techniques are used during open water fishing?
Techniques vary throughout the season, but common methods include:
- Spinner rigs with crawlers
- Jigging with minnows or soft plastics
- Trolling crankbaits to cover water
Guides and anglers adjust techniques based on fish location and seasonal patterns.
How deep do you fish for walleyes?
Depths vary depending on the time of year and location, but anglers commonly fish between 15 and 35 feet during the open water season. Fish may relate to mud flats, reefs, points, or shoreline structure depending on conditions.
What should I bring on a fishing trip?
If fishing with a guide or charter, you typically only need:
- A valid Minnesota fishing license
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
- Food and beverages
Most equipment and gear are provided.
Can I keep and eat the fish I catch?
Yes, within Minnesota fishing regulations. Many anglers enjoy a traditional shore lunch or bring fish back to their resort for a fresh fish fry—one of the highlights of a trip to Lake of the Woods.
How do I plan a fishing trip to Lake of the Woods?
Planning is simple. Start by selecting a resort that fits your style, whether you’re looking for a full-service experience, family-friendly lodging, or a remote getaway. Many resorts offer packages that include lodging, meals, and guided fishing. Booking early is recommended, especially for peak summer and fall dates.
Ready to Experience Open Water Fishing?
From easy, action-filled summer fishing to trophy opportunities in the fall, Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River offer an experience that’s hard to match. With beautiful scenery, abundant fish, and full-service options, it’s a destination anglers return to year after year.
