Lake of the Woods MN Fishing Report..June 10, 2026
Walleye and sauger fishing has been on fire across Lake of the Woods. All three of the proven methods are putting fish in the boat right now
Many different bites are happening across Lake of the Woods right now, and that variety is a good thing. The consistent factor through all of it: anglers are catching good numbers of walleyes. There are plenty of eaters under 19.5 inches in the mix, some nice slot fish in the 19.5 to 28 inch range that must be released, and even some true trophy walleyes over 28 inches showing up. Whatever you’re after, the opportunity is there. Here’s where things stand this week across the system.
Big Traverse Bay (South Shore)
Three main techniques are catching fish right now, both here on the big water and also up at the Angle and on the Rainy River. The two used most often are vertical jigging with minnows and drifting with bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses. The third technique producing well is trolling crankbaits. Any of the three can be the right call on a given day, so it pays to stay flexible.
Depths are varying depending on the kind of structure you’re fishing, and that’s worth understanding because it opens up your options:
Some walleyes are set up along shorelines targeting schools of minnows, anywhere from 6 to 19 feet. Good numbers are also holding over deeper mud, feeding on minnows and on the larvae that emerge from the mud during bug hatches — picking them off before they ever make it to the surface and become a bug. That deep mud is typically 20 to 33 feet. Still other walleyes are working rock piles, targeting crayfish and the forage that lives among the rocks, most often in 20 to 25 feet. Add it all up and there’s no shortage of ways to get on fish.
On color: Lake of the Woods has stained water, so gold, pink/white, chartreuse, orange, glow white, or a combination of these tends to work well. This past week, gold, pink/white, and bubblegum were strong. A good rule of thumb is to lean on gold and brighter colors when the sun is out, and shift toward more solid colors on cloudy days. Better yet, start the day with a few different jig colors going on the boat and let the walleyes tell you what they want.
Rainy River
In addition to walleyes, the Rainy River is offering up a nice mixed bag. Saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, and crappies are all in the mix, and the same techniques working out on the lake — jigging minnows, dragging crawler harnesses, and trolling cranks — carry over here nicely.
Looking ahead, the lake sturgeon season re-opens July 1st, and plenty of anglers are already planning some nice summer days soaking worms on the slow-moving river. It’s a relaxed, rewarding way to spend a day on the water once the season is back in.
NW Angle
Up at the Angle, anglers are reporting good walleye catches combined with a mixed bag coming in from both sides of the border. Anglers are looking forward to the muskie opener this weekend on Saturday, June 20th. Lots of fish have been spotted and the population is strong — Lake of the Woods is a world-class muskie fishery, and the NW Angle puts you right in the heart of it. Otherwise, there was a good shoreline bite in 10 to 15 feet this past week, with the walleyes cooperating for those working the structure.
Before You Go
A quick reminder on the regulations, since the fish are coming in across all sizes right now. 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.
Many anglers bring up their own boats, which is a great way to explore. Another option is jumping on a resort charter boat or a smaller guide boat. Guides bring the know-how, the experience, and all of the equipment for a stress-free and successful trip — an easy way to shorten the learning curve and get right on fish.
To find out more about fishing Lake of the Woods, check out our website at lakeofthewoodsmn.com/fishing/.
Stay connected on social media for daily updates all week long!
— vertical jigging with minnows, pulling spinners and crawlers, and trolling crankbaits. Water temps have climbed to around 69 degrees, and with that warmth holding, the fishing should only continue to be strong. Here’s where things stand this week across the system.
Big Traverse Bay (South Shore)
The south end has several bites going at once right now, which is a good problem to have. The biggest takeaway: not every walleye is doing the same thing, so there’s more than one way to get on fish.
Across the south shore in 13 to 19 feet, there have been good numbers of walleyes spread across many different areas. These fish are being caught a variety of ways, but jigging and pulling spinners have been the most common. If you’re not sitting on a good school, consider covering water — troll a Shad Rap or your favorite crankbait in 10 to 15 feet along shore, and good things tend to happen.
Looking for something different? About five miles out in 30 feet of water, some nice fish are showing up for anglers willing to run out and look. And on the north end of Big Traverse Bay, 22 to 26 feet has been holding good numbers as well. Between the shallow shoreline bite, the deeper water, and the north-end schools, there are plenty of options depending on how you like to fish.
Rainy River
Some good reports of walleyes are coming out of the river and Four Mile Bay. Work the edges of the channel, and with the stained water on the river, don’t be afraid to slide up shallow into 6 to 10 feet — those darker waters let walleyes feed comfortably in skinny water.
Pike are being found in the bays and, often enough, right around the schools of walleyes, so an unsuspecting walleye angler may end up with a bonus on the line. Smallmouth bass are scattered through the usual spots — rock, weed edges, and current breaks.
A note for the sturgeon crowd: the sturgeon season is currently closed and will reopen July 1st.
NW Angle
The Angle has put up some good fishing this week on both sides of the border. On the Minnesota side, some fish are still holding on shoreline structure, while others are beginning to slide out onto the mud. As the warmer water kicks off the bug hatches, that mud bite will only get better — it’s one of the patterns worth watching as the season progresses.
It’s a true multispecies destination up here. Along with the walleyes and saugers, expect pike, smallmouth bass, crappies, and jumbo perch in the mix. With 14,552 islands and waters full of fish on both sides of the border, NW Angle resorts are located perfectly to access both.
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 sits right in the middle of some of the best water. If muskies are on your list, this is the place.
Reminder on Limits
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.
The pike limit is 3. All pike between 30 and 40 inches must be released and one fish over 40 inches is allowed.
Want to make life easy? Guides and charter boat captains are on good fish right now — jump in with one of them and plan on some good success. Everything is provided, along with the local know-how that makes the difference, and 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.
