The majority of ice fishing for walleyes and saugers is taking place in 24 – 34 feet of water. Jigging one line and using a live minnow on the second line is the way to go.
Pike anglers fishing shallower shoreline breaks and reporting good activity and big fish. Pike activity will only increase as we approach the month of March. Arming your spread with a mixture of live and dead baits will allow you to quickly figure out what the pike wants that day. Alewife, smelt, herring, numerous sizes of live suckers, or even large shiners work well.
On the Rainy River… Most ice fishing is taking place on the lake. There are a couple of resorts that ice fish on the Rainy River. Know ice conditions or work through a resort or outfitter for safety.
The river is open east of Birchdale. Those who enjoy the spring open water season on the river are optimistic the river will open early. Is your boat and fishing gear ready when it does?
Up at the NW Angle… Another very good week of ice fishing up at the Angle. Walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, eelpout, pike and some big crappies in the mix.
Water conditions are clearer this winter compared to most. For that reason, the morning and evening bites have been stronger than midday overall.
Jigging one line and deadsticking the second line is the way to go. Electronics help in determining what the fish want that given day and will up your catch of fish.
Ice fishing has been excellent, come on up. It’s still winter on the border! Lodging, fish house rentals, ice fishing, and meal packages at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.
