Lake of the MN Fishing Report 07/24
Category: article
Jul 24th, 2023 by sworrall
Modified Jul 24th, 2023 at 12:42 PM
On the south end… Summer fishing is in full swing on Lake of the Woods and traditional summer patterns are holding true for anglers.
It is helpful to cover water to find fish and keep presentations in front of fish, many of which are out on the deep mud. Some anglers are still sticking to deep reefs which can always be a magnet. Both are putting out walleyes.
Drifting spinners and trolling crankbaits are the go to presentations. Finding where the fish are and changing up color, speed and presentations is key. If the walleyes don’t cooperate, try something different move on to another school of fish that might be more active.
Crawler harnesses, use a two hook harness with a hammered gold blade, a bright color or combo of both. Drift or troll at 1 – 1.25 mph.
Crankbaits are catching a lot of fish. Rotate colors and speed to find what the fish want.
Chrome and blue, shiny gold and pink uv firetiger are some good choices.
Alternate speeds, trolling from 2.5 – 3.5 mph. Try turning the boat periodically can trigger strikes.
Most walleyes are being targeted in 26 – 34 feet, with a shallow bite mornings and evenings and when forage is shallow.
On the Rainy River… The morning and evening bite are still the best for walleyes.
Deep holes, current breaks and flats with bait are good spots. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is effective and catching a variety of species.
Cast docks, river mouths, rocks and bridges for smallmouthbass. Pike on weed edges into the river and the edges of current breaks.
Up at the NW Angle… Great multispecies fishing action up at the Angle. With so many rocks and areas with structure, some anglers jigging with a jig and minnow / plastic with great success.
Covering water trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses is still effective in locating and catching walleyes that aren’t schooled or are spread out.
Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits and swim jigs in high probability spots is effective for a variety of fish. In addition to the most sought after walleyes and saugers, smallmouth bass, pike, jumbo perch, crappies and the predator of predators, muskies, are showing up regularly.
Summer fishing has been very good. A complete list of reasonable lodging, fishing charters / guides and helpful info about the area at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/