Drifting spinners / crawlers or trolling crankbaits is still effective as warmer than average temps are keeping things in a transition.

As fall patterns continue, walleye movements towards the shoreline will become more evident, and the bite robust, promising excellent prospects for the season’s peak jigging period approaching.

On the Rainy River… The river is producing some nice walleyes but also other species, benefiting from decent current flow and some emerald shiners in the river.

Sturgeon fishing is gaining momentum with the cooler temperatures. Successful tactics involve anchoring and using a combination of crawlers and frozen emerald shiners. Key areas to target include deeper holes.  Sonar is helpful to find fish as well.

The river is relatively small and beautiful to fish this time of year.  Most anglers expect the fall run to start kicking in short order.

Up at the NW Angle… Walleye fishing remains outstanding, with fish located across various structures and flat areas, particularly in the deeper mud east and northeast of Little Oak Island. Effective methods continue to be a mix of jigging and spinners, with crankbaits also producing good results.

Pike and muskies are active in weedy areas over rocks.  Jerkbaits have been good as of late.  The bite should only get better as water cools and days become shorter.

Smallmouth bass are showing up strong, particularly around rip rap areas off points.  Tube jigs, swimbaits and crankbaits have all been productive.

As the waters continue to cool, expect the fishing to only get better for all species, and particularly for jig enthusiasts.

For more information and to plan your next fishing trip, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.