Lake of The Woods Fishing Report May 4, 2023
Lake of The Woods is slowly but surely giving up her ice-covered memory of the hardwater season just past. The recent winds and rain have aided the erosion and melting process. Toss in a few very sunny days and progress can be seen throughout the basin especially from Lighthouse Gap to Morris Point and within several bays along the southern shore.
This past week has witnessed some phenomenal sturgeon fishing on the Rainy River. From Fourmile Bay to all along, up, and down various spots on the river. Holes or flats adjacent to deeper water is reported as the “go-to” hot spots.
Surgeon fishing basics or the “Sturgeon 101” fishing technique is the use of a stiff rod rigged with a 6 once (or heavier) sinker, size 4 hook loaded with crawlers (a couple frozen shiners to taste).
Drop that set up to the bottom and let it sit. While you are waiting, strap yourself to the boat because you are about to have the fight of a lifetime with one of this country’s most notorious dinosaurs. Truly one of the largest freshwater fish species that an inland angler can have the pleasure of landing.
The sturgeon harvest season runs from April 24th – May 7th and July 1 – Sept. 30.
The catch and release season runs May 8th – May 15th and Oct. 1 – April 23rd.
In addition to the great sturgeon fishing, monster northern pike have been reported finding their way into various landing nets over this past week. Pike season is open year-round on Lake of the Woods and holds a special place among northern anglers. Giving an awesome chance of landing a trophy Northern Pike before the MN walleye season fishing opener.
With the weather forecast ahead showing warm temps, fishing will only get better. Boat ramps are open up and down the Rainy River including the mouth of the river at Wheeler’s Point – just around the corner from River Bend Resort.
Even though the walleye season is closed, many anglers are still enjoying our great fishery with a mixed bag of nice fat fish. In the mix are sturgeon, pike, perch, crappie, lake trout, and smallmouth bass. There is never a day that disappoints.
Mark your calendar May 13th is the 2023 walleye opener. Most anglers in the “know” are betting and predicting that there will be a good bounty of walleye in the river on the opener.
We look forward to helping you enjoy this tremendous time of the year. Trophy season is here. You certainly don’t want to miss out on all the action.
We are running a spring sale on our nightly cabin rate – in addition to a 3-night special – if you purchase 2-nights, you will get the 3rd night FREE! Starting right now and running until May 12th, 2023. Don’t just sit around and watch the ice melt. Give us a call and book your trophy season trip today.
