As of December 28, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake of the Woods in Minnesota is buzzing with activity. Given that Lake of the Woods is a freshwater lake, there is no tidal report to consider, but the ice conditions and weather are crucial.

The weather has been cold, ideal for ice fishing, with the sun rising around 8:00 AM and setting around 4:30 PM. This time of year, the ice is solid enough to support heated fish houses and marked ice trails, making it a comfortable and safe experience for anglers.

Yesterday saw excellent catches of walleyes, saugers, and even some sturgeon on the Rainy River. Anglers are primarily fishing in depths of 22-28 feet of water, where the mud basins are holding big numbers of fish. Vertical jigging with frozen emerald shiners has been highly effective for catching walleyes and saugers. Drifting or trolling crawler harnesses with a two-ounce bottom bouncer and a spinner, especially in gold, gold/pink, orange/chartreuse colors, is also yielding good results.

Up at the Northwest Angle, ice fishing has just begun, and initial reports are very positive. Anglers are catching a nice mix of walleyes, saugers, perch, and pike. Jigging, trolling spinners, and trolling crankbaits are the preferred methods here.

For those targeting sturgeon on the Rainy River, catch-and-release fishing has been excellent. Anchoring up on a hole or adjacent to a hole and using nightcrawlers with flat no roll sinkers and sturgeon rigs is the way to go.

Hot spots include the south end of Lake of the Woods, particularly over the mud basins in 22-28 feet of water. The Rainy River, especially the edges of the main current where water is slower moving, is also a great spot. At the Northwest Angle, focus on areas around rocky points, bays, and sunken islands.

Remember to work with a resort or outfitter to ensure safe and successful trips, especially on the Rainy River where ice conditions can vary. Happy fishing