LOTW fishing report 4/21/06

[Spinach]

LAKE OF THE WOODS ?Area Tourism Bureau, Jane, near junction of Hwy 11 and Hwy 172 in Baudette (1-800-382-FISH) Now that the walleye season has officially closed, fishing attentions are shifting to less sought after, yet no less formidable prey. The northern pike season is continuous on Lake of the Woods, and the strength and power they show when hitting lures or bait makes them one of the most exciting fish to catch in Minnesota. Although the average size across the state runs 3-4 pounds, trophies over 20 pounds are caught each year - many of them on Lake of the Woods. Once the ice goes out of the bays and the water warms slightly, the often elusive northern moves in to feed as they prepare for the spawn. Three northern pike may be taken off Lake of the Woods, with only one over 40 inches, and all fish from 30 -40 inches being released immediately. But if the size of the northern pike doesn?t impress you, try your line at a lake sturgeon. No North American freshwater fish grows larger or lives longer than this prehistoric fish, which closely resembles fossils from 100 million years ago. Lake sturgeon have been known to live more than 100 years and grow larger than 200 pounds. Sturgeon fishing is closed in most of Minnesota, but is open for catch and release on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River much of the year, with open season coming in the spring from April 24th to May 7th. One fish is allowed per license year, and must measure 45-50 inches long, or over 75 inches. Immediately upon reducing a fish to possession, you must sign and date your angling license. A sturgeon tag is required, and is available where ever fishing licenses are sold.

Courtesy Outdoors Weekly http://www.outdoorsweekly.com