LOTW 1-23

[JohnWester]

LAKE OF THE WOODS - Area Tourism Bureau, Denelle Hovde , near Junction of Hwy 11 and Hwy 172 in Baudette, www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com (1-800-382-FISH)
The bite on Lake of the Woods is slowly picking up following the cold snap that hit the region a couple weeks ago. The milder weather is getting the fish moving once again, and the word is that they are moving into shallow water. Shallow water around Zippel Bay, about 13-15 feet, is giving up some nice walleye in the morning and evening. Buckshot rattle spoons, either gold or orange, seem to be what the fish are looking for. A lot of nice 16-18 inch walleye are being caught in the shallow water. The Sauger bite is picking up in deeper water, about 25-30 feet, using Demons or Gemini. Fishing on the Rainy River is picking up as well. The bite on the river has been sporadic, with one house limiting out and the one right next to it only catching a couple. Like the lake the river is also giving up the big fish in shallow water, about 14-17 feet of water. Over two feet of ice throughout the Northwest Angle and Islands has allowed anglers access to strong and steady action. Limits of walleye and sauger have been found in 20-25 feet of water. A glow jig tipped with a chub has been providing the most action around the rocks reefs. The snowmobile trails have only 3-4 inches of snow cover, not enough for grooming. However, the trail across the lake to the Northwest Angle has received enough snow to be groomed and is in good condition.