LAKE OF THE WOODS 7/17

[Realtree]

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 turbulent weather has played a big part in the fishing patterns here at Lake of the Woods; anglers had to fight the wind and rain to catch their limits. But things have settled down and the fishing is starting to stabilize. Long Point, Stony Point, and around Crow Duck Island has been producing nice walleye. Fish are moving to deeper water, about 26-33 feet, and folks have had success down rigging. Anchored and jigging, or drifting with spinners and crawlers, especially around Crow duck, has also been working well.  The sturgeon action on the Rainy River has been great the last couple weeks. Anglers are allowed one sturgeon per year; it must measure 45-50 inches or over 75 inches. A special tag is required to possess a sturgeon, and can be purchased where fishing licenses are sold. The walleye bite has been picking up, 12-14 feet of water in front of Clementson Rapids has been a hot spot lately. The northern and sauger bite has also been good in deeper water in the bay.  The Northwest Angle and Islands is in the height of Muskie season, and several huge fish have been taken. Jigging with a minnow has been working well along the reefs, while bottom bouncers have been producing nice walleye over island points.