Ice Forming on the Bays

[lakeofthewoodsmn]

On the south end... Most anglers have pulled the plug on open water fishing the basin and have sights set on ice fishing. 

This week, temps plunged creating ice on back bays.  Some reports of a few inches as of mid week last week in some areas.  When they think the time is right, resorts and outfitters will slowly and safely begin marking a trail for ice travel. 

The first anglers out will work through resorts using the marked trails to tip up fish or spear for pike in the shallow bays.  From there, things will progress as the ice begins to form on the lake.  Resorts will communicate what form of travel is allowed.  Initially, foot travel only.  As ice thickens, it goes to ATVs and snowmobiles.  Eventually side by sides and up from there.

Every year is different, but normally day houses will be set up for customers early to mid December.  Sleeper fish houses a couple of weeks after that.  Mother Nature is in charge and areas of the lake freeze differently, hence, it is vital to work through the pros working the ice.

During early ice, most resorts / outfitters will transport you out to heated fish houses for safety and convenience.  Those fishing on their own will pull their collapsible fish houses out staying on marked trails on the ice. 

Walleyes and saugers have been setting up nicely in their late fall spots along the south shore for ice anglers when the time comes. 

On the Rainy River...   With colder weather, some snow, and deer hunting still going on in northern Minnesota, most anglers have pulled the plug on fishing.  A few that ventured out reported some nice fish.  With snowy boat ramps and spots with shoreline ice, anglers need to exercise great caution if they plan on dropping their boat in before the river freezes up.

Up at the NW Angle... Up until bays started freezing, walleye fishing reports were excellent.  Mother Nature has kicked in and ice is beginning to form.  Most have pulled their boats trying to beat the ice up.

Everything is in place for an excellent ice fishing season.

A complete list of lodging, fish house rentals and sleeper fish house rentals at www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com/Lodging.