Sportsmans Lodges :: Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing & Outdoor Report

fisherman? Who knows? Maybe a combination of everything. Some houses better than others, consistent jigging and a vexilar continue to help your odds. Some anglers have said they are still getting a good suspended bite six to fifteen feet off bottom where others have said they found most of the fish right on bottom. The best tip would be to try a little of both, don't have a vexilar in your arsenal? No problem, we rent them at the lodge give us a call to book yours. The best depth recently for a nice pail of walleyes and saugers has been between 33'-36' of water, on the north side of Pine Island. The hot tackle, one guest yesterday boasted about the glow buckshot, available in our gift shop if you would like to try it out.

Lots of action…strong sauger class and slot size walleye class this year
Anglers continue to have plenty of action. Lake of the Woods has one of the highest sauger counts that we have seen in years, actually double the long-term average and you can tell if you have been out fishing, they are around. These fish are mainly from the 2006-2008 hatchings and range in size between 8”-14”, some good enough for eating, some are best to be released but plenty to keep you busy throughout the day. Another real strong class this year is the 2001 walleye hatching which is between 19 ½” to 28”. Check out the pictures from Troy, Mike and Matt from this week showing off their 23, 23 ½ and 25 inch walleyes. These fish are defiantly fun to catch and release weighing in between four to eight pounds. One may think that doesn't leave much for good eaters, keep in mind these classes of fish are defiantly at a higher than normal range, but the good eater classes between 2002-2005 are still in good shape and we continue to see many nice pails of fish pass thru on a daily basis. This just means there is more competition for your tasty minnow. Lake of the Woods is in great shape for many years to come. We are reminded that fishing is defiantly a sport, some days you get lucky, some days you need just the right equipment and technique and some days you don't. All in all it is fun to get out, enjoy some fresh air and enjoy the company of good friends.

Reef fishing…
The guides recently moved some houses to the northern reefs the past days to keep all the options open. We plan to start fishing some of those houses this weekend. Our goal is to keep you on the fish where ever they maybe. Stay tuned for a report after the weekend.

Ice Conditions
We continue to have 30 inches of ice in the areas that we fish and travel. If you venture on your own be sure to stay on the trails or roads to avoid the bad ice areas.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
The trails are in perfect condition! The new snow we got a few weeks ago along with cold temperatures and a good grooming have really packed the snow down nice. Our groomer is out grooming the trail from Sportsman's to Warroad today and will be grooming from Sportsman's to Oak Island tomorrow. It sounds like the weather is going to be in the twenties and teens over the weekend, great for sledding!
Land Trails
Just like the lake trails, we have a real nice snow base coupled with cool temperatures that have the trails in great shape.

Superbowl Weekend Special
Book a lodge room for Saturday night and get Sunday night for ½ price! Valid for lodge room stays at the Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River location Feb 6 & 7. Book your getaway today 800-862-8602.

1/27/2010

Great fishing experiences….
Good fishing is upon us! We moved to deeper waters and that has really helped the fishing. Anglers have also seen a change

Jan 24, 2010
29 inch, 10 lb Walleye
Jeremy Adams, Pequot Lakes, MN
Caught on a stop sign lure

30", 10.9 lb Walleye
Adam Cuff from Eagan MN
January 16, 2010
Caught on a Buckshoot Rattle Jig tipped
with a minnow head

Doug Jakobitz from Urbandale, IA
Holds one of his nice walleyes
on his recent trip
January 18, 2010

in the species in recent days too. The past three weeks we had been seeing a lot more saugers than walleyes, but in recent days we are starting to see many more walleyes. Many groups are boasting a real nice average size between 14” -18” and an above average number of slot walleyes between 22”-28” to add some wahoo's and high fives to the days fishing experience. We have had a few real nice trophy walleyes caught too, Jeremy Adams from Pequot Lakes landed a 29” 10lb walleye, as well as Adam Cuff from Eagan, MN with a 30”, 10.9lb walleye recently.

The best depth outside of Pine Island on Lake of the Woods has been between 30'-35', using a gold, bright colored jig, stop sign or bright colored chubby darter. Chub minnows have been the best choice for bait. A vexilar is a handy piece of equipment to bring along or rent from the lodge to really locate the fish at the perfect depth. It can really add a few more to your bucket by the end of the day. The day houses, Snobear Trips and Sleeper Houses have all been doing well. Choose your experience and come on up for some no hassle fishing. You don't have to bring a thing, we have it all: transportation, fish house ready and waiting, poles, bait, tackle and we clean your fish all for one price.

Ice Conditions
Even through the two weeks of warm temperatures, we saw no change in the ice conditions only the melting of snow. We currently still have 30 inches of ice and making ice every day! It was -25 with the wind chill this morning and it looks like we will be seeing more average temperatures between -10 to +10 for the next week or so.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
The weather over the past weekend got a bit too warm for snowmobilers and we saw rain and ice, but Sunday and Monday brought us a fresh new blanket of 6 inches of snow and colder temperatures. The trails are once again hard packed with a nice base of snow. We are half way thru the season, now is the time to ride! The groomers are out and by the weekend all of the lake trails will be groomed from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island, Wheeler's Point to Warroad and Wheeler's Point to Baudette.
Land Trails
After the fresh blanket of snow the trails are back into excellent condition. The groomers are out and the trails are waiting for you.

1/20/2010

The move is on!
We did the fish house shuffle last week and we are doing it again this week! The whole fleet, 36 houses. The move is onward

Jan 16, 2010
28 inch Walleye
Ashley H. from Hockessin, DE
Orange Forage Minnow
5pm in the evening

27.5 inch walleye
Jon from Brainerd, MN
January 2010
31' water, 12 inches off bottom

north. The scouts were out and fish were found, here we go. We are moving deeper to thirty to thrity-five feet of water and looking for a little structure.

Suspended fishing….
Many anglers have continued to have luck with catching fish 6 inches, 12 inches, even 5 feet off the bottom. This technique seems to add a few more to the bucket and sometimes even a trophy! The best way for this technique to be successful is to bring along or rent a vexilar or similar electronic device. Start jigging a few inches off bottom, watch the electronics, reel up when a fish is seen on the screen, do a little more jigging and set the hook. Another good tip is to bring along some hot tackle. Lately it has been brightly colored chubby darters, swedish pimples, stop signs and good ol' gold jigs. The gold jig is always a favorite here on Lake of the Woods.

Jigging is key…
If you want to catch fish, jigging is important. Sure if you are just out to enjoy the day and fish are a bonus that is fine, sit back and relax. Play some cards, have a beer and sit and enjoy the day, but if your looking for willie the walleye you gotta put a little work into it. A little jigging, few different tackle choices, a vexilar and in no time you my friend are deep into the fish.

Ice Conditions
We currently have a good base of ice on the well traveled areas of the lake, reports of 30 inches is the average. Four Mile Bay has a little less, ranging around 16-20 inches and the Rainy River is around 15 inches. This will give us a good ice base to run right thru March 31.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
Snowmobilers are loving this mid winter heat wave! The groomers are scheduled to go out tomorrow on their weekly groom. The trail is in good great shape. Our groomer will be running to Oak Island and back and Warroad and back. I understand from the Northwest Angle Snowmobile Club that their groomer has been out as well and continues to maintain the trails around the islands.
Land Trails
The land trails continue to be groomed in the Baudette area and recent riders have reported nice trails. It looks like it is going to be another nice warm weekend, great time to ride! Check out the Lake of the Woods Drifter's website for exact trail details at www.lowdrifters.org

1/13/2010

The fish are getting active!
It could be the recent fish house shuffle we did by changing up some depths and locations or maybe the warm weather that moved in, only good ol' Mother Nature knows but whatever it is, it is working!! We are seeing the catch rate increase by the day

Jan 8, 2010
32 inch Walleye
Wayne Sletten, Two Harbors, MN
Glow in the dark jig with minnow
30' water, suspended 6 inches off bottom

Mr. Pavek - 6 years old
19 inch walleye 1-11-2010
Sleeper Houses

Mr. Pavek's 2009 Big Catch
25.5 inch walleye

Cadence L.
1-11-2010 16" Walleye
Purple jig with minnow
24' water

here at Sportsman's Lodge. We are currently seeing more saugers than walleye which is typical for this time of year and a few nice trophy walleyes. The current ideal depth seems to be between 24'-34'of water, just outside of Pine Island about 3-5 miles. Glow jigs, gold jigs, stop signs and Swedish pimples seem to round out the best tackle lately all tipped with a minnow. Some angler's are having some of the best luck six inches plus off the bottom and some are doing the same right on bottom. The best technique we have found to try, is use a good electronic device like a vexilar, drop your jig to the bottom and watch the vexilar when you see some fish off the bottom reel up, do a little jigging and bang, you gotta‘em!

Throw the video games aside and bring your kids to enjoy a reel experience!
Check out these recent young angler's! Young Mr. Pavek caught a nice 19” walleye on his recent trip to Sportsman's Lodge's Sleeper House. This six year old is quite the fisherman, last year he caught a 25.5 inch walleye! He had so much fun he talked his mom into coming back for a second trip and she caught a nice walleye too! Six year old Cadence L. also had a day of fun fishing when she caught this nice 16” fish along with many others. Ooh the stories they will tell! Check out our kids packages for sixteen and under starting at just $162 for 2 nights lodging and 1 day of fishing.

Don't take it from me…take it from our customer's and their comments from recent stays at Sportsman's Lodges…

From Wayne who caught a 32 inch walleye last Friday, Jan 8. Me and my two fishing partners were thrilled to be a part of the action in our Sportsman's Lodge Ice House. Needless to say, the expression, "Make My Day" was very appropriate at 3:30p on Friday, Jan. 8th, 2010.

Awesome weekend of catching walleyes! 27 fish by 10am and 3 over 18”!
Erica I.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
The groomers are scheduled to go out tomorrow, Thurs Jan 14 to get the trails ready for the weekend. Our groomer will be running to Oak Island and back and Warroad and back. I understand from the Northwest Angle Snowmobile Club that their groomer has been out as well and continues to maintain the trails around the islands.
Land Trails
The land trails continue to be groomed in the Baudette area and recent riders have reported nice trails. It looks like it is going to be a nice warm weekend, great time to ride! Check out the Lake of the Woods Drifter's website for exact trail details at www.lowdrifters.org

Winter Walleye Special
Book a 2 night 2 day fishing package or better on select dates and receive a $25 off your fishing package and $20 voucher that can be used for food, beverages or gift shop items during your stay! Book a group of 6 and that is savings of $270! Click here for available dates or call 800-862-8602 today.

1/12/2010

Fishing excitement...
Six people = 146 fish this past weekend. Gotta love that! Recent customers enjoyed this fun filled weekend recently. Also Wayne S. caught a nice 32 inch, 11 lb walleye. Many other anglers reported better fishing Sunday and Monday than Friday and Saturday and the afternoons favoring the mornings. The best depth seemed to be between 24'-31'of water just outside of Pine Island on Lake of the Woods. A gold or brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow has been the best presentation.

Electronics...
Vexilars and similar equipment along with consistent jigging definatly seem to increase your catch rate. Don't have one? No worries! Rent one today at the front desk.

Trail & Ice Conditions...
Just enjoyed a nice snowmobile ride from Sportsman's Oak Island 40 miles south to Sportsman's Lodge this morning. The trail was a little drifted but not bad at all. The groomers will be out Thursday, come enjoy the trails. The current ice thickness is a strong 30 inches on the lake, 16 inches on Four Mile Bay and 15 inches on the well traveled areas of the Rainy River. This is a good base to take us right thru the end of the season, March 31.

1/6/2010

The weather is warming up and so is the fishing!
Some nice fish have been pulled in lately and the catch rate has increased too. Check out this recent catch from Gail Tekautz

Jan 2, 2010
27.5 inch walleye released
Gail Tekautz, Hasting MN

Shawn Block 55 inch Sturgeon

Roscoe from Lesueur, MN
30 inch walleye..caught northern pike
pictured below within 2 hours

Roscoe's Northern Pike
Dec 2009

from Hastings, MN caught on Saturday. Gail caught and released a 27.5 inch walleye just outside of Pine Island on Lake of the Woods. Gail's hot tackle was a gold and white frostte jig. The guides moved some houses around into several different depths ranging from twenty to thirty feet has really helped and now with the weather starting to warm from the frigid temps that should help too. Stable weather really seems to fire our walleyes.

Recent Sturgeon Story….
Interesting winter, we have seen more sturgeon this year than any other year being pulled thru the ice holes. The prehistoric monsters are out of season, but sure are fun to catch and release when they grab onto your walleye bait. Shawn Block stands proud with his 55 inch monster. Wow! This big beauties can sometimes take a few hours to land in the spring when they are more prominent and put up quite a struggle, you can imagine how exciting it is to pull up through an ice hole, that is an experience. We just had another group that were fishing in our Sleepers and said they weren't able to get it thru the hole, but one guy was struggling with it and saw his head and his buddy had the tale coming up his hole on the other side of the house. What a day. Lake of the Woods is quite the fishery…if it isn't walleyes or saugers there are always northerns, sturgeon, perch, tulipees or burbots that you may find swimming up your ice hole.

30 inch plus northern pike and walleye, same hole within 2 hours!
Roscoe from Lesueur, Mn recently enjoyed some Sportsman's walleye fishing fun. He pulled in two nice trophy fish within two hours of each other from the same hole. Gotta love that action.

Ice Conditions
We have a good base of ice on the well traveled areas of the lake now, reports of two feet are the average. Four Mile Bay has a little less, ranging around 18-20 inches and the Rainy River is around 12-14 inches. It won't be long and the track vehicles will start running the river right to the front of the lodge.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
The groomers are scheduled to go out tomorrow, Thurs Jan 7 to get the trails ready for the weekend. Our groomer will be running to Oak Island and back and Warroad and back. I understand from the Northwest Angle Snowmobile Club that their groomer has been out as well and continues to maintain the trails around the islands.
Land Trails
The land trails continue to be groomed in the Baudette area and recent riders have reported nice trails. It looks like it is going to be a nice warm weekend, great time to ride! Check out the Lake of the Woods Drifter's website for exact trail details at www.lowdrifters.org

1/4/2010

Happy New Year Everyone!

Cold Weather.......

Twenty-five and even forty below zero has been pushing the needle down, down, down this past week. We are making good ice, but sure would be nice to see a warm up for the old skin.

The fish are back....
Fishing struggled a late last week with the extreme temperature change, but yesterday and today we have seen some good signs of improvement. The guides tested some other depths and moved houses and that made all of the difference. They did good, some houses did so well yesterday they called for more minnows! Their really is no special jig color or tackle that is working better than the next, the fish moved and we found them.

Running the River soon
These cold temps have defiantly helped the ice conditions. We plan to start running the bombardiers right to the lodge on the river within the next ten days. Trails are groomed and packed good the ride is smooth.

12/30/09

Kenny Weber - 50 inch 40 lb. Sturgeon
Released -Avon, MN 12-28-09
25' Water Green Jig

Troy Sims 24 inch Walleye Released

Bill Winter - 25 inch Walleye
Released - Pipestone, MN
18' Water Gold Jig

The action continues…
Kenny Weber pulled a 50 inch, 40lb Sturgeon thru the hole a couple of days ago! WOW! That is quite a fish to pull thru an ice hole! Kenny was fishing for walleyes, but snagged this hungry fella, quite the fight, it was safely released soon after. We seem to get a few of these caught thru the year, another 45 incher was caught 12-11-09 too, interesting. Usually these guys are found in late April and Early May. Check out our Annual Sturgeon Tournament April 30 & May 1 by clicking here. Cash Prizes

Walleyes and saugers…
Lots of saugers are being reported especially in the smaller class, however plenty of nice walleyes and saugers are also being caught to round out a nice limit in a 2-3 day trip. The fish are really schooled up it seems as if you get one bite, it is just the beginning of a steady stream for awhile, then a gap just enough time to enjoy a beverage and snack and tell a fish story and then keep jigging they are back for more. Hot tackle seems to be gold and orange jigs and a 2 inch yellow spoon tipped with a minnow. Jigging has been helping along with setting the hook at the right time.

Ice Conditions
18"-20" on the Lake on the marked trails and 16" on the Four Mile Bay. The lake is mostly covered with 12-15” of new snow that fell last week. The conditions are good. Some slush is reported when you get off the trails and marked roads.

Trail Report
Lake Trails
The lake trails from Sportsman's Lodge to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge is freshly groomed. The trail from Sportsman's Lodge to Warroad will be groomed tomorrow. The lake froze real flat this year and the trails are in excellent condition. The lake trail from Warroad to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge is marked but not groomed yet. I understand grooming around the Northwest Angle started today on the lake and land. Ask about our $39 per person per night midweek special at Sportsman's Eagle Ridge!
Land Trails
The land trails around Baudette and Williams are 60% groomed and the groomers continue to be out in full force. The groomed trails are reported to be in excellent condition.

12/28/09
Hope everyone had a nice Christmas! We are going to start doing one to two mini reports a week along with our normal full report every Wednesday. I hope you enjoy the reports! If you would like to receive our weekly report to your e-mail inbox be sure to sign up on the link above. We also do many reports on facebook along with special exclusive deals click here to become our friend. Happy New Year to everyone and keep the site feedback coming!

Lots of action!
24 inch walleye just released! Lots of action and it seems as if the fish are really schooling up anglers have been reporting 20-30 min fast paced fishing stints throughout the day. So when the fish starts biting it is time to put the cards away cause they seem to come with friends!
The best depth continues to be a little deeper than normal around 28'-31' and the hot tackle has been a white jig tipped with a chub.

Ice Conditions
18"-20" on the Lake on the marked trails and 15" on the Four Mile Bay. The Rainy River can be traveled by snowmobile, but no vehicles are recommended yet.

Trail Report
The lake trail from Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River to Oak Island will be groomed in the next few days along with the trail from Sportsman's Rainy River to Warroad. We recieved 12"-15" of nice new snow over Christmas and the snowmobiling is awesome! There is nothing better than fresh new powder. The land trails around Baudette are also being groomed right now. The conditions are excellent. The cross country ski trails at Zippel Bay State Park are freshly groomed and in excellent condition. Come out for the Moonlight Ski Wed, Dec 30. Click here for more info.

12/23/09

This is what we have been waiting for!
Good ice base, nice temperatures and fantastic fishing, it is here! This past week along with the warmer air heating up so has the fishing. Lots of action, and a nice limit of walleye and sauger to enjoy for Christmas or plenty of catch and release whatever you choose to do have been the common chorus sung at the Sportsman's Lodge this week. One house reported 43 fish in 3 hours this morning for 3 people! We had other groups report 75, even 100 fish caught in a house in one day, now that is fun fishing!

Saugers have been more prevelant than walleyes right now which is odd for this time of year, but makes sense with the DNR reporting that Lake of the Woods has one of the best sauger counts ever this year. Angler's have reported lots of fish being caught, many in the smaller class, but plenty to make a nice limit and even a few trophies too! Three 10lb walleyes were caught this week. So where do you go for good fishing? Sportsman's Lodge of course, the guides have been diligently keeping up with the fish patterns and currently finding the best luck between 25'-30', deeper than normal for this time of year and luring them in with gold and white jigs tipped with a chub. Avoid the hassle and let us do the work, our houses will be warm and ready!

Ice Conditions
We had a real good freeze up this year, nice and smooth, and excellent clarity. We currently have 16 inches of ice on Lake of the Woods and 12 inches on Four Mile Bay (the bay between the Rainy River and the Lake of the Woods in the areas we travel and fish. We have seen a warm up in temperatures from the bitter cold -20 with highs in the twenties during the day and teens at night so we are still making ice! We currently continue to use jeeps with heated enclosed trailers to get out to the fish houses at this time, but it won't be long and the bombardiers and heavier track vehicles will be out, stay tuned!

Snow & Trail Report
As I write this at 5pm Wed, Dec 23 we have 1-2 inches of snow on the lake and 3-5 inches of snow on the land. This is really not much snow and the snowmobile trails are really not that good, however it looks like this is going to change pretty quick in the next few days. The meteorologists are currently reporting that we may get up to 8 inches of snow in the next few days, this could really change things in a hurry. Check out our report after the storm for an update. The snowmobile trail from Sportsman's Lodge on the Rainy River to Sportsman's Lodge on Oak Island has been marked and groomed. The trail from Sportsman's Rainy River to Warroad has been marked but not groomed yet. The groomers are planning to go out this weekend to groom that trail. Many of the land trails in the Lake of the Woods area have been groomed but are in need of more snow for a good ride.

The fish are biting, the snow is falling, come on up to the northland and enjoy winter!

12/16/09

Ice is here and the fishing starts out with a bang!
We currently have twelve inches + of ice on the lake and eight to ten inches of ice on the Four Mile Bay. The snow cover on the lake is about one to two inches and six inches on the land. At this time we are using jeeps and heated trailers to transport guests out to the fish houses. Heavier track vehicles will start being used as soon as we get more ice and snow. As of right now, there are no plowed roads open for cars and trucks until we get more ice, only four wheelers, snowmobiles and light vehicles like jeeps are advised. There is more than normal ice for this time of year on the Rainy River, however not enough for travel yet, no travel is advised on the Rainy River at this time just on the marked trails of Four Mile Bay and Lake of the Woods. If you do venture out on your own, it is very important you know where you are going. There are some parts of the lake that are never safe even in mid February. Your best bet is to go out with a resort who travels these areas day after day and year after year or stay on the marked trail.
Fishing has been above average, with the afternoons favoring the mornings. The best bite has been in eighteen to twenty-four feet of water just outside of Pine Island using gold or white jigs. The bait choice doesn't seem to matter; we have seen just as many nice walleyes and saugers caught on chubs than shiners.

Check out these pictures!
30 inch & 27.5 inch walleyes caught recently! The bite is on. We are looking forward to a warming trend in our forecast starting today. Warm ups usually really get the fish excited, so get ready for some rod bending ice fishing action on legendary Lake of the Woods.

12-14-09 Jon Trujillo 30 inch walleye

12-15-09 Joe Cooper - 27.5 inch walleye

Groomed Trail Report
Some of the land trails have been groomed however we are looking for more snow to get them in optimum condition, right now they are in less than fair condition. The lake trail from Four Mile Bay Oak Island will be marked this Saturday, Dec 19 and at this time it is looking like we could be grooming this trail prior to Christmas. We will know more after they mark the trail and check the ice but it has been a good early ice freeze. The lake trail from Four Mile Bay to Warroad will be marked by early next week as well and grooming could start prior to Christmas, stay tuned.

December Ice Fishing Special
Dec 20-23 Only! $50 off fishing packages of 2 nights, 2 days or more AND Free $40 Gift Certificate for all members of your group! Book your trip now, availability won't last long.

12/11/09

Ice Conditions
We have 4-6 inches of ice on Four Mile Bay & 7-8 inches on the lake. We will be ready for you on Monday! -20 below this morning again! Great ice making weather.

News Flash!
Guide "Taco Jon" out pre-fishing for the season just pulled in a 45 inch sturgeon!! Awesome! Jon was in 15' of water using a pink jig. I guess real men do wear pink! Jon does it again, last year him and his buddy Chris pulled in a 60 inch sturgeon! Check out this picture.

45 inch sturgeon by "Guide Taco Jon" 12-11-09

Guide "Taco Jon" 45 inch sturgeon 12-11-09

12/9/09

Ice Fishing at Sportsman's Rainy River starts Monday, Dec 14!!!!
The season is here! We currently have 3-5 inches of ice and have been experiencing very cold temperatures, twenty below zero yesterday. Our forecast is below zero temperatures for the next week ahead too. We plan to start with a good twelve inches of safe ice on Monday. For those who like to fish on their own, four wheelers and snowmobiles could get out by Saturday, but make sure you know where you are going, their will be limited trails marked. Keep in mind due to the current, the Rainy River will not be safe for travel for at least 3 weeks so use caution.

Fishing Report
Watch for our fishing report next Wednesday and find out how the year started! Heard a few fishing tidbits from the DNR this past week at a meeting that I wanted to pass on to all you fishing enthusiasts! Sounds like our lake is healthier than ever and ready for many years to come!

                       -Lake of the Woods is the home to 10 million walleyes!
                       -Abundant walleye years are coming, rapid abundance.
                       -Highest Sauger abundance is on record in 40 years
                       -A 29 inch walleye is 20 years old

Snow Report
We have snow! We have received about 15 inches of snow. It won't be long before the groomers get out for their first pass of the season. Get your snowmobiles tuned up. Winter is here. For specific trails please check out the Lake of the Woods Drifters website at www.lowdrifters.org or the Northwest Angle Edge Rider's report at www.nwaedgeriders.com

December Ice Fishing Special
Dec 20-23 Only! $50 off fishing packages of 2 nights, 2 days or more AND Free $40 Gift Certificate for all members of your group! Book your trip now, availability won't last long.

12/4/09

The ice has started to form!
Last night the wind calmed down and four mile bay (the bay we use to travel out to the fish houses) froze over! The river from Wheeler's Point up river two miles also is 75% froze over with a nice new sheet of ice. The main lake is starting to get more ice on the northern side of Pine Island and many bays. The forecast looks really good for ice making highs in the teens and lows in the single digits, maybe even below zero by Monday! It won't be long. There is still a possibility we can start fishing by next weekend, it all depends on how hard it freezes in the next week. When the temperatures dip we can make 1-2 inches of ice a night if the ice stays clear of snow. Stay tuned an updated full report will be out Wednesday, Dec 9 with the outlook for the weekend. Get your reservations in now for the winter season, prime dates are starting to fill up.

Snow Report
We have snow! We have received about 8-9 inches of fresh snow this past week. It won't be long before the groomers get out for their first pass of the season. Get your snowmobiles tuned up. Winter is here. For specific trails please check out the Lake of the Woods Drifters website at www.lowdrifters.org or the Northwest Angle Edge Rider's report at www.nwaedgeriders.com

11/25/09

Soft water fishing has ended bring on the ice & snow!
The bays are frozen over, the temperature continues to drop and it is even snowing as I write this. The weather forecast is showing highs in the lower 30's and lows in the lower twenties and even dipping to the teens by next week. If the temperatures continue to drop it won't take long to produce twelve inches of ice. We normally need about 10 days of zero to ten degree nights to give us twelve inches of ice so we can start the winter ice fishing season. At this time we are anticipating a start date of Dec 11, watch our website for updates!

December is trophy walleye month!
December ice fishing historically brings in more walleyes than saugers and bigger eighteen to thirty inch fish. First ice is always a hot time of year for excellent walleye fishing. Last year we even had a 60 inch sturgeon caught thru the ice! Book your trip today and bring home a trophy!

Still searching for that whitetail deer?
Muzzeloader season start this Saturday, November 28 and runs thru December 13. We have 66,000 acres of state land to explore! Don't forget sharp tailed grouse season runs just thru November 30th, but small game rabbits, squirrels etc runs thru Feb 28.

11/18/2009

Weather and Ice?
The change of seasons is defiantly starting, but we continue to still have only a skiff of ice on the bays. The river and lake is wide open. The weather has been unseasonably warm the past few weeks, but the temperatures are starting to drop. Highs in the 40's and lows in the 20's at night have been the norm this week. The water temperature has been hovering around forty degrees. It won't take much for the water freeze this year. I would predict probably only one more week of soft water fishing before the real cold temps start in and we start to seem some ice form. We only need ten days of zero degree temperatures to make twelve inches of ice, it won't take long.

Fall Fishing
The fall fishing continues to be very good in the Rainy River just up river from Sportsman's Lodge. The best depth has been seventeen to eighteen feet. The lucky presentation has been a 3/8 oz brightly colored jig tipped with a shiner. Nice walleyes averaging in size between sixteen to twenty-eight inches are being caught.

Last weekend of Whitetail Rifle Deer Hunting Season
It has been a tougher than normal season for deer hunting in the region this year. Warm temperatures? Wolves? Decrease in population? These are all things being thrown around the coffee hour in the local area. The deer bagging may be down, but the family traditions are still being enjoyed. Hundreds of deer camps around the state have been lit up with family, friends, good food, good stories and fun in the past few weeks.
Still time left to enjoy this sport and here in the northland we have plenty of woods to explore! 66,0000 acres of Beltrami State Forest is right out our back door. Come on up and take in the last weekend or come for the muzzleloader season which will start Nov 28. Many are speculating that the colder temperatures will set in by then which may increase the hunters luck.

Ice Fishing & 2010 Fishing Season outlook is great!
Our local paper, The Baudette Region recently published an article, from a recent gillnet survey.
This year' sauger classes have been strong and recent gillnetting by the Department of Natural Resources showed the bulk around 10 inches. “The sauger abundance is skyrocketing right now,” said Phil Talmage of the DNR. The walleye counts are not as strong, but still within the normal ranges. Weather and habitat are the biggest factors in production and cool, late summers have had an impact on the walleye. Although this spring was cold and the summer late, “We got an extra four weeks of walleye growth this year,” Talmage said. What the fish couldn't do early, they made up for with rapid growth in the warm September.

Now is the time to make your reservations for the upcoming ice fishing season! Get in on some legendary fishing on Lake of the Woods this winter!

11/10/09

The soft water fishing continues

Hummel Party - October 24, 2009

Warm weather and a healthy bite have been enjoyed by anglers this week. The best fishing has been experienced up river from Sportsman's Lodge about 3-4 miles by the Wabanica Church. Sixteen to eighteen feet of water has been the best depth using a 3/8 oz jig tipped with a shiner. Most of the walleyes being caught have been in the fifteen to twenty-two inch range a great size for the pan. The best time of day has favored the late afternoon 3pm - 6pm time frame.

There are still reports that the lake bite up by Knight Island is still producing nice walleyes as well if you are looking to take a boat ride.

Check out this picture and testimonial from a recent happy customer that enjoyed fishing on our world class fishery.

"I just wanted to say thank you for a great weekend. Our crew was up from Oct 22nd through Oct 26. We were registered under the Hummel party. We caught an unbelievable amount of fish and had an excellent time. We went through 25 bags of frozen shiners in 3 days of fishing. Thanks Again, Bob"

Ice Fishing is just a month out!
Some of the bays have iced over but the temperatures will have to dip down and stay down to make any real ice. Have no fear, it will soon be here! As soon as we get a ten day stretch around the zero to ten degree range we will be fishing! Now is the time to get your reservations in. December is the best month to reel in a trophy walleye.

North woods Holiday is here! "The Deer Hunt"
The whole town is lit up, with orange that is! You can't go anywhere around here without seeing a bright orange something. Warm temperatures over opening weekend had some hunters in a bit of fowl mood, but it sounds as if the deer have been moving around a bit more in the recent days. It looks as if the temperatures will be falling by the weekend, so get your gun ready. Rifle season is open thru November 22 in our area and Muzzeloader is open November 28-Dec 13. We have 66,000 acres of Beltrami State Forest right out our backdoor and fantastic fall rates! Call us today.

11/2/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
The river is finally starting to hit! A report of 76 fish caught and released just around Wheeler's Point was reported yesterday! They said the sizes were between fourteen inches to twenty-five inches. We are still waiting on the big walleyes to move in, but this is a good start! Walleye Frenzy!

The rest of the scoop
Gold, Orange or Pink 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a live or frozen shiner have been the best presentation to pull in some nice fish lately. The average depth they wallys have been hitting at has been between fourteen to twenty-two feet.

Deer Hunting opens Saturday!
66,000 acres of Beltrami State Forest right out our backdoor and fantastic fall rates! Call us today.

Hot Fall Deals won't last long!
Only one month left of the $35 per person lodging! The Sandbar is open Friday & Saturday evenings Nov 6 & 7 and Nov 13 & 14.

Feeling Lucky?
Enter to win our Ice Fishing Trip for 4 people! Go to www.sportsmanslodges.com now to enter.

10/28/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
Late run this year! Looks like the big push might not be until November. We have heard of a few reports with fair luck, but nothing great yet. The water temperature continues to slowly tick lower, currently now forty-two degrees, but the big walleye fishing extravaganza in the river just hasn't happened yet. Have no fear, the lake bite is awesome!

Strong Lake Bite Continues
A strong lake bit still remains on Lake of the Woods. The hot spots have been Lighthouse Gap in 20'-30' of water, with the evening bite proving to be the strongest, Knight Island(18'-25') , Zippel Bay(15-20') and Morris Point (15'-20'). Reports of 75-100 fish per day have not been uncommon when you find that sweet spot. The bait of choice continues to be the frozen shiners and live ones if you can find some. Log Cabin bait just a mile down the road from Sportsman's is a good stop to locate shiners. Come on up, only a few more weeks of soft water fishing!

Sharp Tailed Grouse Season just moving into peak
Just out myself this weekend and boy has it got easier to see these pretty little chickens. We were just out for a few hours and saw 7, got 5. The leaves continue to fall and the birds are in abundance. Come and explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

Fall Hunting Dates to Remember
Small Game – Rabbits, Squirrels 9/19/09-2/28/2010
Sharp tailed Grouse Season 9/19-11/30/09
Duck & Late Goose Season opens 10/3/09
Deer Hunt Archery Season 9/19-12/31/09
Deer Hunt Firearm Opener 11/7/09
Deer Hunt Muzzleloader 11/28-12/13/09

Hot Fall Deals at Sportsmans!
$35 per person Lodging Special Looking for a November extended stay deal? Ask about our November month long cabin rentals starting at $900 for the month.

Feeling Lucky?
Enter to win our Ice Fishing Trip for 4 people! Go to www.sportsmanslodges.com now to enter.

10/21/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
The shiners are in the river, but the walleyes continue to remain in the Lighthouse Gap and lake. Water temperatures are in the 40's which is optimal for the shiners and usually the walleyes but for some reason they are hanging in the lake still. Maybe it's the slow current? Maybe it's the forage in the lake? In any case it looks like the fishing will continue to only get better as the next few weeks move on.

The Bite

Missy Griffin 10-18-09 a limit in 1 hour! Three eighth oz gold jig Sportsmans Lodge Lake of the Woods

10-18-09 Missy two walleyes

The bite has finally moved south but just not to the river yet. When you find a good school of frisky walleyes it seems as if the action is fast, the sizes good eaters fourteen to nineteen inches. The large walleyes are still be anticipated, it may be November. The best fishing has been in the late afternoon in twenty-three to twenty-seven feet of water just outside of the Lighthouse Gap, Zippel Bay and even as far north as Hay Island. The bait of choice has been frozen shiners. We recommend Log Cabin Bait just a half mile down the road from us as a great place to purchase your shiners. The tackle of choice has been 3/8 oz jigs in colors of good old gold, pink and orange.

Weather
The weather has been holding consistent lately which is always good for fishing. The highs have been in the 40's and 50's and lows in the 30's and 40's. This looks like it will hold thru the weekend too. We haven't seen a whole lot of precipitation lately and it doesn't look like we will until next week. Increased precipitation will speed up the current which may push more shiners and walleyes to the river. So stay tuned.

Sharp Tailed Grouse hunting has been excellent!
Excellent is the word for grouse hunting this year. A limit in a day or two has not been hard to come by. The leaves are falling, the air is cool and the birds are out. Come and explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

Waterfowl & Late Goose Season in full swing!
Lots of geese and ducks are being seen. Call Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting Guides to book your trip today. 218-395-0030.

Hot Fall Deals at Sportsmans!
$35 per person Lodging Special
$50 off fishing package plus free $25 gift certificate that can be used towards food, beverages or gift shop items for each person.
Don't miss out these offers only last until Oct 31, 2009!

Feeling Lucky?
Enter to win our Ice Fishing Trip for 4 people! Go to www.sportsmanslodges.com now to enter.

10/13/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
The shiner run seems to be inconsistent at this point. Some days we are seeing many, but the next day it changes. It could be the cooler than normal temperatures and precipitation that has blown in and stayed. Cold weather always seem to bring in the shiners, however we have been experiencing a forty degree difference in our highs in a matter of a few weeks which may be too cold too fast. What happens next? Oh, the shiners are still coming, they always do, and we may just have to wait for our weather to even out. The forecast looks like highs in the 40's thru the week with a little precipitation sneaking in, cool but consistent.

Fall Fishing
The best fishing this past week has been a little bit of everywhere. Excellent fishing has been found in twenty-one to twenty eight feet of water around Knight and Garden Islands, jigging with a brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow. We have also had good fishing around Zippel Bay, Long Point and just north of Pine Island in fourteen to sixteen feet of water with the same presentation as the northern spots. The southern areas have seemed to be best in the late afternoon between 4pm to 6pm.

Sharp Tailed Grouse & Waterfowl Hunting
The sharp tailed grouse hunting is fantastic in Beltrami Island State forest just south of Baudette, MN right now. The recent dip in temperature below freezing has really helped the coverage and the bird count is the highest we have seen in years.
Waterfowl hunting is really starting to get good. Cool temperatures and snow recently have really started to get the birds active. Looking for a hunt? Call Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting 218-395-0030.

Whitetail Rifle Deer Hunting Season just around the corner
The north woods are known for its exceptional deer hunting. Plan your trip today. Archery season is in full swing, rifle season starts Nov 7 and muzzleloader Nov 28. There are plenty of deer around and time to hunt. Looking for a guide? Call Tony at North Country Elk & Whitetail Deer Hunts at 218-634-1433.

Hot Fall Deals at Sportsman's!
$35 per person Lodging Special now thru Nov 30.
$50 off plus free $25 free gift certificate when you book a fishing package of two nights and two days or better now thru Oct 31, 2009.
For more information call us to book at 800-862-8602.

10/7/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
We have a good amount shiners now showing up in the river, but the walleyes have not migrated south yet. When?? Good question? Colder weather is moving in starting today that may push them south. Only Mother Nature really knows but, it will for sure happen soon.

Fall Walleyes
The bite will no doubt start to move south soon but as for now the best fishing has been found around Knight and Garden Island. Your best bet is to find twenty-five to thirty-two feet of water, jigging with a gold, pink or orange jig or hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow. A few have reported they have been catching some nice walleyes around Zippel Bay, Graceton Beach and Long Point in depths between fifteen to twenty feet of water with the same presentation, but the best reports have been north as of early this week.

Best Sharp Tailed Grouse Season in years!
The DNR states that we are in a region with the highest drum counts in the state this year and area hunters are agreeing. Lots of birds are being seen despite the bulk of the leaves still on the trees. It sounds like the temperatures are going to start dipping to the thirty-two degree mark starting tonight and continue that way for the next week, watch the leaves fall and the birds to really be seen! It's is going to be great! Come and explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

Waterfowl & Late Goose Season in full swing!
Lots of geese are being seen. Call Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting Guides to book your trip today. 218-395-0030.

Feeling Lucky?
Enter to win our Ice Fishing Trip for 4 people! Go to www.sportsmanslodges.com now to enter.

10/1/09

Emerald Shiner Run Update
The run has just started. This week we saw our weather turn from 70's and 80's to lows in the 30's and highs in the lower 60's. A little wind, rain, fall is here! We are just on the tip of the fall emerald shiner run. We just started seeing some shiners running the river as of this morning. It's time to call your friends, grab your pole and come on up. Where there are shiners, there are walleyes! It will be an action packed month ahead. Looks like we are in for a little wind today and tomorrow that may churn things up a bit, but the forecast for the week ahead looks cool, highs in the 50's and lows in the 30's which are great temperatures for the shiners to really get moving.

The Latest….
We have been fighting a significant change in the weather the past four days which has started to move the fish around and sending them in transition. We have had reports of fish caught north around Garden Island and Bridges as well as south around Zippel Bay, Graceton Beach and Long Point. Northern areas are seeing fish in deeper waters twenty-eight to thirty-five feet of water while the southern areas are seeing fish shallower around sixteen to twenty feet of water. Both trolling with shad raps, (a little red on the lure seems to be hot lately) and bait fishing with hammered gold spinners or gold jigs tipped with a minnow seem to be successful.
We are just starting to try the areas of Lighthouse Gap and the Rainy River the past few days. We have not seen success their yet, however the shiners are just starting and as soon as the wind calms a bit and clears the water this will surely be the hot spot! Right out in front the Sportsman's is always a favorite honey hole in the fall.

Feeling Lucky?
Enter to win our Ice Fishing Trip for 4 people! Go to www.sportsmanslodges.com now to enter.

Sharp tailed Grouse
The bird count is up! Yes, the birds are out and we have heard several reports of lots of birds being seen even with the abundant leaf cover in the woods right now. The leaves should really start to fall this week with the cooler temperatures, great hunting will be upon us in the upcoming days. Come and explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

Waterfowl & Late Goose Season starts Saturday!
Call Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting Guides to book your trip today. 218-395-0030.

9/23/09

Paul - Esko, MN 32 in 12 lb Walleye
9-15-09

Hebeisen Party - Gaylord, MN 9-15-09

Larson Party - Esko, MN 9-15-09

Two nice trophies this week
Summer like weather and trophy walleyes, it sounds like July? We will take it!
Paul from Esko, MN had great success while fishing at Sportsman's last week. 32 inch and a 31 inch walleye within two days! Plus he said he caught and released many other nice slot size fish between nineteen and a half and twenty-nine inches and good eater fish between fourteen and nineteen inches too during his three day trip.

Successful fishing is what it is all about this year on Lake of the Woods. Since mid May, 95% of our groups have had excellent fishing success and either ate or left with their limit of walleyes. Is their an end in sight? I don't think so, the DNR is reporting they have seen some of the best net reports in years. The lake is healthier in than ever. Time to book your winter trip! Give us a call today 800-862-8602.

The scoop
Not much has changed from last week with temperatures still staying in the warm 70's and 80's. Areas around Zippel Bay and Long Point continue to be producing the best walleyes and saugers lately. Twenty-five to thirty feet of water jigging with gold, glow in the dark, pink or orange jigs tipped with a minnow or trolling with shad raps silver and red or white and red have been the best presentations. A look ahead to the cooler temperatures we will start to see the fish migrate towards the Lighthouse Gap and Rainy River, stay tuned.

Annual Emerald Shiner Run
Another week of warm temperatures has slowed the Shiner Run. We will keep you informed, check back early next week for an update. It did dip down to forty degrees last night and it looks like we may start to see fall like temperatures with daytime highs forecasted in the fifties and sixties next week. Cool temperatures are what the Shiners are looking for.

Lake Sturgeon
One week left to catch and keep a sturgeon until April! The Rainy River and Four Mile bay of Lake of the Woods are the best areas to snag one of these prehistoric monsters.

Sharp tailed Grouse
Local hunters say they did get some birds this week, but the best hunting is yet to come. If we get the cooler temperatures they are forecasting for next week the leaves will really start to fall and it will be easier to spot the birds. Come and explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

9/16/09

Another great week!
A great week of summer weather, excellent fishing and good times have been experienced by Sportsman's guests this week.

Leach Party 9-16-09

Temperatures have been in the upper 70's lower 80's and the fish have been just as excited as the humans. I believe the weather has been tricking the fish into thinking it is July, based on the size of fish that have been caught and the techniques used. We have seen tons of nice eater fish and trophy fish continue to be caught on a daily basis, check out this picture of the Leach party. Fishing for the limit and getting back in to enjoy other recreational activities was their goal and they met and exceeded their goal both Monday and Tuesday, by noon! It seems as if the fish were literally “jumping in the boat”! That is how good the fishing has been this summer on Legendary Lake of the Woods, absolutely awesome!

The scoop
Areas around Zippel Bay and Long Point continue to be producing the best walleyes and saugers lately. Twenty-five to thirty feet of water jigging with gold, glow in the dark, pink or orange jigs tipped with a minnow or trolling with shad raps silver and red or white and red have been the best presentations. As long as the warm weather stays I would bet the fishing will continue to be good in these areas. A look ahead to the cooler temperatures we will start to see the fish migrate towards the Lighthouse Gap and Rainy River.

Plan on at least two to three days of fishing for the best experience
It is true; as long as the weather cooperates it has been easy to get your limit of walleyes in one day of fishing this summer on Lake of the Woods. This is quick trip if your short on time, but if you have a few more days to relax I encourage you to stay a few extra days and really experience Lake of the Woods. For the fishing enthusiast plan on fishing the first day and enjoy our famous island shore lunch, this is a great experience to enjoy fresh walleye prepared over an open fire all with a back drop of the beautiful lake. Then, fish day two for trophies catch and release your heart out, day three fish for your limit to take home to share with friends and family. Still not done fishing? We have more! Take the trip to Oak Island and enjoy fishing the islands for muskie, northern pike and slab crappies. Don't forget we have more than fishing too. Goose, duck, partridge, small game, deer and elk hunting is world class in our area. Check out our “hunting” link on our website for guided hunts. Also come and enjoy fall foliage, golf, fall festivals, small town shopping, visit the largest walleye, Willie Walleye, take a boat tour to the Northwest Angle and Islands, county museum and much more. Log on to www.sportsmanslodges.com for details.

Annual Emerald Shiner Run
We continue to see a few shiners starting in the river however due to the warmer than normal temperatures we have been experiencing the run has slowed. It looks like cooler temperatures will start again by Monday, Sept 21 so stay tuned a good cool week can really change the status in a hurry.

DNR reports this years' sauger class the best they have seen in years. Saugers which are almost identical to the walleye other than the walleye has a white marking on their dorsal fin and walleyes tend to be larger are prominent fish caught in the mid to late season of winter fishing. Sounds like it will be a good winter! Get your reservations in now prime dates are booking up. If you're looking for trophy walleyes make sure you plan to visit the first three weeks of December, first ice is always the best for trophy walleye fishing.

Lake Sturgeon
Only a few more weeks left to be able to keep a sturgeon. Sept 30 marks the last day to do this until next spring. The rainy

Goose Hunting 9-16-09

river and four mile bay of Lake of the Woods are the best areas to snag one of these prehistoric monsters.

Early Goose Season is now thru September 22
The geese are flying and the hunt is hot! Check out these pictures from this morning! A group got their limit in just a few hours and said their was plenty more that flew over. If you're looking for a hunt, give Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting a call 218-202-0030 and Sportsman's Lodge for your lodging and meal accommodations at 800-862-8602.

Sharp tailed Grouse
The drumming count is the highest in years and our region is has the highest count in Minnesota. Season starts Saturday!

Fall Hunting Dates to Remember
Early Goose Season 9/5-9/22/09
Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day 9/19/09
Small Game – Rabbits, Squirrels 9/19/09-2/28/2010
Sharp tailed Grouse Season 9/19-11/30/09
Waterfowl Season opens 10/3/09
Deer Hunt Archery Season 9/19-12/31/09
Deer Hunt Firearm Opener 11/7/09
Deer Hunt Muzzleloader 11/28-12/13/09

Come explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

9/9/09

Two adults, Two kids under Five Years old, Two Hours & 16 Walleyes & 5 Saugers!

Nice Walleye! 9-6-09

2 Adults, 2 Kids Under 5, 2 Hours & 21 Fish!
9-6-09

Family Fishing Fun! 9-6-09

It is pretty easy to find fish and leave with a limit when fishing at Sportsman's this year. Gregg and his young family went out and had a great time Sunday afternoon pulling in fish, check out these pictures.

Annual Emerald Shiner Run
The time is soon coming that the emerald shiners will be running the river and so will the walleyes. Just in the past few days we have started to see seagulls out in the river feeding which is one indication that there are some shiners roaming around. Another indication is some local netters have started to see a few in their nets too. It seems to be just the very beginning but stay tuned in the next few weeks the rush will be on! Get your arms pumped up your going to need them.

The who, what, when and where
We are starting to see the fishing start to move in closer to the south shore this past week. Long Point and Zippel Bay have been popular spots bait fishing with gold spinners or jigs tipped with a minnow or trolling with shads of any color in thirty to thirty-five feet of water.

Lake Sturgeon
Few reports of some nice size sturgeon have been heard lately too. The best approach to find these monsters is to anchor in the Rainy River or Four Mile Bay. These fish are great to smoke the meat or just catch and release they can be a fighter. Don't forget you can keep one until Sept 30!

Early Goose Season is now thru September 22
The geese are flying. Talked to a guy that says he has seen several birds fly over his house the past few days in the early morning. If you're looking for a hunt, give Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting a call 218-202-0030 and Sportsman's Lodge for your lodging and meal accommodations at 800-862-8602.

Sharp tailed Grouse
The grouse have been drumming and locals have been talking. The chatter has been that they have been seeing more than average. Should be a good year!

Fall Hunting Dates to remember
Early Goose Season 9/5-9/22/09
Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day 9/19/09
Small Game – Rabbits, Squirrels 9/19/09-2/28/2010
Sharp tailed Grouse Season 9/19-11/30/09
Waterfowl Season opens 10/3/09
Deer Hunt Archery Season 9/19-12/31/09
Deer Hunt Firearm Opener 11/7/09
Deer Hunt Muzzleloader 11/28-12/13/09

Come explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us

9/1/09

Cushenbery Party w/ guide Tim
8/16/09

Cushenbery Party w/ Guide Tim
8/16/09

Recent Catch on Legendary Lake
of the Woods 8/26/09

Super Fishing
The phenomenon continues and it looks like we are going to get a late summer weather treat too! The weatherman says 70's-80's and full sun all week. Great week to enjoy the lake!

The fishing really is unchanged this week. The best places continue to be around the east and west bar of Garden Island and Little Oak just a forty-five minute boat ride north of Sportsman's Lodge. Their has been some reports of some nice fish caught around Zippel Bay and Long Point, but the sure thing continues to be a little further north. The depths of twenty-eight to thirty-five feet of water and presentations of either jigging with jigs, spinners tipped with a minnow or trolling with shad raps have brought in the best results. The color doesn't really seem to matter but keep in mind Lake of the Woods always favors bright colored and gold if your action slows.

On a daily basis we continue to see a nice mix of fourteen to nineteen inch walleyes great for a good meal as well as some nice size slot fish between nineteen and a half to twenty-eight inch great for some catch and release action. Twenty-eight plus inch walleyes are also not uncommon, an average of five to ten a week are brought to shore or talked about amongst guests.

Annual Emerald Shiner Run
Now that September is upon us it won't be long before the fish will start moving in shallow again. Due to the cooler than normal temperatures we have experienced this summer it will probably be sooner than later that this happens. Normally the annual walleye frenzy during the annual emerald shiner run is best late September and early October, but it could very well be a few weeks earlier this year. Stay tuned to our weekly fishing report and I will post more information the minute it comes in.

Lake Sturgeon
The lake sturgeon season to keep one is only open for one more month. September 30 will mark the close until next spring. These dinosaurs of the water can put up quite a fight so if you are looking for a challenge or would like to extend your day of fishing, ask about our “Guided Alaskan trips”. We have a twenty-foot Lund Alaskan that works great for sturgeon and northern pike fishing in the river.

Hunting

One of the best times of the year in the northland! Hunting season!! Check out this line up and give us a call to book your trip lodging today!

Quack Addicts Hunting Guides 218-395-0030
Early Goose Season – 9/5-9/22/09
Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day 9/19/09
Small Game – Rabbits, Squirrels 9/19/2009-2/28/2010
Sharptailed Grouse Season 9/19-11/30/09
Waterfowl Season opens 10/3/09

Elk & Deer Hunting Guides Contact North Country Elk 218-634-1433
Deer Hunt Archery Season 9/19-12/31/09
Deer Hunt Firearm Opener 11/7/09
Deer Hunt Muzzleloader 11/28/09-12/13/09

If hunting on your own is more your style book you're lodging with Sportsmans Lodge and come explore the Beltrami Island Forest just out our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! For Beltrami Island Forest maps go to: www.dnr.state.mn.us

8/25/09

Wind, Rain, Sun….No changes in the superb fishing!
We have had a mixed bag of weather this past week and normally a wild weather pattern can really jostle the fishing, but not this year. The fishing or should I say walleye “catching” remains strong.

Talked to Guide Dan yesterday and he had a nice cooler of eighteen walleyes by 11am and threw back a thirty and thirty-one inch walleye too. Not bad for a windy morning!

The fishing has been best around Hay, Little Oak and Garden Island in about thirty feet of water. The rock reefs also have been producing some nice action too. Bait fishing using spinners or jigs tipped with a minnow has been the main attraction lately.

Looks like we are headed into September already next week! Wow, where does the time go. Some of the most prized fishing months are soon upon us, September and October. Come on up and get in on some pole bending action as the weather starts to cool.


Cindy - 40in. Northern 8/15/09 w/ guide Eric	Patty, Peggy, Cindy, Terri & Diane w/ guide Eric 8/15/09	Walleye Dinner 8/16/09

8/19/09

Mike G. - Apple Valley, MN - 29.5inch Walleye
Caught on red, yellow & gold jig in 31.5ft of water at
Zippel Bay with guide Flip.

Extraordinary Walleye Fishing
Another great week of fishing was enjoyed by guests this week. Walleye Fishing either bait fishing with a hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow or trolling with shad raps brought in some nice fish. The best fishing has been around twenty-eight feet to thirty-five feet of water around north and south of Garden Island, Zippel Bay and Lighthouse Gap of Lake of the Woods. Their was some nice big fish between twenty-five to thirty inches as well enough good eater size to fill a limit within a few days.

Fall is around the corner
The murky water around Lighthouse Gap has really started to clear up. A good sign that fall fishing is just around the corner. We are about a month out of the legendary “Emerald Shiner Run” In late September the Rainy River and Four Mile Bay experience a shiner run that generally lasts through the formation of ice. The Walleyes follow the shiners into the Rainy River providing high Walleye concentrations. This is some of the best close in Walleye action of the year.

Fall Colors
We are starting to see a tinge of yellow hit our trees lately, a sign of autumn is soon upon us. Come and take in the beauty of the fall colors by boat or car. We have one million acres of Lake of the Woods and over six hundred thousand acres of forest to explore. Lake of the Woods is a perfect place to spend a weekend away.

8/12/09

Beautiful Summer Weather is here!
It was an absolute spectacular day on the lake yesterday. Eighty degrees, blue skies, light breeze and plenty of walleyes! More

Erickson Party-Hallock, MN August 2009
Bait fishing-hammered gold spinner
Big Traverse Bay - Lake of the Woods

Richards Party-Fargo, ND August 2009
Bait fishing-Hammered gold spinners
Big Traverse Bay Lake

good news, it looks like the weather is here to stay for awhile, it is going to be a perfect weekend to be at the lake. It didn't seem to matter if you were bait fishing or trolling with shad raps, the limits have been plentiful the past week. The proof is in the pictures!

Your best bet to finding some nice fish is to travel north about 25 miles from the lodge anchoring around the east bar of Garden Island or around Little Oak Island, a hammered gold spinner or a brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow will do. If you would like to find some trophy fish and throw a few shads your best bet is around the west bar of Garden Island. The south shore has slowed so you are better off going north and enjoy a full day trip.

100% Walleye Limit Guarantee!
Our guarantee continues! We guarantee if you take a trip for a minimum of two days on one of our charter boats this summer that you will leave with your limit of walleyes! (Fish eaten during your stay is counted towards your limit)

8/5/09

The rhythm continues
Not too many changes this week from last. The “catching” continues to be above average. Nine to eighteen feet of water is the best depths and a hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow has been pulling in the walleyes again. The best locations to find your limit is in the sand near Garden Island and Little Oak Island in the northern areas of Big Traverse Bay on Lake of the Woods.

Less trophies more good eaters
In a normal year at this time we are in the thick of trolling and pulling shad raps and reeling in the trophy size fish. This year is different, with the cooler than normal temperatures we have been experiencing, the water temperature continues to stay cool with a surface temperature at a chilly sixty-five degrees, so we have found the most success bait fishing in shallow waters. Bait fishing with spinners has been pulling nice size eating walleyes, fourteen to nineteen inches and slot fish, nineteen and a half to twenty eight inches. It may not be a good year for a wall hanger, but it sure is a good year for spectacular fishing. Don't miss out, come wet a line today!

7/29/09

Fish O' Plenty!
Had a chat with our longest running guide, Kit Beckel this week. Kit has been guiding on Lake of the Woods since 1960 and at

7-28-09 Limit of Walleyes by 3pm!

Guide Alan Flip Phillippe 29 inch
8lb 12 oz Walleye 7-24-09
Hammered gold spinner

Guide Darryl Vacura 7-14-09
Nice Walleye!

Sportsman's since the doors opened in 1971! He boasts fishing has been fantastic! Yesterday, he took a crew out at 8:00 am and they were in by 3:30 with a limit of walleye! The walleyes ranged in size from fourteen to nineteen inches. Check out the picture of this nice catch! Kit said bait fishing with hammered gold spinners and tipped with a minnow worked perfectly. Fishing has been the best in nine to eighteen feet of water in the sand. The super walleye fishing continues on legendary Lake of the Woods.

Late May Fly Hatch
The May Fly hatch has finally hit this year. It doesn't seem to be too bad and definitely has not sent the fish deeper yet. This hatch normally occurs around the fourth of July, but due to the cooler than normal temperatures it just started.

What is a May Fly & What does the hatch mean to fishing?
A May Fly is a benthic (bottom dwelling) invertebrates, the fly starts out as a nymph that crawls along the bottom, hiding in debris and vegetation. Walleyes don't only feed on fish, they also feed on the marble eyed may fly. To effectively catch walleye feeding on nymphs, anglers need to do use a few tricks or hire a guide learn to master the technique.

The Technique
First you need to use lures that imitate the nymph so you can trick the hungry walleye into feeding on your bait rather than the nymph. Second, the location, nymphs tend to be in bays and flats with a soft mud and silt bottom, mostly in shallow to soak up the sun. Third you need to match your jigging with the erratic movement of a nymph. Vertical jigging also works well and is done by thumping the jig in place to kick up debris. This technique can be very effective in enticing a walleye to you. Walleyes also tend to suck in nymphs so hits can be light, so be ready to set the hook!

What happens next?
Usually after the May Fly hatch the walleyes tend to move deeper and the trophy fishing season really starts to hit. So start pumping up your arms, throw out a few shads and let the fun begin!

Looking for Perch
Some like them some don't, but they sure can be fun to catch, especially when your entertaining kids on the boat. The best way to find some nice perch is to anchor fish and hone in on a school of them. Keep in mind perch tend to school tight in a close circle so you need to get right on top of them reel in this sweet fish. The perch is unlike the walleye which tends to school in a larger area and can be easier to find.

Fall Fishing just around the corner
The annual emerald shiner run and walleye feeding frenzy will be here before we know it. We have some great rates, only $35 per person per night lodging or take advantage of our Hook, Line & Sinker fishing packages with savings of up to $75 per person! Call to book your trip today! 800-862-8602

7/22/09

Staying shallow
The best fishing in recent days has been in shallow waters in depths between twelve to twenty feet in the sand of Big Traverse Bay. It seems as if our cooler than normal temperatures this summer has been keeping the fish in shallow longer. The water temperature has been hovering around the mid sixty ranges, a ten degree below average. Anglers have started trolling with craw fish style shad raps while others continue to bait fish using brightly colored spinners tipped with a mix of live bait including a minnow, leech or crawler.

Full day trip is your best choice
The summer of 2009 has definitely been a banner year for great fishing on Lake of the Woods and so you may be thinking a half day trip is all you need to catch some nice fish. If a half day is all you have we can defiantly accommodate you with some good fishing, but if you can sneak in a full day or two that is your best choice for your best experience during the summer months when the prime spots are a bit farther out than in the spring and fall of the year.

The best fishing for nice size and quantity takes about forty-five minutes to get there, which is just not something that can be done with a half day trip during this time of year. We want you to spend most of your time pulling in walleyes and not traveling, so when you are planning your next trip is sure to include at least one full day and ideally two. Remember we are guaranteeing your limit of walleyes if you book two full days this summer and don't forget to book one of our popular authentic shore lunches!

7/15/09

Fishing is so good we are guaranteeing it!
Yes, fishing this summer has been one of the best years ever and Lake of the Woods is called the Walleye Capital of the World for a reason. This summer Sportsman's Lodge is guaranteeing you that you will leave with your limit of walleyes! 100% Walleye Limit Guarantee! All you have to do is fish with one of our guides for a minimum of two days. If you don't end the two days with a limit of walleyes to take home, we will pay you $10 per walleye less than your limit or find walleye to send you home with! Fish eaten during your stay is counted toward your limit.
The weather was good for a few days however; it now seems to be taunting us again. Looks like it will only last a couple of days though and then we should be back in to some nicer temps.

No fussy fish lately...
Fishing has been good this week, nice sixteen inch to nineteen inch eater walleyes, along with a twenty seven inch and twenty nine inch walleye and even a report of a 37 inch Northern Pike. The sand bars seem to be producing the best eater size fish, while the trophy fish have been found in the mud. Fishing has been best in twelve feet to twenty feet of water recently along the east and west bar and Little Oak. Presentation doesn't seem to make a real big difference lately. Worms, minnows and leeches are all working the same in producing a nice limit. If you are looking for that trophy we suggest using a shad rap. Once we get back into warmer days, keep your eye on the rock reefs as the walleyes will be on the move. Talk with your guide about what type of fish you would like to catch and they will be sure to land you on the fish.

If you're looking for trophies now is the time
The DNR says you have a 1 in 10 chance to catch a 10lb walleye on Lake of the Woods in July and August. Come on out and try your luck!

7/8/09

Fishing the best in 80 years!
Dan Carlson, one of our professional guides at Sportsman's Lodge said fishing is so good that yesterday all he did was bait hooks all day long; he didn't even have time to wet a line! True Story! The weather has been fabulous and the "catching" continues to stay absolutely superb! I talked with an old timers this week who has lived on the lake and fished for eighty years, he said this is the best walleye fishing that he has ever seen and the number of trophy fish he said is definitely the best he had ever seen.

Why is the fishing so good?
Well of course only the man upstairs really knows, but when consulting many officials, guides and long time anglers. They all say that a series of events over fifty year time frame have all played a part. The commercial netters being taken off the lake, pollution control, and now more recently in the past few years the reduction in the limit of walleyes from six to four new slot limit now enforced, no walleyes can be kept between 19.5"-28" and only one walleye can be kept over 28". This still leaves room for four walleyes and four saugers per person to take home and plenty of trophy fish to be kept or caught & released. Along with great fishing, the number of trophy fish has been astonishing too. Lake of the Woods is the healthiest it has been in years and the future looks bright, so grab your shades and come on fishing!

Hungry walleyes await you!
Drifting in eight to thirteen feet of water in either mud or rocks is your best option right now in Big Traverse Bay. A gold crawler harness tipped with a fat worm has been best. Book a trip with one of our professional guides, they will land you right on the fish.

Time to bring the kids
If you are looking for a fun getaway with kids before school starts back in to session, fishing is a great activity for kids and all members of the family to enjoy. Come enjoy a beautiful day on the boat, fun fishing action, a stop for a noon shore lunch (your fish fried over an open flame right on the beach) for some beach fun and good food. After a fun day of fishing take a dip in the pool, play a game in the game room, have a little dinner in our riverside dining room and top it off with a little live entertainment in our Sandbar. We know kids like to stay busy, check out our website at www.sporstmanslodges.com for the "Top 25 things to do at Sportsman's" to extend your stay after fishing. Here at Sportsman's we have something for everyone at one of our three locations.

7/1/09

Goodbye Wild Weather
Wild weather has been rocking the boats this week. Wind, rain, and cool temperatures came to our region last week and hassled the boaters a bit. The walleyes were still biting, but the weather made it difficult to get to and stay on the "hot spot". Good news! It looks like we will be enduring full sun for the holiday week ahead.

Trophy Fish
Lately the best bite has been in 9'-21' of water just off the West Bar of Lake of the Woods. Hammered gold spinners with leeches, crawlers, and minnows have all been working the best. Limits of walleyes continue to not be hard to get along with many slot fish (19.5" - 28"). The prime trophy season is soon upon us, many guides have been reporting the large walleyes 28" plus being caught & released lately, one boat this week boasted two nice 28" walleyes in one day.

Happy 4th of July
The forecast for the weather, walleyes and fun look perfect! Come and enjoy the beautiful Minnesota northland. Baudette will be hosting their annual 4th of July activities including two parades, magician, live entertainment, food & vendors, 5K walk/run, kid's games and a spectacular fireworks display in the Baudette Bay.

6/24/09

Great Weather! Great Fishing!

Fandel Party, Owatonna, MN 6-22-09
with Guide Flip & Dan

Finneseth Party 6-22-09
with Guide Darryl

Parliament Party, Granite Falls, MN
with Guide Tim 6-22-09

Eighty degrees, soft breeze, beautiful island scenery and lots of walleyes!! Good times! Another great week!

We started to see more hammered gold spinners then jigs leave the tackle shop this week and the bait is starting to change up as well, we are seeing more colors in the bait boxes from just the faithful old minnow to a mix of choices including crawlers and leeches. This week marks a start of a transition on the Lake of the Woods. This year it will be a slower transition than normal due to the lengthy cool weather we experienced this spring, but just like everything change is always the constant. The bait, the drifting technique and the move toward the rock bottoms and structure are all common changes that will take place in the upcoming weeks. We will continue to see plenty of good eater size fish between 14"-20", but most likely around mid July the trophy walleyes will really start to be known. Trophy walleye season is in July and August, so if you're looking for some BIG excitement be sure to plan your trip for those two months. Statistics show that of all the Minnesota lakes, you have a 1 in 10 chance to catch a 10lb plus walleye during the months of July & August on Lake of the Woods!

The best way to reel in a nice limit right now is to drift in the mud flats around 28'-33' of water just outside the Lighthouse Gap approximately 15 miles from the Sportsman's Lodge or on the South Shore areas of Lake of the Woods including Graceton Beach and Zippel Bay. The rock reefs will also be an attraction in some good fishing in the weeks to come as the water really starts to warm up.

Leave the hassles to us!
Sportsman's Lodge offers no hassle, no equipment required fishing trips! We include the boat, experienced guide, poles, bait, tackle and clean you fish, we will even pack you a lunch or cook up a traditional island fish fry too! Come for the fun and not the work!

4th of July Celebration
Come enjoy a good small town old fashion 4th of July this summer at Sportsman's Lodge! Sportsman's is just 12 miles north of Baudette, MN and boy does Baudette know how to celebrate Independence Day! Carnival, Parade, River Cruises, Spectacular fireworks display (best in 200 miles), kids games, entertainment, street dance and much more. Come celebrate at the lake! Go to sportsmanslodges.com for more info.

Family Fun in the north woods
Boating, fishing, indoor pool, live entertainment, river boat cruises, beach, golf, casino, museum, movie theater, state park, playground, festivals, and more. We have something for everyone! Check out our top 25 things to do this summer at Sportsman's Lodges here.

Railroad Daze
Rainy River just a short hop over the bridge to Canada from Baudette, MN (12 miles S of Sportsman's Lodge) is hosting their annual Railroad Daze Celebration July 10-12.
Picnics, Scavenger Hunt, Auction, Slow Pitch Tournament, Dance, Flea Market, Classic Car Show, Magic Show, Monster Bingo and much more! Check out railroaddaze.ca for more info! Sportsman's has rooms and cabins available for lodging needs!

6/17/09

100 fish per boat!
Another great week! 100 fish per boat per day is not uncommon and a nice 31" walleye was released and is waiting for you this week. I continue to brag about the fishing up here in the northland this year and it really is not a fish tale, this is true facts right from the dock pad. Watch our dock cam daily between 5pm -6pm and you will see for yourself the exceptional fishing we have to offer.

"Catching" is up as the technique starts to change
It really is nice to finally have some true summer weather. The temperatures are now in the "normal" range with high's in the 70's , we are finally starting to see the water temperature starting to warm up. This recent weather change has also started the best "catching" technique to change. Anglers are just starting to pull the anchor and do more drifting. We are also starting to use a few leeches and spinners come out of the tackle boxes compared to the consistent jig and minnow technique that we have used the past six weeks. The ideal depth continues to be between 24'-31' just a six to fifteen mile ride from the Sportsman's Lodge in Big Traverse Bay on Lake of the Woods. The catch has been mainly walleyes, but saugers and PERCH continue to round out the fish cooler at the end of the day. Yes, as I said last week the PERCH are biting! Twenty perch per boat has not been uncommon lately, one boat even boasted 34 perch & 43 walleyes/saugers (limit) a few days ago. They may be smaller than a walleye, but they keep you busy and pretty tasty too.

No more ties!
Don't forget about dear old Dad! Sportsman's has great fishing packages and gift certificates for your dad this Father's Day. Father's Day is Sunday, June 21. Two nights lodging and one full day of guided fishing starting at only $185 per person plus tax.

6/10/09

Tyler Olson - Duluth,MN - 24inch Walleye
6-7-09

Tyler Olson - Duluth,MN - 28.75inch Walleye
6-7-09

Limit!! 6-7-09 Perch too!

Fishing success!
Just ask the Olson Party recently up this past week! Check out these pictures. They landed a 24 inch, 29 inch, 27 inch walleyes, caught their limit of walleyes and a few perch! Perch!?!?! Yes, the fish are so hungry on the south shore of Lake of the Woods right now even the perch are biting! Or maybe they think it is winter? Ha! Ha! Have no fear; it finally looks like summer may be coming this weekend. Temperatures in the 70's are coming our way!

Consistent Bite....
The bite has been very consistent. Jigging with an orange or pink jig or a shiny gold spinner tipped with a chub are still bringing in the best results. Fishing has been the best in 14-18' or 22'-26' lately. Anchoring the boat and doing a little jigging is all it takes to pull in a limit of walleye. Due to the cool weather the fish are staying in close in relation to a normal year, so a 5-8 mile boat ride just outside of Pine Island on Lake of the Woods is all it takes to find a healthy school of fish right now.

Fishing for savings?
$50 off Plus Free $25 Gift Certificate
Want to go fishing but money is tight? Check out our Hook, Line & Sinker packages, this is sure to fit into anyone's budget! $50 off the regular package price PLUS a FREE $25 gift certificate per person for you to use in the bar, dining or gift shop! For select dates and details Click Here or call us at 800-862-8602 and reel in the savings!

Old Fashion 4th of July coming soon!
Baudette is known for its good old fashion 4th of July celebration and this year is no different. Come on up and enjoy a little fishing, awesome firework display, flea market, food booths, 5K run, clowns, games and parade.

6/3/09

The bite continues to be hot!
The weather has been a bit cooler than normal but the walleyes seem to like it. They have been hitting fast and furious since opener and limits continue to be brought it in daily.

Moving Deeper
A nice mix of good eater fish (14" to 18") and trophy fish (25" to 32") fish continue to be caught this past week. The walleyes are starting to move a little deeper into 20'-28' of water just outside of Pine Island a short 7 mile drive from the Sportsman's Lodge. Jigging with a bright colored jig or a gold spinner tipped with a chub minnow still continue to be the tackle of choice. It won't be long and the walleyes will start looking for night crawlers, so don't forget to get a few of those before heading out in the upcoming weeks.

Morel Mushrooms & Asparagus
Prime picking time is now! Don't miss out. Come explore the Beltrami Island State Forest & Zippel Bay State Park.

Blueberries & Raspberry Picking
Although it seems to be a slow summer warm up this summer, the temperature is sure to start heating up in the weeks to come and before we know it the wild blueberries & raspberries will be ready for picking. Normally the end of July and early August is the best time.

Father's Day is just around the corner!
Don't forget about dad! We have gift certificates & fishing packages starting at just $199!

5/27/09

The fishing is good, the weather is warming up, and it's time to escape to the lake!

The walleyes have continued to be active and anglers are continuing to brag about the best fishing in years. As the spawning season comes to an end we are starting to see the fish move from the Rainy River to Lake of the Woods, just four miles away from Sportsman's Lodge. The cooler temperature has been holding on, but it looks like the forecast for the days ahead are calling for 70's and sunshine! Summer will finally be here!

Many walleyes slot size and larger are still prominent as well as plenty of keepers to fill out a limit in a day or two. What is the lucky presentation & technique? Brightly colored 3/8 - ½ oz jigs tipped with a chub either drifting or anchoring. No equipment or experience? No problem! We have it all ready and waiting, jump on one of our 27' Sports craft with one of our experienced guides where the poles, bait, tackle are all ready to go.

The view...

The leaves are finally starting to show their faces this week. Come and watch summer unfold on beautiful Lake of the Woods.

Morel Mushrooms & Asparagus Anyone?

The morel mushrooms & wild asparagus are just starting to pop up this week. This season usually only lasts a week or two so don't miss out! Come & explore the 66,000 acres of Beltrami State Forest just outside our back door.

Morel Mushroom Recipe

Rinse with water & pat dry. Cut in half. Roll mushroom in egg & then in flour. Fry to a golden brown in butter. Salt to taste. Enjoy!

5/20/09

30 Inch Walley Fairchild Party 5-9-09

Ryan W. Zimmerman, MN 5-10-09

Kacie W. Zimmerman, MN 5-10-09

"Best Fishing we have had in 15 years!"
Yes, that is the "buzz" lately around Sportsman's Lodge. We have been experiencing phenomenal walleye fishing the past few weeks. Big fish, lots of fish, and a ton of action have are also the words that are an everyday occurrence lately. Now's the time, don't wait get your crew together and come up for a day, two days or a week! Mmmm, there is nothing better than fresh fried walleyes.

You don't need to go far....
The walleyes are staying in close just a short one to four miles away from the lodge right now in the Rainy River and Four Mile Bay. Jigging with a bright orange, gold or hot pink or gold spinner tipped with a chub or shiner have been the winning tickets.

Great way to spend Memorial Day Weekend....
The fishing is hot, pool is on, the entertainment is rocking, the spa services are calling your name, and we have lots to offer. Check out our "Top 25 things to do!" at www.sportsmanslodges.com

Scenery - Mushrooming - Asparagus
The trees are just starting to show some green, it has been a cool first half of May this year. Their has only been a few reports of a handful of mushrooms and asparagus found in the recent week, we are waiting for a nice warm up and then look out their will be a frenzy! The hunt will be on. So keep an eye on the temperature and be ready, they come fast and don't last long!

05/13/09

Lake of the Woods 2009 Walleye Opener is One of the Best with lots of Big Walleyes
The weather may have been chilly, but the walleyes were ready! Many trophies were pulled in along with a good number of keepers to make the action exciting and worthwhile!

No fish tales here, the proof is in the pictures!
Bruce & Patty Ternes of Rockford, Minnesota had some of the best fishing they can remember in the 10 plus years they have been frequenting the Lake. Check out the pictures of the "triple" that they pulled in! Other guests told us it was the best fishing they have had in 15 years! Reports of catching and releasing many, many fish 25, 27, 29, 32 inch fish came in steady. We even heard some reports of a 33 inch walleye caught. Thoughts are that this early opener has allowed us to capture those large female walleyes leaving the river after the spawn. So get here soon, for some HOT action!

Bruce T. --32 inch Walleye 5/09/09

Bruce T. --26.5 inch Walleye 5/09/09

Lake and River Conditions
Lake level and water clarity remain good for this time of year which translates into good opportunities to present a variety of baits to tempt your fish of choice. Jigging while anchored was the best method of the weekend. Colors that worked well were gold and orange. Frozen shiners are working better than chubs. Some guests even tipped their jig with one of each with great success! So find an area with a depth of 12 to 16 feet, throw the anchor, tip your favorite jig with a minnow, and have some fun. The fishing should remain good close to the Lodge and in the Four-MileBay and Lighthouse Gap on Lake of the Woods for the next few weeks as the water slowly warms.

May specials are going fast, check the website or call for details. sportsmanslodges.com or 800-862-8602.

Patty T--27.5 inch Walleye 5/09/09

Triple Opener--26, 26.5, and 24.5

Northern Pike and Sturgeon Action
When your walleye limits are filled or you are looking for more fishing adventures, consider stalking some monster sturgeon or feisty northern pike. The catch rate and size of these two have been awesome this spring and will give you some great stories to take home! Check out the pictures of the recent sturgeon tournament and remember season is closed for keeping sturgeon, but catch and release is great fun and the northern season never closes! Bring you camera for some awesome photo opps.

Mushrooming, Wildflowers and Birding
These are a little behind schedule this year, due to the cool spring weather, but conditions are good as far as moisture in the soil for the morrells and the wildflowers and the slow leafing out of the trees makes the birds easy to see. Nearby BeltramiForest and ZippelBayState Park are excellent areas for these activities.

5/6/09

Walleye Opener & Sturgeon Tournament Results are the hot topics this week!

Ahhh the sounds and sights of summer, warm air, green grass & WALLEYES jumping in the boat.

Jake Hayes, Winner Day 1

This Saturday, May 9 is the start of the Minnesota Walleye Opener, the kick off to another year of great fishing. Local experts are anticipating a great year of walleye fishing on the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods. Last summer was one of our best years of walleye fishing in twenty years at Sportsman's Lodge and we don't feel this was a one time event, limit and slot size changes in the past years along with good fishing weather are all key factors that are in our favor and will continue to increase the walleye population and catch rate. The DNR reports in comparison with all Minnesota lakes, Lake of the Woods is one of the top ten lakes with the best walleye catch reports in the state.

The current water clarity for this time of year is above normal and clearing more every day. We haven't had much rain in the past three weeks so the run off has been minimal. The water temperature has been hovering in the forties at this time which is below normal for this time of year; however that number this time of year doesn't indicate how the fishing is just where the best fishing is at. The best fishing currently is in the Rainy River and Four Mile Bay just a few miles away from the Sportsman's Lodge. This past week sturgeon and northern pike anglers have snagged a few walleyes. So it looks like even without using the proper bait or technique the walleye are biting, they are hungry!

Northern Pike Fishing
The northern pike fishing in Zippel Bay and south shore areas of Lake of the Woods continues to be favorable. Many slot and over slot size fish have been caught recently.Ice on the lake, but plenty of places to fish on opener.

We still have a decent amount of rotten ice on the lake at this time; however it is going fast with the 60 degree days we have been enjoying lately. Plenty of places to fish this week, the Rainy River, Four Mile Bay and up to three miles past the gap are all clear.

3rd Annual Sturgeon Tournament was a success!
Eighty-four anglers attended this year from all parts of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Canada. Lots of nice fish were pulled in, good fish stories and cash prizes were all enjoyed. Thanks to everyone who attended and we look forward to next year!

Day 1
1st Place - Jake Hayes 64 inches St. Paul, MN Cash Prize = $1030.00
2nd Place – Chad Rutherford 62 inches hometown - Pengilly, MN Cash Prize = $420.00
3rd Place - Dustin Hoen 59.5 Young America, MN Prize = Custom Sturgeon Fishing Rod

Day 2
1st Place – Kris Moen – Minneapolis – 60 inch Cash Prize = $1030.00
2nd Place – Bill Sandy – Lake of the Woods – 54 ¼ inch Cash Prize = $420.00
3rd Place – Steve Stoskopf – Warroad, MN – 54 inch = Custom Sturgeon Fishing Rod

Kris Moen, Winner, Day 2

Steve Stoskopf, 3rd Place, Day 2

Mother's Day Fishing & Spa Weekend
Whether you have an outdoors fishing mom or a mom that likes to get a way and enjoy a little pampering, the Sportsman's Lodge is the place to go this Mother's Day/Walleye Opener Weekend! Sportsman's is now offering onsite spa services along with their other popular amenities and packages including indoor pool, northern, sturgeon and walleye fishing, area shopping, restaurant, lounge and many area activities. Check our website for details at www.sportsmanslodges.com.

Attention all Asparagus & Morel Mushroom Hunters
The area is really starting to green up, asparagus and morel mushrooms are sure to start popping up within the next 10 days. Come enjoy the 66,000 acres of Beltrami State Forest, Wilderness Drive and miles of 4 wheeler trails in our north woods hideaway.

A big shout out to Mike Potter & the Lake State Fishing crew at www.lakestatefishing.com for coming up this past weekend and putting on their own Sturgeon Tournament. Congratulations to Jen pictured in the report, she was part of this event. Thanks again and we look forward to seeing you again next year!

04/30/09
Sturgeon Tournament starts Friday, May 1!
Our 3rd annual sturgeon tournament is upon us once again! Many pre fish reports have come in on some huge sturgeon have been caught this week between. 40”-62”! Just out in front of the lodge and a mile away from the lodge in Four Mile Bay have been the recent hot spots. The best technique has been anchoring with a shiner minnow on a jig with 3-4 oz of weight. Check out these photo's from Mike Potter at Lakestatefishing.com. Come on up! Lodging only $35 per person!! Great fishing, cash prizes, live entertainment, good food and a whole lot of fun!

Mike Potter and a 60 incher!

Another big April catch!

The weather is warming up….
The current temperature of the lake is a bit below normal hovering around the 40 degree mark right now, however after today the weather forecast looks more favorable as we start warming up with highs in the 60's and sunny skies. Should be a nice weekend for fishing!

If northerns are what you're after…
Many anglers had lots of success this past week with northern pike fishing. Zippel Bay and any clear water areas are always hot spots this time of year. I talked with a few people they said they had an exceptional time. They report they didn't catch any fish under 30”! They caught many in the slot (30”-40”) and several over the slot. This fish just like the lake sturgeon and Muskie can be really put up a fight that makes for an action packed day of fishing.

Lake Ice & Water Reports
The river, four mile bay, Zippel Bay, a mile out of the lighthouse gap and many shore areas that have current have been open for a few weeks now. The main lake still has quite a bit of ice, but the recent rain and warm temperatures approaching this weekend will sure to move that out quickly. The water in the lake is clearing up but the river continues to be a little muddy at this time.

Walleye Opener soon here
May 9 is walleye opener and we have a deal for you! Up to $169 off fishing packages! Check out our hot deals on our website for details!

Mother's Day Deal
Can't talk mom into a fishing weekend? Come on up for fun for the whole family! Onsite spa services, indoor pool, northern, sturgeon and walleye fishing, area shopping, restaurant, and bar all open!

Have a great week, see you on the water!

4/22/09

Prehistoric Monster Fishing Starts NOW!
This past weekend was the catch and release and a start to our fantastic prehistoric monster fishing, the lake sturgeon. What a thrill! Even though anglers reported it was a bit of a slow start, we have heard some great stories! I would like to share one of the best right from pen of the lucky gal, the result = 70lb STURGEON!

From a gal that doesn't mind getting her heels dirty.....
Sit, sit, sit, sit.... OHhhh... watch Kirk loose a big one(ok not feeling so bad now).... sit, sit, sit, Listen to Birddog at the front of the boat say "there's no fish in this lake" a few hundred times, sit, sit, sit... Ok.. now it's almost 3... I'm getting cold and figure it's time to fire up the grill again to if nothing else... warm myself up!!!

Cooking wings...
Fire up the grill and joke saying "Hey, it worked the first time I was cookin... I just missed it! Maybe this will call the sturg in again!" Start cooking wings. I hear "Smells like lunch over there!" Look up to see 2 co's coming out way. Yep, they came by asked a few questions and were on there way(didn't even have to share any wings!!). Eat our wings and torment Matty and Tim that we are eating wings a matter of yards from them and they can't do anything about it.

Rolled more times than I could count...
Sitting there and all of a sudden my rod goes over. FISH ON! This one ain't getting away!!!
For the next 20-25 min all I am hearing from behind me is "Are you just gonna play with that fish or reel it in!" During the process it took 4 good runs, hunkered down on bottom for a bit and refused to move, rolled more times than I can count, and I'm still getting grief from the "peanut gallery" behind me!

And then it happened! It FINALLY came to the surface on it's side and "da boys" got a look at it. I am now standing at the front of the boat trying to "steer" this MONSTER of a fish into Trent's hands so he can lift it into the boat. Trent grabs the tail... not with one hand, but with 2! As he does that the fish tail whips and breaks free! At which point he turns and looks at Birddog, and says "Think I'm going to need help!" Now if anyone knows anything about Trent, he has been fishing these fish for YEARS and we joke that he's the Fish Wrangler as he is soooo used to lifting these prehistoric monsters into the boat on his own. It then took both Trent and Birddog another 5 min to get this fish INTO the boat. Trent grabs his tape measure and its to short Tony(birddog) and Trent had to measure it together to get and exact measurement of 62"., approx 70lbs according the DNR website.

Two men two lift and plop....
This whole time I have been standing at the front of the boat watching these 2 huff and puff. At which point Trent says "sit in the chair Jen". And he plops this thing down in my lap The paparazzi(Tim) boats over with Matty and snap a bunch of pics with Trent and Tony. Then as quick as she came out of the water, she literally slid off my lap, and back into the depths of the River. What a day!

Keep one sturgeon April 24 - May 7
Up in until April 24, sturgeon fishing is catch & release. The best fishing has been reported in Four Mile Bay just a few miles from the Sportsman's Lodge and in close second right in front of the lodge in the Rainy River, watch our webcam for live action....

The current water temperature is between 34-40 degrees and a bit dirty but will continue to clear as the days move on into summer. Anglers have reported the best approach is to use a 1.25 to 2 oz jig and 2-3 oz sinker to weight down your line, tipped with a frozen shiner and anchor your boat and stay right on the bottom.

Sportsman's 3rd Annual Sturgeon Tournament May 1 & 2! Space is limited, call now to reserve yours! Cash prizes for top two fish each day!

Northern Pike....
Four Mile Bay, Bostic Creek and Zippel Bay will be hot spots in the coming weeks...get in on some great action!

Ice on the lake....
River, Four Mile Bay, Zippel Bay and main channels are all clear of ice. There is ice on the lake which is normal for this time of year and will probably continue to be there especially in the non current areas for another 3 weeks or so.

Walleye Opener soon here
May 9 is walleye opener and we have a deal for you! Up to $169 off fishing packages! Click here for details, offers as good as these don't last long!

Have a great week, see you on the water!

Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge
www.oakislandlodge.com
800-772-8411

4/21/09

The ice starting to rot and main channels are starting to open, however we still continue to have lots of ice on the many areas. This is normal for this time of year and once we get a little rain it will go fast. Won't be long and Walleye Opener will be upon us!

Fishing Dates to Remember

Minnesota Fishing Dates.....
Walleye opens May 9
Northern Pike open all year
Muskie open June 20 thru Nov 30.
Bass, Crappie & Perch open all year.

Ontario Fishing Dates.....
Walleye season opens May 16
Muskie open June 20 - Dec 15
Northern Pike, Bass, Crappie & Perch open all year
Get your reservations in early for the upcoming summer season, prime dates are filling up.

4/15/09

Latest on Walleyes, Northern Pike & Lake Sturgeon

River Report
The river is now on the entire Rainy River. It is also open on most of Four Mile Bay to the Lighthouse Gap other than some shore ice. The lake continues to have up to two feet of ice on many spots, but the weather is really starting to feel like spring with recent temps in the 60's, so it won't be long and that too will start disappearing. It was a great bite late winter on the ice, but we are ready for the water. Last year was one of the best years of soft water fishing many have seen for years, so get your friends and family together and come on up and see us this summer on legendary Lake of the Woods.

Walleyes...
The walleye season is now closed for a short while until May 9. The April river fishing was not as successful as years past. Some say it was the below normal temperatures and late season snow we received. The positive side of a cool early April is that a slow water temperature warm up is said to be best for a walleye good spawn.

Looking to get in on some early season May fishing action? We have some great deals! Up to $169 off per person! Check out our hot deals page now at http://www.sportsmanslodges.com/

Spring Northern Pike & Sturgeon Fishing
Yes, the walleye fishing may be coming to a close in a week's time, but northern pike & lake sturgeon are just starting to kick off! Northern Pike season is open all year and Lake Sturgeon is open all year, however in regards to the sturgeon, you can only
keep one during April 24 - May 7 and July 1 - Sept 30. Northern fishing is usually best along Zippel Bay, Four Mile Bay and in any part of the Lake or River were you can find good water clarity. The best lake sturgeon fishing starts now and goes thru May and then again in the Fall. We have dock slips and guides available. Don't forget about our annual Sturgeon Tournament May 1 & 2! Limited Availability!

Spring Lodging Specials
$35 per person per night lodging special now until May 21 & Guided Alaskan Trips for you and up to 3 friends for only $325 per day. Includes guide, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning, available now thru May 31!

Plan now for our May Fishing Package Special! $198 includes 2 nights lodging & 2 FULL days of fishing, no equipment necessary (guide, boat, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning). Limited time! May 9-21! This is up to a $127 discount!!! Book now before the offer is gone.

Asparagus, Morel Mushrooms, and thousands of acres to explore
Spring is a great time to explore the thousands of acres of land in the Beltrami Island State Forest & Zippel Bay State Park. Early May is an exceptional time for "the hunt" for wild asparagus and morel mushrooms. Great fun for all ages.

Looking for a great drive? We have hundreds of miles of Nature drives right out our
front door, come and watch summer unfold right before your eyes.

4/8/09

River Fishing starting to heat up!

River Report
The river is now open to the Baudette Bay. The Frontier Boat Ramp & Vidas landing just east of town near Clementson is now open. I would suspect the boat ramp on the east side of Baudette in Timber Mill Park will probably be open this weekend. The water clarity is very good, the melt has been slow and we haven't seen any rain lately or in our forecast for the next week. The water temperature is around 34 degrees but if the forecast holds true will probably heat up by the weekend. It looks like we are going to see a 10-15 degree warm up from last week with temps in the upper 30's and lower 40's with full sun all week! That is just what we need for our last week of walleye fishing. Season open thru April 14!

Spring Northern Pike & Sturgeon Fishing
Yes, the walleye fishing may be coming to a close in a week's time, but northern pike & lake sturgeon will only just begin! Come on up for some extraordinary pole bending action.

Yes....we still have ice!

Ice Conditions
I thought last week would have been my last week for the year to report we still have ice. I guess not, however I am going to go out on a limb and say, this is the last week! It looks like we finally are going to get spring and see temps in the 40's by the end of this week. Last week there was no ice melting due to the temps in the twenties and lower 30's and to date we have had no ice changes on the lake.

There however have been significant changes in the river near town due to current (17 miles east of the good ice). We have 25 inches of ice at the Graceton Beach area (just 4 miles from the lodge by car) and on parts of the south shore of the lake. Our fish houses are off the ice now as of March 31 due to state laws, but for those of you who like to pull up a portable, there is still a week left of good ice. Like always, we strongly encourage you to talk to a guide or one of our front desk representatives for the latest ice information before venturing out.

Fishing Report

River Fishing....
The river fishing has been starting to show some of its true colors, as this week is starting out with much warmer temperatures than last week. Many nice walleye and sturgeon have been reported and the catch rate seems to be increasing daily as the water temperature starts to creep up. Get in on some huge walleye fishing as the walleyes start racing for the river to spawn, season open thru April 14.

Looking for a little more of a challenge and excitement? Get in on some awesome northern & sturgeon fishing! Spring river fishing is one of the best times of the year for this. Don't miss out on our Annual Sturgeon Tournament May 1 & 2! Cash Prizes Awarded Daily!

Dates to remember..........
Walleye season open thru April 14 and reopens May 9. Closed April 15 - May 8
Northern Pike season open all year.
Sturgeon season keep 1, April 24-May 7 & July 1 - Sept 30, catch & release open all year.

Spring Lodging Specials
$35 per person per night lodging special now until May 21 & Guided Alaskan Trips for you and up to 3 friends for only $325 per day. Includes guide, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning, available now thru May 31!
Plan now for our May Fishing Package Special! $198 includes 2 nights lodging & 2 FULL days of fishing, no equipment necessary (guide, boat, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning). Limited time! May 9-21! This is up to a $127 discount!!! Book now before the offer is gone.

Ice Fishing.....
Anglers continue to experience exceptional walleye fishing 3-4 miles out of Graceton Beach. If your looking for a good meal, anglers are reporting just a half day of fishing brings home your limit. For those who like to catch & release and try for the trophy there is plenty of action to be had.

Snow & Trail Report
Four to six inches of snow still remains on the lake. The land trails are showing many grass spots and are not advised for travel.


10.2 lb 31 inch Walleye Nate Barrett Chanhassen, MN March 20, 2009	March 25, 2009 Ice Conditions... STILL GOOD! *See Ice Condition Details Below*

04/01/09
The best of both worlds! Ice Fishing or Boat Fishing…we have them both!

Ice Conditions
Yes, we still have ice and the forecast is saying cold for another week! This past week we have experienced below normal temperatures and 3 inches of snow, it feels and looks like January. We continue to maintain a strong 25 inches of ice at Graceton Beach and on parts of the south shore of the lake. Our fish houses are off the ice now as of March 31 due to state laws, but for those of you who like to pull up a portable, there is still a week left of good ice. Like always, we strongly encourage you to talk to a guide or one of our front desk representatives for the latest ice information before venturing out.

River Report
The river is open east of Baudette about 20 miles from the lodge & 10 miles from Baudette. Frontier boat ramp is open, but with recent snows it hasn't been plowed so it is a bit sloppy.

Fishing Report
Ice Fishing…..best week of the year!
The last week of ice fishing has been one of the best all year! We had many nice big walleyes caught, 22”,25”, 28” & a 30” and we had the best catch rate per person too! The guides believe that this next week will follow suit. The best fishing has been around structure 28'-33' using bright colored jigs tipped with a minnow.

River Fishing….
The river fishing has been fair, we are still waiting on warmer temps for this season to really heat up. It looks like mid to the end of next week might be your best bet. Get in on some huge walleye fishing as the walleyes start racing for the river to spawn, season open thru April 14.

Looking for a little more of a challenge and excitement? Get in on some awesome northern & sturgeon fishing! Spring river fishing is one of the best times of the year for this. Don't miss out on our Annual Sturgeon Tournament May 1 & 2! Cash Prizes Awarded Daily!

Dates to remember……….
Walleye season open thru April 14 and reopens May 9. Closed April 15 – May 8.
Northern Pike season open all year
.
Sturgeon season keep 1, April 24-May 7 & July 1 – Sept 30, catch & release open all year.
Spring Lodging Specials

$35 per person per night lodging special now until May 21 & Guided Alaskan Trips for you and up to 3 friends for only $325 for the day. Includes guide, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning, available now thru May 31!

Plan now for our May Sizzler! $198 includes 2 nights lodging & 2 FULL days of fishing, no equipment necessary (guide, boat, poles, bait, tackle & fish cleaning). Limited time! May 9-21! This is up to a $127 discount!!! Book now before the offer is gone.

Snow & Trail Report
A fresh blanket of snow this morning, the lake or land trails are no longer being groomed, however locals have reported fair conditions on the trails. Keep in mind the lake trail stakes are no longer on the ice so be sure you know the good ice locations before venturing out.

3/25/09

Ice Conditions
I decided it was important to start this week's report with the ice conditions

3-20-09 Bruce & Patty Rockford, MN

since our season is winding down. We check ice conditions daily all year and in the early and late season 3 times a day. We always put safety first; we would never jeopardize a guest or an employee's life over a walleye!

We have currently moved our entrance to the lake to Graceton Beach. We stopped running the river last week and four mile bay early this week. Graceton Beach is historically known for good ice right thru mid April due to less stress of current.

We currently have 28 inches of strong blue ice in the areas that we travel and fish. It froze here last night and we got about an inch of snow too. The weather forecast states the temperature will barely go above freezing today and not at all the following 48 hours. It also states that in the next 5 days after that it will be partly or mostly cloudy with highs in the 30's and lows in the teens which actually means we will be making ice during the night time hours. With this forecast we see no problem fishing right thru March 31.

If you do like to fish on your own I strongly encourage you to talk to Gregg or a guide before you go out. Lake of the Woods is a huge lake and it is important you know where to go at all times. A GPS may tell you where to go for fishing, but it never tells you where the good and bad ice lurks.

Fishing Report

Late season fishing is one of the best times of the year for walleyes!

We currently have houses in many different depths in Big Traverse & on structure of the reefs. We have had some really nice fish caught this past week and cleaned over 200 fish yesterday alone! Check out the video from Nate Barrett from Chanhassen, MN caught this week. He pulled in a 31 inch, 10.2 lb walleye! He was fishing in one of our houses on the reefs using a Sportsman's pole with a chartreuse jig tipped with a minnow.

With the snow melting away and more light is shining thru the ice, and the walleyes are really getting in a frenzy which means unbeatable fishing action!

Eelpout Fritters Poorman's Lobster

Now is one of the best times of the year!

Yes, this is one of the best times of the year for fantastic walleye fishing and it is even going to get better! Soon the walleyes will be moving up river to spawn and on their way up, spring soft water fishing can be unbelievable. But you got to get your reservations booked now, because April 14 is the last day until May 9 for walleye fishing.

Northern Pike & Lake Sturgeon.....

When one season closes another one opens on Lake of the Woods. We are always fishing! Northern pike and monster Lake Sturgeon fishing can be exceptional in the river and bays in April & May. And we got hot rates for you too! Don't miss out on our annual Sturgeon Tournament May 1 & 2! Cash Prizes awarded!

Snow & Trail Report
The snowmobile lake trails will be open thru Saturday. The land trails are now closed. Good snow is getting harder to find due to the recent melting and rain we had.

Spring & Summer soon upon us!

Lots of summer fun at Sportsman's Lodge! Stay tuned to our website in the upcoming weeks for hot deals, new packages, summer entertainment schedule and a whole lot more!

3/18/09 Fishing Report

Only 13 days left of full service ice fishing! Ice House need to be removed daily starting April 1!

We still have houses in various depths in the flats just 6 miles out of Pine Island as well as up north on the reefs. The weather forecast looks like it will continue to get warmer, but stay cool at night, which will give us some good fishing right up until the end of March. The northern houses may start coming in next week based on Mother Nature, but we will continue to move houses around to stay on top of the fish in the southern region of Big Traverse Bay.

The past week guests have had a bit more of struggle with the storm that past thru, but still reporting lots of action with the smaller class of fish. The catch has been mainly saugers, walleyes and on occasional eelpout or perch.

The forecast is calling for WALLEYES

When the sun comes out, the walleyes bite will start to get crazy! The warm temps from the past few days have only melted our new snow we received, which has pushed off our usual end of the year extraordinary bite a bit. Don't hang up your ice fishing pole yet, we still have time and the forecast looks like sun and warmer temps which will muster up some of the best fishing of the year! Come on up and enjoy the last of some winter fun!

Fantastic River Fishing is soon upon us.

Don't forget about the incomparable spring soft water bite in April & May in the Rainy River! Walleyes, Northern Pike & Lake Sturgeon! The fishing never stops on Lake of the Woods! We will continue to have lodging open 7 days a week & the bar open for food & beverages on weekends right on thru the winter break up. Take advantage of $35 per person lodging and don't miss out on our Guided Lund Alaskan Trips for only $325 includes 9 hour trip, guide, boat, bait, tackle, and fish cleaning, holds up to 4 passengers plus the guide.

Looking for some entertainment after fishing?
Our annual Mardi Gras Party is coming up, March 28! Don't miss it! Our hottest party of the year!

Ice Conditions
We still are maintaining 36-40" of ice and plan to keep on fishing until March 31! The warmer temperatures we have experienced last weekend and into this week have only melted snow, the ice remains stable.

Snow & Trail Report
The land trails are starting to show their wear, but the lake trail is smooth as a pancake! It was just groomed this morning from Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge! Come on up for the last ride of the season!

Until next week!

3/11/09 Fishing Report

Only 20 days left of hard water fishing!

Good fishing action this week. The guides report anglers have had a lot of action, the slot and trophy fish not as prominent, but they feel that is only temporary due to the stormy weather we have been experiencing lately. It looks like we are in for warm, stable temperatures in the week ahead which means just like history continues to show us, when the weather warms and the walleyes start to make the move towards warmer water for spawning, March is a fantastic month for fishing.

There has been a morning and afternoon run pattern between 8am – 11am and 2pm – 5pm and chubby darters and buck shots have been the hot lures. We continue to have a nice mix of houses in the southern and northern regions of big traverse 6-18 miles away from the lodge in 28'-35' depths. Come on up before the season ends!

Snow Report
Four to six inches of new snow have blown in the past few days from the recent winter storm. The groomers are out and this weekend will be perfect for a ride on the trails in this nice new powder. Looking for a good time? Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge is hosting their annual Snowmobile Rally, great riding, entertainment, polar plunge, radar run and much more check out http://www.sportsmanslodges.com/ for details.

Ice Report
3 & ½ feet of ice! The weather has been very favorable all winter for excellent ice conditions. Plenty of ice for some winter fun.

3/3/09 Fishing Report
Two 29 inch plus fat walleyes in 20 minutes! March is roaring in like a lion as far as the fishing goes!

Just ask Jared & Bret from New Ulm, MN who were up this past week! They caught 2 nice big fish while fishing in our Sleeper houses within 20 minutes of each other and plenty of fish to go home with too. Bret's caught a 29 ¾” and Jared with a 29 ½” walleye. Bret was using a grub pink glow jig and Jared a white and blue war head. What a day! Lake of the Woods, Walleye Capital of the World. Why go anywhere else!

3/01/09--Bret and Jared from New Ulm, MN
2 Twenty-Nine Inch Walleyes within 20 minutes

2/26/09--Terry from Hutchinson MN
Twenty-Nine Inch Walleye Released

Terri from Hutchinson on his 3rd trip up this year caught a 29”+ fish on Thursday and released it. Many guests this week have reported a good week of fishing, a few big fish and plenty of action to end the day with a good bucket of fish. We go where the fish are….

We continue to have houses in a good mix of hot spots on the lake. Come on up and leave the work to us!
Ice Conditions
     We still are maintaining 36” of ice and plan to keep on fishing until March 31!

Snow & Trail Report
     The snow is great and trails are groomed! More snow is predicted for the weekend. Get in!

2/25/09

Fishing Report
Hello Everyone! Welcome to this week's report. I have some good fishing information and great stories to share this week.

Fishing Action....

25in Walleye caught by Sharon, held by John
Minneapolis, MN 2-20-09

Jigging and vexilar use are the keys to the fat bucket of walleyes this week. The bites have been easy to come by, but the catch has posed more of a challenge. Lots of bites and lots of little ones has been the overall hum, many veteran anglers reporting that when they put some work into it, results were found. They say to get more walleyes in your bucket when a light bite is upon us, you have to jig, use a vexilar, and set the hook. We also continue to get many people that have found and caught a nice limit of walleyes, suspended 3 feet to 6 feet off the bottom of the lake. What is the best technique to catch these tricky eyes? First you need a vexilar and then, continue to set your lines at 2 inches to 6 inches off the bottom and watch the vexilar. When you see a fish approaching, pull up, wait for the nibble and set the hook. You can always pull up, but you can't push down! Don't set your line at the 3 feet to 6 foot range the guides say you will actually decrease your chances to catch fish if you do that. Don't have a vexilar? No problem! We have them available to rent at the lodge!

Unbeatable Lake of the Woods.....
We have had some great fishing stories told here this week. Sharon from Minneapolis, she has fished many other lakes in the metro area in the winter of Minnesota before, but has never been successful at catching a fish, UNTIL SHE CAME TO LAKE OF THE WOODS! Sharon caught a nice 26" walleye! Way to go Sharon!

3 Boys, 3 Lines, 1 hook, 1 Big Walleye and a lot of laughs.....
Fishing is a great sport to get kids interested in, it gets them away from the video games, and out into the great outdoors where lifetime memories are made. I have a great story about three boys this week. Zach, Hunter & Jacob from Colifax, WI were all

2-20-09 Zach, Hunter & Jacob - Colifax, WI
3 boys, 3 hooks, 1 line & 1 BIG Walleye!

fishing in one of Sportsman's Sleeper fish houses in about 32' of water the other day, when first Hunter got a bite and started reeling in a nice walleye, but just when he almost landed it, it broke his line. Oh shoot! But wait, it wasn't seconds that had gone by when Jacob and Zach found a tug on their line. Wow, we must have got into a school of fish the boys thought. Both boys started reeling up their lines, when they realized they were tangled up with one another, but still felt the "tug" of a fish. Lots of excitement was enjoyed and eventually the boys were victorious and pulled up their lines thru Zach's hole (on the other end of the house than Jacob) with this nice walleye! But! This is the best part! The hook that was in the fish's mouth was Hunter's!!! It had only got tangled up with Zach & Jacob's line not actually hooked on its way down to the bottom of the lake. What a deal! They laughed and had the time of their life. Thanks for coming guys; we can't wait to see what fiascos you brew up next year!

Does this sound like something you want to enjoy with your kids? We offer a great kids deal in our Sleeper houses for kids! Kids 12 and under stay free when accompanied by an adult.

A look ahead....March is a hot month!
Don't forget we ice fish until March 31 on Lake of the Woods and March fishing usually is one of the best times of the year! March has a track record of being an awesome month for walleyes. Warmer temps and more sun really seem to rev up the fishing action. We still have some openings, so give us a call before the season ends!

Ice Report
We are currently maintaining 32"-36" of ice on the lake right now and some cold temperatures ahead. Remember our fish houses can be on the lake until March 31 on Lake of the Woods!

Snow Report
Dashing thru the snow....
Two to four inches of white fluffy snow blanketed the area early this morning. A great day for a snowmobile or bombardier ride! This fresh snow was a perfect amount to coat the trails with. Riders can plan on awesome riding conditions this week.

The groomers are out and the lake trails from Sportsman's Lodge to Warroad, Warroad to Oak Island, trail from Sportsman's Lodge to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge on Oak Island and the river trail from Sportsman's Lodge to Baudette are all being freshly groomed as I write this and will be done by Friday night for great weekend riding. I also understand the land trail groomers are out as well. If you would like specific trail information please log on to the Lake of the Woods Drifters website at http://www.lowdrifters.org/ or the Northwest Angle Edge Rider's report at http://www.nwaedgeriders.com/.

2/18/09

Joe - Inner Grove Heights - 29in Walleye - Feb. 15

Fishing Report

The fishing is fantastic! The guides have diligently been moving houses and scoping out new areas in the past 2 weeks and it has paid off! We currently have houses in 28'-35' of water just 9 miles from the lodge as well as up north on the reefs 17 miles from the lodge. Our houses have been pulling in 30-60 fish a day on average. Guests have reported many nice slot walleyes, a few "wall hangers" to add some big fun and plenty of good eating walleyes, saugers and jumbo perch to fill their limit to bring home. What more can you ask for?

Will it last! I am betting on YES! Why? The doldrums of winter and cloudy days are passing by and the last half of the winter season is bringing in more sun which as I have said before, the sun is a powerful ingredient in great walleye ice fishing on Lake of the Woods. Ahhhh.... nothing better than a nice warm sunny day on the lake with the fish house door open to take in the awesome outdoor lake scenery all while pulling in walleyes.

Joe received his bragging rights this week & he is sharing a tip!

Joe from Inver Grove Heights caught a nice 29" walleye on Feb 15 in 32' of water, while fishing on his annual trip to Sportsman's Sleeper houses. Joe was using a green Crappie Bug. The same type of jig that his brother had used 2 years ago, when he caught his 30 1/2" walleye, except his jig was fluorescent in color. These guys once again had a blast and can't wait for next time.

Fish houses out until March 31!

Don't forget on Lake of the Woods we have our fish houses out until March 31! Plenty of time left to come on up, and don't forget about our Annual Snowmobile Rally on Oak Island March 13 & 14 & our Annual Mardi Gras Party, March 28 at our Rainy River location.

Ice Conditions
We still are maintaining 36" of ice on the well traveled areas of Lake of the Woods specifically in the areas we travel and marked trails. Last week the 3 day thaw and rain only melted snow, not ice. This left the ride to the fish house a little rough, but recent cold temperatures and snow fall of 6 inches have now changed that all back to normal conditions.

Snow & Trail Report
We have snow again! Last week was a little tough on our snow as we lost 8-12 inches, but just in the past two days we have gained 6 inches back to top off the 12 inches we had left.

Lake Trails
The lake itself has spotty areas of snow due to some wind, but the groomed trail still is maintaining the packed snow. The lake trail from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island, Wheeler's Point to Warroad and Warroad to Oak Island will all be groomed starting Thursday morning to provide optimum conditions for the weekend ahead.

Land Trails
The land trails are shaping back up too and groomers are back out. The trails should be back to normal by the weekend.

Until next week!

Click here to check out Sportsman's Lodge Spring, Summer and Fall Fishing video at Youtube.

2/11/09

Fishing Report

Hello Anglers! How about that weather! Wow! Twenty below zero to 40 above and rain and snow in the mix! I guess that is good ol' Minnesota weather for you. If you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes it will change.

So what do the walleyes think of this weather? Well, our houses up north on the reefs (45 min bombardier ride from the lodge) have been doing very well. Houses are averaging 40-60 fish per day with a nice mix of walleyes, saugers and jumbo perch. Our southern houses near Pine Island have seen a bit of a slow down right now, but don't discount them yet, it looks like the weather is going to change on us again by the end of the week and be back to below average temperatures again. This drastic weather change will probably change up the hot fishing spot. But, rest assured, the guides continue to monitor the fish and move houses around daily to give you the best fishing experience possible.

Another thing to keep in mind that may be a key component in good fishing this week, is the power of the sun. We lost a sizeable amount of our snow on the lake this past week during a little mid winter thaw. This usually means if we get some sunny days in the week ahead without any measurable snow fall, the power of the sun shining thru the ice could really heats up the walleyes and get them into a frenzy. I think it will be a good fishing week ahead!

We still have a few openings left for the upcoming President's Day weekend, a great time to bring up the kids for their long weekend break. The fishing outlook looks good, the pool is open and we have live entertainment in the sandbar! Come on up!

Ice Conditions
The ice conditions are very stable. No ice has been lost, just snow. We still are maintaining 36" of ice on the well traveled areas of Lake of the Woods.

Snow & Trail Report
The groomed trails still have snow, but they are pretty sloppy right now. We look forward to colder temperatures and some new snow in the upcoming week.

2/4/09

Fishing Report
Hello Anglers! The fishing continues to be a little spotty with the

Dummer Group - 1-29-09 26inch Walleye
Used swedish pimple & half minnow

weather bouncing around a bit this past week, but we continue to still have some good reports and nice fish pictures to share with you! And good news! It looks like the weather is going to stabilize and warm up in the upcoming week, which means better fishing!

This Week's Highlights
Eddie from Golden Valley, MN caught a nice 30" walleye. This walleye was caught early afternoon in 32' of water using a white glow eye jig. Eddie & his group also found a few nice size perch to round off their day.

Ron & Bill from Hallock, MN up here on a recent trip sponsored by CHS Ag Services had some good luck catching two nice size fish, a 5lb 4 oz, 25 inch walleye & 7lb 7 oz, 27" walleye. Both of these fish were released.

Dave from all the way from Ohio enjoyed some nice fishing, shown here with his nice catch!

Anglers are reporting the afternoon bite has been better than the morning bite and gold & glow in the dark jigs continue to be the hot tackle.

NEWS FLASH!

RickSugden - Hallock,MN Feb. 2009
Nice Walleye!

The guides have just reported that even though it is looking like the weather will stabilize and anglers are still sending in nice trophy walleye pictures, they are not satisfied! We are moving some of our houses north to the reefs, to test the waters there! We raise the bar at Sportsman's Lodges and we want to make sure you always have the best experience possible! We believe our guests deserve top quality service and understand in this busy world, your days off to come north are sometimes few and far between, so we want to do our part in getting you in on some hot fishing action!

Ice Condition Report
We are currently maintaining a strong 30"-36" on the lake. Don't forget! On Lake of the Woods, we can keep our houses out and fish until MARCH 31 on the ice!

Snow & Trail Report
The trails are in great shape! The groomers are out weekly! Great time to enjoy the north woods trails! Escape from the city and enjoy the beauty and less traveled trails up north.

For a specific trail report please check out the Lake of the Woods Drifter's report at www.lowdrifters.org/trail_condition.htm


Bill - Hallock,MN 1-29-09 7lb. 7oz.	Ron - Hallock,MN 1-29-09 5lb. 4oz.

1/29/09

Fishing Report
It is a mixed bag this week. Some have done well and others not so well. But have no fear we will find more fish! We are on the move!

Sheri from our Sleeper Fish House Division, reports that this morning that even though the week started out sluggish, the groups that left today had a pretty good report. A father & son said they caught 60 fish between the two of them in two days and another group said they caught fish, ate fish and are brining home a limit from a three day trip. Not too bad, I would say.

So how did they do it you ask? Lots of jigging, try different jigs, use a vexilar and pay attention, it has been a light bite lately. Fishing is a sport remember, sometimes you have to put together a new play or game plan. The best fishing has been in 28'-35' of water on Big Traverse in the mud flats. The tackle of choice recently has been pink & glow in the dark jigs, and orange and reddish jigs tipped with a minnow. Remember the Lake of the Woods walleyes likes glow in the dark & bright colors, so arm your self with some extras from our gift shop before heading out.

It also looks like the weather is going to stabilize and stay warm in the week ahead, another important ingredient in the recipe for fantastic fishing on legendary Lake of the Woods.

Get your friends, family together and come on up to the north woods. Don't forget, it is almost Valentines Day! How about a weekend away with your sweetie? Good food, good fishing, live entertainment, indoor pool, cold drinks and much more are waiting for you. Our Snobear trips are a great way to get in on some good fishing & time with that special someone.

Ice Report
We are currently maintaining 30"-35" of ice on the lake, a great base of ice for this time of year.

Snow Report
Great year for snow! 24-28 inches of nice white fluffy snow currently lay on the grounds and ice of the Lake of the Woods area. All trails are currently well groomed and ready for you on the land & lake within the Lake of the Woods County and Northwest Angle area. This is the most northern point of Minnesota. For specific trails please check out the Lake of the Woods Drifters website at http://www.lowdrifters.org/ or the Northwest Angle Edge Rider's report at http://www.nwaedgeriders.com/.

1/21/09

Fishing Report
A nice amount of keeper walleyes (1-2lb), many slot fish (19.5” - 28”) and two nice 29 ¼”, 10 lb twin walleyes are the highlights

28 inch 8 lb Walleye--1-17-09
Justin H--Ortonville, MN

of this week!

The best fishing has been in 25'-30' of water just a 25 minute bombardier ride from the lodge. The walleyes are really taking a shine to white, yellow or gold jigs tipped with a minnow or any brightly colored chubby darter. The chubby darter really has been a hot lure us this winter. The guides continue to report that for anglers to have the best fishing experience, jigging is a key component. The action at the minnow and bright colors really seem to get the walleye's appetites kicked into high gear.

We have had reports of people catching fish suspended 2-4 feet off the bottom in the past few weeks. Based on that, it seems logical to set your line at that depth however, the guides suggest you set your line within 2-4 inches off the bottom, watch your vexilar and then jig up, you can always jig up, but you can't jig down. They said most of the fish are closer to the bottom so if you want to experience an overall good day of fishing your best chances are to do this technique. Don't have a vexilar? We have got you covered. Rentals are available at the front desk.

Anglers continue to catch a nice mix of walleyes & saugers with the walleyes still more prominent. A few eelpout and nice jumbo perch also continue to top off the pale at the end of the day.

Looking for some hard water trolling? We got a trip for you! Try our Guided Snobear trips! A great way to troll the lake in the winter. $500 for a day includes the space for up to 3 people to fish & ride in this unique vehicle and all in one fish house. The guide, poles, bait, tackle, fish cleaning and the great one on one service you deserve all included. Check out http://www.sportsmanslodges.com/ for more information.

Nice Stringer! Jack Leddy--January 2009

28" Walleye--Joe Bateman--January 2009

Ice Condition Report
We are currently maintaining 30 inches of ice on the lake and the ice auger extensions will soon be used. A great base of ice for this time of year!

Snow & Trail Report
The current snow depth continues to stay at 24 inches right now. Plenty of snow for a bombardier and snowmobile ride.

Lake Trails
The trails are currently in optimum condition.

Wheeler's Point to Warroad & Warroad to Oak Island
This trail is groomed every Wednesday & Thursday

Wheeler's Point to Oak Island
This trail is groomed every Friday

Just an hour & a half ride and your at Sportsman's Oak Island from Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River, a nice ride across the lake.

Land Trails
The land trails this week around the Baudette area have recently been groomed. For more information on a specific trail, check out the Lake of the Woods Drifters at http://www.lowdrifters.org/

1/14/09 -- Click here to view the pictures from last week's fishing report.
Sportsman's Rainy River Lodge

Fishing Report
Hello Everyone! I hope everyone is staying warm in these cold temps. Looks like we are in for a heat wave this weekend!

The past week started as more of a challenge for anglers but just as recent as yesterday afternoon the bite really started to heat up! The guides reported they saw a nice mix of walleyes and saugers with a few eelpout, perch & even a tulipee in the mix of the fish pales last night. Their still is a lot of little ones being caught to keep you busy, but more keeper size between 15”-18” were prominent yesterday. The bite time has changed this week from what we believe is due to the weather. Currently, the best bite has been in the afternoon, but with the warm temperatures moving in, it probably will change to a morning bite by the end of the weekend.

The Larson Party above enjoyed a great fishing trip in our Sleeper Houses. The boys caught a double and Al caught a 29.5”, 9.5 lb walleye! Al said he caught this lunker in 26' feet of water, suspended 3 feet from the bottom using a red hook tipped with a shiner. Thanks for sharing your tips with us, way to go Al! This fun, is just a phone call away, give us a call today 800-862-8602!

We continue to stay in the 26 to 30 feet of water depth and the tackle of choice has been a green or gold 3/8 oz jig or even a plain hook tipped with a chub.

Get in on some great times and great fishing! Sportsman's has it all! 3 Lake of the Woods locations, as well as Sleeper Houses(Guided Snobear Trips, and great rates & package options for any group size.

Ice Condition Report
We are currently maintaining a strong 25”-30” on the lake. This is a nice ice base for this time of year.

Snow & Trail Report
The current snow depth is right around 24” right now, a great depth for riding the trails.

Lake Trails
All Lake Trails from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island, Wheeler's Point to Warroad and Warroad to Oak Island were all groomed early in the week and will be groomed again by Saturday morning as the groomers will be running a 24 hour schedule starting Thursday night. So with the warmer temperatures coming in this weekend, it will be a great time to take a trip on the lake. Sportsman's Oak Island & Sportsman's Rainy River have comfortable lodging, great burgers, steaks and beverages, so come on up and ride the trails today!

Land Trails
The land trails this week around the Baudette area have spotty grooming. For up to date trail conditions and questions please contact the Lake of the Woods Drifters at http://www.lowdrifters.org/trail_condition.htm

January 8, 2009 Fishing Report Click here now to view pictures from last week's fishing report.

Jigging, jigging, set the hook, missed one! Jigging jigging, jigging, set the hook, darn..missed it again! Jigging, jigging, jigging, set the hook, YES! got one! This has been the technique of the week.

The fish "keep rate" for has seen a bit of a decline this week overall, but the "catch rate" still remains high. Talk has still been lots of action, smaller walleyes more prominent, but still for those putting a little more "work" into it , a limit at the end of the day. It also seems as the anglers that are using the Vexilars and watching the fish have done better than others and they all say, you can see the fish, they are there!

Some anglers take this as "frustrating" or "slow", for me I see this as a challenge chasing that elusive walleye! Sure we all want to have every day a day of catching fish hand over fist, but we have to look at reality to, remember, fishing can't be easy all of the time, otherwise they would call it "Catching", right!

"Hello Greg, my wife Deb and I were on the ice with you guys on New Year's. Here are pictures of the big ones. 28, 22, 21, and 18! We caught at least 50 fish that day, plus took home our limits. Take Care,"
Bob S.

Bruce T. and his family, from Buffalo, MN a 23 year veteran of coming to Sportsman's Lodge were up this week and said he wouldn't classify the fishing as slow, cause they caught a lot of fish all day, but the fish were biting light and posing more of a challenge. He said it was almost like the fish were nipping at the minnows tail, so you had to keep jigging, watch your Vexilar and bang, SET THE HOOK! And 60-70% of the time you were GOLDEN, a WALLEYE! His tackle of choice for his family were green and glow in the dark jigs tipped with a chub.

As always, we are currently moving some houses a little deeper into 24'-30' just to do all we can to make sure we stay in the best fishing spot possible. It is always our goal to do our best so you can have the best fishing possible when you stay at Sportsman's Lodges!

All in all, guests are going home with a nice limit of walleyes to share with family and friends. So what are you waiting for? Get the crew together and come on up, the winter won't last long!

Ice Conditions
We currently have 24"-30" of ice on the lake in our fishing area and the groomed trails.

Snow & Trail Report
We have snow now! Wow! 10-14 inches has fallen this past week. We now have a good 2' of snow on the lake and land trails.

The lake trail from the south end of Lake of the Woods, Wheeler's Point to the northern part of the lake on Oak Island was recently groomed on January 5th and is scheduled to be groomed again January 9th.

The lake trail from Zipple Bay to Warroad was groomed January 4th and is scheduled to be groomed again this weekend.

The Rainy River is now being staked from Baudette to Wheeler's Point and grooming is planned in the upcoming few weeks.

Please note to avoid any fines from the DNR: the Lake Trails as all of the snowmobile trails are for skied vehicles only. Wheeled vehicles as in cars, trucks, 3 & 4 wheelers, ATV's etc are not allowed on any marked snowmobile trail.

The Land Trails have spotty grooming, and more is to be done this week. For more information visit the Lake of the Woods Drifter's website at www.lowdrifters.org/trail_condition.htm

Take a ride on the trails, great ride from Sportsman's Rainy River location to Sportsman's Oak Island! Just an hour ride across the beautiful Lake of the Woods!

December 31, 2008

Fishing Report
Happy New Year's Eve everyone! This past week started out with a bit of a slow down, but has ended with a lot of action and excitement! Yes, the walleye action once again has heated back up! Here is what some of our guests have been saying the past few days:

“Lots of action!”, “No time for lunch in our fish house!”, “The fish are hungry, we caught good 1-2lb eater fish all day long!”, “ I have been here twice in the past 2 weeks and have never had so much fun fishing!”, “Our house caught a 27”, 29” & 30” all in a matter of 2 hours! This was a trip I will remember for the rest of my life!” “A great day! Good fishing, and time with just me and my family, no distractions (other than the fish of course), that is what life is all about!”

The best fishing this week has been found in 20'-24' of water just outside of Pine Island a short 20 minute ride from the lodge. The bait and tackle choices have been scattered across the board this week, chubs, shiners, artificial, ½ oz – ¾ oz jigs, and spoons. There hasn't been one thing that anglers have used more than others; the walleyes simply seem to be active & hungry.

So what are you waiting for? Get your friends & family together and take a vacation you will never forget at the “Walleye Capital of the World!” We have day fish house, sleeper fish houses and guided Snobear trips as well for those that want a more personalized guided ice fishing experience. The heats on and the holes are drilled! Give us a call today! 800-862-8602

Snow & Trail Report
The snow just keeps a coming! We currently have a good 14” snow base and it looks like we may be getting more this week.

The Lake trail from the south end of Lake of the Woods, Wheeler's Point to the northern part of the lake on Oak Island was just freshly groomed yesterday so it is in optimal condition right now.

The Lake trail from the south end of Lake of the Woods, Wheeler's Point to Warroad has just recently been staked and grooming will start the end of this week.

In regard to the land trails around the Baudette area, the trails within 15 miles of the lake area have been groomed and are in good condition; however the trails to the south are in fair condition at this time.

Ice Report
It is currently -23 right now as I write this! The ice is in great condition this year! We have 22”-26” in most places an above average depth for this time of year.

December 23, 2008

Fishing Report
Happy Holidays! The action is fast & furious! A strong bite between 8am -10am and 2pm – 4:30 pm continues. Many good eater walleyes & and a few trophy walleyes between 24”-29” walleyes have been caught this week. The best action has been found fishing in 20'-24' of water using 1/2 oz -3/4 oz jigs glow in the dark or gold jigs tipped with a chub minnow. Check out these two pictures, one is a 30”, 10.5 lb walleye, caught by Scott Erickson of Kennedy, MN from one of our day houses & the other a 29” 9.5 lb walleye caught by Guy Lalone, from MN from one of our Sleeper Houses.

Looking for more excitement? The burbots are getting hungry too. Burbots which look like a cross between an eel and a catfish tend to be called the “ish' of fish, however many call them the “Poor Man's Lobster”. Boil them to perfection and dip it in drawn butter, and they taste just like lobster! So come on up and take home a nice limit of walleyes & Lake of the Woods lobster!

Ice Condition Report
The ice thickness on Lake of the Woods south end is an average of about 24 inches now. The Rainy River has 12-14 inches. A great base, due to the below average cold temperatures we have experience the past 4 weeks, this is about 8 inches more than we normally have at this time of year.

Snow Condition Report
We currently have 8-10 inches inland and 10-12 inches of snow on the lake. The snowmobile trail to Oak Island is marked and grooming started Monday, Dec 22.

The lake trail from Wheeler's Point to Warroad trail staking has been delayed and will take place Dec 28 & 29 with grooming to follow shortly after.
Keep in mind all staked and groomed snowmobile trails are for skied vehicles only. Wheeled vehicles as in cars, trucks, 3 & 4 wheelers, ATV's etc. are not allowed on any marked snowmobile trail, please use plowed roads only.
The land trails are open and are groomed. Trail maps are available at the lodge, bring up your sled and enjoy 500 miles of trails right out our back door!

Winter season is really starting to hum on Lake of the Woods, don't miss out on the action whether it is fishing, snowmobiling or other winter activities! Call us now at 800-862-8602.

December 17, 2008

Fishing Report
The walleye action is fast & furious! The best fishing times have been mid morning and early evening, in 19'-23' of water just outside of Pine Island a 5 mile ride from the lodge. Daily walleye limits are not a problem for anglers in this clear water. Nice size 1-2 lb eating fish are prominent, with an occasional 24”-27” walleye splashing thru the hole by day's end for some added excitement. The jig of choice has been either the gold jig or a “Chubby Darter”.

Check out this picture, the highlight of the week, a 60 inch, 55lb Lake Sturgeon caught thru the ice! What a fight! This monster of a fish usually caught mainly in the Fall & Spring must have gotten a little hungry and gave one angler a fishing story to tell for a lifetime! You just never know what a world class fishery like Lake of the Woods will produce next.

Get your friends & family together and have some fishing fun this holiday season.

Ice Condition Report
The current ice thickness on the Lake is as an average of about 18-24 inches and 10-12 inches on the Rainy River between Wheeler's Point & Baudette. We have started the year off with a nice 3 week cold snap including many nights and days of below zero temps. This early snap will for sure be just what we need to keep a good ice base right thru March 31st, the last day you can keep your fish house out on Lake of the Woods.

Snow Condition Report
We currently have 6-10 inches inland and 10-12 inches of snow on the lake. The snowmobile trail to Oak Island is marked and the ice conditions are looking perfect for us to start grooming the lake trail just after Christmas.

The trail from Wheeler's Point to Warroad will be staked Dec 20-21 and grooming will start just after Christmas.

The land trails are open and grooming will start next week for them. Trail maps are available at the lodge, bring up your sled and enjoy 500 miles of trails right out our back door!

Fishing Special!
We have great midweek discounts! Book your trip during a Sunday thru Thursday and take advantage of discounts up to $66 per person! For reservations or more information give us a call 800-862-8602.

Dec 10, 2008
Ice Conditions
We had a great freeze up this year. Cold temperatures have now set in for the past 14 days prior to any measurable amounts of snow. This starts us out with a good safe base of ice for the winter season. The Four Mile Bay now has 10-12 inches of ice while the Lake is averaging 12 -14 inches. The temperatures continue to dip below zero at night with low teens during the day so we are experiencing ideal conditions for fishing and making more ice. Our experienced guides check the ice and trails daily. They will transport you to your warm and ready fish house with all of your holes drilled, bait, tackle & poles ready for an exciting day of fishing! We even deliver a hot lunch to your door & clean your fish at the end of the day. Lunch is optional, but unlike other places - everything is included in our package price. You are on vacation, relax! Just bring good friends and a camera and enjoy some winter fun!

Fishing Report
Hello Fish Fans! Ice fishing is in full swing on the south end of Lake of the Woods!
Our ice fishing season officially kicked off on Monday, December 8.

Consensus has been that the morning bite has been decent with a super evening bite that starts about 3 p.m. Roughly 70% of the fish caught have been pulled in between 2 p.m. and 5:30p.m.
Everyone that went out fishing yesterday came in with their LIMIT! A great start to the 2008-2009 winter season!

Hot jig colors have been gold, pink and chartreuse and the fish seem to be hanging tight to within 2 – 8 inches of the bottom of the lake. Average size of fish being kept is ranging right around 16 – 18 inches – so definitely a nice size to fill that bucket! The Johnson party of Mitchell, SD reported catching a beautiful 29 inch walleye that they admired and released.

Snow Report
The local snowmobile club will be marking the Lake trail from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island this weekend. The land trails are open, however grooming has not started. The average snow depth is now at 5-6 inches and we are expected to get another 2-3 inches today. It won't be long and snowmobiling will be in full swing!

HOT DEAL!
Free $30 Gift Certificate! Book a 3 night stay midweek now thru Dec 23!
Go to http://www.deals.fishsportsmans.com/ and redeem yours!

Dec 3, 2008

Ice Report
Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River will start ice fishing on Monday, Dec 8! We currently have 7-8 inches of ice on the lake and 4-7 inches on the Four Mile Bay. The forecast shows highs in the teens and lows as low as -3 on Saturday. This is great weather to make 1-2 inches of ice a day! We will start moving houses out over the weekend and will have no problem to have 12 inches of good ice on the lake by Monday to start fishing. Winter is in the air and dates are starting to book up, so call us today! We have some great affordable winter rates, ice fishing packages starting at $175 per person! Check us out! Make time for some winter fun! 800-862-8602

Fishing Report
First ice is just upon us and a few of the guides have been out testing the bite. They report “it's going to be a good year!” They have reported in just a 2-3 hour time span, they were able to get a nice dinner for four of walleyes. So stay tuned, a full report will be in order next week after our official start date on Monday. Remember, December is usually the best month for trophy walleye, so give us a call and come to enjoy some great walleye action! 800-862-8602

Snow Report
We currently have 1-2 inches of snow on the ground with no real measurable snow anticipating for at least 5 days. But check back soon, I am sure winter's first blizzard is on its way!

November 26, 2008

Ice Report
The chill of winter is moving in. The ice has taken over the bays, small tributaries and the shores of the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods. The temperatures have been hovering right around the freezing mark for daytime highs and settling as low as 5 above at night. The water temperature is now a chilly 33 degrees and ready to stiffen up soon. The forecast for next week shows cooler temperatures moving in. This will surely start the major ice formation we are waiting for. A lot can happen within a week's time, so check back next week for our report and watch our webcams from our Rainy River and Oak Island locations, up to the minute actual sights of the ice formation. Lake of the Woods has been known to freeze up with 12 inches of ice within a 7-10 day period of time, so a Dec 6 (Rainy River location) & Dec 15 (Oak Island location) start date is still not out of the question. We have some great affordable winter rates, ice fishing packages starting at $175 per person! Check us out! Winter Rates Make time for some winter fun!

Fishing Report
A few diehards continue to fish the icy water and pull in the walleyes that continue to populate the Rainy River. Anglers continue chasing the large schools of shiners that we have seen this fall. The food is plentiful and the walleyes are loving it, their appetites will only increase with the good feed supply – ready for the ice fishermen to present their lures! So, don't delay book today! Call 800-862-8602 Sportsman's has it all! Rainy River location, Oak Island location, Sleeper Houses & Guided Snobear trips! See you soon!

Snow Report
The current snow in the Lake of the Woods, MN area is still just a dusting. It looks like we have a chance of snow 5 out of the next 10 days, so check back soon.

Winter Special
Looking for a good deal? Book a 3 night stay that starts on any Sunday, Monday or Tuesday Dec 1 – 23, 2008 or March 1- 31, 2009 and receive a FREE $30 food & beverage certificate AND get in on our already discounted midweek packages. This can be a savings of up to $96 per person! To receive your $30 gift certificate go to: http://www.deals.fishsportsmans.com/ . Prime dates are booking up! Sportsman's Lodge 800-862-8602 or Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge 800-772-8411

Click here to check out Sportsman's Lodge Spring, Summer and Fall Fishing video at Youtube.

Click Here to contact us online for more information about the fishing report or call us today at (800) 862-8602.

Sportsmans Lodges • 3244 Bur Oak Rd NW • Baudette, MN 56623 • 866 533-8998