Weekly Lake of the Woods Oak Island Fishing & Outdoor Report updated every Wednesday
9/8/2010
Multi-species frenzy!
If you are looking for the ultimate fishing season, fall should be on the top of your list. This is the best time of year to not only catch nice walleyes, muskie and pike but also smallmouth bass and crappies in the islands near the Northwest Angle on Lake of the Woods.
Walleyes
We have seen some nice walleyes caught around the 20'-25' of water range just off points. The walleyes are starting to move off the reefs right now. Jigging with a gold jig tipped with a minnow has been the favored technique outdoing the spinners two to one. The average size has been between 15”-18”.
Muskies
Fall is an excellent time to catch some nice muskies. Some recent anglers landed a couple around 40 inches and had several follows throughout the day. It is not unusual to see 50 plus inch muskies this time of year.
Northern Pike
The pike fishing is very consistent in our area from mid May all the way to the end of October. These elusive fish tend to be found in the same areas as the muskie. We haven't had many anglers out fishing for them this week but I know they are out there. You won't be disappointed.
Bass
The bass fishing has been really picking up. A few guys have been out throwing shad raps and caught 4-6 a person the other day. The best locations for these have been in 10' of water or less in bays.
Crappies
The crappies are starting to show up. Slab crappies fishing tends to be hot in the fall here. It normally really starts to peak when the water cools way down to 35-40 degrees but we are already starting to seem them. We are currently around 65 degrees at this point.
Fall Foliage…getaway from it ALL at Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge
If the “rat race” of life is starting to get to you and you need a few days or a week to get everything back into perspective then this is the place for you! Check out our reasonable rates and book your getaway today www.oakislandlodge.com
9/3/2010
The summer winds down…
The fall fishing season has now begun to creep into the Northwest Angle and Oak Island area. The trees are noticeably turning lighter green and a few yellow leaves are starting to carpet the trails. The guides have been having good success with walleyes, noticing that they have moved a little deeper to about 30 feet, just off the reefs. A jig with a chub minnow or frozen shiner will produce a good catch of walleye in just a few hours.
Slab Crappies…
It won't be long before the water will begin it's cool down and we will start seeing the slab crappies start to school up around those old tree stumps. Other wildlife is on the move too. It is not uncommon to see a bear or deer swimming from island to island looking for more food to ready them for winter.
Come and enjoy our little slice of heaven. Book your fall or winter trip today 800-772-8411.
8/26/2010
Walleyes, Muskies, Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike take your pick or try them all!
Now is a great time of year for walleyes, muskies, smallmouth bass or northern pike fishing near Oak Island and the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods. The muskies and northern pike have really been hitting on spoons and buck tails, the bass on shad raps and the walleyes are hot on gold spinner or orange and pink 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow.
The best locations for walleyes have been either south of Oak Island in 20'-25' of water or areas around Tug Channel and Falcon Island around points and in depths between 10' - 20'. We have recently seen mainly nice good eater size walleyes between 15”-18” caught a few slot fish 19.5”-28” but overall nice size fish for a delicious walleye shore lunch. As for muskie, northerns and smallies...areas on the south side of Oak Island, around Skeet, and the west side of Falcon Island are all good places to try.
A look ahead
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates!
8/18/2010
The windsock has laid down today…
Nice to see the windsock laid down today and blue skies. It looks like we are in for a nice sunny weekend ahead. We are already starting to see a few leaves fall off the trees, it won't be long and full will be here.
Walleyes….
We have mainly seen nice eater size walleye between 14”-18” caught lately along with some fun stories of a 25”+ caught and released too. The best presentation has been gold or orange 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow. The reefs around Tug Channel, Skeet and French Portage have been best in depths between 15'-25'. The algae is definitely noticeable around Oak Island but 5-6 miles out you get into some nice clear water which is ideal for some good walleye action.
Muskies…
Check out this beauty. Joe Cooper from Baudette, MN recently caught this 51” muskie in the islands of the Northwest Angle
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51 inch Muskie
Caught by Joe Cooper |
near Oak Island this past week. NICE FISH JOE! The best way to get a fish like this is to book one of our guided trips, the guides are hot on the muskie trail. They are hot on the trail. Pack up your tackle box with some brightly colored buck tails and cowgirls and give us a call.
Northern Pike…
We have had a few nice northerns come in lately. Many areas around the south and west side of Oak Island Island just a hop, skip and a jump away from the resort have been good lately. Spoons of really any color have been working best to lure in these elusive fish in.
Fall is just around the corner
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates weekends are starting to book up.
8/10/2010
Musky fishing has been crazy!
Lots of nice muskies have been found lately. The heat now and then when we start to see a drastic cool down in late September and October really seem to get these fish frisky. Many between the sizes of 40”-54” in length have been caught and several follows daily. Areas around Big Narrows have been hot lately.
Walleyes….
Good walleye fishing around Lily Island, Johnston Passage and Windfall Island lately. Many nice shore lunch fish between 14-18 inches have been found along with an occasional 25+” for some added excitement. Pink, red, and blue 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow or leech have been the best presentation.
Fall is just around the corner
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates weekends are starting to book up.
8/4/2010
Not many changes this week…just lots of good fishing!
We have not seen many changes this week in the fishing near Oak Island from last week. The fishing continues to be unbeatable. Twelve to twenty feet of water, jigging with a brightly colored jig or hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow
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30.5 inch 11 lb Walleye
Caught by Matt
July 30
Guided by Tony Butler |
has been the most successful strategy. Falcon Island and areas south of Oak Island and Little Oak still are producing very well. Check out this picture of a big walleye recently caught.
Muskies and Pike
The muskies and northern pike continue to be hot! We have thousands of weedy bays to choose from just a few miles away from the resort. We have seen some very large 50+ inch muskies lately as well as many 20-30 inch muskies and northerns too.
Annual Blueberry Festival this weekend!
This weekend marks our annual Blueberry Festival. Lots of fun and activities planned in the islands this weekend. Come enjoy the fun!
A look ahead
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates!
7/28/2010
Walleyes, Muskies, Pike, Bass…take your pick or enjoy them all!
Walleye fishing continues to be strong in areas of Little Traverse and Sturgeon Channel jigging on the reefs with gold, purple and white 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow. Anglers have been seeing many over 20” in length to give you some big excitement but still plenty of good eating fish 14”-18” in
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Big Muskie Caught Recently!
July 15, 2010
Bob Sauer
caught while fishing with
Guide Chuck Leach |
length. The best depth for a successful day has been between 18'-25'.
The Muskies and Northern Pike have been really hot lately. Neutral colored buck tails and the double cowgirl produced some big fish this past week. Weedy and rocky shorelines are best to find these fighters. Quite a few bass have been reported too. Muskie and pike anglers have snagged a few. If you enjoy bass fishing throw on a spinner bait or shad rap in the same areas you can find muskie and pike in 10' of water or less and you should have some decent luck.
Annual Blueberry Festival
Aug 6, 7 & 8 marks the dates for the annual Blueberry Festival at the Northwest Angle and Islands. Sportsman's is featuring dinner specials and blueberry drinks Aug 6 & 7 and blueberry pancakes and blueberry ice cream dessert Aug 7 & 8 as well as outdoor games all weekend. Book your lodging reservation today and join in the fun! Click here for details
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot. Click here for more information.
7/21/2010
Beautiful weather….excellent fishing…it doesn't get any better than this!
Not much has changed since last week in the islands. The weather has been stable and absolutely beautiful (mid 70's and light breeze) and the walleyes have been active. Jigging with 3/8 oz gold, orange or pink jigs tipped with minnow has been the most successful. The best areas to find some good fishing have been around Johnston Passage, Skeet and Little Oak Island in a few different depths, 10'-12', 18'-22' and 29'-33'.
Muskie & Northern Pike
Several areas around Falcon Island have been phenomenal for some good muskie and northern pike fishing. The guides have some awesome spots that have been producing consistently. Book your trip today before the summer is gone!
The berries are out…
Enjoy some good picking in the islands during your midday shore lunch. Blueberries and raspberries are ripe and ready in many parts of the Northwest Angle & Islands.
7/14/2010
Walleyes
It's prime fishing time, the walleyes are hungry! Jigging with 3/8 oz gold, orange or pink jigs tipped with minnow has been the most successful. We have seen some green algae turn up in some areas of the lake but it doesn't seem to affect fishing. The best areas to find some good fishing have been
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July 8, 2010
Randy & Marty from
Clinton, MS
49 inch muskie
Guide Dave W |
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Randy pictured with his
Smallmouth Bass he caught
July 7, 2010
with Guide Dave W |
around Johnston Passage, Skeet and Little Traverse in a few different depths, 10'-12', 18'-22' and 29'-33'.
Muskies
Check out this monster caught by Marty & Randy on their recent trip July 8. Marty and Randy's muskie measured 49 inches in length. The muskie season has started heating up a little earlier than normal this year from what we think is because of the above normal water temperatures we have had this year. Another group of two guys went out yesterday for 4-5 hours and had 7 follows and 4 hits. Not bad for a half day!
Northern Pike
Areas near Oak Island on the Minnesota side have been producing some nice northerns lately. A few notables, 30”, 32” and 22” have been caught recently in some nearby weedy bays of Oak Island.
Life is too short…make a memory today!
Now is the time to make your plans to visit beautiful Lake of the Woods. Open year round fishing, scenery, outdoor activities, hunting, and more.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot. Click here for more information.
7/7/2010
Walleyes, Muskies, or Pike…take your pick!
Now is one of the best times of the year to be successful at catching not just one species of fish but three! The walleye catch rate has been very consistent lately; nice limits and a few slot fish (19.5-28.0 inches) per boat have been common. A few different depths have been best, 10'-12' and 22'-26'. The best technique has been 3/8 oz gold or orange jigs tipped with a minnow or leech. The muskies and pike have also been hitting too and with these warmer temperatures should only get even more active.
Don't let summer pass you by!
Only 61 days or less until school is back in session and the season starts to change. Make a memory that will last a lifetime today. Take a trip to Sportsman's Lodges.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot. Click here for more information.
7/1/2010
It's a Oak Island Hat Trick!
Check out these pictures! Alex from Nebraska caught a 49” Muskie, 38” Northern Pike AND a 26.5 inch walleye on his recent trip to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge this week while fishing with Guide Dave Winters. Way to go Alex and Dave! So need I say more…the fishing is good and the guides know
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June 27, 2010
Alex from Nebraska
26.5 inch walleye |
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Alex's 38 inch Pike
June 28, 2010 |
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Alex does it again!
49 inch muskie
June 28, 2010 |
right where to find them.
Secrets…
So did is Dave sharing any secrets this week? Well, of course fishing locations and depths tend to change with the weather, season and species and your best bet for a successful day is really to take a guide. But I did get a few tips from Dave for those of you who would like to head out on your own. He said jigging with brightly colored 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a leech or a minnow is still a good technique right now for walleyes and the Massacre Island area has been a hot spot recently. For northerns spoons always work best and muskies crank baits. You can find these elusive fish in several locations within ten miles or less in the Oak Island area. We have several hundred bays to explore and areas around Falcon Island are always good locations to try.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot.
Click here for more information.
Summer is here but won't last long get your family, friends or co-workers together and make a memory today. Take a few days break from work and the rat race and come to the islands, it will be worth it.
6/23/2010
Consistent fishing!
Lots of good walleye fishing is happening in the islands right now. Plenty of action and plenty to take home or enjoy a delicious meal is the buzz this week. The best fishing has been found on both sides of the border, areas on the Minnesota around the north west side of Oak Island, McDonald Island and south side of Oak Island, along with several locations on the Ontario side including Tug Channel and east and west sides of Falcon Island. The depths have varied some doing well in shallow eight to fourteen feet and some doing better in the deeper waters of twenty-four to twenty-seven feet range. The technique remains the same, brightly colored jigs tipped with a leech, some are using minnows and crawlers but the leech has been the most successful recently.
Muskie
Muskie fishing season has now officially opened in both the Ontario and Minnesota side of Lake of the Woods. A few guides have been out testing a few spots and have come back with a few follows and seen some nice fish. It is still early; usually muskie fishing doesn't really heat up until the water temperature climbs up some more. Get your plans together July, August & October are the best times of the year to lure in these elusive fish.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot. Click here for more information.
6/16/2010
65-80 Fish in 4 hours!
That is the buzz on the dock lately, 3 people and 65-80 fish in a morning. Lots of good fishing is in progress. The guides have found some sweet spots and boy are they producing! Walleye and Saugers of all sizes have been caught lately; a nice 30 inch trophy was caught and released this past week along with the hundreds of others. It is prime time fishing time, where are you?!?!? The best presentation has been 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow or leech, a few have had success with hammered gold spinners but the jig is being favored at this time. This summer's walleye fishing is just starting to heat up.
Bass
Some good smallmouth bass fishing has been had by anglers as well this week. They have found the best results in less than ten feet of water casting with spinner baits in the nearby islands close to the lodge.
Ontario Muskie Fishing opens Saturday
The muskie fishing season opens up this Saturday and once we get a three weeks of 70+ temperatures we will really start to see some good action. We have thousands of bays to explore and hunt for this fighter. The guides are getting excited to start the hunt, give us a call and book in your trip, mid July thru October is the best time of the year!
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot.
6/10/2010
Walleyes….
A good consistent walleye bite continues! We have seen some nice stringers come in as well as plenty of stories told about the many more caught and released this week. The sizes being caught are a mixture of good eaters, slot sized nineteen and a half to twenty-eight inch and a few trophies too. Check out this 28.25 inch, 7lb 15 oz walleye pictured below recently caught by Brock Reed from Garfield, MN. Brock caught this lunker on June 5. The best depths have been all over the map really, some have had the best luck in shallow five to ten foot range and some deep around the twenty-seven foot mark. The best locations have been along the east and west side of Falcon Island, Tug Channel and Johnston Passage. We just saw our first hatch of fish flies this morning so the guides are heading out of the hatch area to find the best fishing. No worries….we have almost 1 million acres to choose from here on Lake of the Woods, plenty of good areas to choose from that we don't have to compete with the flies. The best tackle has been gold, bright green and orange 3/8 oz jigs tipped with a minnow. A few anglers are having decent luck with leeches and crawlers as well.
Plenty of Species to fish for…Pike, Muskie, Bass, Crappie, & Perch
Northern Pike fishing has been very good in the weedy bays within 5 miles of the lodge casting with red and white or shiny colored dare devils. Lake of the Woods has one of the best pike populations in the state. The muskie season will soon open in Ontario, June 19 and the best time to fish these wild cats starts are in July and runs thru October. The bass and crappie fishing have been real good lately using spinner baits in waters less than ten feet of water in nearby bays and points of the Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge. Another week or so and we will see that bite taper off until late August thru October. We are starting to see a few perch caught lately; these sweet fish tend to get more active as the summer heats up.
August Special
Book your trip for August 15-31, 2010 and get in on a hot deal! $39 per person nightly lodging special! Just a two night minimum stay is required…this deal may not last long so get your plans together today and call ChiChi at 800-772-8411. We have some of the best fishing in the world, breathtaking scenery, nearby beaches, sightseeing, affordable rates and plenty of things to do or not do. Come get away from it all at Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge.
Berry Picking
The berry bushes are really starting to green up and bud out lately. The early spring warm weather and rain have really helped get these plants a boost. We are looking forward to July for some good wild blueberry and raspberry picking.
6/2/2010
Recent Storms…
The recent storms has caused the hungry fish to become a little harder to find the past few days but today is a beautiful sunny day today and a few anglers this morning already came in with a nice stringer of walleyes. Sunny and stable weather patterns really get the walleyes active.
The places to go…
The best places to fish lately has been in a few different depths, some have done well in the eighteen to twenty-two feet of water and others in shallower in eight to twelve feet of water in areas around Tug Channel, Flag Island Flats, Soldier's Point and Falcon Island. The best bait and tackle have been gold and red jigs tipped with a minnow all while lightly jigging. The northern pike have also been biting pretty good lately using shiny spoons and shad raps that really catch the eye of the elusive pike. We have thousands of bays to find these guys lurking in weed beds just minutes from our dock.
Come enjoy the million acres that Lake of the Woods has to offer you today. Whether it is fishing, outdoor activities, or just relaxing you enjoy this is the place for you to be.
Catch of the Day
Don't miss out on savings of up to $45 per person on fishing packages this summer. Check out our hot deals here for more information. Book your reservation today and SAVE! 800-862-8602.
5/26/2010
Wild Storm, Good Fishing, Sunny Skies ahead...
We had a heck of a storm fly thru the area on Monday leaving us with three inches of rain but the good fishing remains unchanged. We had some guests and a few staff members go out last night and this morning just a few miles away to check things out and had great luck! A nice stringer of walleyes and a thirty-seven inch northern pike was also caught and released just minutes from our dock.
The best fishing locations have been around Soldier's Point, Massacre Island and Falcon Island in twenty-one to twenty-three feet of water along the shore line as well as twenty-five to twenty-seven feet of water have also been the hot spots this week. The best tackle has been 3/8 oz gold or pink jigs tipped with a minnow.
The weather forecast looks good…….
The forecast for the weekend looks good, 70's, 80's and walleyes! It's time to head to the lake.
No boat, no experience, no problem!
We offer guide service with experienced guides ready to teach you successful fishing techniques. They know what the fish are biting on and where to find them. Enjoy a no hassle relaxing trip and book a guided trip with Sportsman's today.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot.
5/19/2010
Weather is hot and fishing is hotter!
What a good start to the fishing season! This week has been nothing short of absolutely perfect weather and even better walleye fishing. Anglers have been catching a nice limit of walleyes just a short distance away on the Minnesota's side from the resort using 3/8 oz gold or orange colored jigs tipped with a chub minnow. Sorry for the misunderstanding before, Ontario and Minnesota fishing walleye season did both opened May 15 this year, so we have thousands of great fishing spots to choose from! The best depth has been 18-22 feet just off shorelines and points. Come get away from it all and enjoy the islands of the Northwest Angle.
No boat, no experience, no problem!
We offer guide service with experienced guides ready to teach you successful fishing techniques. They know what the fish are biting on and where to find them. Enjoy a no hassle relaxing trip and book a guided trip with Sportsman's today.
No passport needed…
Take advantage of our boat passenger service from our Sportsman's Rainy River location and head to the island. You will stay in Minnesota the whole time and enjoy great views to boot.
5/15/2010
Full Sun & Walleyes!
Excellent fishing was had in the islands today for opening day of the Minnesota walleye opener. Many anglers had good luck catching their limit just a few miles away from the Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge just near Oak Island. The best luck was had in twelve to fifteen feet of water along the shorelines. The best tackle that was used was a gold 3/8 oz jig tipped with a minnow. The weather was mid seventies and light wind, beautiful day on the water. The beautiful weather continues this week. Come on up and enjoy some phenomenal walleye fishing.
5/12/2010
Walleye Opener 2010 is here!
The spring cleaning is done, the yard is looking good and the dock works is nearly completed. It's fishing time! The weather
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Make a memory this summer.
Take a kid fishing. |
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Crystal blue waters await you. |
forecast is calling for sunny skies and lots of walleyes. We are looking forward to a good bite this weekend. The water temperature is at an above normal range 49-52 degrees, no run off and some of the best water clarity we have seen for this time of year in years. Grab a fishing pole and come enjoy some good fishing. June tends to be a hot fishing month but with the spawning 1-2 weeks earlier than normal this year, the fishing will probably really start hitting any minute.
Presentation…
The best presentation for this time of year to catch walleyes is a brightly colored jig or hammered gold spinner and 1 oz weight tipped with a minnow. Hot spots will be around Soldier's Point, Falcon Island, and Massacre Island to name a few in twelve to eighteen feet of water.
The Birds are singing…
The birds are back from their winter travels and the grass is green. Life in the islands is good, can't wait for you to visit.
5/5/2010
We are busy getting ready for the upcoming season. We will be opening for the season starting May 14 for the May 15 Minnesota walleye fishing opener.
We have had above normal weather temperatures this past April so we are anticipating the early season bite being above normal this year as the walleyes should be done spawning earlier than normal years. Give us a call to book your summer trip today!
3/17/2010
We are all done fishing for the year. The resort remains open until Sunday for lodging, food and drinks if you would like to stop by. Thanks to everyone for a great ice fishing season and we look forward to seeing you in May! Walleye opener is May 15.
Check out our Spring Specials and snag a deal from Sportsman's by going to our “hot deals” page by
clicking here.
3/10/2010
Few weeks left
The season is starting to wind down, with just a few more weeks left of the ice fishing season at Sportsman's Oak Island for the
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Bill Kinnear
Floodwood, MN
30+ inch, 10 lb+ walleye
February 24, 2010 |
year. We have seen some good fishing action this past week. The fishing has been best in the 26'-28 ' range around Oak Island. We have seen several 24”-26” walleyes caught and released, along with a few northern pike, even a nice sized 42” incher! The best bite for walleyes has been midday and the best tackle has been chubby darters and plain hooks, it doesn't seem to matter which color you have, but these two pieces of tackle have been bringing in the most fish lately.
Ice ConditionsIt is getting pretty sloppy; however we have not lost any ice. We are still maintaining 35” of good ice yet, the only thing we have lost with the warm temperatures in snow at this point.
Snow & Trail Conditions
The trails are a bit sloppy, but it looks like we are going to get some cooler temperatures later this week to firm things up so the groomers can go out just in time for the Sportsman's Oak Island Snowmobile Rally, Friday, March 12 & Saturday March 13. Head on over, lots of events are planned including the radar run, fun run, polar splash, kid's games, pig roast and live entertainment. Come for the last big bash of the season.
3/3/2010
Plenty of good fishing
Plenty of good fishing has been the hot topic this week, most fishing stories have a common theme, “plenty to catch, keep, release and eat”. Lots of smiles! We have seen active walleyes outside of Oak Island in twenty-three to twenty-eight feet of water. The fish pails have been filled with mainly walleyes and a few perch. The best tackle has been orange, gold, and pink jigs lately, tipped with a minnow. The season will soon come to an end, get your reservations in now; Sportsman's Oak Island is open until March 21.
Ice Conditions
We currently have good ice conditions. The current ice depth is around 32 inches in the areas we fish and travel.
Trail Conditions
We still have a good base of snow 30-36 inches.
Lake Trails
The trails are groomed and ready to go. Ride the trails today! Excellent snow and grooming conditions.
Land Trails
Excellent snow depth and grooming. The trails are in great shape.
Plowed road to island
The road is in good shape and continues to be plowed regularly.
Coming Soon….Annual Snowmobile Rally
March 12 & 13
Fun Run, Radar Run, Games, Polar Splash, Live Entertainment, Food, Drinks & More
www.snowrally.sportsmanslodges.com
2/24/2010
Excellent Fishing…
We have really seen the catching pick up in the past three weeks. Many nice walleyes and saugers have been caught. We are currently seeing the best results along some structure in depths between twenty-four to thirty feet of water just outside of Oak
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Kory Misialek
Grafton, ND
Smallmouth Bass
Unusual winter catch for us
February 20, 2010 |
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Ryan Schjenken
Sacred Heart, MN
26" Walleye
Feb 20, 2010 |
Island. Oak Island always boasts more walleyes than saugers and good fishing just two miles away. The best presentation has been gold, pink and orange jigs tipped with a chub minnow.
Hot Lunch delivered to you..
We may be on an island, but we don't believe in “roughing it”. Enjoy a hot lunch prepared and brought right to your fish house midday.
Snobear Trip
One group enjoyed a Snobear trip recently and pulled in an unusual winter catch for us, a nice big Smallmouth Bass. These fish are usually more predominant in the fall. Check out this beauty. Great walleye fishing was also had by this group too. If you like to do a little trolling on the ice and go to places virtually untouched in the winter this is the way to go. Enjoy a day out with two friends and a guide for excellent winter fishing.
Ice Conditions
We currently have good ice conditions. The current ice depth is around 32 inches in the areas we fish and travel.
Trail Conditions
Lake Trails
The trails are groomed and ready to go. Ride the trails today! Excellent snow and grooming conditions.
Land Trails
Excellent snow depth and grooming. The trails are in great shape.
Plowed road to island
The road is in good shape and continues to be plowed regularly.
Coming Soon….Annual Snowmobile Rally
March 12 & 13
Fun Run, Radar Run, Games, Polar Splash, Live Entertainment, Food, Drinks & More
www.snowrally.sportsmanslodges.com
2/17/2010
Solid fishing…
We have seen some real consistent and solid catch rates the past few weeks. Anglers catching six to twelve walleyes and/or saugers per person per day and keeping four to seven fish. Plenty of fish for a few good meals. We currently are seeing a nice run in the morning and afternoon to keep you busy at the depth between 23'-28'.
Hot tackle this week?
Gold is always a mainstay on Lake of the Woods and this week is no different however we also saw some nice fish this week caught on some gold spoons, white and blue jigs too.
Ice Conditions
We currently have good ice conditions. The current ice depth is around 32 inches in the areas we fish and travel. Our weather has been warming up into the teens and twenties during the day and single digits and below zero temps at night, perfect weather to keep the ice we have and make a few more inches too. We plan to fish right thru mid to the end of March at this point.
Trail Conditions
Lake Trails
Excellent trail conditions this year. The weather and more than normal snow fall has really made the trails better than an average this year. Come enjoy it, we only have about a month and a half left. The trails from Baudette to Warroad and Baudette to Oak Island are being groomed today and tomorrow.
Land Trails
The groomers have been out all week getting the trails into optimum condition for the weekend in the areas of Lake of the Woods county.
Plowed road to island
The road is in good shape and continues to be plowed regularly.
2/10/2010
A nice rhythm
A 30” walleye was just caught a few minutes past noon today and a 26” too in the same house! Watch for the photos to come
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Greg LaPlante, 30 inch walleye
February 10, 2010 |
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Rick Mohan
26" Walleye
Feb 10, 2010 |
later this week! The bite has been above average lately around Oak Island. We have seen many nice 16”-20” fish caught as well as quite a few slot fish between 19.5”-28”. We have seen mainly walleyes and a few perch round out the buckets this week.
What's the lucky tackle?
Red and gold have been the hot jigs recently. The best depth for catching these nice wallies has been between 23'-28' around the area of Oak Island.
Ice Conditions
We have gained an inch or so of ice this past week. We currently have about 30”-32” of ice covering the areas we travel and fish.
Trail Conditions
Lake Trails
The trails from Baudette to Warroad and Baudette to Oak Island are in excellent conditions. We just received another couple of inches of snow this past Sunday and the groomers are out today and tomorrow. It is definitely nice to see a little more sun than we have been used to and you gotta love the later sunset time, it really makes for a nice long day to enjoy the trails. Looking for a nice view? Follow the trail up on top of Massacre Island from the east side and take in this breathtaking 360 degree view of the islands, absolutely beautiful.
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.
Plowed road to island
The road is in good shape.
2/3/2010
Steady fishing….
Guide Ron & Phil report the fishing in the islands has been steady, but spotty. The fish really seem to be holding to certain spots near reefs. We have seen some nice limits of keeper walleyes including some larger sized fish between 20”-23” too this week. In the clear cold weather the fish were moving and all houses did well, once the cloudy weather moved in it seems to be the shallower 22'-25' houses are doing better. The best time of the day, it really hasn't seemed to matter lately. Anglers are averaging 5-8 walleye/sauger mix per day and the best tackle has been gold, pink and white, and chartreuse jigs tipped with a chub minnow.
Ice Conditions
Plenty of ice…thirty inches of ice is the common depth around the places we fish and travel right now. If you venture on your own, be sure to stay on the trails or roads and talk with a guide to stay away from bad ice areas.
Trail Conditions
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 Lodge Rainy River to Warroad today and will be grooming from Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge 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.
Plowed road to island
The road is open and in great shape.
5th Annual Snowmobile Rally coming soon!
Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge's annual snowmobile rally is just around the snow bank! Polar splash, fun run, radar run, games, food and drink specials, live entertainment and much more. Join us March 12 & 13, 2010. Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge is nearly full, but we still have some availability at Sportsman's Rainy River Lodge stay there and ride up for the day to enjoy the fun. Check out our website for details www.oakislandlodge.com
1/27/2010Walleyes & Perch…
The winter warm up started to bring out some perch. I think they must have thought we were in the end of February, when they
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Brett Ommodt
27" Walleye, released
January 21, 2010 |
usually start to show up. The perch came mainly from the shallow houses this past week. The walleyes that are being caught are a real nice size between 17”-19”and the afternoons are favoring the mornings. The best depth has been in 23' of water just outside of Oak Island and the favorite tackle has been a gold or salmon red jig tipped with a chub minnow. Not too many reports of any slot fish or trophies, but plenty of nice quality size fish to make a good meal.
We had some recent guests enjoy our Snobear Trip and one of them; Brett Ommodt landed a real nice 27” walleye and released it. Check out Brett showing off his fish.
Ice Conditions
Above average temperatures, melting, rain and then a snow storm ending with -25 this morning rounded out this past week at Oak Island. It was a heck of a week for weather. The ice was not affected by the thaw and we still have 30 inches of ice in the well traveled areas and fishing spots we go to. Looks like we are in for a cold snap for awhile and thicker ice will be in our future. Time to get the auger extensions out!
Trail Conditions
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, Wheeler's Point to Baudette and Warroad to Oak Island.
Land Trails
The Edge Rider's snowmobile club continues to groom the Northwest Angle Land trails and is out grooming as I write this getting the trails ready for the upcoming week.
Plowed road to island
The road is just recently plowed after the storm and in great shape.
1/20/2010
Fishing is best just off the reefs
Just off the reefs in a little current seem to be the best location to find some nice walleyes lately. The best depth has been between 21'-25' of water. Anglers have been catching mostly walleyes rather than saugers and a few nice perch too. We have also seen some larger walleye ranging in the 24”-29” caught and released too.
Hot tackle…
Gold jigs tipped with a minnow and Chubby Darters colored gold, chartreuse & orange have been the best for the walleyes and a small spoon with a minnow for the perch has had the most success.
Oak Island in the winter is a great place to be! Guides Ron & Phil and all the staff at Oak Island are waiting for you! Come and experience a fishing trip in this north woods hideaway!
Ice Conditions
The ice depth is currently 30 inches on the well traveled areas of the lake. A good base to take us through the end of March!
Trail Conditions
Lake Trails
The groomers are scheduled to go out tomorrow, to get the trails ready for the weekend. Our groomer will be running from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island and back and Wheeler's Point to 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. The river trail from Wheeler's Point to Baudette has recently been marked and will be groomed Thursday.
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
Plowed road to island
The road is in great shape.
1/13/2010
Walleyes are responding to the weather warm up
Day by day we are seeing the catch rate improve here at Oak Island. Consistent jigging is a key component to getting a good bite and many successful anglers have also been using vexilars and similar electronic devices too to keep their eye on the fish. Gold jigs, stop signs, glow in the dark and just about anything real brightly colored tipped with a minnow have been bringing in the best results. The best depth has been between 20'-30'. It is our goal for you to have the best fishing experience as possible so we do what we can to stay on the fish week after week.
Don't take it from me…take it from our customer's and their comments from recent stays at Sportsman's Lodges…First time at Sportsmans Lodge at Oak Island. Had great time fishing with my son Ryan. Caught our limit of Walleyes and released about 45 for others to catch. I would highly recommend going there if you want to have a great ice fishing trip.
Jim B.
Eden Prairie, MN
We all had a great time and thought your facilities were first rate. We have had good experiences staying at one of your competitors in years past, but I think we all agreed that our stay with you was a better overall experience than our previous year's trips. The fishing was a little slow for "Angle standards", but obviously no one has control over that.... We had a blast, I hope we weren't too much trouble..... If you want us to leave the big man (Joe) behind next year, just let me know... LOL :)We had a great time - thanks again, and hopefully we will see you next year!
Mike
Ice Conditions
The ice depth is currently 25 inches on the well traveled areas of the lake. A good base to take us through the end of March!
Trail Conditions
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
Plowed road to island
The road is in great shape. Just plowed a few days ago.
1/12/2010
Jigging, a good vexilar and you have fish my friend!
The fish seem to be a little smarter than the average fisherperson lately, but some good techniques have been discovered and that makes all the difference. Twenty-two to twenty-five feet of water, gold or brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow, good consistent jigging and electronics and you have a winner, a bucket of nice walleyes. Their is currently a debate on which time of day is best, it seems to be all over the map nothing real consistent....8am - 10am, 1pm-3pm, and 3pm - 5pm have all been discussed lately. We saw a 26.5 inch walleye and a few between 20- 24 inches as well caught recently to round out the braggin board. Missy G. adds another one to her own personal braggin board, this girl has game...she has out fished her boyfriend Chris H. how many times now? 5 or 6 in the past 3-4 months?? Better luck next time Chris, we know you'll be back for round 7.
Trails, Ice Road & Snow
The trails remain very nice, a little drifted this morning but not bad. The groomers will be out again on Thursday and Friday. The ice road from Young's Bay, Northwest Angle to Oak Island is in good shape, the plow was just out yesterday. The snow cover is around 8-12 inches.
Beautiful views, quiet atmosphere and good fishing that is Oak Island.
Looking to really get away from it all, I mean really from it all? Sportsman's Oak Island and Eagle Ridge is the place to be. Beautiful accomodations, excellent views and peace and quiet. We are in the true north of Minnesota surrounded by thousands of acres of untouched beauty, come discover it for yourself today.
1/6/2010
Seeing signs of improvement…
The weather is starting to warm and stabilize and that is helping the fishing action. Eight below this morning and sounds like
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Brady, 29.5 inch walleye
January 4, 2010 |
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Tim from Ham Lake, MN
Nice Walleye
Jan 4, 2010 |
possibly twenty above by Saturday! Heat wave! Angler's reported more walleye action the last couple of days and several between 23-27” too. Afternoons seem to be favoring the mornings still and gold and glo in the dark jigs are the hot tackle.
Ice Conditions
The ice depth is currently 16”-20” on the well traveled areas of the lake. A good base for the early season.
Trail Conditions
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
Plowed road to island
The road is in great shape.
1/4/2010
Cold temperatures……
The temperature has been cold, even forty below the other morning! Welcome to January in the northland. Looks like we might be headed into some warmer temps by the weekend, we will be ready.
The fishing has been a little more challenging the past few days could be the cold temperature? The guides are checking different depths and will sure to find more action soon. Anglers are still picking up a few just not as fast paced as before. Northerns continue to be found too! Afternoons have been favoring the mornings and those who are staying on bottom and jigging with gold and salmon red jigs have also seen better results.
The trail…
The groomed trail and ice road are in excellent condition, hard packed and groomed.
12/30/09Good Fishing!
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Ryan Winters-27.5inch walleye
Sioux Falls, SD 12-28-09
Gold Jig with a minnow |
A consistent bite has been reported since the weather has stabilized with the afternoons favoring the mornings in recent days. The water clarity is really impressive this year. Along with a many nice eater size walleyes a few larger fish have been caught and released too. A 27.5 inch walleye was caught by Brandon Noble and 27.5 walleye was also caught by Ryan Winters this week along with a 39.5 inch northern pike too! The northern pike really started to hit in a few houses when the weather turned clear and cold. The best fishing along with the two large walleyes were caught using a gold jig tipped with a minnow in about 22'-25' of water.
Ice Conditions
The ice depth is currently 12-16”. Slush has been reported when you get off the trail due to the recent snow we got last week.
Trail Conditions
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.
Plowed Road
The plowed road to the island is now open.
12/23/09
Sorry for the report delay. Sportsman's Oak Island is starting their ice fishing season Dec 26! We currently have 12 inches of ice and 4-5 inches of snow blanketing the Northwest Angle and Islands area. The guides have been testing and the fish are hungry! 10-20 walleye and sauger combinations caught and or released per person has been the norm. The test spots have been around 20-25 feet of water and the fish have been favoring gold and pink jigs tipped with a chub. It looks like it is going to be a good start for fishing action this season! Get your friends and family together and come enjoy the northland!
Snow & Trail Report
The snowmobile trail from Young's Bay at the Northwest Angle to Oak Island is marked but not groomed. The ice road has not been plowed to Oak Island yet. The snowmobile trail from Sportsman's Rainy River to Sportsman's Oak Island is marked and groomed. The land trails in the Northwest Angle are not groomed yet.
12/16/09
Ice Conditions
The guides are out today checking ice. Stay tuned for an updated report tomorrow morning and anticipated start date for ice fishing in the islands.
12/9/09
Ice Conditions
We currently have 2-4 inches of ice and have been experiencing very cold temperatures! Watch for our updated report on Wednesday, Dec 16 for an anticipated start date. Could possibly be the 19th?!!?!? 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! (this is a double winter walleye special good for this week only!)
12/4/09
The ice has started to form!
More ice is starting to form in the inland bays. The temperatures are really starting to dip with highs in the teens and lows in the single digits this week. Stay tuned for more details next week! Now is the time to get your winter reservations in, prime dates are starting to fill.
Snow & Trail Report
We have received a nice blanket of four inches of snow the past week. The season has changed we are off to enjoy the winter recreation. Snowmobile enthusiasts ask about our Eagle Ridge location, two secluded cabins on Oak Island waiting for you. Lodging starts at only $39 per person Sun – Thurs stays, and just $49 per person on weekends.
Winter Walleye Double 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. Check out the hot deals page for details.
11/25/09
Ice Starting to form…
We are starting to see some ice forming in the bays and low current channels. Won't be long before we are making some good ice. We just need a good fourteen day stretch of zero to ten degree weather to make us a foot of ice!
Anticipated start date…
We are looking at a Dec 15 anticipated open date for our winter season. Book your winter ice fishing and snowmobiling adventures now. World class fishing and miles of snowmobiles right out our back door await you.
10/13/09
Thanks for a great summer; we will look forward to seeing you in the winter!
Our Oak Island lodge location is now closed until December 15. Call to book your winter trip now! 800-772-8411.
10/7/09
The fish are in the Fall Rhythm
Big walleyes have been caught lately, twenty inches plus. Phenomenal fall fishing in the islands is here. Come and explore the islands, this is our last week open until the hard water hits!
Muskie Mania
Hot! Hot! Hot! Some experts say it may be the algae that surfaced late or the switch from warm to cooler temperatures recently. Whatever it maybe it is working! We had a group of three people out this week that caught twelve forty inch plus muskies in a day and half. Wow! They said many were surfacing right to the up to the boat. Amazing Experience!
Time to think about your winter ice fishing trip!
It won't be long and the popular winter ice fishing season will soon be upon us. Come experience your most comfortable and hassle free ice fishing trip at Sportsman's! No equipment or experience required. We even deliver you a hot lunch at noon. Call and book your trip now! Prime dates are starting to book up. 800-772-8411
10/1/09
Welcome to Fall!
Wow what a difference a week can make! From 70's and 80's to 30's and 50's! The weather has pushed the fish in high gear of transition this week. The fish are on the move! A little rain, wind, feels like fall.
The past week has been a spotty week, hard to find the fish when they are on the move. However, we did hear some reports that some nice walleyes were caught up by skeet in that area. The next few weeks ahead will start to see the fish move closer to Oak Island in areas around Falcon Island, Tug Channel, Massacre Island and Oak Island. Hammered gold spinners or gold, pink or glow in the dark jigs are all good lures of choice this time of year.
Slab Crappies
These cold temperatures are perfect for slab crappies. The upcoming weeks ahead will prove it. Where to find them? Well that is a secret only the guides know and won't disclose. Book a guide for even a day and reap the rewards of this sweet fish.
Grand Slam Experience
Come on up and have experience a Grand Slam! Walleyes, Crappies & Ducks! Give us a call today 800-772-8411.
9/23/09
Feels like summer!
The fish seemed to start to transition but I believe the warm weather is tricking them. The best fishing spots seem to be the same as the normal July and August spots. Areas around McPherson Island, Tug Channel and Johnston Passage have all been good lately in fifteen to twenty-five feet of water. Minnow, gold, glow in the dark or brightly colored jigs all work well right now to pull in the walleyes.
Slab Crappies
Again, the crappie bite has slowed a bit this week due to the warmer than average temperatures, we will try again next week!
Grand Slam Experience
Come on up and have experience a Grand Slam! Walleyes, Crappies & Ducks! Give us a call today 800-772-8411.
9/16/09
Warm Weather, is this summer?
Beautiful weather has been enjoyed this week and great fishing.
Nice size schools of walleyes have been found in twenty to twenty-five feet of water in the islands near Oak Island recently. Jigging with a gold, orange or pink and white jigs tipped with a minnow have been successful presentations recently.
Slab Crappies
The crappie bite has slowed a bit this week due to the warmer than average temperatures, but hang on, it looks like the cool temperatures will be back next week.
Muskies
Fall can be a great time for some excellent muskie fishing in the Northwest Angle and island areas. There are countless areas to explore. If fishing for this elusive fish is something you enjoy, the islands of Lake of the Woods is one of the best places in the world to find them.
Grand Slam Experience
Come on up and have experience a Grand Slam! Walleyes, Crappies & Ducks! Give us a call today 800-772-8411.
9/9/09
Fall Transition
We are starting to see the walleyes move into the rock and mud into twenty-six to twenty-eight feet of water as we start to transition into fall. Reports of some nice twenty-five to twenty-eight inch walleyes have been talked about lately too. A limit of walleyes is not hard to come by nor has it all summer. Jigging with a minnow is all you need to find a nice school of walleyes around Oak Island this fall.
Slab Crappies
Due to the cooler than normal temperatures the crappie bite is starting earlier than normal this year. Reports of a few have just started to bite; cooler temperatures in the upcoming two weeks will really get them hungry. Come on up and have experience a Grand Slam! Walleyes, Crappies & Ducks! Give us a call today 800-772-8411.
9/1/09
The best walleye has been around Little Oak on the American side and around Falcon Island and tug channel right on the Canadian side now. Jigging in ten to twenty feet of water tipped with a minnow has brought in the best limits.
Fall is just around the corner which means the fishing will start to get closer too the lodge.
Muskies continue to be found in the weedy bays of the islands. Red and white bait have been producing the most. Fall is one of the best times of year for Muskie fishing.
It won't be long and the leaves will start to turn and the geese & ducks will be flying overhead, a recent sighting of a bear on a nearby island getting ready for his long winter nap this week, and the scenery you only see in books is what our area is all about! Trust me, once you come, you will never want to leave! Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge www.oakislandlodge.com 800-872-8411
8/25/09
Walleyes, Muskies, Northern Pike take your pick!
Now is a great time of year for walleyes, muskies or northern pike fishing near Oak Island and the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods. It really doesn't take a whole lot of effort, just a bucket of minnows, rods, spinners or jigs (for walleyes), red & white spoons or buck tails for muskies and northerns and a good guide and your set. We have miles and miles of places to explore right out our back door.
Lots of nice fish have been caught recently of many different specie types, two twin twenty-eight inch walleyes were released this week, three northern pikes between the sizes of twenty-four inch and thirty five inches in length and a forty-eight inch muskie.
A look ahead
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates!
Only 2 months left of soft water fishing!
The cool weather will soon be upon us, so get your friends, family or business associates together and make plans for a trip today!
8/19/09
We have not seen many changes this week in the fishing near Oak Island from last week. The fishing continues to be unbeatable. Twelve to twenty feet of water, jigging with a brightly colored jig or hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow are all you need. Falcon Island and areas south of Oak Island and Little Oak still are producing.
A look ahead
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates!
8/12/09
Walleyes
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8-6-09-Zach Swart 51.25 in. Muskie
Caught at Oak Island-Red & White Lure
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Fishing has been so good this summer they are practically jumping into the boat! Lots of action, good eater size walleyes fourteen inches to nineteen inches and nice trophies have all been part of the mix lately. Twelve to twenty feet of water, jigging with a pink or orange jig tipped with a minnow has been working perfectly. There are hundreds of locations to explore, come on up and enjoy the fun!
Muskies
Now is the time for prime Muskie fishing! It is really starting to heat up this past week. Many follows and several forty to fifty inch Muskies have been landed.
A look ahead
Fall foliage, hunting seasons, and excellent walleye, crappie fishing will soon be upon us. Make your reservations now and fall into walleyes with our reduced fall rates!
8/5/09
Plenty of fish and action
Fishing just south of Oak Island as well as up in the northern islands has been the best locations to enjoy a successful day of walleye fishing lately. Presentation continues to be a brightly colored jig or hammered gold spinner tipped with a minnow, the fish have been hungry and not fussy lately. Depths in eight to twenty feet of water around island points are also the best places to find a nice limit and plenty of catch and release action. Come on up and get in on some fun! A day of relaxing on the lake and taking in our incredible scenery is a treat in itself.
The Muskies are hitting!
A few groups were out this week and really got into some good muskie action. They landed a forty-four inch, forty seven inch and many thirty to forty inch in a two day fishing trip. Red and black cowgirl lures seem to be the hot ticket and rock points and weedy beds have been the best location to find this feisty fish. Grab your pole and lures, we got the rest. See you at the lake!
7/29/09
252 minnows, 3 guys…out of bait by 3pm!
Unprecedented fishing continues! A veteran group hit the jackpot! Doubles, Triples and sizes of fish between sixteen to thirty inches dominated the day. This was definatly a trip of a lifetime!
Fishing is still hot! The best fishing in depths between eight to twenty-two feet of water just south of Oak Island near Massacre and Little Oak have been really bringing in the walleyes. The best presentation is a brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow and fishing around the rock reefs.
Muskies…
Two fifty inch muskies were caught this week around Monument and Deep Water Bay. Muskie fishermen are hoping for good weather warm up to really get the muskies active.
Click Here to contact us online for more information about the fishing report or call us today at (800) 772-8411.
7/22/09
Walleye & Muskie fishing
The Minnesota side of the border, the reefs near Little Oak and the Crow Duck reefs are all great spots at this time, and access from Oak Island is a breeze. Deep Water Bay on the Canadian side, just minutes from the Lodge, is also producing some good walleye action too.
Bright colored jigs, off the reefs have been the ticket. The walleyes are still being found in shallow waters in eight to twenty feet
A few nice muskie have been caught and released recently. These fighters can be found in the hundreds of weed beds just out our back door in search of small perch and walleyes.
The sightseeing and cruising in the Islands is also awesome this time of year – beautiful, serene sights are calming to the soul, just what we need in times like these.
7/15/09
Great fishing continues….
Fishing has been great. One boat went out yesterday and caught a combination of 150 walleye and saugers! They had an absolute blast catching & releasing fish all day. Fishing has been best in 8'-20' of water just near Little Oak, a short jaunt south of Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge. Jigging with minnows or leeches or crawlers with a gold crawler harness all are working well.
The weather has kicked up a bit with some wind and rain the past two days, but it looks like sunnier skies will be back by Saturday.
The Muskies are active!
We have been hearing lots of reports of incredible Muskie fishing this year. For some reason this started out even as early as May when people were fishing for walleyes. Give us a call and we will set you up with a seasoned guide that will give you an experience to remember. Pump up your arms, your going to need it!
7/8/09
The Fireworks woke up the fish
Wow! It must have been the fireworks that woke up the walleyes. Fishing has been great all year, but in the past recent days the fish have really kicked it up! The weather has been stable and in a look ahead to the forecast it looks like the next 10 days it will continue! Anglers have been catching many nice walleyes in the sand and rock bottoms around eighteen to twenty-two feet of water. A gold spinner, bright colored jig are the hot lures tipped with a leech or worm. Watch for the Muskie reports to start reeling in a few weeks when they start to really snap.
A limit of walleyes and plenty of eater walleyes between fourteen to nineteen inches are not hard to come by in a few days of fishing. Come for the fishing and stay for the fun on beautiful Oak Island, MN.
Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off
Aug 7 & 8, 2009
Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, "Island Style"
The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an "island style" Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team's dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on "donate" then search by team with keyword "Oak Island". Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge's team this year is the Bobbie's Bay Bobber's. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman's website shortly after the event.
Have a great week!
7/1/09
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Joe Hermann - June 2009 - 6lb 10oz |
Windy weather
The past week posed some challenges for the anglers this week. Late Friday started the wild weather that led on thru Monday. It made fishing a little tough, but low and behold the warm weather, mild wind, and lots of sun are back and so are they walleyes! Check out this 6lb fish caught this week! Nice fish Joe!
Nice limits and Yummy Shore Lunches!
Anglers have been using hammered gold spinners or worm harnesses and gold, pink or orange jigs lately tipped with mainly leeches and worms. Minnows are still being used to change up the action but leeches and worms have been favored recently. The reports of a nice limit walleyes continue to come in and compliments of the popular "Authentic Walleye Shore lunch" have been the main "dock talk" lately. Book a day of fishing with one of our professional guides and enjoy your morning catch over a wood fire fried to perfection all while taking in the beautiful views of Lake of the Woods.
Happy 4th of July everyone!
6/24/09
Walleyes!
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Preston Aguilar, Carmel IN
8bs 30.25 lbs 6-17-09 |
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Anthony's 25 inch walleye |
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Rob Wingerter's Smallmouth
19.5 inches 5lbs 6-09 |
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Robs 38 inch Northern Pike 6-09 |
Plenty of walleyes hanging around waiting for you! Anglers are starting to move a little further out into more structure in the recent days, but their has been no changes in the fishing, that remains solid! 15'-22 of water just 4-5 miles out into the islands of the Northwest Angle have produced the best walleye catch rate this past week.
The hammered gold spinner with a minnow is still the bait of choice; however crawlers and leeches will soon be an item to have in the bait box soon. Many walleyes in the good eater size range of 14'-19" have been caught lately. Muskie season officially opened this past weekend, but normally the best Muskie season will be starting mid July right thru October. However we have heard lots of reports of some hungry Muskies following walleye presentations in the past week, so who knows now may be the time!
Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off
Aug 7 & 8, 2009
Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, "Island Style"
The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an "island style" Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team's dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on "donate" then search by team with keyword "Oak Island". Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge's team this year is the Bobbie's Bay Bobber's. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman's website shortly after the event.
Have a great week!
6/17/09
70 degree days, calm waters & plenty of walleyes!
Can't beat the beautiful weather we have had lately! No empty stringers here! Anglers have been more than satisfied with the recent catch rate lately! Daily limits of walleyes, full bellies of fresh fried fish and catch & release has been exercised daily the past few weeks as angler's continue to pull in the walleyes! We had one group that really found a hot spot this week, they were in by 10am to get more bait, wow!!
Jigs to spinners
Jigging with a minnow has been working well, but a few people are just starting to pull a spinner with a bright colored blade tipped with a night crawler too. The walleyes have been ranging in size from 18 -19 inches on the average, with many 24-26 inchers pulled in and released as well. The best fishing remains in close to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge just within 5 miles. Reports of hooking into a nice northern pike, or a feisty small mouth bass has also been found in the daily fishing chatter. Call us up - some dates are still open. We're just across the Lake - in a whole different world! Check out our "Adventure Packages!"
Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off
Aug 7 & 8, 2009
Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, "Island Style"
The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an "island style" Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team's dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on "donate" then search by team with keyword "Oak Island". Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge's team this year is the Bobbie's Bay Bobber's. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman's website shortly after the event.
Have a great week!
6/10/09
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50.5inch 34lb Muskie - June 09 - Ibberson Party |
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29.5inch Walleye - June 09 - Ibberson Party |
Hey Everyone! Welcome to Summer!
This week on Oak Island, just 40 miles North of Baudette Minnesota on the tip of Minnesota has been nothing short of absolutely awesome! I feel one of our long time patrons of Oak Island says it all.....
12 people catch 1,011 fish!!!
Greetings Chi-Chi and Crew,,,
In Our 25th year on Lake of the Woods, ( 19 of them on Oak Island with Don and You), we had the best fishing yet. Our group of 12, caught and released 1011 fish. Our biggest walleye was 29.5" and an all time biggest of a 50.5" Muskie at 34lbs..WOW...This was all done with 20 degree BELOW normal temps.
Thank you for the wonderful furnishings and people to work with. I'm already wishing it was May 2010 so I could pack up and get up there again..Maybe in Aug..
Best Wishes for a great SUMMER season..
Gopher Boat,
Capt. Dan Ibberson
FedEx Express
What are you waiting for? Walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods is the best in years! Get you friends together and come up!
6/3/09
Walleye bite is above average!
Anglers continue to fish in close to Oak Island and the surrounding islands mainly on the Minnesota side. Jigging with an orange or green jig tipped with a chub minnow in 20'-25' of water seems to be bringing in the best results. The catch has been mainly walleyes and with only very few saugers being caught. This is normal for the Northwest Angle & Islands area.
The size....
The size of the walleyes has been pretty consistent between 14-18 inch, a good size for eating! There is nothing better than a delicious shore lunch prepared on a nearby island after a morning of fishing. Fresh Walleye, fried potatoes, beans, bread all topped off with a cookie for lunch! Can't beat it!
The muskies are getting frisky!
A couple of anglers were out casting for northern pike this past week and a few muskies took a nibble. Muskie season opens June 20, and it sounds like they are hungry! Give us a call and we will set you up with a professional guide that knows all of the best bait, tricks, tips and places to go.
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.
5/27/2009
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Greg Perry - Omaha, NE - NE Guide, Flip
28inch Walleye
May 23, 2009 |
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James Perry - Omaha, NE - NE Guide,Flip
28.5inch Walleye
May 23, 2009 |
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Kevin Schuster - Omaha, NE - NE Guide, Flip
27inch 9lb 2oz Walleye
May 22, 2009 |
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Mike Schuster - Omaha,NE - NE Guide, Flip
30.75inch 10lb 9oz Walleye
May 19, 2009 |
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Joe the Cook - Oak Island,MN - NE Guide, Flip
30inch 8lb Walleye
May 21, 2009 |
Fishing is HOT! HOT! HOT!
Check out these recent pictures from a group that recently enjoyed some phenomenal fishing with "Flip" one of our experienced guides. The early season bite has been nothing short of hot, hot, hot! The walleyes remain in close to Oak Island just a few miles away from the Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge. The best presentation has been 3/8 oz gold, pink or orange jigs tipped with a chub minnow. Anchoring or Drifting techniques have both done well. Lots of nice fish being brought in daily, come enjoy some fun!
The view...
The trees are just starting to get their leaves and the landscape is finally starting to really green up. There is nothing better than enjoying your morning coffee on the deck at Oak Island listening to the birds chirp and looking at the beautiful island scenery as an eagle lands on the bay. Oak Island is a true north woods beauty, come experience the area today.
No more ties!
Father's Day is just around the corner! Get Dad what he really wants, a fishing trip! On a budget? We have gift cards too! Packages starting at just $204 per person (plus tax) for 2 nights lodging and meals.
5/20/09
Incredible Walleye Opener...
Fantastic early season fishing has begun! A nice basket of walleyes is not hard to find this time of year at Oak Island. Heck you don't even have to move off the dock! Guests have been taking a boat out just a few miles out for the day and then coming in and fishing off the dock after dinner and having the time of their life! Gold spinner with a few ounces of weight tipped with a chub and you're golden.
The best of both worlds...
Looking for two experiences in one trip? Check out our Adventure Packages! Two locations, lots of walleyes, muskies, northern pike, awesome scenery and a unique trip you won't forget. For more information on these trips, log on to www.oakislandlodge.com.
Fish on both sides....
Oak Island is situated in Minnesota, but within 2 miles from Ontario waters of Lake of the Woods. Ontario walleye opener has now opened, so come on up we have endless places for you to fish.
Getting to Oak Island, no borders to cross....
To drive by car within nine miles of Oak Island you need to pass thru Manitoba and out again to reach the Northwest Angle, but did you know we also have a no hassle way for you to venture to Oak Island without any borders to cross. Lake of the Woods passenger service offers trips across the lake from Sportsman's Lodge on the Rainy River to Oak Island staying in Minnesota the whole time. Give us a call and we will hook you up!
5/13/09
Walleye Opener 2009
The ice has finally left Big Traverse Bay and north on Lake of the Woods. The Ontario fishing season will open this coming weekend. Due to the slow ice melt, not many people ventured in, but the staff at the Lodge have been spending their evenings fishing off the dock. They have been having lots of fun and just last night pulled in a dozen good eaters for supper.
Fishing close to the Lodge right in the Bay and around Oak Island should provide you with good action. Just tip your jig with a frozen shiner and you will definitely keep busy. The walleye fishing in the Island area was exceptional last summer and this past winter and there is no indication that it will change any time soon!
Muskie season will start soon so make sure you line up your favorite guide or get your reservation in soon.
5/6/09
Minnesota Walleye Opener starts Saturday!
Time to get out the fishing rods, walleye opener is here! Early season fishing is best in the close areas to the Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge and around Soldier's Point, and the east side of Oak Island. A bright colored jig or a hook with gold spinner and a weight tipped with a frozen shiner is all you need to hook into some nice walleye this time of year.
Lake Ice
Getting to Oak Island from Young's Bay at the Northwest Angle is not a problem and either is finding plenty of fishing spots in prime locations. There is still a decent amount of rotten ice to the south of Oak Island and 25 miles from there. This won't last long warm sunny days are in the forecast and this will be gone before long.
Looking for real peace and quiet?
Oak Island is the place for you. Get away from the crowds, the traffic and the rat race; come enjoy our jewel of the north.
Fishing Dates to Remember
Minnesota Fishing Dates…..
Walleye opens May 9
Northern Pike open all year
Muskie opens June 20 thru Nov 30.
Bass, Crappie & Perch open all year.
Ontario Fishing Dates…..
Walleye season opens May 16
Muskie opens 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.
4/30/09
The ice is 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! More details on Monday! Stay tuned.
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.
4/21/09
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
We are now closed for the season. We will see you May 9 for Walleye Opener!
Fishing starts with a bang at Oak Island! May & June are hot months for good walleye fishing.
Muskies...
Looking for some unbeatable Muskie fishing? Oak Island is the place to go! Muskie season start the end of June, but best in July thru October. You will find thousands of bays to explore in the northern islands of Lake of the Woods. Give us a call early to reserve your guide, the book up fast!
Fishing Dates to Remember
Minnesota Fishing Dates.....
Walleye opens May 9
Northern Pike open all year
Muskie opens June 20 thru Nov 30.
Bass, Crappie & Perch open all year.
Ontario Fishing Dates.....
Walleye season opens May 16
Muskie opens 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.
4/8/09
We are now closed for the season. We will see you May 9 for Walleye Opener!
Fishing starts with a bang at Oak Island! May & June are hot months for good walleye fishing.
Fishing Dates to Remember
Minnesota Fishing Dates.....
Walleye opens May 9
Northern Pike open all year
Muskie opens June 20 thru Nov 30.
Bass, Crappie & Perch open all year.
Ontario Fishing Dates.....
Walleye season opens May 16
Muskie opens 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.
4/1/09
We are now closed for the season. We will see you May 9 for Walleye Opener!
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.
3/25/09
We are now closed for the season. We will see you May 9 for Walleye Opener! Make your plans now, for best available dates. We are truly a must visit destination. We have great accommodations, dining, bar, awesome scenery, and world class multi species fishing action. Give us a call or e-mail and let us tailor a package for your next vacation.
3/18/09 Fishing Report
Only 4 days left! Sunday, March 22 will be the last day of our winter season at Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge, call us today to get in on some great fishing action this weekend! Our sister property, Sportsman's Lodge on the Rainy River will continue to have houses and full service ice fishing right up to March 31.
A couple of guys went out yesterday afternoon for a four hour trip and caught 20 walleyes & saugers, threw a few back and finished with a nice dinner & a few for the freezer. Fishing still remains hot in the islands!
The bite has been best in shallow 10'-15' feet in the morning & evening and deeper 20'-25' in the afternoons. The catch has been mainly male walleyes and saugers and bright colored jigs continue to be the perfect tackle to lure them in.
Come on up!
Ice Conditions
We still are maintaining 36" of ice and plan to keep on fishing until March 22!
Snow & Trail Report
The land trails are starting to show a little wear and tear, but the lake trail is in great shape! Just groomed this morning! Snowmobilers said it is just like riding on glass.
We had a great time at our Snowmobile Rally last weekend! Great weather, polar plunge, radar run, good food, fantastic snowmobiling, games and entertainment all was enjoyed by many. Thanks to everyone for coming out! Congratulations to Leo Kucther from Grand Forks, ND on winning the Polaris Snowmobile! See you next year, March 12 & 13, 2010.
3/11/09 Fishing Report
March Madness is here! The guides have been cleaning walleye and sauger limits for guests daily. Nice slot walleyes have been caught this week, check out this list of sizes caught ….22”, 23 ½”, 27”, 25 ¾”, 21”, 28 ¾”, and 24” all this week! Afternoons have been best right up to 5 o'clock. Walleyes have been prominent which the norm in the islands is in the winter in comparison to the southern regions of the lake.
A great Snobear trip was had by some guests this week, good fishing in lots of prime spots. This vacation option is a great way to explore Lake of the Woods' many hot spots in the winter. It is what we call, trolling on the ice!
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22 inch Walleye on 3/07/09
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27 inch Walleye on 3/07/09 |
Depth? The deeper houses have had the best luck lately, but the guides anticipate the shallow houses to start doing better in the week ahead as the weather starts to stabilize and warm up. Gold, pink and glow in the dark jigs have been the best tackle to lure in the walleyes.
Snow ReportFour 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
www.sportsmanslodges.com for details.
Ice Report3 & 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 ReportGreat week! Limits not a problem and a big fish is not a rarity either. March is a great month for walleye fishing in the islands. The guides continue to have the houses in a good mix of depths and structure to give you your best experience.
Our annual
Snowmobile Rally is coming up soon here at 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 and plan to keep on fishing until March 22!
Snow & Trail ReportThree feet of snow, freshly groomed trails, the ride is great!
Until next week!
2/25/09
Fishing Report
Hello Everyone! Hope this finds you either fishing or wishing you were fishing!
The guides on the island report a nice mix of walleyes and saugers and good catch rates lately. The said the fish have moved in a little shallow to 10'-19' of water and seem to be hitting all the way up to 6:30 at night. You can defiantly tell we are moving into the last month of ice fishing as the evening bite goes longer. Oak Island is also seeing many fish suspended in the 3'-5' range and the best way to get them is to really jig and watch those vexilars.
Eddy reports that they have seen a lot more little ones with this cold snap, but 3 nice size ones were also caught this week too, even one by Eddy! A 30", 26" and 24" walleye were all caught and released for more anglers to enjoy in the future!
2 guys....4 hours...52 fish!
Two guests caught 52 fish in 4 hours this week! Wow! What a morning! They were using gold, pink and red jigs and had just the best time of their life! That is one fish every 5 minutes, nonstop! That's Oak Island, they can really produce the fish!
The fun hasn't stopped, it has really just begun! March is usually one of the best times for ice fishing! Warm weather, lots of sun and walleyes! Come on up!
Ice Condition Report
We currently have 3 feet of ice, plenty of ice for lots of winter fun.
Snow & Trail Report
We have fresh new snow this morning. We got 2-4 more inches of fresh snow this morning. The trails are being groomed right now. Come on up and ride the trails!
Upcoming Events & Specials
Sportsman's Oak Island Annual Snowmobile Rally....March 13 & 14!
Take advantage of our 2 night rally package from Sportsman's Rainy River! 2 nights lodging, ½ day ice fishing, bombardier ride to Oak Island to enjoy the afternoon festivities and ride back. Radar run, polar plunge, food, drinks, games, and chance to win a Polaris Snowmobile!
Sportsman's Rainy River Annual Mardi Gras Party...March 28!
Beads, boas, games, drinks, mostly likely to get arrested....don't miss it!
Deal of the Week
We have got a great deal for you! Stay 3 nights; get the 4th night free on select dates now thru March 31. Check out our website for details at www.sportsmanslodges.com.
2/18/09
Fishing Report
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Mickenzy - Rockford,MN 2009 |
"Great Fishing Action!" "Lot's of slot fish between 22"- 27"!","We caught fish, we ate fish, and we are going home with fish, awesome trip!" "No crowds! This place is a diamond in the rough!" Need I say more? These comments are right from the mouths of our recent happy customers.
We continue to fish in 25'-35' of water near structure right on top of the walleyes, saugers and jumbo perch. Any brightly colored jig remains to be the hot lure for walleyes and many say, "he who jigs, pulls in the most fish!", so if you want to be in the running for the most, biggest or first, start jigging!
Our annual Snowmobile Rally is coming up soon here at Oak Island, March 13 & 14 & our Annual Mardi Gras Party, March 28 at our Rainy River location.
Ice ConditionsThe ice conditions are very stable. Last week we only lost snow, not ice when the temperatures warmed up. We still are maintaining 36" of ice on the well traveled areas of Lake of the Woods.
Snow & Trail ReportWe 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 TrailsThe lake itself has spotty areas 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 to Warroad and Warroad to Oak Island will all be groomed starting Thursday morning to provide optimum conditions for the weekend ahead.
Land TrailsThe land trails are shaping back up too and groomers are back out.
Until next week!
2/11/09
Fishing Report
The fishing at Oak Island has been hot! Anglers have had no problem getting their limit and experiencing lots of catch and release action with nice walleyes between 22"-27". The recent warm up in temperatures this week really helped out. The mix of fish has been mostly walleyes and the jigs colors of the week have been gold, pink and white. Just a short 10 minute ride from the lodge and you're pulling in the walleyes!
The islands are a great place to be! Come on up and enjoy some winter fun, before it is over! Only 6 weeks left!
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
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Missy 1-30-09 25inch 5.5lb Walleye |
The fishing has been compared to a yoyo this week. Up and down. The fishing started to heat up late last week, but then the cold snap came in and cooled things off again. BUT, it looks like we are in for another warm weather streak here starting tomorrow with highs in the upper twenties so fishing is sure to follow suit and heat up as well.
The guides at Oak Island report that the best fishing in 24' - 27' of water using chubs or even minnow heads seem to be doing the trick! No need in bringing up shiners, it doesn't seem to make a difference. Pink, white & gold are the jigs of choice and staying near structure has also been a key component.
All in the jigging!
Check out this picture of this 25", 5lb 5 oz walleye caught by Missy from Fargo, ND.
She caught this nice fish on a gold jig while fishing out of Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge late in the day about 4pm. Her and her friend Chris said they had a real steady afternoon bite on Friday and finished the day off with this nice walleye. Missy reports it is "All in the jigging!" Chris & Missy went home with a nice limit of walleyes and stories to tell.
Don't let winter pass you by! Get your valentine sweetie, a few friends, family or your business associates you are really trying to "seal the deal" with together and come enjoy the islands of the north! This place is one of the most unique places in the world!
Looking to troll the lake this winter? Ask about our Guided Snobear Trips!
Ice Condition Report
We currently have an average of 36 inches of ice on the well traveled areas or the islands and our fishing spots. This is a nice base of ice for this time of year that will have no problem taking us into late March. Remember on Lake of the Woods we ice fish thru March!
Snow & Trail Report
Current snow depth remains the same this week at around 24"-30". A great time to ride the trails! Come enjoy the untouched trails of the north! For a specific trail report please visit the Northwest Angle Edge Riders club website at www.nwaedgeriders.com/conditions.html
1/29/09
Fishing Report
Guide Ron reports this week that early in the week the fish were just not moving like he likes to see, so we did! He said that seemed to do the trick because just as of yesterday the fishing really started to improve. He said anglers started to report more fish overall and more slot walleyes as well between the size of 23"-27".
He said he has been moving houses deeper to the 25'-29' range away from the mud and onto structure. As the winter starts to move into the last few months of the season the fishing really starts to change. Warmer temperatures ahead will start to really heat up the action. Walleyes and saugers are always prominent here, but the jumbo perch will soon really start to be more common as we head into February and March.
Get your trip booked in now while the fishing really starts to heat up!
Ice Condition Report
We currently have 3 feet of ice! Plenty of ice for lots of winter fun!
Snow & Trail Report
We have plenty of snow this year and the trails are all groomed weekly and in ideal riding condition both on the lake and land trails of the Northwest Angle, Warroad & Baudette area. Please stay on the groomed & marked trails for your safety & enjoyment. With the decent amount of snow this year, you will experience slush on the non traveled lake trails, so please keep that in mind.
How about a free night's lodging?
We have got a great deal for you! Stay 3 nights, get the 4th night free on select dates now thru March 31. Check out our website for details at www.sportsmanslodges.com.
1/21/09
Fishing Report
Guide Ron reports the island bite has had another boost in activity this week after the weather pattern stabilized. Lots of 17-19 inch walleyes and saugers and quite a few 20-24 inch walleye slot fish have been
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Bruce & Patty, Rockford, MN January 2009 |
caught. A nice 28 ¼ inch slot walleye was caught and released by a lucky angler this week as well as some nice jumbo perch have also been reported.
Wondering what the lucky lures is? Gold, pink, and white have been the hot jig colors this week tipped with a minnow. The best lure has been a reddish purple buck shot lure with glow in the dark on the backside.
Ice Condition Report
We currently have an average of 30-34 inches of ice on the well traveled areas or the islands and our fishing spots. We are just starting to put on the ice auger extensions. This is a nice base of ice for this time of year that will have no problem taking us into late March.
Snow & Trail Report
The current snow depth remains the same this week at around 24-30 inches. A great time to ride the trails!
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
Land Trails
The land trails have all been recently groomed as of Jan 12 and all of the trails are in excellent shape.
Inland trails are all well marked and signed. Many new trails have been added over the past couple of years and are in excellent condition. For more information check out the Northwest Angle Edge Riders club website at www.nwaedgeriders.com/conditions.html
1/14/09
Fishing Report
Guide Ron says the Oak Island bite has been quite well lately. He says fishing in a little mud just off the reefs in 21'-25' of water and anywhere there is current has been best. He said anglers have been catching mostly walleyes and some nice size perch lately. A few bigger fish were reported between the 27”-28 1/2” size this week and were released back into the lake for some more fun to be had by anglers in the future. Check out this picture of the week from the Omdahl Party, a nice 27” walleye caught Jan 10!
Gold jigs tipped with a minnow and Chubby Darters colored gold, chartreuse & orange have been the best for the walleyes and a small spoon with a minnow for the perch has had the most success.
Oak Island in the winter is a great place to be! Guides Ron & Eddy and all the staff at Oak Island are waiting for you! Come and experience a fishing trip in this north woods hideaway!
Ice Condition Report
We currently have an average of 30 inches of ice on the well traveled areas or the islands and our fishing spots. This is a nice base of ice for this time of year that will have no problem taking us into late March.
Snow & Trail Report
Current snow depth remain the same this week at around 24”-30”. A great time to ride 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 have all been recently groomed as of Jan 12 and all of the trails are in excellent shape.
Inland trails are all well marked and signed. Many new trails have been added over the past couple of years and are in excellent condition. Two shelters have been damaged during the past year by animals and weather however they will be repaired within the next couple of weeks. For more information check out the Northwest Angle Edge Riders club website at http://www.nwaedgeriders.com/conditions.html
January 8, 2009 Click here now to see pictures from this fishing report.
Fishing ReportJigging is the word! You gotta put a little work into it, and when you do, it is paying off! Yesterday morning proved more of a challenge, but by afternoon anglers were smiling with a nice bucket of walleyes. We are fishing in 16'-24' of water using jigs tipped with a minnow. The glow in the dark jigs seem to be the best lately.
Looking for a great way to spend some one on one time with family, friends, clients or co-workers? What a better way then in a no pressure, light hearted zone, the fish house! As January creeps to mid month, we must remind ourselves only 6 weeks left of prime ice fishing time for the year. So don't delay, come and see us today! Space is getting limited especially on weekends, so give us a call today.
Ice ConditionsWe are still at 24"-26" inches of ice this week, the temperatures were cold, but the abundance of extra snow fall did not make any sizeable changes in the ice. But no worries here, we are at a above normal ice depth for this time of year so a end of March season end date looks like it will be no problem.
Snow & Trail ReportThe 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 Warroad to Oak Island and around the Northwest Angle and Oak Island area will be groomed this weekend and early next week, their has been a bit of delay due to some groomer issues, but they club says they are back on track so you can count on some nice trails soon.
December 31, 2008
Happy New Year's Eve everyone!
Fishing Report
The Oak Island area fishing has been steady and a 33” walleye was recently caught on the hard waters of Lake of the Woods! WOW! This walleye weighed over 12 lbs!
Anglers have enjoyed fishing just 10 minutes from the Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge in 16'-20' of water. The presentation of choice has been a ½ oz gold or brightly colored jig tipped with a chub, nothing fancy.
Snow & Trail Report
We currently have a good 16” snow base and the snow cover is above average for this time of year! Great for the snowmobile enthusiasts!
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, Warroad to Oak Island has just recently been staked and grooming will be starting soon.
Ice Report
We have 22”-26” of ice and the forecast looks cold! The frozen tundra is in great shape for a long winter of ice fishing fun!
December 23, 2008
Fishing Report
Happy Holidays! Looking for some great fishing this holiday season? Anglers have been overwhelmed with the fishing action this week! It has been fantastic! A strong morning and afternoon bite have been the best times to get a limit of walleyes and plenty of catch & release action. A couple of guests went out just for the past two evenings only and caught 50 fish in 45 minutes! They said it was unbelievable, they said they mainly fished with only 1 line instead of 2 because they couldn't keep up. They also report they caught mostly walleyes between the 1 – 2 ½ lb range using gold, orange or glow in the dark jig, tipped with a chub minnow was all that was needed to keep them busy. The best depth to catch these hungry walleyes has been between 18'-22' of water on reef structure. Our houses are just a short 3 mile jaunt from the lodge, the holes are drilled, the heat is on and we will have the bait, poles & tackle ready and waiting, just bring your warm clothes, camera & good friends and we will take care of the rest!
Ice Condition Report
We currently have 20-22 inches of ice on the Lake of the Woods near Oak Island & the Northwest Angle right now. We have a great base of ice to start out the winter season, an above average amount for this time of year. So come on up and enjoy our winter wonderland!
Snow Condition Report
The snow depth is between 6-8 inches in the Islands right now, a little less than the south end of the lake. The lake trail from the south end of the lake, Wheeler's Point area to Oak Island has been marked and freshly groomed for the first time in the recent 2 days.
The trail from Young's Bay a lake access at the Northwest Angle to Oak Island has been marked, and grooming to start before the New Year.
Snowmobile enthusiasts, get your sleds ready and come on up and enjoy the trails of Lake of the Woods! We have great lodging & package rates starting at $55 per person. Give us a call 800-772-8411.
Dec 17, 2008
Fishing Report
The season is just starting up the in the islands of the Northwest Angle of Minnesota and Oak Island and angler's are having a blast! One of our guides went out for an afternoon this week to test out our first fishing spot of the season and caught 40 walleyes all by himself! He was able to get a limit of walleyes to enjoy a nice dinner as well as plenty of catch & release action to close out his day. He reported fishing in a shallow 8'-12' of water just 4 miles from the lodge using a gold and white jig tipped with a minnow. The water is clear and the walleyes are hungry! First ice always is a great time for some fast paced action, so don't delay, give us call today and book your winter fishing adventure.
Ice Condition Report
Ice conditions in the islands are starting out fantastic. We have been experiencing an arctic blast for the past 3 weeks and already have 18”-20” of ice on the lake and 15-18 inches along the trail from Young's Bay to Oak Island.
Snow Condition Report
The current snow depth is 6”-8” of fresh fluffy new snow. The trail is marked from the south end of the lake near Sportsman's Lodge Rainy River location, (Wheeler's Point area) all the way across to Oak Island. Grooming is planned to start just after Christmas. The Trail from Warroad to Oak Island will be marked next week and grooming to start just after Christmas. The trail from Young's Bay to Oak Island is marked at this time and has been dragged, with grooming to start before the New Year.
Dec 10, 2008
Ice Conditions
The islands from the Northwest Angle's Young's Bay to Oak Island now have 12+ inches of ice and the lake to the south of Oak Island has 9-11 inches. There are some spots to watch for in channels, so we caution anyone who is venturing out right now to know where they are going and use caution. By our next week open date of Dec 15, everything should be in good shape and the trails will be marked.
Fishing Report
Check back next week for our first report of the season! Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge opens Dec 15!
Snow Report
The local snowmobile club will be marking the Lake trail from Wheeler's Point to Oak Island, this weekend. The Northwest Angle lake trails to Oak Island will be marked later this week. The land trails have not been groomed yet. The average snow depth is now at 6-8 inches and we are expected to get another 2-3 inches today. It won't be long and snowmobiling will be in full swing!
Dec 3, 2008
Ice ReportChiChi from Oak Island reports 5-6 inches in the areas that surround Oak Island and as much as 7-9 inches near Young's Bay (One of the Northwest Angle's lake access ramps) and 2-4 inches on the lake. A Dec 15 start date will be no problem based on this week's weather forecast. We will have a good 12-18 inches of ice from Young's Bay to the Island as well as on the lake were we fish by then. So get your friends together and plan a trip to Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge! 800-772-8411
Fishing Report
Not much travel has been done yet in the islands as we await some more cold temperatures. Stay tuned, a full report will be out soon!
Snow Report
The Oak Island area has 2-3 inches of snow lightly covering the ground at this time. This is an ideal amount for some great ice making conditions. It won't be long and the first measurable winter snow will be upon us. The snowmobile trail groomers are ready, so get your machines tuned up and come enjoy the 500 miles of groomed trails in the northland!
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 800-772-8411 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: Deals Prime dates are booking up! Sportsman's Lodge 800-862-8602 or Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge 800-772-8411.
