Fishing Lake of the Woods

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, muskie, northern pike and sauger at Lake of the Woods in Minnesota.

A walleye fishing mecca, Lake of the Woods is the place to catch both quantity and quality year round. In addition to excellent walleye fishing, the lake also has good populations of bass, crappie, sunfish, perch, muskie and pike.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Video

Lake of the Woods, situated in northern Minnesota, is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. With its vast expanse and diverse fish populations, it has become a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of species and memorable fishing experiences.

Smallmouth bass are one of the most sought-after species in Lake of the Woods. Anglers can find these feisty fish near rocky structures, weed beds, and drop-offs. Whether you're casting with artificial lures or using live bait, Lake of the Woods offers excellent opportunities to land trophy-sized smallmouth bass.

Walleye fishing is a major draw on Lake of the Woods. This lake is known for its abundant walleye population and is considered one of the premier walleye fisheries in the region. Anglers can target walleye using various techniques such as trolling, jigging, or rigging with live bait. Lake of the Woods provides excellent year-round walleye fishing, with peak seasons occurring in spring and fall.

Sauger, a close relative of walleye, can also be found in Lake of the Woods. Anglers can target sauger using similar techniques and habitats as walleye, particularly in areas with current or deeper water. These fish provide an additional angling opportunity and often provide steady action for anglers.

Yellow perch are abundant in Lake of the Woods and offer a fun and rewarding fishing experience. These schooling fish can be found near weed beds, rock structures, or drop-offs. Anglers can target perch using small jigs or live bait presentations. Catching a mess of yellow perch is a great way to enjoy a day on the water and take home a delicious meal.

Bluegill and black crappie are also popular panfish species in Lake of the Woods. Anglers can target these species near submerged vegetation, brush piles, or along the lake's edges. Whether you're fishing from a boat or casting from shore, bluegill and crappie fishing in Lake of the Woods is sure to keep you entertained.

With its variety of popular fish species, breathtaking scenery, and recreational amenities, Lake of the Woods stands as one of Minnesota's premier fishing destinations. Whether you're after smallmouth bass, walleye, sauger, perch, panfish, or simply enjoying a day on the water, Lake of the Woods offers an unforgettable fishing experience in a picturesque and tranquil setting.

Ice fishing in winter can deliver nice stringers from this 950,000-acre lake on the northern border of the state. During the warm seasons, fishing enthusiasts are treated to about 65,000 miles of shoreline to explore. Fishing from the bank is often very productive, but boats allow anglers to reach considerably more water and find schools of fish. A couple marinas, several boat launch ramps, plenty of camping, lodging and shopping are all convenient to the lake. Lake Of The Woods is partially in Minnesota, and the balance is in Canada. There is plenty of water to fish within Minnesota, where all you are required to have is a MN fishing license. However, if you intend to fish Canada portion, you’ll need a Manitoba and/or Ontario license. Local fishing guides offer a variety of boating and ice fishing packages throughout the year.

Primary fish species residing in Lake of the Woods

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake of the Woods Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Lake of the Woods, with numerous access points and marinas available for anglers to launch their boats. The lake's vast size and scenic shoreline allow for leisurely cruises and exploration. Camping facilities near the lake provide opportunities for anglers to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the beauty of the area.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort
Rentals: Fishing boats
218 442-7215

Cyrus Resort
Rentals: Fishing boats
218 634-2548

Sunset Lodge
Rentals: Bass boats and canoes
218 223-8211

Zippel Bay Resort
Rentals: Fishing boats
800 222-2537

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake of Woods Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, in Rainy River, off Marina Drive NW, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

Wheeler's Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off State Route 172, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.