Fargo, ND, USA / The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO
Dec 31, 2020 12:18 PM
Ice continues to develop rapidly due to more seasonable temperatures. Please remember that ice is never 100% safe and ice conditions can change daily. Anyone choosing to head out should check the ice often. Learn more about ice safety.
For rules, regulations and other helpful information on fishing in Minnesota, consult the DNR’s Fish Minnesota web page.
Anglers are asked to fish lakes and rivers close to home, and practice social distancing. Learn more about safer ways to travel at Explore Minnesota’s COVID-19 Information page.
Happy New Year from Explore Minnesota!
On the Rainy River, a few local anglers are venturing out, but most anglers prefer the more consistent ice on Lake of the Woods due to the lack of current. Anyone planning to fish the Rainy River will want to work through a resort since they are the most knowledgeable of current ice conditions.
Up at the Northwest Angle, the walleye bite has been incredible in 15 to 19 feet of water during early morning and late afternoon hours on Lake of the Woods. In fact, there have been a number of groups that have taken their limits by 8:30 a.m. When the walleye are active, nearly any bait or lure will work. When the frenzy slows down, use a slower, more subtle presentation. Toward mid-morning, anglers are reporting more sauger, jumbo perch, and an occasional giant northern pike when they slide out to 22 to 26 feet of water. Fish houses are currently sitting on 12 to 15 inches of ice, but areas of open water exist from Buffalo Bay to the south side of Garden island. A snowmobile trail running
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Ice conditions remain excellent on area lakes with a solid 4-8 inches of ice reported across the area. Four-wheeler tracks are being seen at more accesses recently.
Walleye fishing remains slow on the larger area lakes, but good to excellent on many of the smaller walleye lakes. Anglers are having the most success using tip-ups with shiner minnows in 17-23 feet of water. Jigging spoons and rippin raps are also triggering walleye bites during the evening hours.
Northern pike have been eager to bite. Tip-ups with large minnows set at the mouth of shallow bays or along the weedlines have been the most productive. Depths of 10 feet of water or less have been best.