Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, as of February 15, 2025.
First off, let's talk about the weather. Today, we're looking at a moderate snowfall with overcast skies, temperatures ranging from 4 to -13 degrees Fahrenheit, and a wind speed of about 11 mph. It's chilly, but that's what makes ice fishing so exciting this time of year[2].
Sunrise is at 7:26 AM, and sunset will be at 5:41 PM, giving us a good long day to get out on the ice. Now, let's dive into the fishing conditions.
Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is still going strong, especially on the south shore of Big Traverse Bay. The ice is solid, with over two feet of ice reported in most areas, and some ice roads extending more than 16 miles out. This is perfect for those who want to venture further out to find the best spots[1].
Recently, anglers have been having consistent action, targeting both deep mud and structural areas. The hot spots are typically in 26 to 32 feet of water, where you can find a healthy mix of walleyes and saugers. These fish are the stars of the show here, and you can expect to catch some nice-sized ones. Jumbo perch, pike, and even tullibees are also being caught in good numbers, especially up at the Northwest Angle[1].
For your tackle, jigging spoons with rattles tipped with a minnow head have been very effective. Lipless crankbaits and jigging rap style lures are also doing well. If you're using a deadstick, a plain hook or a small jig with a live minnow 6 inches to a foot off the bottom is the way to go. Don't forget to keep an eye on your electronics; they're a big help in locating these fish[1].
On the Rainy River, the morning and evening hours are the best times to catch walleyes. A jig and minnow combination or a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head are good presentations here. And if you're into catch-and-release sturgeon fishing, you'll be pleased to know that it's still producing some big fish through the ice[1].
For those looking for specific hot spots, the Morris Point Gap, out by the red buoy, and by Lamertson's Rock are always good bets. These areas tend to have a lot of fish activity, especially over rock bottom in about 10 to 11 feet of water[4].
In summary, Lake of the Woods is offering some fantastic ice fishing opportunities right now. With the right gear, patience, and knowledge of the best spots, you're set for a productive and enjoyable day on the ice. So bundle up, grab your gear, and get out there – the fish are waiting