I have never been to the Rainy for the spring run but have always wanted to go. A buddy and I are talking about making the trip this spring and I was just looking for any advice or starting points that someone would be willing to share. I know the timing is everything and largely depends on the ice out but advice on lodging or a place to start would be great.
Feel free to PM me is you don’t want to post here.
Thanks,
Dave
Here is a report i put up this past spring about Rainy!!! Rainy River report
I would watch this forum when it gets closer to the end of march about river conditions! 
Clementsonr Resort has good reliable reports on ice conditions as they are located on the river. In years past this has been my number one resource for the ramp conditions. Also, it’s not a bad place to stay. Less then 1 mile from the 1st ramp. It’s CLEAN and the owners are very nice.
I usually try to get up there as soon as the ramp up near Birchdale and Frontier open for bigger boats around the end of March. But, starting that 1st Saturday in April until the close the river is very busy (boats) with it’s share of people with terrible etiquette(sp?). Although some of the larger fish are caught at this time. Going during the week helps some.
Most of the good fishing happens before the Little and Big Fork rivers open up. If these open up (thaw) fast the Rainy turns to chocolate milk and the fishing goes bad fast. If it’s a gradual thaw fishing usually remains good through the close on April 14th(?).
Get to the boat ramp early in the morning. Waiting in line for an hour+ and walking 1 mile to park the truck is not uncommon if you show up late. Also, people are very anxious to get on the water and most are very efficient at getting the boat in the water and clearing the ramp but can be a little stressful. So what I am trying to say is don’t wait until your ready to put the boat in the water to take the cover and tie down straps from your boat. I have seen individuals do this and the people behind get a little upset after waiting.
Be careful not to fish on the wrong side of the river. There is an imaginary line down the center of the river that is considered the boarder between the USA and Canada. I’ve never had an issue but I don’t push it. I’ve heard stories about the fines and have witnessed the Canadian CO’s making the unlicensed US citizens return their fish.
I’ve caught fish on BFT plastics and jig-n-minnow. The water is stained so bright is usually the ticket for me.
That’s the basics. PM me if you have questions.
It’s usually a great trip.
You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
