Favorite Rainy River baits

I’m making my first trip to the Rainy River this upcomming weekend and was wondering what are some of the favorite baits used up there as well as methods.

I’m planning on bringing as many fatheads as I can without cutting into the gas money. I know there is alot of talk about using Ringworms and paddle tails. What are the favorite colors? I plan on picking some up in case my minnows suffer some kind of famine.

White jigs, red/white and gold have consistently produced the best for us over the past ten years. As far as live bait goes, rainbow chubs are the preferred minnow. I’ve been using ringworms and super doos the past couple of years and haven’t had to get the hands wet in the minnow bucket very often. There are some days where you did still want to have the option of livebait. 1/4 oz. and 3/8 oz. for vertical jigging and 1/8, 3/32 and 1/4 oz. for pitching.

If your bringing live bait onto Rainy River make sure you fish the Minnesota side only!! If you get caught with live bait on the Canadian side expect a hefty fine. Also make sure your careful with adult beverages as well…Big NO NO in Ontario!!!

Otherwise try salted minnows!!!!

White Paddletails. This has been a great tail for a few years now up there in the tanic water.

Thanks Calvin. I have heard that. Hope you didn’t learn the hard way …

Thanks to all… I have one more improtant question… Where can I buy them? I live in the north metro .

When are you heading to Rainy??? The Northwest Sports Show starts tomorrown and BFT will have a booth…You can stock up then!!!

Thanks, that might be an option.

Does anyone think the river will open up by thursday? I’m starting to get a little nervous.

Should be for small boats at Birchdale, but I’m guessing the ramps won’t be cleaned until the weekend or early next week. It sounds like it has about 8 miles to get to Birchdale (usually goes out 2-4 miles a day once it gets going). My patience is getting thin!