Lake of the Woods Opener

I am headed to Lake of the Woods for the first time for boat fishing. Is there any tips out there for a rookie of the big lake?

Nobody’s talking on any of the sites. I thought there would be more excitement and guys chatting it up a bit. I guess after opener they’ll have something to talk about.

You didn’t say where your going out of which can make a bit of a difference. Overall though on opener a 3/8 Jig with a minnow is the way to go and to anchor up. Some of the guys are saying elsewhere that a frozen shiner on a Jig is the way to go. I’m already rigged up with a gold Prizmatic eye 3/8 jig from Northland, and on another rod I’ve got a green 3/8 prizmatic eye from Northland. I’ve got the 2 inch stinger hooked on both as well. I’ll switch back and forth between the 2 and figure out what is working.

Generally when fishing with a jig in the early season plan on anchoring up.

As for location if your fishing out of the Rainy River I would recommend the deeper area in 4 mile bay which will be apparent because it will have plenty of boat fishing that area. Around the gap between Pine Island and Sable Island(Canadian)would be good and will hold boats. Just try not to anchor right in the channel. Out of the gap would also be good and along Pine Island. Out in front of the Morris Gap can be really good as well which is at the Western end of Pine Island.

With water being low do not try to cut over through the Morris Gap coming out of the Rainy River. Go out the Main Gap between Pine and Sable and then work your way over. My understanding is that water levels are 3 feet low this year.

To be honest just fish some with the other boats and figure out what is working for you for depth and presentation. If the weather is stable and you can get out on the lake if the wind/weather cooperates it should be a decent opener. The key is big lake and big water so be smart and be safe.

Ryan

I will be in the mess of boats off of Pine Island just drift jigging, has always produced in the past!