Cooler temperatures here at Lake of the Woods mean the walleyes are on the move closer to shore. More fish are moving into the Lighthouse Gap as well as Morris Point Gap. Many folks are still down rigging in 32-34 feet of water, while some anglers prefer jigging around the mud flats. North of Long Point and also north of Graceton Beach have been producing some nice walleye. River fishing continues to strengthen, with some nice keepers being caught around Clementson Rapids. Vita\\\’s landing is also a favorite spot of anglers that are looking for some walleye action. It\\\’s that time of year again when the shiners will soon be running, and the fish walleye are sure to follow. The Northwest Angle and Islands is a muskie fisherman\\\’s paradise.
Most anglers are still casting, but anticipate trolling for the big ones soon. The walleye bite remains steady at the Angle with Oak Island, Flag Island, and Crowduck have producing some great walleye.
Rainy Lake walleye are somewhat scattered about, but can be found and caught. Crawlers have been the preferred bait, and most anglers are trying a slow moving spinner rig in 25-to-30 feet of water. Areas like Community Reef or the shoals near Saginaw Bay are good places to start searching. Crappies can be caught in Black Bay and areas of Sand Bay, use a light jig and try tipping it with a small minnow. Northern pike continue to feed aggressively, try a fast moving lure along the edges of weed beds. Rainy River walleye are active in areas with a bit more current, such as below the dam or above and below the Manitou and Long Sault Rapids. Sturgeon fishing remains open on the river, be sure to follow all regulations. Word is they are congregating just below the dam at International Falls. Smallmouth bass anglers did well over the weekend.