Lake of the Woods tends to set up just a bit later for the most part, though near-shore there’s some great bites you can get on early provided the ice is safe. Most of the resorts up there keep pretty good tabs on the bite, but some of the best fishing up there is typically right around Christmas. With the gap-area having flow and being a major access point, if you’re looking to get up earlier it’s best to head out of other points west or work with a resort.
Here’s a current report as of yesterday from Adrian’s Resort:
We marked a trail across the bay today. There was 5 3/4 to 6 3/4 inches of ice in the bay and the crack from yesterday was getting solid with no problem crossing it. The crack in the lake came together last night and was not a problem to cross. The lake had 6 1/2 to 7 inches of ice. The fishermen in 17 feet this afternoon limited out in 2 hours with nice fish. Happy Thanksgiving and be safe.
Adrian’s Resort
Plowed Ice Road out of…
Wheelers Point, Baudette, MN
218-634-1985