Rookie for Lake Winni…

Although I have ice fished on and off for years, up until last year I always relied on someone else to get me out on the ice. Never really got out on the ice once or twice a season; however, over the last two years I invested in my own gear so I didn’t have to rely on anyone else to get me out there. Last year I was fortunate to be putting in at least 2-3 days a week out on the ice during the short season in the metro area and one trip to Upper Red Lake for 2 days of action. This year I would like to go on another trip and have been looking at Lake Winni. Is it possible to guide yourself on the lake and find fish not having ever been there? I am planning to go with only one other guy and I noticed many of the sleeper rentals are for groups of 4 plus. Sadly, I only have one buddy that enjoys being on the ice as much as I do. Therefore, are there any accommodations I should be looking into before deciding to try and self guide our trip? Are there other lakes that would be better suited for a two man trip? Looking for any insight to help me get at least one trip this winter in order to chase eye’s, gills, or crappies.

Winnie offers all sorts of good action, guided or not. The best way to figure out the lake is to find where the rentals are and look at what time of bottom composition or structure they are fishing. There are all sorts of good spots on that lake that don’t get hit hard and it isn’t hard to find them. The resort owners do a good job of keeping guests on fish. Where they keep their rentals is a good clue as to what type of structure to look for. Just don’t be the guy to drop a portable in the middle of their rental group.

If you are looking for a bit smaller lake in the area with good opportunities, check out little Winnie. There is a small, not well maintained landing on the southeast side of the lake that gives you access. The resort does not let people use theirs if they aren’t a guest. Ball club and Little Ball Club are also more great lakes in the area that offer a great Crappie bite.

Thank you for your response. I’m definitely not the guy in a portable in the middle of the rentals; I enjoy breaking away and seeing if I can’t locate the fish away from the crowds. Sometimes it pans out and sometimes I end up just drilling a bunch of holes. I’ll look into the Ball Club lakes! I set up a trip to go and check out Blackduck Lake for my first trip; however, looking at putting together a late ice trip to Winnie yet.

Lake Winnipeg is perfect for 2 guys because most of the time you will have to travel by snowmobile or 4 wheeler. My first trip there I never used a guide and we caught some really nice fish. Just do your research, there is a ton of info on this site, and be prepared for anything. The hotel in Gimli and the South Beach casino are really good places to stay at and offer lake access not to far away. Like I said just be prepared as Big Winni always finds a way to break something.