Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report January 28, 2026

"Walleye anglers were very few and far between this last week as bitter cold temperatures made it very challenging just to keep the heat on in the ice house. The few anglers that ventured out reported slow walleye fishing. Deadsticking a small minnow, off the bottom, produced a handful of bites during the evening hours. Mud flats in 20 to 25 feet of water continue to be popular areas to find active walleyes.

Lake trout anglers reported some great fishing was had just before the cold snap. Tubes, bucktails and spoons all produced some nice lake trout for anglers in 40 to 70 feet of water. Chartreuse and red/white colored baits seemed to produce best for anglers. Simple chunk of a suckers or shiner, on a plain hook, was also very effective for setting under a tip up or rattle reels. Anglers were setting them about two to three feet off the bottom.

Stream Trout anglers looking to catch a quick meal of stream trout were not disappointed this last week. Rainbow trout continue to be easy pickings for anglers, but anglers are starting to notice it slowing down. Small, brightly colored jigging spoons, loaded with fresh wax worms has been very popular.

Anglers looking to catch Splake or Brook trout have been finding them close to shoreline structure like downed trees. Often times anglers find them in less than 5 feet of water. Small jigs tipped with fresh minnows have been very effective here for anglers." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report January 28, 2026

"The ice fishing season is going strong on Lake of the Woods, and recent cold weather is making excellent ice across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle.

In the north country, there's a saying—"making good ice"—and that's exactly what's happening right now.

A big shout-out to all the ice guides and behind-the-scenes folks who work through sub zero temps to make ice fishing on this incredible lake safe and enjoyable for everyone. Resort ice roads are in great shape, and the extended season means you still have plenty of time to get out there. Regulations allow ice fishing shelters to remain out on the ice through March 31, 2028 and the walleye and sauger fishing season runs through April 14, 2026. The northern pike season remains open year-round.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report – Strong Ice & Consistent Fishing. Ice conditions on the South Shore are getting better by the day thanks to sustained cold temperatures. Resort ice roads continue to extend and adapt as fish move, keeping anglers on active walleyes and saugers throughout the season.

The fishing remains steady with a classic Lake of the Woods mixed bag including walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, eelpout, and tullibees. While it's not non-stop action, anglers who put in the time are being rewarded with quality fish and full buckets.

Proven tactics include the one-two punch keeps delivering results: use an active jigging rod to attract fish and trigger aggressive strikes, then rely on a deadstick with a live minnow positioned 6 inches to a foot off bottom to catch fish in more of a neutral mood.

What's Producing? Jigging spoons, Rippin' Raps, and swimming minnow baits continue to catch fish
Deadstick Setup: Plain hooks, small ice jigs, or blinking light lures with a dropper and live minnow are all effective. Top colors include gold, gold/pink, glow red, glow white, and a combination of these colors
Always confirm current ice road conditions and weight restrictions with your resort before heading out.

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report – Prime Morning & Evening Windows. The majority of ice fishing is happening on the main lake, but the Rainy River continues to produce for those who target it. Safety is critical on river ice—always work through a resort or outfitter who knows current conditions and can provide safe access.

The walleye bite is most active during morning and evening hours, making it perfect for anglers who like to time their fishing around those key windows.

A jig and minnow or jigging spoon with a minnow head on your active line paired with a deadstick and live minnow in your second hole is a reliable combination. Sturgeon are also in the mix for those interested in catch-and-release fishing. The sturgeon catch-and-release season runs through April 23, 2026 before the harvest season reopens.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report – Quality Mixed Bags. Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle is firing on all cylinders. The ice road from Young's Bay to the island resorts is in excellent condition, and fish houses are seeing steady action.

The fish cleaning houses tell the story—quality catches are coming in regularly. Anglers are coming off the ice with impressive mixed bags featuring walleyes, saugers, and jumbo perch. For those willing to target crappies specifically, some big slabs are being caught, adding even more variety to an already diverse fishery.

Lake of the Woods offers something most lakes can't: an extended ice fishing season that gives you more opportunities to get on the ice. While many fisheries are winding down, Lake of the Woods is still going strong well into spring.

With ice conditions improving, well-maintained road systems, and consistent fishing across all areas, now is a great time to plan your Lake of the Woods ice fishing trip. The infrastructure is in place, the fish are cooperating, and there's still plenty of season left to enjoy. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, Lake of the Woods has the accommodations, expertise, and fishery to make your trip memorable. Always follow resort-maintained roads and posted weight limits for a safe experience." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

Wired2Fish January 28, 2026 "The Striper Fishing Capital of the World: Lake Texoma"

"You won’t see hatchery trucks roll up to Lake Texoma to stock striped bass. The fish are doing just fine on their own.

“At Texoma, the stripers are like the golden goose that keeps producing,” said Matt Mauck, a regional fisheries supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. “We have good year-classes of fish year after year.”

What started off as an experiment in the mid-1960s to stock stripers and see if they would take hold has become a giant success.

“By 1974, we saw signs of natural reproduction and we ceased stocking,” Mauck said. “The fish took it from there. Today, we have yearly natural recruitment that far exceeds what we could ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> The Striper Fishing Capital of the World: Lake Texoma

Reader Comments January 27, 2026 "Texas Angler Weighs In On Walleye Limits"

Travis Krug wrote; "Good morning, Jeff.

I'm certain my tiny voice from far away won't carry a ton of weight, but nonetheless, I'm happy to share what I submitted to the DNR for comments on the limit reductions. If there are any portions that are insightful, please feel free to share them.

Dear Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,

As a lifelong enthusiast of Minnesota's world-class walleye fishing, I am writing to share my thoughts during this open comment period on the proposed reduction of the daily bag limit and possession limit for walleye to four per licensed angler. My name is Travis Krug, and I hail from San Antonio, Texas—a place over 1,400 miles from the pristine lakes I travel to fish in your beautiful state. For decades, I've made the pilgrimage north 1-2 times a year, turning these trips into cherished Krug Family Vacations that have shaped who I am and the traditions I pass on to my two sons.

Growing up, those trips to Minnesota were the highlight of my childhood summers. Now, as a parent, there's nothing more rewarding than watching my boys experience the same joy—learning patience on the water, respecting nature, and building bonds that last a lifetime. These trips aren't just about fishing; they're about family, heritage, and escaping to a place that feels like a second home.

I understand the importance of sustainable management to protect walleye populations for future generations, and I support efforts to ensure the health of these fisheries. That said, as an out-of-state angler who invests significant time and resources into these visits, I urge you to consider a balanced approach: reduce the daily bag limit to four if data supports it, but maintain the possession limit at six. This small adjustment would allow folks like me, who travel great distances and stay for extended periods, to bring home enough for meaningful traditions without overharvesting on any single day.

For my family, those six walleye mean more than just meals—they fuel our annual neighborhood fish fry back in Texas, a gathering that brings friends together to share stories of the Northwoods and celebrate the bounty of Minnesota's waters. Dropping the possession limit to four wouldn't stop me from coming, but it would make it much harder to sustain these customs that extend the magic of our trips long after we've returned home. It's a ripple effect that diminishes the overall value of the experience for out-of-state visitors who contribute to your local economies through lodging, guides, and supplies.

That brings me to a deeper concern: without concrete data linking current angler limits to population declines, this feels like addressing a symptom rather than the root cause. My hunch—and I admit it's just that, based on observation—is that advancing technologies like sophisticated sonar, live-scope imaging, and GPS-guided trolling are giving some anglers an unprecedented edge, potentially impacting walleye stocks more than traditional bag limits ever could. It's akin to trying to prevent forest fires by selling fewer matches in a box; you're targeting the wrong variable while ignoring the spark that's truly fueling the issue.

What might truly make me reconsider allocating my travel budget to Minnesota? Not the limits themselves, but the growing discourtesy on the water. I've witnessed too many instances where fishermen, armed with high-tech gear, spot a fish or school and charge through clusters of boats, disregarding basic etiquette in pursuit of "their" catch. This erodes the communal spirit that makes Minnesota fishing so special. I implore the DNR to focus on regulating or educating around these technologies and behaviors—perhaps through guidelines on ethical use of electronics or stricter enforcement of boating courtesy—rather than blanket reductions that may not solve the underlying problems.

Minnesota's walleye fisheries are a national treasure, and I'm committed to their preservation. By adopting a nuanced policy that considers out-of-state anglers and tackles emerging challenges head-on, you can ensure these resources thrive while keeping the welcome mat out for families like mine. Thank you for considering my perspective and for your tireless work in stewardship. Sincerely, Travis Krug, San Antonio, Texas" 200

Reader Comments January 23, 2026 "Statewide Walleye Limits Comparison Chart"

From the public comments section of our Facebook report on January 22, 2027, Heath Bradley wrote;

"Not a Minnesota guy, fish a few lakes just across the boarder, but the chart could be more accurate for Iowa. Iowa is 3 (with a slot in effect 17 to 22 inches or 19 to 25 inche depending the lake) no minimum which hurts our lakes some years. Our small satellite lakes are 5, rivers are 5, boarder lakes are 3. So looking at the chart provided is not accurate for Iowa.

I have not seen a big impact in FFS on our lakes which have a 3 fish walleye limit, time will tell. Open water 2025 I know the 12 to 13 inch walleyes took a beating on Big Spirit Lake. So, we will see how many eaters we have in 2026. I will tell you our crappie population has taken a beating hard in the last 3 years with guys utilizing FFS. With being able to harvest 25 crappies, 25 perch, 25 bluegills. You should consider being lucky they are addressing this matter sooner than later!"

"Thank you for the note Heath, and help with the fine-tuning. Agreed, most states do have special regulations for specific areas, or lakes that differ from statewide regulations. The walleye limits comparison chart reflects each state's "Published Statewide" combined limits of walleye and sauger. This is the standard of comparison set by Minnesota's proposed regulation change which does specifically include walleye and sauger combined and explains why the standard we used for Iowa was also the walleye-sauger combined, statewide limit.

Regarding your comments about forward facing sonar, I agree that Minnesotan's are in your words, lucky that the DNR is addressing the matter. Just yesterday, I attended a gathering of the MN DNR Technology Workgroup. Attempting to manage the impacts of technology is a monumental task, but I can the technical committe is giving the issue all the attention it deserves. More on that later."

Wired2Fish January 21, 2026 "Ice Fishing Tips From The Pros"

"There’s something special about perch fishing once winter settles in. The lakes go quiet, the crowds thin out, and those bright-barred perch start to bunch up in tight schools that can keep a rod bent all day—if you know how to find them.

WheWhen it comes to the hard-water game, at times it’s daunting. From finding the right spot, the right lure presentation, and being in the strike zone, it all can seem overwhelming. There’s much to consider when figuring out fish hidden under a thick layer of ice, as well as keeping up with always advancing modern technology. Ice fishing is not about luck anymore, you have to rely on preparation, mobility, electronics, and an almost obsessive understanding of fish behavior. At the end of the day, we all just want to come home with a pile of fish.

I’ve enlisted the help of some top-tier ice anglers from around the Midwest to help you ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> Ice Fishing Tips From The Pros

January 22, 2026 "Possession Is 9 Tenths of The Law! MN Walleye Regulation Change Yes or No?"

After last week’s official MN DNR announcement about reducing the state walleye possession limit, social media pages “blew up” with commentary. Sharing the news release regarding Minnesota’s proposed reduction in walleye limits, fishing organizations, clubs and public figures asked readers to share their opinions regarding the proposal.

I’ve been following threads on some of the more influential fishing organizations and groups on facebook.  I see lots of people are still offering their personal proposals and alternative ideas regarding what walleye regulations should or should not be. I have to say that I’ve read some very thoughtful responses and seen a handful of interesting ideas.

I feel bad for anybody who’s still offering alternative solutions though. Why do I feel bad? Because it’s too late to introduce alternative ideas, that ship has sailed. From here on out, anglers only have one of two choices, support the new proposal, or oppose it. Yes, that’s right, except for the chance to answer this one final question, the time for debate, if there ever was one, is over.

What the new regulation will be effective in March of 2027 is a statewide possession limit of 4 walleyes. Of the 4 fish, anglers may possess one over 20 inches. Except for lakes with special regulations, this will be the new statewide standard.

The public comment period in effect from now until March 31, 2026, offers anglers one last chance to vote yes, or no and that’s it, nothing in between. If DNR fisheries officials, after reviewing public comments, feel that there’s adequate public support, then the new rules, as they are written, will be implanted. If fisheries folks deem public support to be inadequate, then it is possible that they might decide not to move forward with the new plan.

You can voice your support, or your opposition to the new regulations in 1 of 3 ways.

• Email to fisheries.rulemaking.comments.dnr@state.mn.us. Please mention “walleye limit” in the subject line or body of the email.
• Phone the Minnesota DNR at 651-259-5235.
• US Mail delivered to Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155.

By now, most readers of this page have seen my reason for opposing the new regulation. But if you haven’t, here it is.

The accompanying chart shows where Minnesota currently stands in relation to 13 other midwestern states where walleye fishing is popular.

I could possibly have been convinced to support the reduced limit if the DNR would have allowed the possession limit to remain at 6 fish. Minnesota's 6 fish limit is already the most restrictive possession limit of the 14 midwestern states. Reducing the limit to 4 walleyes simply changes the already most restrictive limit to an even more, “most restrictive” possession limit.

That could be fine for me, I have handy access to lakes and plenty of time to pursue walleyes, so 4 fish in possession is palatable.

Unfortunately, reducing the possession limit to 4 fish unfairly discriminates against tourism. In my mind, this creates a hardship for folks who do not enjoy easy access or ample opportunity to go fishing. Anglers who have limited time, traveled long distances and spent a lot of money to fish in Minnesota, are expected to subsidize local anglers who harvest most of the fish. I think this should have been considered more carefully before putting the new proposal forward.

Of course, that's just my opinion. There’s still time for yours, whatever it is, to be expressed and theoretically serve to influence the final outcome. Use the contact information above to weigh in, and of course, your thoughts are always welcome here. Please let us know if we have permission to share your comments with readers. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report January 21, 2026

" Lake Trout - Lots of anglers showed up for the 2026 winter Lake trout opener and few were disappointed. Many anglers reported that lake trout were on the negative side, but those who adjusted did really good.

Smaller bucktails, do-jiggers and a chunk of pike sucker tipped on a plain hook and suspended a foot off the bottom were top producers. Chartreuse and chartreuse/White were also the best producing colors this last weekend. Anglers reported that 50 to 70 feet of water was the best depth to fish.

Stream Trout - Stream Trout anglers were not disappointed this last weekend and yes, the early bird got the worm with many anglers limited out by 8 am opening morning. Rainbow trout were caught 5 to 10 feet under the ice with a small jigging spoon loaded up with fresh wax worms or salmon eggs. Bright colored spoons worked best.

Brook trout were caught in shallow water often less than 5 feet deep. Again small spoons loaded up with fresh waxies or a dead minnow were very effective. Splake anglers reported that larger Splake were being found in deeper water ranging from 20 to 50 feet of water, depending on the lake. Small spoons tipped with a minnow or waxie worked but often larger baits produced larger Splake.

Walleye - Walleye fishing continues to be an up and down affair for anglers. Anglers catching walleyes are doing so in 20 to 30 feet of water with the evening hours, 4 pm and on, being the best time to be out fishing for them. Just about all anglers are now reporting that deadsticking or rattle reels have been best. Smaller minnows such as a chub have also been seeing best results. Perch colored jigs have also been the best color.

Panfish - Anglers arriving before trout opener chased panfish and managed to catch some really nice crappies and sunfish. Both species were being found in the basins in 25 to 35 feet of water. Angers had to drill lots of holes to keep their baits in front of moving panfish. Small white, pink or chartreuse jigs loaded with wax worms or crappie minnows produced the best for anglers.

Northern Pike - Anglers reported that they continue to catch quality pike while fishing for other species. Walleye, panfish and even lake trout anglers have all reported that they caught pike 5 to 15 feet under the ice while fishing for other species. Oftentimes pike caught here were caught on small minnows fished under a bobber or rattle reel. Shallow bays, river mouths or mouths of shallow bays were also good areas to find active pike. Medium sized suckers or Alewife's often produced best results for anglers." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report January 21, 2026

"Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods continues with solid conditions across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Resort ice roads are in good shape, and anglers are enjoying an extended season with fish houses allowed out through March 31, 2026. The walleye and sauger season runs through April 14 2026, and northern pike fishing remains open year-round.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report – Extended Ice Roads & Steady Action

Ice conditions on the South Shore remain very good. As always, check directly with your resort for current ice road conditions and weight limits. Many resort ice roads are extending to stay on active walleyes and saugers as the season progresses. Overall, fishing is good—not a slam fest by any stretch, but anglers are picking away at a nice mixed bag including walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, eelpout, and tullibees.

The classic two-rod setup continues to be the most effective strategy: work an active jigging line to draw fish in and trigger bites, while running a deadstick with a live minnow to pick up more neutral fish. A variety of jigging spoons, Rippin' Raps, and swimming minnow baits are all getting it done. On your deadstick, use a plain hook, small ice jig, or blinking light lure with a dropper and live minnow are all working well. Gold, gold/pink, glow red, glow white, and combinations of these continue to produce fish.

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report – Morning & Evening Bite

Most ice fishing activity is taking place on the lake, but for those targeting the Rainy River, the best walleye bite is during morning and evening hours. Working through a resort or outfitter is strongly recommended for safety and access on the river.

A jig and minnow or jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head work well in the jigging hole, with a deadstick and live minnow in the second hole.

Some sturgeon are also being caught. Remember, the catch-and-release season runs through April 23rd, and then the harvest season begins again.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report – Full Swing & Quality Bags

Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle is in full swing. Anglers are bringing in a nice mixed bag of fish, with walleyes, saugers, and jumbo perch making up the bulk of the catch. Some big crappies are also being caught for those anglers specifically targeting them, adding extra variety to a winter trip.

The ice road from Young's Bay to the island resorts remains in good shape, and fish cleaning houses are seeing some quality catches. With solid ice conditions, good road systems, and steady fishing across all areas of the lake, Lake of the Woods continues to offer excellent ice fishing opportunities. Always follow resort-maintained roads and posted weight limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Lake of the Woods enjoys an extended ice fishing season that gives anglers extra time on the ice. Fish houses can remain out through March 31, 2026. Walleye and sauger season runs through April 14, 2026. Pike fishing is open year-round." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

January 16, 2026 "Minnesota Trout Fishing Opener + Families Fish Free!"

This weekend marks the beginning of the trout fishing season on Minnesota’s inland lakes, located outside of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. From Saturday January 17, 2026, through March 31, 2026, anglers can test their skills at catching stream trout, or lake trout through the ice.

This weekend, if you bring your kids, you can fish for free, without needing to purchase a Minnesota fishing license. This is the perfect chance for folks who have dabbled in ice fishing, but never tried catching a trout.

I hope you’re not thinking that going trout fishing is too hard because in most cases, it’s not. In Minnesota, there are numerous “put-and-take” trout fishing lakes established by the DNR. Some trout waters are located in the wilderness, but many are near metro regions too. Aimed at providing public fishing opportunities, many are easily accessible on foot, and because designated trout waters are stocked during the fall, have plenty of hungry fish to go around during the ice fishing season.

Just this week, the MN DNR announced that fisheries staff recently stocked rainbow trout in Hiniker Pond near Mankato, MN. Their goal is making the fish available to be utilized by anglers for the winter trout opener and beyond.

News Release: "The DNR’s Waterville area fisheries office, in partnership with the city of Mankato, started this initiative in January 2024. It was immediately popular with anglers, who harvested nearly 3,000 fish before the ice thawed, and that popularity continued 2025.

Local and visiting anglers can again start fishing for the 2-year-old trout this year’s opener Jan. 17. The trout are raised at the DNR’s Lanesboro Hatchery, one of just four cold water hatcheries in the state. Cool water hatcheries, like the one in Waterville, cannot support trout.

“Winter trout fishing in an urban environment has become very popular,” said Scott Mackenthun, Waterville area fisheries supervisor. “Rainbow trout are colorful, hard-fighting and provide excellent table fare.”

Hiniker Pond is an 18-acre former gravel pit uniquely situated in the middle of a large urban area (Mankato) with easy public access. It is one of only two winter trout fishing locations in DNR’s Southern Region. The other is Little Mud Lake in Meeker County, which has been stocked for more than 30 years.

“We don’t have a lot of winter trout angling opportunities in southern Minnesota,” Mackenthun said. “There are some locations scattered in central Minnesota, but most winter trout angling opportunities in lakes are in northern and especially northeast Minnesota. The scarcity of options helps make the Hiniker opportunity popular.”

This is a “put and take” opportunity, meaning the fish are stocked for anglers to harvest and enjoy. The DNR is not attempting to establish a breeding population in the pond year-round, as trout cannot survive warm waters. The goal is to see all the stocked trout caught before the winter season ends."

Interested? Click on the image, or follow this link to the interactive map of Minnesota's Trout Fishing Lakes. There's a good chance that there are opportunities located near your home or cabin.

A friendly reminder, in most cases anglers must have a trout stamp to catch and keep trout. Trout stamp requirements and exceptions are listed on page 25 of the Minnesota Fishing Regulations book. The possession limit on stream trout is five fish per person.

— Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report January 14, 2026

Ice Quality Report

Ice conditions remained similar to the week before as warmer than normal temperatures have settled into the area. Ice thickness now ranges from 18 to 22 inches. Those of you looking for ice reports for stream trout and lake trout lakes, reports are coming in ranging from 12 inches to as much as 16 inches of ice. Snow depth right now ranges from 3 to 5 inches with more in the forecast.

Ice Fishing Reports

Walleye fishing was an up and down affair this last week. Angler reports were mixed, with one day being great, then the next day nothing happening. When anglers were "on the walleyes", rippin raps, buckshot spoons tipped with a chunk of minnow have been very effective. Interestingly these baits seem to be best during the day time hours. After dark anglers setting shiners one to two feet off the bottom have been catching fish after dark. Key depths have been 18 to 25 feet of water and over mud flats.

Lake Trout (BWCA) - Lake trout fishing was unusually slow this last week for anglers. Again, smaller baits like small bucktails in the 1/8 to 1/4 ounce sizes and small blade baits was the trick to getting trout to bite. Handful of anglers reported that tip ups set in about 20 feet of water and tipped with a pike sucker got strikes.

Stream Trout (BWCA) - Stream Trout anglers reported having mixed results catching brookies this last week. Anglers reported seeing brookies in less than 5ft of water through their sight holes, but oftentimes the bookies were not interested in biting their baits. Small wonderbread or pink jigging spoons, tipped with a wax worm, seemed to be the best presentation to get them to bite.

Pike - Large pike were caught while walleye fishing this week vs anglers targeting pike in the shallows. For pike out over deep water, anglers often marked them 5 to 10 feet under the ice. Simply reeled up to them and more often than not got bit. Anglers taking advantage of the warm temperatures set out tip up in shallow bays and mouths of rivers and reported good luck. Medium size suckers or alewife's have been the best baits to have under your tip up.

Panfish - Crappies and sunfish are still being found out in 25 to 35 feet of water right now. Anglers reported that their activity level has been up and down, so catching them has been challenging. Best approach has been to drill lots of holes in The area you are fishing and hole hop until you are marking fish. Anglers have been having luck with small jigging spoons tipped with wax worms or fishing with small tungsten jigs tipped with soft plastics." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report January 14, 2026

"Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods is in full swing with excellent conditions across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Resort ice roads are in great shape, allowing large pickup trucks and wheelhouses. While every ice road can be different, overall ice conditions across the lake are very good. Fish houses are allowed to remain out on the ice through March 31, 2026 and fishing remains productive lake-wide.

Fishing continues to be strong with a classic Lake of the Woods mixed bag. Anglers are sorting through lots of smaller fish and catching plenty of nice eaters, along with a good number of protected fish that fall within the 19.5 to 28.0 inch slot size. There are even some anglers catching trophy walleyes over 28 inches. In addition to walleyes and saugers, anglers are also catching jumbo perch, eelpout, northern pike, tullibees, and the occasional lake sturgeon.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report Excellent Ice and Good Action

Ice conditions on the South Shore are very good. Many resort-managed ice roads are allowing large pickup trucks and wheelhouses. Some resorts also provide transportation to heated fish houses using bombardiers and tracked rigs, giving anglers easy access to productive fishing areas. As always, anglers should check directly with their resort for current road conditions and weight limits.

Most fishing activity is taking place in 25 to 31 feet of water. A two-rod setup continues to shine: work an active jigging line to draw fish in and trigger aggressive walleyes, while running a deadstick with a live minnow set 6 inches to 1 foot off the bottom to pick up more neutral fish.

Best Presentations & Colors

Lighted and blinking lures are producing very well. Gold blinking light lures with a red blinking light, rigged with a 4–6 inch dropper and a live minnow, have been producing well. Rippin’ Raps or jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head are also working well on the jigging line. Pro tip, if fish are finicky, try downsizing your presentation. Hot colors include gold, gold/pink, glow red, glow white, and combinations of these.

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report

Ice continues to build on the Rainy River, but anglers should always be cautious due to current. Walleye activity has been best during morning and evening hours, and sturgeon anglers are seeing good action as well. Even a few eelpout are being caught on the river. Working through a resort or outfitter is strongly recommended for safety and access.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report Full Swing

Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle is going strong. The ice road from Young’s Bay to the island resorts is in good shape, and fish cleaning houses are seeing some great buckets of fish. Resorts have houses out and the bite has been solid, with walleyes, saugers, and some jumbo perch. A few resorts are also offering crappie fishing, adding extra variety to a winter trip.

Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods remains excellent heading forward. With strong ice, good road systems, some subzero temps in the forecast and great fishing, conditions are shaping up for a fantastic late-season bite. Always follow resort-maintained roads and posted weight limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

January 13, 2026 Sundin "It's Now or Never, Walleye Limit Reduction Process Is Underway"

Did you know that I share the same birth date as Elvis Presley? Yes, I do, it’s January 8th, and just last week I turned 70 on that date. This explains why I, like many of you, can so easily recall the song “It’s Now or Never”. Released in 1960, Elvis made the Schroeder and Gold composition a big hit.

That song came to mind this morning because now, after 18 years of debate, the time for anglers on both sides of Minnesota’s debate over reducing the statewide walleye possession limit has come. Yes, that’s right, Minnesota DNR finally announced yesterday, January 12, 2026, their official intention to move forward with their plan to reduce the walleye possession limit from 6, down to 4 fish.

In an official press release, Minnesota Fisheries Section Chief Brad Parsons says, “We have discussed this walleye limit proposal informally for a long time, including working with anglers and interested groups to see if this is something anglers would support. Now we’re going through the formal process to propose the change and gather input,” Parsons said. “This proposal is informed by what fisheries research and sampling data point to about walleye in the future.”

Guess what else turned 70 in 2026; the current Minnesota walleye possession limit of 6 fish. Yup, for the past 70 years, Minnesotans have been allowed, if they can catch them, to legally possess a grand total of 6 walleyes. For about 50 of those years, I've fished for walleyes more than most anglers visiting the state, and I've never heard anyone claim that walleye fishing is getting worse. In fact I hear often from folks who say walleye fishing is better today than it's ever been.

In terms of Minnesota tourism, anglers from all around the country have been willing to travel here, to Minnesota, in the hopes that if they get lucky, they can take home 6 fish. Most folks I've talked with agree that’s already a low bar, In fact, it is already the lowest bar of any state that offers decent walleye fishing, but we can chat more about that later.

Beginning today, and ending at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, you’ll have the choice to weigh in one last time before the decision becomes final. Though the public comment period is generous, DNR staff are going to make anglers work to make their opinion known. You’ll have to write, call or email; there are no “quick links” or public comment surveys.

Yesterday, after the announcement was made, my phone started ringing. Most calls were from folks curious to know my opinion about the proposal. Obviously, I have one, but my opinion, now, is not the important one. Important today are the opinions and guidance provided by fisheries researchers and biologists in the field, the ones who know how the rules work, and what impact they would have on walleye populations in Minnesota. So, starting today, I’ll be reaching out to fisheries scientists to provide answers to questions aimed at informing, not inflaming.

Is there something you wish I could be asking? If there is, just text, email or call and I’ll be sure to include your thoughts during upcoming interviews.

If your opinion is already formed, and you want to provide comments to the DNR right away, then use this information to contact them before 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026

• Email to fisheries.rulemaking.comments.dnr@state.mn.us. Please mention “walleye limit” in the subject line or body of the email.
• Phone the Minnesota DNR at 651-259-5235.
• US Mail delivered to Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155.

Hey Jeff, did you really mean to say 18 years of debate? Yes, check out these comments from my post in the Early Bird Fishing Tidbits in March of 2008. In the report, I wrote, "Apparently the proposed statewide Walleye bag limit reduction from six Walleye to four is being brought about because it's "time for change". No charts, no statistics, just whistle three times as you roll through the train crossing and it's all over. No public hearing process, no public meetings. You see, none of the normal rules apply because this change is being introduced through the legislative process instead of "officially" through the DNR.

Based on polling in a couple of popular metro area publications, anglers appear willing to ..." Read Full Report >> Walleye Limit Reduction March 2008

So, after aall that time, here we are in 2026 and like Elvis crooned, “It’s Now or Never”. Whatever we do, or don’t do now, sets the stage for the walleye tourism in Minnesota for generations to come. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Wired2Fish January 13, 2026 "How to Chase Wintertime Yellow Perch"

"There’s something special about perch fishing once winter settles in. The lakes go quiet, the crowds thin out, and those bright-barred perch start to bunch up in tight schools that can keep a rod bent all day—if you know how to find them.

Whether you’re fishing through a foot of ice or easing a boat along a deep contour line before freeze-up, wintertime perch fishing can offer some of the year’s most consistent, rewarding action. It’s also a great way for anglers to keep their skills, as well as their minds, dialed in during the long winter months. But like anything in fishing, it takes the right mindset, the right gear, and adapting to whatever the season throws at you.

Here are a few tips and techniques to help you ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> How to Chase Wintertime Yellow Perch

January 12, 2026 Sundin: "Really Big News From MN DNR Roundtable Meeting?"

“NEW” topics of discussion were few, and far between during last Friday’s annual Minnesota DNR Roundtable meetings, but that was to be expected. In recent years, the sessions have served more as progress reports about ongoing projects than to provide “breaking news” about outdoors issues. Attendees, like me, who want to drill deeper, use the opportunity between formal presentations to track down experts to inquire about details of interest to them.

For me, those topics of interest, not covered in the formal breakout sessions, included walleye limits, law enforcement, live bait supplies, emerging technologies and proposed legislation aimed at allowing the use of two fishing lines during the open water season. Here’s some of what I learned, and some of what I didn’t learn.

First was a pre-announcement about the much-anticipated statewide walleye limit reduction. Shannon Fisher, Fisheries Populations Monitoring and Regulations Manager, today, Monday January 12, 2026, is slated for the formal announcement. According to Fisher, we’ll learn today what the proposed regulation, if enacted, will be. At the time of this report, no formal announcement has been released. Obviously, I’ll be following the story, and publish an update the minute the news is available.

In an opening Q&A session, Minnesota Representative Josh Heintzman, Co-Chair of the Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy committee fielded a question about fishing technology, forward facing sonar. I’m paraphrasing his answer, but essentially, he advised that In a couple of years, we won’t even be talking about forward sonar anymore. Advances in technology will have already made the current technology obsolete before we can do anything about it.

After the Q&A session concluded, I tracked Heintzman down for more discussion. I asked Heintzman, “In your comments, you made it sound like you already know something that the rest of us don’t, is that correct?” Heintzman, “Yes, I do, it’s called OMNI Sonar, and you can check it out for yourself.” I followed up on his suggestion, and the accompanying screenshot of my phone revealed just a small part of what I found.

Diving deeper, pun-intended, I found even more information about specific products and technologies already offered now, and by a variety of manufacturers. Long story short, I think Heintzman is correct, we might as well give up talking about forward facing sonar and focus the effort on a much broader range of technology related concerns.

On January 22, 2026, I’ll be in attendance as a member of the Minnesota DNR’s Technology Workgroup. No doubt, the conversation about advancements in the technology will continue there, and I will share whatever I learn between now and then.

One bright spot at the roundtable was a presentation about updating fish hatchery operations in Minnesota. In a presentation, Craig Soupir, State Fish Hatchery Supervisor, revealed detailed plans about the anticipated updates to Waterville’s fish hatchery. Revisions to the facility will not only enhance existing capabilities but will add new dimensions to what fisheries managers can do to provide more fish for Minnesota lakes and rivers.

In light of the ever-increasing demand for quality fishing opportunities in the state, I think hatchery updates and expansions could not be coming at any better time. So, I followed up with Soupir after the presentation, and he agreed to provide us with more details in an upcoming interview with me. I’ll be anxious to share with you more about the ongoing hatchery projects in the coming weeks.

For today, be on the lookout for an update about the walleye limit proposal. I’ll get the details to you as quickly as possible once the news release is issued. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report January 7, 2026

Ice Quality Report

Ice conditions continue to improve to as much as 20 inches being reported on Ely area lakes. Recent snow falls are starting to limit travel on ice to plowed roads. Or tracked vehicles.

Ice Fishing Reports

Walleyes fishing has been good until recent days as several fronts came through and shut down the bite. Before the weather change walleyes were biting perch colored jigging spoons and rippin raps in 18 to 22 feet of water. Rock piles on mud flats were the best areas to be fishing but mud flats in general continue to be best. Big walleyes caught over the weekend came with minnows set on rattle reels during overnight hours, in these same areas.

Lake Trout (BWCA) - Anglers reported mixed results over the BWCA lake trout opener. Most anglers reported seeing very few trout and getting even fewer bites. Average size trout was on the small side too. Many anglers reported that lake trout were chasing early in the morning but as the day progressed they were less willing to chase, hugging the bottom. Anglers reported best action was in 40 to 60 feet of water over deep flats near deeper water. Tubes with blades got the most attention for lakers.

Stream Trout (BWCA) - Brook trout anglers reported decent brookie fishing in 5 feet of water or less. Areas around beaver houses, downed trees or transition areas were best locations for finding brookies. Small, flashy spoons in white, pink or wonder bread, tipped with a wax worm or salted minnows were very effective.

Panfish - Crappie and sunfish fishing has been up and down on Ely area lakes as one day we have spring-like temperatures then the next back to January-like temperatures. Regardless of what the temperatures are finding crappies out in 25 to 35 feet of water, over mud flats. On good days crappies are aggressively hitting soft plastics and small jigging raps. On slow days you will have to downsize to wax worms on a small tungsten jig. Hot colors have been chartreuse, pink and purple.

Pike - With another wave of warm temperatures anglers took the time to set out the tip up on poplar pike lakes. Good numbers with a few big pike sprinkled were the results. As usual, river mouths, shallow bays and weedbeds were the best areas to find pike. Fishing with frozen smelt and medium suckers produced the best results." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Wired2Fish January 7, 2026 "Ice Cold Giant Kansas Crappies"

"Frank Haidusek looks forward to the winter weather most people dread. Forget the cold temperatures, the snow and the bitter wind chills that hit the plains of Kansas. As long as there is open water, Haidusek is going crappie fishing.

“Winter is one of my favorite times of the year for crappie fishing,” said Haidusek, a guide, tournament fisherman and pro staff member for Bass Pro Shops. “Once the water temperature drops into the 40s, the fish are really grouped up. You can sit in one area and really catch ‘em.”

And some big ones, too. During a recent trip on El Dorado Lake, Haidusek hit the mother lode. Guiding his father and a guest who had never fished before, he led the party to seven fish weighing more than ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> Ice Cold Giant Kansas Crappies

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report January 7, 2026

"Lake of the Woods continues to offer excellent ice fishing conditions across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Ice conditions are strong, resorts are busy, and fishing activity remains very good. Some resorts transport anglers to the door of their heated fish house vs offering ice roads. In these cases, bombardiers and specialized track rigs are in full use with good conditions.

While every ice road has different weight limits, many resort-managed ice roads are now allowing 1-ton trucks pulling wheelhouses. As always, anglers should check directly with the resort or outfitter managing the road for current weight restrictions.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report

Most fishing activity is taking place in 25 to 31 feet of water. The most productive setup continues to be a jigging line paired with a deadstick. Actively work the jigging line to call fish in and target aggressive walleyes, while running a deadstick in a second hole with a live minnow set 6 inches to 1 foot off the bottom. This combination is catching everything from aggressive biters to more lethargic fish.

Best Presentations & Colors

Blinking and lighted lures have been very effective. A red blinking Dirty Bomb with a 4 to 6 inch dropper and live minnow has been a strong producer. Rippin’ Raps and various jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head are also working well. Productive colors include gold, gold/pink, glow red, glow white, and combinations of these. In addition to walleyes and saugers, anglers continue to catch jumbo perch, eelpout, northern pike, tullibees, and occasional sturgeon.

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report, Ice Improving

Ice thickness on the Rainy River continues to build, though anglers should always be cautious due to current. Walleye activity has been best during morning and evening hours, and some sturgeon anglers are finding success as well. Even a few eelpout being caught on the river. Working through a resort or outfitter is strongly recommended.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Action In Full Swing

Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle is in full swing with ice thickness steadily increasing. The ice road from Young’s Bay to island resorts is in good shape, and fish cleaning houses are seeing some very nice buckets of fish. Resorts have houses out and fishing has been solid. Some resorts are also offering crappie fishing opportunities, adding variety to a traditional walleye trip.

Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods remains strong heading forward. Always stay on marked ice roads and trails, follow posted weight limits, and let resorts manage ice safety so you can focus on fishing." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

January 1, 2026 Sundin: "The Start of a Very Happy New Year!"

"Happy New Year From Grand Rapids Minnesota Everybody!

I hope that like me, you’ve been enjoying the holidays with family and friends. I’ll say that it’s been nice to enjoy a slower work schedule. There’s something to be said for catching up on sleep and enjoying time at home. That's given me some time to update my computer too, and with luck. I'll have the bugs worked out of the new system this week.

Next week marks the start of another busy time for me. The Winnibigoshish Work Group meets on January 7th, then I’ll be attending the MN DNR Roundtable meetings on January 9th. After each session, I’ll be reporting the report-able to keep you apprised of whatever lies ahead for the 2026 fishing season.

Saturday, January 10th, I’m getting together with my brother and his bandmates for our first jam session of the winter. So, for those of you that have enjoyed some of my guitar stories, I’ll have news to share with you too.

I imagine that you’re wondering if I’ll be ice fishing, and the answer is yes. That said, I haven’t been so mad at the fish as to make catching them a priority just yet. Susan bought me the early birthday gift of an ice fishing package on Lake of the Woods, and I’m really looking forward to that. We’re obviously not going to make it up to the boundary waters for today’s trout fishing opener. But with the inland waters trout fishing season set to begin on January 17th, 2026, we might try our luck at that.

Naturally, I’ll be sharing fishing reports that come in from the field, and answering reader’s questions as they come in. So, please be sure to check the website periodically for news updates.

Happy New Year! See you again soon." — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Wired2Fish December 31, 2025 "The Brave New World of Jig Head Design"

"With so many of bass fishing’s bait and lure manufacturers tirelessly working to crack the code on the next best thing, all that outside-the-box thinking has led to some outside-the-box baits.

Knowing this, I wasn’t too surprised when I recently stumbled on a vein of “jigheads” that didn’t look all that much like the jigheads I grew up using. But I was curious, so I decided to buy a few and try them out. Keep reading to check out what I found and how some of these unusual jigs performed.

Buckeye Freestyle Swimbait Jig head: I’ve seen some line-through swimbait heads before, like those from 6th Sense and Picasso, but this is a pretty unique concept. Instead of feeding the line through this head to tie on the hook, Buckeye just attached a treble hook to the ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> The Brave New World of Jig Heads

Wired2Fish December 18, 2025 "What Science Says About Black Versus White Crappie"

"Here in Louisiana, fishermen’s opinions run a dime a dozen, and it seems everyone has their own take on lures, techniques, and theories when it comes to crappie fishing.

Take a recent crappie fishing tournament, where I witnessed a conversation ignite about the differences between white and black crappie that left me questioning what was actually true and what was hearsay.

The Anglers Weigh In: It all started with Toby Bean, the afternoon’s designated fish fry cook. As Bean checked the temperature of the oil before adding the first crappie fillet, he examined the fillet by holding it up to the sunlight. “Looks like a fillet from a white slab,” he said. I asked him how he could tell. “Easy,” Bean replied. “White crappie fillets are always thinner. Black crappie are thicker and ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> What Science Says About Black Versus White Crappie

December 4, 2025 Sundin: "Christmas Fishing Gift Ideas"

Last summer, I offered guidance about some of the fishing gear that provided me, and my customers great success. This morning, I thought it wise to offer up some ideas for fishing lures that will make great stocking stuffers for Christmas.

Remember the story about Tim Meyer, the guy that turned me on to using Eye Candy to catch walleyes and perch on Lake Winnie? The full article rand on September 14, 2025 and maybe this snippet will jog your memory.

“Tim Meyer, owner of Beauty Bay Lodge in Nevis MN was exceedingly helpful, gracious and generous. Meyer not only showed us the lures he and his crew were using but also gave us a small supply of them to try for ourselves. Northland Tackle’s Eye-Candy, Paddle Shad paired with their 1/8-ounce Smeltinator Jig was the lure they had set up. Their method consisted of trolling at about .7 to 1.0 mph while they fished the jigs using an aggressive sweep-fall presentation. “You can’t jig it too hard,” Meyer advised.

Once we got rigged up with the lures, and became familiar with the correct jigging motion, fish began to cooperate with us. As you can see by accompanying pictures, we caught perch, walleye and pike using them."

The setup, a 1/8 ounce SMELTINATOR® JIG , paired with a 3-1/2 or 4 inch Eye Candy Paddletail Shad would make a great Christmas gift. As always, I encourage you to shop locally and get them from a tackle shop or bait store in your hometown. But if you can'd find them there, click here to visit the Northland Fishing Tackle Website, to check out their full lineup of fishing lures, they'll be happy to sell them to you directly.

Tomorrow morning, I'll share a more announcements, along with a few more gift ideas so be sure to check in before you go shopping! — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

You Are Invited To Become A Duly Deputized Fishrapper Cub Reporter Too!

If you've been waiting for a gold engraved invitation to participate in the daily reports, then stop waiting and consider this your own personal invitation.

Helping your fellow fishermen and women stay abreast of fishing conditions in your area is good for everybody and it's easier than you think! You don't have to write a book, you don't have to share your secret fishing spots and you don't even have to mention your lake. You see, with just a few words about general trends, seasonal patterns or local weather conditions you can help steer your fellow anglers to more gratifying fishing experiences. So, be like Dan and Sean, and become a duly deputized "Cub Reporter", it's good for fishing and that's good for everybody!

Use the Contact Us page, or if you prefer to be "social", use our community page on facebook Fishing Reports Minnesota, that is the Facebook counterpart to this page and it is open to the public, so you can post your own fishing update or just share a photo of a nice catch.