Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report March 18, 2026

"March ice fishing at Lake of the Woods is in full swing with excellent conditions holding strong across the basin. While much of Minnesota is experiencing spring melt, Lake of the Woods remains locked in winter, offering solid ice and productive fishing opportunities that could extend well into April. Ice conditions remain strong with over 3 feet of ice in most areas, the weather forecast is cooperating with cold temps, and fishing continues to produce quality mixed bags. Whether this is your first trip of the season or your last hurrah before open water, Lake of the Woods typically delivers.

Most resorts have lodging and fish house options available. Some are extending into April. Call ahead to find out who's running what and when; availability and options vary as we transition toward spring.

The 10-day weather forecast looks cold, which will hold ice conditions nicely. Resort ice roads continue to provide access to prime fishing areas, and many operations are still running heated fish houses on productive spots.

As always, communicate directly with your resort or outfitter for current conditions and access—they know their ice and they'll keep you safe. Even though it's still cold, Mother Nature has a way of still moving things along so relying on the pros on the ice who provide real time info is important.

South Shore Ice Fishing - Full Swing Through March and Beyond

Ice fishing on the south end of Lake of the Woods is going strong. Fish houses are allowed overnight through March 31st, and with the cold forecast ahead, ice conditions are holding well. Some resorts will even fish into April—it's best to call ahead to find out who's extending their season.

Ice anglers continue picking away at nice fish across the south shore. The typical pattern includes some smaller fish to release, keeper walleyes in the mix, various sizes of saugers, jumbo perch, and a good variety of tullibees, eelpout, and pike. Most anglers are heading home with plenty of fish for a quality meal or to share with family and friends. Many resorts have moved fish houses closer to shore, fishing depths from 22 to 30 feet of water. You'll work through some undersized fish, but quality keepers are there along with slot fish (19.5 to 28.0 inches) that need immediate release.

Extended Season Opportunities

Here's the advantage of fishing border waters—Lake of the Woods walleye and sauger season runs through April 14th while inland Minnesota waters remain closed. Pike season never closes, and perch, crappies, eelpout, and tullibees are all available targets.

Important Fishing Regulatory Reminders

While the fishing season on the main lake for walleye and sauger remains open through April 14, all waters from Four Mile Bay and upstream on the Rainy River are catch and release only. Annually, from March 1 through April 14th all walleye and sauger caught in these waters must be released. The northern pike season remains open year-round with no closure.

Walleye and sauger limits: Combined total of 6 fish, with up to 4 being walleyes. All walleyes measuring 19.5 to 28.0 inches must be released immediately. Anglers may possess one walleye over 28.0 inches.

What's Working? - The Proven Approach

The one-two punch remains most effective: one active jigging line to trigger bites, paired with a deadstick presentation for finicky or cruising fish. Active jigging: Lipless crankbaits and jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head remain productive. When fish seem hesitant, slow down your cadence or downsize your presentation. Tease the fish by shaking the lure while raising it in the water column. Deadstick setup: A small jig or plain hook with a live minnow positioned 6 inches to a foot off bottom continues producing consistent results. This stationary presentation catches fish that won't commit to aggressive jigging.

Prime Time for Trophy Pike

Morthern Pike anglers love this time of year on Lake of the Woods. Big pike are starting to stage for upcoming spawning activity and they have the feed bag on. This is trophy pike time, and the opportunities are excellent right now. Tip-up fishing is the most popular approach. Some anglers are targeting bays, others work shorelines adjacent to future spawning areas. Using a live sucker or dead bait on a quick strike rig is effective and gives you the best chance at landing a big fish without deep-hooking it. Pro tip: Stagger your tip-ups across various depths. Oftentimes, a pattern will show up with a popular depth that fish are traveling. When this happens, move your other tip-ups to that depth and let the flags start flying.

Rainy River Update - Watching for Open Water

For those still ice fishing the river, stick to the golden hours—first light and last light produce the best walleye action. Remember: Rainy River walleyes and saugers are catch and release only through April 14th. Colder temps are currently holding ice on the Rainy River, but there is some progress with open water spotted at Manitou Rapids, which is 9 miles east of Birchdale, MN. This is the early sign that spring is working its way into the system. Typically, Nelson Park at Birchdale is the first boat ramp which accommodates larger boats and will see open water. The open water makes its way from east to west, and we'll be tracking its progress over the coming weeks.

Northwest Angle Report

The Northwest Angle continues producing quality fishing with conditions similar to last week. The ice road from Young's Bay remains in good condition, and some resorts are planning to fish through March and into April, weather permitting. Other resorts at the Angle are wrapping up the season. Opportunities still exist if you have interest, call ahead. Fly-in anglers: Contact Sunset Lodge for current runway conditions before making your flight.

Spring Sturgeon Season Ahead

Looking toward April and May, we're expecting another excellent sturgeon season on the Rainy River. Now is the time to prepare your gear if you're planning to target these prehistoric giants.

Lake Sturgeon are catch and release through April 23rd. The harvest season runs April 24 - May 7 (1 per calendar year, fish must be 45"-50" inclusive or over 75", must be immediately tagged and registered within 48 hours). May 8-15 returns to catch and release, and the season closes May 16 through June 30, 2026." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

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Wired2Fish March 18, 2026 "Timing The Crappie Spawn"

"Trace Nelson spends his spring on Cedar Lake near Milan, Minnesota. Cedar is a 6,000-acre reservoir with a maximum depth of 15 feet — and a reputation for producing big slabs. Nelson said the crappie spawn isn’t just about catching fish in shallow water. It means the ice is gone and open-water season is finally here.

“Once we’re done staring down an ice hole all winter, that first bobber-down in the reeds feels pretty special,” Nelson said. “It’s kind of the kickoff to the whole open-water run.”

In southern Minnesota, crappie stage after ice-out when water temps reach the ..." Learn More About Crappie Destinations in Minnesota, Louisiana, Kentucky and More >> Timing the Crappie Spawning Season

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Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Ice Fishing Report March 18, 2026

"Lake trout - Lake trout anglers struggled again this last week. Again, some lake trout anglers reported having great success while others struggled significantly just to mark trout. Anglers having success were using small bucktails or squid baits, tipped with a minnow and jigged aggressively in hopes of attracting a lake trout. Just like last week, many anglers reported lake trout were often unwilling to chase baits very far off bottom. Rainbows, fished on a tip up about 1 to 3 feet off the bottom, were very effective for some anglers. Best depths were on the shallow side at 20 to 40 feet.

Panfish - We continue to get flashes of a hot spring bite, but weather shifts quickly knock it down. Anglers are now reporting at times they are catching crappies as high as 4ft under the ice with soft plastics for crappie minnow under a bobber. Sunfish are also being found in the same areas but still glued pretty close to the bottom. Sunfish prefer wax worms in a small jig. Both fish are being found in 20 to 30 feet of water, but seem to be preferring depths closer to the 20 foot range.

Stream trout - Stream trout anglers continue to report good success on local stream trout lakes. Splake were a popular catch by anglers. These anglers ventured into some of the little more remote lakes and reported great fishing waiting for them. Dead minnows, fished on a small jig or jigging spoon loaded with wax worms was the ticket. Depths ranged from 16 to 30 feet of water.

Whitefish/tullibees - Many anglers targeting panfish reported catching a handful of nice tullibees. Small jigs, jigging spoons or crappie minnows on a jig all produced fish. Key is, as always, keep the bait moving to keep the tullibees interested until it bites. For anglers targeting whitefish and tullibees, they continue to find them over 20 to 30 feet of water. A few anglers reported seeing whitefish up on shallow sand/weed flats in 10 feet of water or less." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

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Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report March 11, 2026

"Lake of the Woods ice fishing continues to deliver with outstanding conditions across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Ice conditions remain strong, we're seeing ice thicknesses of over 3 feet of ice in most areas. Recent overnight temperatures remain well below freezing continue to keep things solid beneath us.

Ice roads are holding up well. We had just a little bit of melting, but overall, overnight temps are well below freezing and ice conditions look good in most areas. The weather forecast has mainly freezing overnight temps, even some single digits and below zero temps ahead. This area is very different than central and southern Minnesota where things are melting. It is still frozen and ice fishing is going strong up at Lake of the Woods. As always, it's a good idea to communicate with the resort or outfitter whose ice road you are using for current conditions. They know their roads, they know the ice, and they'll keep you safe while putting you on fish.

Anglers along the south shore are picking away at nice fish in the 28 to 32 foot range. Normally there are some small fish to release, a few keeper walleyes, some saugers, a few jumbo perch, and mixed in tullibees, eelpout, and pike. Most anglers are finding some nice fish for a fish fry or to take home to loved ones. The walleye and sauger possession limit on Lake of the Woods is a combined total of 6 fish, with up to 4 being walleyes. All walleyes measuring 19.5 inches to 28.0 inches must be released immediately. Anglers may possess one walleye over 28.0 inches.

What's working is the classic one-two punch continues to be the go-to approach: run an active jigging rod to draw fish in and trigger strikes, paired with a deadstick with a live minnow set 6 inches to a foot off bottom for fish in a more neutral mood.

Jigging line: Rattle baits like the Rapala Rippin Rap have been producing some nice fish—try the pink UV Firetiger or gold. Also, jigging spoons with a minnow head continue to work well. If fish are finicky or lethargic, slow your jigging cadence and/or downsize your presentation. Deadstick: A small jig or a plain hook with a live minnow 6 inches off the bottom has been consistent and continues to produce.

Big pike are active. Anglers who enjoy targeting world class pike are already reporting good action on tip ups and quick strike rigs. Traditionally, live suckers or a good dead bait will get the flags flying. March is a key month to target big pike as they put the feedbag on and begin staging for the upcoming spawn. With thick ice expected to last and cold temps in the forecast, this is your window to chase trophy pike.

Rainy River walleyes and saugers are now catch and release only, this regulation remains in force through April 14, 2026 when the walleye season closes until the statewide fishing opener on May 9. 2026.

While most ice fishing activity is occurring on the main lake, the Rainy River continues to reward anglers who target it strategically. The best walleye action happens during the "golden hours"—the first couple hours of daylight and the last couple hours before dark. River ice requires extra caution due to current. Always fish through a resort or outfitter who knows the river and can provide safe access.

At the Northwest Angle, ice fishing operators report quality action in 24 to 32 feet of water. The Angle ice road is in good condition, and many resorts are fishing through March and into April, assuming the weather forecast holds.

The one-two punch of an active jigging line and a deadstick continues to work well. Anglers are consistently picking away at walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, eelpout, and tullibees—a true Lake of the Woods mixed bag.

Fly-in anglers: Those who fly in and land on the ice should contact Sunset Lodge for runway conditions, as melting and freezing made the runway rough. Some sunshine will smooth it out.

Looking ahead to the Rainy River spring season, Mother Nature is always in charge, but typically, the Rainy River will be open at the end of March at the Nelson Park boat ramp in Birchdale, MN—30 miles east of Baudette. Now is a good time to start making sure your boat and tackle is ready. When it opens, it opens fast!

Prepare for Banner Sturgeon Season! We expect another banner sturgeon fishing season on the Rainy River this spring. Plan ahead with heavier rods, reels, line, and other gear. Many anglers use their muskie or catfish gear, we suggest tjat come prepared. An oversized net or tail lasso, needle nose pliers, measuring tape or long bump board and camera are essential. Have an understanding of the measurements, images and special documentation are needed in the event you catch a state record sturgeon

Fish houses can remain out overnight through March 31, 2026. The walleye and sauger season remains open through April 14, 2026 across most of Lake of the Woods. Four Mile Bay and Rainy River: walleyes and saugers are catch and release from March 1 through April 14, 2026. The Northern Pike season never closes, anglers may fish for pike year-round. Perch, crappies, eelpout, and tullibees also remain open.
Lake Sturgeon are catch and release through April 23, 2026. The sturgeon harvest season runs from April 24 to May 7, 2026. Anglers may harvest 1 sturgeon per calendar year. Fish must either measure between 45 to 50 inches, or over 75 inches in length. Fish must be immediately tagged/endorsed and registered within 48 hours). May 8 to 15, 2026 is catch and release. The season closes May 16 - June 30, 2026." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

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Wired2Fish March 11, 2026 "Bluegills As Big As Dinner Plates"

"Dan Spengler is on a quest to catch one of fishing’s most-elusive trophies: a giant bluegill. Spengler, who designs lures for Pure Fishing and Berkley, loves using his baits to catch smallmouth bass, walleyes, and even muskies that put up a giant fight. But lately, he has devoted hours to chasing big, saucer-sized bluegills, that fish at the other end of the angling spectrum.

He’s not talking about the little panfish that many of us grew up catching. We’re talking about the survivors that grew into mega-sized monsters. Spengler became intrigued with big bluegills when he stumbled onto one pit that had some trophies in it. “I ended up catching four 10-inch bluegills out of ..." Learn More >> Bluegills As Big As Dinner Plates

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Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report March 11, 2026

"Lake trout anglers continued to struggle this last weekend. Finding lakers wasn't the problem, getting them to engage enough to bite was. Majority of anglers reported seeing lake trout come off the bottom, race up about half way to their baits and stop, lose interest and swim off.

This is a huge clue that what they are looking for doesn't leave the bottom. This is when you want to fish very close or on the bottom. Pounding the bottom with a small jig (1/8 or 1/4 ounce), tipped with a small minnow and setting bait under a tip up, within 2 feet of the bottom is your best approach. Key depths remain 30 to 40 feet of water.

Panfish - Signs of the spring crappie bite, has started, is being reported from crappie anglers. These anglers reported catching good numbers and quality crappies over the weekend. Small, white soft plastics, small jigs tipped with a crappie minnow or chub for your set lines, are all working. Anglers should be looking for active crappies 10 to 15 feet off the bottom, over 20 to 35 feet of water.

Whitefish and Tullibee are becoming very active and easy to catch for anglers. Panfish anglers have been getting a few mixed in, but the anglers targeting them have been doing best right now. If you're looking to try this bite, look to deep mid flats in the 25 to 35 foot range. The same jigs you would use for panfish or stream trout work great for whitefish and tullibees. Small flashy spoons tipped with wax worms, small jigs tipped with soft plastics and even crappie minnows on small jigs tipped all will get their attention.

Stream trout - Rainbows were very cooperative this last weekend despite some anglers saying they would look at their baits several times before biting. When rainbows get like the just letting you bait sit, not moving it at all, is often the best approach to catching them. Wax worms loaded on a small jigging spoon or panfish size jig is the best approach. Rainbows were biting 5 to 15 feet under the ice and more often than not the bite was over by 8am, so get out early if you want some rainbows.

Eelpout reports cooled off some this last week. I'm sure that being post spawn and the weather shifts didn't help the bite. Anglers are still finding eelpout around spawning areas. During the day anglers reported they caught some out in deeper water during the day, then shallower in the evening and after dark. During the day 40 to 60 feet, during the evening and after dark 15 to 25 feet of water. Bright glowing jigs, pounded on the bottom and loaded up with minnows remains the best way to go." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

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March 8, 2026 "The Role of a Fishing Guide" | Justin Chromy, Patriot Guide Service, Lake Vermilion

"An important part about being a fishing guide is understanding what your role is in the community. A guides role is to help promote tourism, help keep the tourists happy (putting them on fish,) and teaching how to protect and preserve the resource that we all need to run our businesses, and enjoy recreation in this beautiful area.

This bodes one to ask the question: How do we best promote tourism, keep the fishermen happy so they come back, and protect the resource that supports our way of life? The answer is not always as simple as it would seem. One thing as a guide that I get flack on is posting pictures of the guests who came and “caught their limit.”

As many around the lake have noticed, Lake Vermilion has ..." Read Full Story >> Justin Chromy, The Role of a Fishing Guide March 8, 2026

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News Release March 5, 2026 "Today, Virtual Open House, DNR Consevation Officer Training"

"DNR seeking conservation officer applicants, hosting virtual open houses. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking applicants for its Conservation Officer Prep program, which provides a pathway for people without previous law enforcement experience to become conservation officers. The application period is open from March 2, 2026 to March 31, 2026.

The CO Prep hiring process is one of the ways the DNR creates a workforce that more closely resembles the diverse communities that conservation officers serve. As part of this process, the DNR’s Enforcement Division will hold two virtual open house sessions for applicants. During the sessions, applicants will attend a presentation on conservation officer careers and the hiring process

The open house sessions will be live streamed on the MN DNR Enforcement Division’s Facebook page at noon on both Thursday, March 5 and Tuesday, March 17. Each session will also include an opportunity for attendees to ask questions.

In accordance with Peace Officer Standard and Training Board licensing requirements, candidates for CO Prep must have at least a two-year degree but don’t need a law enforcement background. Individuals accepted for the CO Prep program will spend 22 weeks training at Hennepin Technical College (late November 2026 through late April 2027), 16 weeks training at the Conservation Officer Academy at Camp Ripley (May through late August 2027), and then about four months training in the field with experienced conservation officers (late August through mid-December 2027).

Additional information, including a link to the application, is on the Conservation Officer Careers and Hiring page on DNR website. In early summer, the DNR will also seek applications for the 2027 CO Academy from individuals with law enforcement experience."

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Wired2Fish March 4, 2026 [VIDEO] "The Big Advantage of Perspective Mode"

"Forward-facing sonar gives anglers real-time feedback. However, some anglers only use it one way. They focus strictly on narrow forward precision. As a result, they often miss the bigger picture. Josh Bertrand takes a different approach. Instead of scanning only for individual fish, he uses perspective mode to understand the entire area around his boat. That wider view helps him identify structure, bottom composition and key positioning zones before making a cast.
Understanding Forward View vs. Perspective

Standard forward-facing sonar delivers precision. The narrow cone tells you exactly where a fish sits. When you see a target, you know it sits right there. However, perspective mode shows the ..." View Video and Learn More >> "The Big Advantage of Perspective Mode"

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Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report March 4, 2026

"Lake of the Woods ice fishing continues to deliver with outstanding conditions across the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Ice conditions this winter have been exceptional—with some areas exceeding 3 feet of solid ice.

In many cases, resort ice roads extend more than 20 miles onto the lake, providing reliable access to prime fishing grounds. As always, work through a reputable resort or outfitter who understands current ice conditions, weight limits, and where the fish are holding. They'll keep you safe and put you on fish.

Extended Seasons on Lake of the Woods - March Ice Fishing Looks Strong!

With ice fishing lasting through March and temps looking to be cold the first part of the month, it looks like the 3 feet plus of ice on many parts of the lake will be around for a while. This is great news if you want to get in one last trip or if you want to target big pike.

Here's what makes Lake of the Woods special—while the walleye and pike season across Minnesota's inland waters is now closed until the fishing opener, Lake of the Woods is border water with Canada and our season is still open!

• Fish houses can remain out overnight through March 31st
• On the lake, the normal walleye and sauger limits through April 14th
• Four Mile Bay and Rainy River: walleyes and saugers are catch and release from March 1 through April 14th
• Pike season never closes - fish for pike year-round
• Perch, crappies, eelpout, and tullibees remain open
• Lake Sturgeon are catch and release through April 23rd. April 24 - May 7 is the harvest season (1 per calendar year. Fish must be 45"-50" inclusive or over 75". Fish must be immediately tagged/endorsed and registered within 48 hours). May 8 - 15 is catch and release. The season closes May 16 - June 30, 2026.
  

There's still plenty of season ahead, and plenty of opportunity to get out here. Contact a Lake of the Woods resort and set up your trip in one of their many heated fish houses positioned on schools of walleyes and saugers. You'll be fishing in comfort while the resorts do the heavy lifting.

Important Reminders for March Anglers

New fishing license required: If you are fishing in Minnesota, you need a new fishing license starting March 1st.

Catch and release areas: If you are fishing the Rainy River or Four Mile Bay, walleyes and sauger are catch and release only through April 14th. You can still keep walleyes and saugers on the main lake through April 14th.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report – Picking Away at QualityFish: Most South Shore ice fishig continues in 28 to 32 feet of water.

Anglers are steadily picking away at various sizes of walleyes, saugers, good numbers of jumbo perch, some eelpout, and pike. Most anglers are finding some nice fish for a fish fry or to take home to loved ones. The mixed bag is as strong as ever. Along with walleyes and saugers, we're seeing good numbers of big jumbo perch, eelpout, tullibees, pike, and even the occasional sturgeon. It's Lake of the Woods—you never know what's coming up the hole next, and that's part of the magic.

The classic one-two punch continues to be the go-to approach: run an active jigging rod to draw fish in and trigger strikes, paired with a deadstick with a live minnow set 6 inches to a foot off bottom for fish in a more neutral mood.

Jigging line: Rattle baits like the Rapala Rippin Rap continue producing some nice fish along with jigging spoons with a minnow head continue to work well. If fish are finicky or lethargic, slow your jigging cadence and/or downsize your presentation.

Deadstick: A small jig or a plain hook with a live minnow 6 inches off the bottom has been consistent and continues to produce. A gold blinking light lure with a dropper and live minnow also continues to produce.

Big Pike Active - March is Prime Time!

Anglers who enjoy targeting world class pike are already reporting good action on tip ups and quick strike rigs. Traditionally, live suckers or a good dead bait will get the flags flying. Contact a Lake of the Woods resort for fish houses set up in areas specifically where there are pike. Remember—pike season never closes on Lake of the Woods.

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report – Focus on the Golden Hours
While most ice fishing activity is on the main lake, the Rainy River continues to reward anglers who target it strategically. The best walleye action happens during the "golden hours"—the first couple hours of daylight and the last couple hours before dark.

Exercise extra caution on river ice due to the current. Always fish through a resort or outfitter that knows the river and can provide safe access.

The Rainy River will really gain popularity towards the end of March when the river starts to open. The topic will be the spring walleye run and the excellent sturgeon fishing. Important: Rainy River walleyes and saugers are catch and release only from March 1 through April 14th.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report – Quality Action in 24-32 Feet. The Northwest Angle continues to produce some great ice fishing right now. The ice road from Young's Bay to the island resorts is in great condition, and fish cleaning houses are staying busy with quality catches.

Most productive fishing is happening in 24 to 32 feet of water. The one-two punch of an active jigging line and a deadstick continues to work well. Anglers are consistently picking away at walleyes, saugers, good numbers of jumbo perch, pike, eelpout, and tullibees—a true Lake of the Woods mixed bag.

Looking Ahead - Rainy River Spring Season End of March and April. Mother Nature is always in charge, but typically, the Rainy River will open at the end of March at the Nelson Park boat ramp in Birchdale, MN—30 miles east of Baudette. Now is a good time to start making sure your boat and tackle is ready. When it opens, it opens fast!

Prepare for Banner Sturgeon Season. We expect another banner sturgeon fishing season on the Rainy River this spring. Plan ahead with heavier rods, reels, line, and other gear. Many anglers use their muskie or catfish gear. Come prepared with:

• Oversized net or tail lasso
• Needle nose pliers
• Measuring tape or long bump board
• Camera
• Understanding of what measurements/images are needed in the event you catch a state record sturgeon

" — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

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Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report March 4, 2026

"Lake trout fishing slowed down quite a bit this last weekend. Many anglers reported that they struggled to even mark trout.

Anglers that were lucky enough to even mark trout often reported they marked way more than they could even get to chase. Bite windows seemed to be very short and sweet, so be sure to get out early and don't leave too early. You might miss the bite window open for the day. Bucktails continue to be a very popular choice for anglers. Many anglers have been having good luck tipping those bucktails with a gulp minnow of keitech minnow, to add some scent. Key depths this last weekend was 35 to 45 feet of water.

Eelpout - Seems like just about everyone ice fishing this last week reported catching a handful of eelpout. Those targeting them reported a slightly slower than expected bite. Anglers found eelpout on sunken islands that top out in that 15 to 25 feet of water range. Heavy glow spoons, loaded up with smelly minnows, frozen smelt or herring has been effective. Make sure that spoon glows!

Stream Trout reports were on the slow side this last weekend too. Rainbows seemed to be the most cooperative of the trout this last week. Small jigs, tipped with wax worms, was the most productive technique. Anglers continue to catch the rainbows anywhere from 5 to 15 feet under the ice, while fishing over 50 to 70 feet of water.

Crappie fishing was slow this last week as spring crappie minded anglers started checking for crappies. Anglers found them suspended just off the bottom, in 20 to 30 feet of water and reported they were sluggish, often unwilling to rise up to the bait.

Whitefish/Tullibee - Angling pressure was light this last weekend too for whitefish and tullibees. Anglers targeting them did report having some good luck, but also reported that they had to work them to get them to bite. Anglers continue to find them in 25 to 40 feet of water, about 15 to 20 feet under the ice. Small spoons tipped with wax worms and a crappie minnow suspended under a bobber have both been effective." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

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March 4, 2026 "March Fourth! The Day That Gives a Command"

Today, it just happens to be the only day of the year that gives a command, MARCH FOURTH!

If I was allowed to give one, a command I mean, it would be this. “By special proclamation of the Fishrapper Cub Reporter, Staff Number 003-IHBFBB, you are hereby commanded to provide your comments about the MN DNR proposal to cut the walleye limit.”
I know that I can’t command anybody to do anything. I do find it ironic though that this day that gives the command also coincides with tomorrow’s deadline to offer public comments on the Minnesota DNR proposal to cut the walleye possession limit.

As of 4:30 PM tomorrow, March 5, 2026, The Minnesota DNR will formally close the public comment period. After that, the DNR will assess the results of the commentary and decide whether public support warrants the new regulation, or not.

By now, most anglers have heard the arguments both for and against, many too, have already chosen a side. That said, most anglers, regardless of their opinions, have not yet shared them with DNR officials. Making contact via phone, email or US mail, DNR estimated that over 1000 comments had come in as of last Friday. That is quite a few but in terms of the overall number of anglers, roughly 1 million, who fish in Minnesota, that is a paltry, 1/10th of 1%. Considering the importance of getting this regulation right, that’s not a lot of input from anglers.

I’ve been studying and writing about the effort to reduce walleyes for so long that I had to do a Bing search of my own articles to figure out where it all started. The search returned about 194 results, dating back to 2008 when the first legislative effort to pass the walleye reduction was first introduced. Since that time, I've consulted with numerous scientists, and fisheries biologists who all agree that a 4-walleye possession limit will not make Minnesota walleye fishing better, nor will it have any significant impact on walleye populations in Minnesota lakes.

On March 2, 2026, I wrote, "Often, we see the argument framed as a proactive regulation aimed at mitigating the impacts of fishing pressure, the use of advanced electronics and most recently, climate change. If these issues are in fact issues, then let’s address them and figure out what to do with them individually. Often too, we see the proposed regulation change framed as a change in “The Daily Bag Limit”.

That characterization is simply not accurate. The DNR proposal is not only reducing the daily limit. It intends to change the statewide walleye possession limit from 6, down to 4 fish. That means for folks who follow the law, 4 walleyes are the maximum number of fish that you can have, period." (image)

Like I said, most folks have already taken a position on one side or the other of this issue. Realistically, I know that there’s not much time left to persuade anyone who hasn’t taken a position. But if you’re interested, and want to study the issue a little bit more, you’ll find below links leading to some of the key articles, fishing reports and public comments from recent years.  

If you're already prepared to vote but haven’t gotten around to it, you can email the MN DNR immediately using this address >> fisheries.rulemaking.comments.dnr@state.mn.us Please mention “walleye limit” in the subject line or body of the email. You may also phone the Minnesota DNR at 651-259-5235.

Related Articles and Minnesota Walleye Harvest Limits Information

• Jeff Sundin February 19, 2021 Walleye Bag Limits "Linking the Link-Able" Scientific Studies About Walleye Harvest
• Minnesota Walleye Rationing March 7, 2022
• May 2, 2025 "Minnesota Walleye: Is Limiting the Limit-Able, Needed and Reasonable?" with Paul Radomski
• November 10. 2025 Gary Barnard MN DNR Fisheries Manager on the Radio
• January 22, 2026 Fishing Reports MN Facebook Post MN DNR Doubling Down, Make The Most Restrictive Limit Even More Restrictive
• February 4, 2026 "MN-FISH Schara, Walleye Limit Discussion" Ask not what we will do for you, explain what you will do for us?
• Minnesota Walleye Reduction Proposal "Reader Support Poll May 2025"
• April 2022 "Minnesota Walleye Reduction Pros and Cons"
• April 2025 "Minnesota Walleye Bag Limits Reader Comments Karry Kyllo, why I oppose walleye rationing in Minnesota

If by now, you feel the need for even more information or if you have last minute thoughts to share, let us know. Otherwise, let me leave you with this final thought. Once we give away the 6 walleye possession limit, we will never get it back. So, I'd urge caution, let's be sure we have solid scientific evidence to be sure that we get it right! — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Call-Text 218-245-9858 • Email • Facebook • X • Subscribe Insider Newsletter

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March 2, 2026 "The Perfect Birthday Gift, Lake of the Woods Fishing Vacation"

Ice fishing can be a lot of work, if you’ve fished more than a few times during winter, you already know that. But on the other hand, ice fishing can be almost no work at all, that is if you do it right. Thanks to the Hippie Chick, I experienced the later this past weekend; let me explain.

For nearly 10 years, the Hippie Chick observed me running from one end of the northland to the other. Constantly loading and unloading gear, always on the move in hot pursuit of interesting places to record fishing experiences. TV programs, entertaining outdoor writers or taking photos of ice-anglers in action, there was always one more thing to do. Often, days beginning before sunrise and finishing after dark was the norm, not the exception.

She came along on a few of those trips and saw firsthand the effort that goes into producing ice-fishing content. If you’re interested, this story was one of our favorites. Read >> For the Love of Fishing: Lake Mille Lacs Ice Fishing Adventure

Now I’m not one to put words in other people’s mouths, but today, I’ll try to sum up what my loving and devoted wife may have been thinking. “All I ever see him do is work, he deserves to get one easy ice fishing trip. I think we should go somewhere that caters to us, someplace where they take care of all the details and only thing we need to do is show and fish.” Okay, maybe this isn’t 100 percent, but you get the idea, or at least the main theme of it.

So, can you guess what I received for my birthday last January? Yes, a full-service ice fishing trip at Arnesen’s Rocky Point Resort on Lake of the Woods. The package she bought included three nights lodging and 2 days of ice fishing in a nice, warm ice fishing shelter.

When we arrived at the resort, their guidance was simple. “We start transporting at 6:30 AM, you two just show up at the marina when you’re ready, we’ll drive you to the spot and when you’re finished for the day, we’ll pick you up and drive you back to the resort.”  All we had to do was pack some snacks, a few fishing rods, fishing lures, and a few pails.

On day 1, we left the marina around 7:15 am, our destination was house #77. So, where is that? Heck if I know, I didn’t look at the map, I didn’t try to learn the structure, and I didn’t have any expectations. We just unfolded a couple of chairs and opened the rod box. First, I got Susan set up with a rod, then I rigged up a setline (dead stick), then I set myself up with a rod and so on. After 15 minutes, we were in full fishing mode with 4 lines in the water.

We did have depth finders, so I know that the water depth was about 31 feet. And obviously, we could see whenever fish came into sight, and knew when they were ready to strike, or not. And for most of the 2 days of fishing, most of the fish we saw fell into the “or not” category. However, there were enough active walleyes to keep the trip interesting. We rarely went for more than 10 or 15 minutes without seeing something on our flashers. Every so often, we’d trick one of them onto our lures and for the most part, fish we caught were of quality size.

On this trip, I thought that the saugers we caught were above average. There were only a couple of walleyes, but they were also decent size fish. As usual, Susan caught the largest, pictured above, and as you see, it was a fat, sassy fish. For me, a phantom crappie that nearly crossed the 13-inch mark was the most notable catch. In the past, we’ve caught crappies at the northwest angle, but this was my first ever on the south shore.

Obviously, this can’t be a “hard-core” fishing report, so take this advice for what it’s worth. Knowing that we were fishing in deep water and not wanting to catch a bunch of little fish, I tied on a larger than average lure. The Lindy Glow Streak, with a whole fathead strung around all three barbs of the treble hook, was responsible for almost all of the fish I caught over the two days. For Susan, the old reliable Quiver Spoon, pink/glow color was the better choice, we caught a couple of fish on the pink Glow Spoon too.

We were hoping for a phantom pike to make an appearance. So, my set lines were set up with large, gold Quiver Spoons tipped with the largest whole fatheads we had in the pail. The northern pike were not in the neighborhood though; there were very few of them caught by anybody this weekend.

Susan and I had 5 keepers each day and released an equal number of smaller fish along the way. At the fish cleaning station, catches matching ours were very common. Most of the groups came in with some fish, typically about half of their limits. There were some eelpouts showing up, a few tullibees and a couple of groups caught some decent perch too.

I realize that hard-core fish hunters may not be impressed. But when you think about it, this is really a good report. Everybody caught something, and most of them were doing exactly what we were doing, relying on the resort to place a single fishing shelter “someplace” on ¾ of a million acres of frozen surface water. With 128 square feet of heated shelter to work with, anglers wait, fingers crossed, for hungry fish to swim into range of their lures. Think about it, it’s amazing how many fish are caught!

Okay, so my ice-fishing birthday gift was, in my opinion, a great success. We have a highlight reel of fish catches; we had delightful fish-fry on the spot and will have another one sometime soon. But maybe the best part of the trip was the relaxation factor. No worrying, no scurrying, just show up and fish. If you’re thinking this sounds like fun, give the folks at Arnesen’s a call, I don’t think you’d be disappointed. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Call-Text 218-245-9858 • Email • Facebook • X • Subscribe Insider Newsletter

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March 2, 2026 Sundin Opinion: Minnesota Walleye Limit Reduction Proposal

Friendly reminder, there are 4 days remaining in the public comment period for the proposed reduction in Minnesota’s possession limit for walleyes. In you love the idea of reducing the limit from 6 fish down to 4 fish, you have 4 more days to say so. Likewise, if you’d prefer to see the possession limit remain unchanged at 6 fish, then the same 4 days are available for you to express your point of view.

Over the past several years, I’ve expressed my concerns that the 4 fish limit will not do anything to improve walleye fishing in Minnesota. I’ve presented articles that provide expert testimony from fisheries biologists who agree.

Often, we see the argument framed as a proactive regulation aimed at mitigating the impacts of fishing pressure, the use of advanced electronics and most recently, climate change. If these issues are in fact issues, then let’s address them and figure out what to do with them individually. Often too, we see the proposed regulation change framed as a change in “The Daily Bag Limit”.

That characterization is simply not accurate. The DNR proposal is not only reducing the daily limit. It intends to change the statewide walleye possession limit from 6, down to 4 fish. That means for folks who follow the law, 4 walleyes is the maximum number of fish that you can have, period.

You may be thinking, oh come on Jeff, don’t you know that people have more than their possession limits in their freezers all the time? This may be true, especially for locals who can fish often, and bring home fish on almost every outing. But for tourists, folks who must stay at public resorts, campgrounds and the like, stockpiling fish at home is not an option. They are under the microscope, vulnerable to more frequent checks by the DNR conservation officers.

In my opinion, it is simply unfair to expect one group of people to subsize the activities of another group. I could possibly have been convinced to support a regulation change to 4 fish daily, provided that the possession limit would have remained at 6 fish. The impact of that would have satisfied the folks calling for the 4 fish limit, primarily aimed at day trippers, fishing guides and highly skilled anglers. At the same time, a 6 fish possession limit would provide anglers forced to travel long distances and fish fewer times each season with a bit of padding. In my opinion, tourism would be less impacted than local traffic.

Review: The new regulation, as presently planned, will become effective in March of 2027. The new statewide possession limit of 4 walleyes with one over 20 inches will become the permanent statewide regulation.

The public comment period remains in effect from now until March 4, 2026, and offers anglers one last chance to vote either 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.

 — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Call-Text 218-245-9858 • Email • Facebook • X • Subscribe Insider Newsletter

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February 26, 2026 "MN Fishing License, Renewing the Renew-Able"

I’m not a forgetful person; in fact, my memory is good. What I am though, is a “scatterbrain”, tending to be disorganized and focused on too many things all at once. I think about getting one job done, then getting distracted by other tasks that demand equal attention.

If that sounds familiar to you, then you may appreciate the reminder that your Minnesota fishing license will expire this Saturday, February 28, 2026. That’s right, we’ll all need new fishing licenses beginning on Sunday March 1, 2026. So, if you have weekend plans like Susan and I do, renewing the license early on Sunday could present problems.

The last thing I need is to ruin my wife’s weekend fishing trip with a citation. So yesterday I logged on to my DNR account and purchased our 2026 licenses. For me, the system that works best is to buy the license online, download the PDF and print several copies. I keep one copy in the boat, one in the truck and one in my wallet. And since Minnesota allows “electronic versions” of our fishing license to be presented on our smart phones, I keep a PDF copy on my phone too. No matter where I go, if I pick up a fishing rod, I’m covered.

This year, while I was looking through the list of license options, I noticed the “Super Sports License”. This is possibly the best bargain for outdoor enthusiasts on the market. For $100, the individual license includes the annual fishing license, the annual small game license, a MN state trout stamp, MN state waterfowl stamp and your MN state pheasant stamp. Plus, the super sports license covers your choice of either a firearm, archery or muzzleloader deer license. All you need to remember is to log back in after August 1 to redeem your choice of the deer license at no additional charge.

For Susan and I, the super sports combination is the perfect season-long solution.  The combination version of the license includes married couple fishing only (as recognized by MN state law), small game for primary buyers, 2 state trout stamps, a state waterfowl stamp and a state pheasant stamp for primary buyers. The choice of firearm, archery or muzzleloader deer license after August 1 is offered only to the primary buyers.

For a grand total of $157, I purchased

• Minnesota Annual Fishing Licenses For 2 People
• 2 Minnesota Walleye Stamps, one for each of us
• 2 Minnesota Trout Stamps, one for each of us
• 1 Minnesota State Pheasant Stamp for me
• 1 Minnesota State Waterfowl Stamp
• 1 Minnesota State Small Game License for me
• 1 Minnesota State Deer Hunting License for me

Okay, monetary value is one thing but knowing that I’m covered for almost everything is the key feature. For a scatterbrain like me, having one piece of paper that covers most of my fishing and hunting for the whole year is fabulous. It means I can relax about buying licenses and pay more attention to whatever it is that grabs my attention next!

While I was logged in to the license page, I renewed my boat license too. Spring is coming fast, so if yours is due this season, you might as well get it done while you’re thinking about it. For your convenience, use this link, or click the image to renew your Minnesota Fishing, Hunting or Boating License right now.

— Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Call-Text 218-245-9858 • Email • Facebook • X • Subscribe Insider Newsletter

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Wired2Fish February 26, 2026 "How State Fisheries Regulations Are Made"

"I started working in fisheries and aquatic management after graduating college, often hearing anglers’ familiar complaints at the boat launch or bait shop. I’ve just about heard it all, things from “These regulations don’t make any sense!” to “The size limits are out of control!”

The truth is, to anglers, it can look like people who don’t fish wrote a bunch of these rules.

But the reality is far different. State fisheries regulations are the end result of years — sometimes decades — of biological data, fieldwork, modeling, and public input. They’re not perfect and they’re always evolving, but every regulation has a scientific foundation. Understanding what goes into making them helps explain why those rules exist in the first place.

Everything starts with data. Fisheries agencies collect enormous amounts of ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> How State Fisheries Regulations Are Made

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

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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.

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