Ice Fishing Thrives on Lake of the Woods: Walleyes, Saugers, and More in Ideal Conditions

As of December 1, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake of the Woods in Minnesota is buzzing with activity, especially with the onset of ice fishing season. ### Weather and Ice Conditions The weather has been cold enough to maintain solid ice cover, with most areas of the lake having 8-12 inches of ice. This is ideal for ice fishing, but always remember to check the ice conditions with local resorts or outfitters for safety. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise today is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset is at approximately 4:30 PM. The best fishing times are typically during the early morning and late evening when the light is low. ### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a great deal of activity, particularly for walleyes and saugers. Anglers reported good catches in various depths, but the sweet spot has been around 28-34 feet of water on the south end of the lake. ### Types and Amounts of Fish The mix of fish includes walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, crappies, eelpout, tullibees, and even some sturgeon. The south end and the NW Angle have been particularly productive, with reports of nice-sized walleyes and saugers. ### Best Lures and Bait For ice fishing, jigging one line and deadsticking the second line has been highly effective. Use jigging spoons with rattles and lighted lures tipped with a full minnow or piece of a minnow. Colors such as gold, glow red, glow white, pink, and chartreuse, or a combination of these, have been successful. Emerald shiners on a plain hook or an ice fishing jig are also working well. ### Hot Spots - **South End:** Focus on areas in 28-34 feet of water. Resorts with day houses and sleeper fish houses are available, and they often provide transportation or access to ice roads. - **NW Angle:** This area has seen a lot of action, with walleyes and saugers being caught over both structure and deeper mud flats. The snowmobile trail from Four Mile Bay and Pine Island to the NW Angle resorts is staked for safety. Remember to stay on marked trails and follow local guidelines for ice safety. Enjoy your time on the ice at Lake of the Woods This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.