Finding Out About Lake Of The Woods Fishing

Anglers all over the world not only love the art of fishing but they also love the thrill of finding superb spots where fish are abundant and scenery adds to the experience. Lake of the Woods fishing will provide that and to such a degree that it could end up being an adventure of a lifetime. This lake, which is dotted with many islands, is one of North America's largest and is also home to a large population of bald eagles.

With more than 65,000 miles of shoreline and over 14,000 islands, the geography is one of many awesome features of Lake of the Woods. It sits in the state of Minnesota as well as the Canadian provinces of Ottawa and Manitoba. Being 65 miles long and wide, this lake would be the largest Canadian lake but the fact that part of it is in the United States takes away from it that title.

The international waters of this lake offer up some of the most preeminent fishing in the world. The two biggest prizes for fishermen are walleye and muskellunge (often referred to as muskie.) Walleyes are sought by anglers not just for how good it tastes but also for the challenge they bring in catching them. The muskie is the largest member in the pike family and is known for its strength, tenacity and eye-catching acrobatic leaps from the water.

Walleye and Muskie are not the only species of fish to call this lake home. The lake also offers up largemouth and smallmouth bass, lake trout, Lake Perch, saugers, northern pike and crappies.

In January and February, ice fishing is highly popular. Walleye, pike and perch make up the bulk of the fishes caught. The season for walleye peaks during the summer months, July and August, when the water temperature goes up. They become the most vulnerable when swimming in mid-lake mud flats and in shallow waters. The best month for catching smallmouth bass is typically September as during this time they tend to congregate into large schools. February and March are usually the bet months for bringing in northern pike.

As mentioned, ice fishing is a big draw to the heartier of fishermen. Sauger, walleye and northern pike make up the usual take. Modes of transportation to get out onto the lake are numerous, and most have some form of floatation capability for safety reasons, hovercrafts being a good example of such a vessel. Even though hundreds of ice fishing shacks may be spotted in one "hot spot" area, there really is no overcrowding. The lake is so large that ample opportunities for success exist for near everyone.

Many fishing tournaments take place on Lake of the Woods. The majority of these are for catching walleye and bass. Fishers come for all over to take part in the Rainy River Walleye Live Release Tournament. This tourney awards $14,000 to the overall winner and $30,000 to be divided amongst other top finishers. Tourneys are available for anglers of other fish including crappies, Muskie and perch.

Lake of the Woods can fulfill the wishes of not just fisherman but also anyone who has a mind for adventure. Whether on the Canadian or United States side of the border, opportunities for excitement abound. From kayaking and sailing, to dog sledding and snowmobiling, the possibilities are virtually infinite.