Posted on September 15, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore
Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Lodge
Baudette, MN
www.sportsmanslodges.com
800-862-8602
9/9/09
 

Two adults, Two kids under Five Years old, Two Hours & Twenty-one Walleyes!
It is pretty easy to find fish and leave with a limit when fishing at Sportsman’s this year. Gregg and his young family went out and had a great time Sunday afternoon pulling in walleyes, check out the pictures below.
 

Annual Emerald Shiner Run
 

The time is soon coming that the emerald shiners will be running the river and so will the walleyes. Just in the past few days we have started to see seagulls out in the river feeding which is one indication that there are some shiners roaming around. Another indication is some local netters have started to see a few in their nets too. It seems to be just the very beginning but stay tuned in the next few weeks the rush will be on! Get your arms pumped up your going to need them.
 

The who, what, when and where
 

We are starting to see the fishing start to move in closer to the south shore this past week. Long Point and Zippel Bay have been popular spots bait fishing with gold spinners or jigs tipped with a minnow or trolling with shades of any color in thirty to thirty-five feet of water.
 

Lake Sturgeon
 

Few reports of some nice size sturgeon have been heard lately too. The best approach to find these monsters is to anchor in the Rainy River or Four Mile Bay. These fish are great to smoke the meat or just catch and release they can be a fighter. Don’t forget you can keep one until Sept 30!
 

Early Goose Season is now thru September 22
 

The geese are flying. Talked to a guy that says he has seen several birds fly over his house the past few days in the early morning. If you’re looking for a hunt, give Eric from Quack Addicts Hunting a call 218-202-0030 and Sportsman’s Lodge for your lodging and meal accommodations at 800-862-8602.
 

Trolling with Shad Raps – 2 adults, 2 kids under 5 and 21 walleyes caught in 2 hours! 9-6-09
 

Sharp tailed Grouse

The grouse have been drumming and locals have been talking. The chatter has been that they have been seeing more than average. Should be a good year!
Fall Hunting Dates to remember:

Early Goose Season 9/5-9/22/09
Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day 9/19/09
Small Game – Rabbits, Squirrels 9/19/09-2/28/2010
Sharp tailed Grouse Season 9/19-11/30/09
Waterfowl Season opens 10/3/09
Deer Hunt Archery Season 9/19-12/31/09
Deer Hunt Firearm Opener 11/7/09
Deer Hunt Muzzleloader 11/28-12/13/09

Come explore the Beltrami Island State Forest right out of our back door! Over 66,000 acres to explore! www.dnr.state.mn.us.
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Northwest Angle & Islands
Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
Oak Island, MN
www.sportsmanslodges.com
800-772-8411
9/9/09

Fall Transition
 

We are starting to see the walleyes move into the rock and mud into twenty-six to twenty-eight feet of water as we start to transition into fall. Reports of some nice twenty-five to twenty-eight inch walleyes have been talked about lately too. A limit of walleyes is not hard to come by nor has it all summer. Jigging with a minnow is all you need to find a nice school of walleyes around Oak Island this fall.
 

Slab Crappies
 

Due to the cooler than normal temperatures the crappie bite is starting earlier than normal this year. Reports of a few have just started to bite; cooler temperatures in the upcoming two weeks will really get them hungry. Come on up and experience a Grand Slam! Walleyes,

Crappies & Ducks!
Give us a call today 800-772-8411.
 

 

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Great Fall Fishing Specials!

Posted on August 13, 2009 by sportsmans

Fall Into Some Great Fishing at Sportsman’s Lodges!
It’s a Fall Free-For-All Frenzy of Fishing at Lake of the Woods
But You Probably Knew That Already …

We just thought you’d like to be reminded of the relative ease and success that awaits the fall angler at Lake of the Woods.

Around here in the fall, we’re known for the emerald shiner run that hits the Rainy River, typically around the end of September or the beginning of October.

Walleye fishing during the run has been compared to the frantic spring action of first ice-out!

It’s fisherman’s delight, not even sure you can call this "sport fishing," as the walleye practically leap into your boat!

If you’re looking for multiple species in one trip, the lower fall levels on the Rainy offer unbeatable action for northern, crappie, perch, lake sturgeon — even small mouth bass!

Here’s a great lodging special you’re sure to "fall" for! $35* per person, per night!

If you prefer the pace and pleasure of crisp weather for your fishing, you’ll want to take full advantage of our Fall Lodging Special at Sportsman’s Rainy River. Because once summer’s over, the prices fall at Sportsman’s Rainy River!

Book your Rainy River Lodging special! Just $35* per person, per night. Plus we have other discounted package rates — the longer you stay the more you save!

Call 1-866-998-7280 to take advantage of this great offer!

Enjoy four seasons of fantastic fishing at Sportsman’s Rainy River of the Woods — the "Walleye Capital of the World."

Fall is a great time to fish the area – just like winter, summer and spring!

When you fish here, regardless of the season, temperature, barometric pressure or any other factor, the fishing is legendary. From one season to another the only thing that changes is your approach. But the results are always the same: a great catch!

Take advantage of our fall discounts! The $35* per person, per night offer runs September 7 through October 31. Or enjoy 10% off all fishing packages! Call 1-866-998-7280 to book your stay today!

Happy casting!

PS: Keep "current" with our latest fishing conditions by visiting our site.

*Price good for the Rainy River Location only and based on double occupancy.

 

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Fishing Report 7/29

Posted on July 30, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore/Rainy River Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Lodge
www.sportsmanslodges.com
800-862-8602

7/29/09

Fish O’ Plenty!

Had a chat with our longest running guide, Kit Beckel this week. Kit has been guiding on Lake of the Woods since 1960 and at Sportsman’s since the doors opened in 1971! He boasts fishing has been fantastic! Yesterday, he took a crew out at 8:00 am and they were in by 3:30 with a limit of walleye! The walleyes ranged in size from fourteen to nineteen inches. Check out the picture of this nice catch! The Mosher, Deno & Hoffman Parties are from DetroitLakes, Kit said bait fishing with hammered gold spinners and tipped with a minnow worked perfectly. Fishing has been the best in nine to eighteen feet of water in the sand. The super walleye fishing continues on legendary Lake of the Woods.

Additional Picture info: The Mosher, Deno & Hoffman Parties are from Detroit Lakes, MN, Rochester, MN & Jamestown, ND respectively

Late May Fly Hatch

The May Fly hatch has finally hit this year. It doesn’t seem to be too bad and definitely has not sent the fish deeper yet. This hatch normally occurs around the fourth of July, but due to the cooler than normal temperatures it just started.

What is a May Fly & What does the hatch mean to fishing?

A May Fly is a benthic (bottom dwelling) invertebrates, the fly starts out as a nymph that crawls along the bottom, hiding in debris and vegetation. Walleyes don’t only feed on fish, they also feed on the marble eyed may fly. To effectively catch walleye feeding on nymphs, anglers need to do use a few tricks or hire a guide learn to master the technique.

The Technique

First you need to use lures that imitate the nymph so you can trick the hungry walleye into feeding on your bait rather than the nymph. Second, the location, nymphs tend to be in bays and flats with a soft mud and silt bottom, mostly in shallow to soak up the sun. Third you need to match your jigging with the erratic movement of a nymph. Vertical jigging also works well and is done by thumping the jig in place to kick up debris. This technique can be very effective in enticing a walleye to you. Walleyes also tend to suck in nymphs so hits can be light, so be ready to set the hook!

What happens next?

Usually after the May Fly hatch the walleyes tend to move deeper and the trophy fishing season really starts to hit. So start pumping up your arms, throw out a few shads and let the fun begin!

Looking for Perch

Some like them some don’t, but they sure can be fun to catch, especially when your entertaining kids on the boat. The best way to find some nice perch is to anchor fish and hone in on a school of them. Keep in mind perch tend to school tight in a close circle so you need to get right on top of them reel in this sweet fish. The perch is unlike the walleye which tends to school in a larger area and can be easier to find.

5th Annual Biker Rally Aug 28 & 29

Get your motors running! The 5th Annual "Thunder down the Rainy" Biker Rally will soon be here. Many events are planned for this year including Chainsaw Carving Demonstration, TNT Tattoos, Nail Art, Live Entertainment, Fun Run, Bikini Bike Wash, Texas Hold Em Tourney, Wet T-shirt Dunk Tank, Bike Games, Bike Show and much more! Log on to www.bikerrally.sportsmanslodges.com for complete details.

Enter to Win!

Don’t miss out on your chance to win a 2 nights, 1 day charter trip for 2 people at Sportsman’s Lodge! Log on to www.sportsmanslodges.com to enter.

Fall Fishing just around the corner

The annual emerald shiner run and walleye feeding frenzy will be here before we know it. We have some great rates, only $35 per person per night lodging or take advantage of our Hook, Line & Sinker fishing packages with savings of up to $75 per person! Call to book your trip today! 800-862-8602

Lake of the WoodsOakIsland Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
www.oakislandlodge.com
800-772-8411

7/29/09

252 minnows, 3 guys…out of bait by 3pm!

Unprecedented fishing continues! A veteran group hit the jackpot! Doubles, Triples and sizes of fish between sixteen to thirty inches dominated the day. This was definatly a trip of a lifetime!

Fishing is still hot! The best fishing in depths between eight to twenty-two feet of water just south of OakIsland near Massacre and Little Oak have been really bringing in the walleyes. The best presentation is a brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow and fishing around the rock reefs.

Muskies…

Two fifty inch muskies were caught this week around Monument and DeepWaterBay. Muskie fishermen are hoping for good weather warm up to really get the muskies active.

Annual Blueberry Festival & 1st Ever Relay for Life on the Lake

Aug 7 & 8, 2009

Blueberry contest, desserts, chili cook off, talent show just to name a few events!

Come enjoy some island fun!

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Fishing Report 7/22

Posted on July 27, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Lodge

www.sportsmanslodges.com

800-862-8602

 

7/22/09

 

Staying shallow

The best fishing in recent days has been in shallow waters in depths between twelve to twenty feet in the sand of Big Traverse Bay. It seems as if our cooler than normal temperatures this summer has been keeping the fish in shallow longer. The water temperature has been hovering around the mid sixty ranges, a ten degree below average. Anglers have started trolling with craw fish style shad raps while others continue to bait fish using brightly colored spinners tipped with a mix of live bait including a minnow, leech or crawler.

 

Full day trip is your best choice

The summer of 2009 has definitely been a banner year for great fishing on Lake of the Woods and so you may be thinking a half day trip is all you need to catch some nice fish. If a half day is all you have we can defiantly accommodate you with some good fishing, but if you can sneak in a full day or two that is your best choice for your best experience during the summer months when the prime spots are a bit farther out than in the spring and fall of the year.

 

The best fishing for nice size and quantity takes about forty-five minutes to get there, which is just not something that can be done with a half day trip during this time of year. We want you to spend most of your time pulling in walleyes and not traveling, so when you are planning your next trip is sure to include at least one full day and ideally two. Remember we are guaranteeing your limit of walleyes if you book two full days this summer and don’t forget to book one of our popular authentic shore lunches!

 

5th Annual Biker Rally planned Aug 28 & 29, 2009!

Come join in the fun and Thunder down the Rainy. Bike Games, Bike Contest, Entertainment, TNT Tattoos, Vendors, fishing trips, scenic river cruises, just to name a few things planned.

 

NW Angle & Oak Island Lake of the Woods Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge

www.oakislandlodge.com

800-772-8411

 

7/22/09

 

Walleye & Muskie fishing

The Minnesota side of the border, the reefs near Little Oak and the Crow Duck reefs are all great spots at this time, and access from Oak Island is a breeze. Deep Water Bay on the Canadian side, just minutes from the Lodge, is also producing some good walleye action too.

 

Bright colored jigs, off the reefs have been the ticket. The walleyes are still being found in shallow waters in eight to twenty feet

 

A few nice muskie have been caught and released recently. These fighters can be found in the hundreds of weed beds just out our back door in search of small perch and walleyes.

 

The sightseeing and cruising in the Islands is also awesome this time of year – beautiful, serene sights are calming to the soul, just what we need in times like these.

 

Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off

Mark your calendar for this fun event Aug 7, 8 & 9 on the Northwest Angle & Islands of Minnesota. Don’t miss out Sportsman’s very own Blueberry Wild Rice Pancakes and Old Fashioned Blueberry Dumplings on the 8th & 9th, served all day. Many other area events are planned such as minnow races, a viewing and reading from Paw Path Art Studio, “Crossing Crow Creek”, Fish Fritters & Foam, Talent Contest, Chili Cook Off, Blueberry Dessert contest, Brat Fest, Craft & Bake Sale, Children’s games, Golf Chipping contest, blueberry spitting contest and the first ever Relay for Life on the Lake! For more information call 866-692-6453 or log on to lakeofthewoodsresorts.com

 

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Fishing Report 7/15

Posted on July 15, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Lodge
www.sportsmanslodges.com
800-862-8602

7/15/09

Fishing is so good we are guaranteeing it!
Yes, fishing this summer has been one of the best years ever and Lake of the Woods is called the Walleye Capital of the World for a reason. This summer Sportsman’s Lodge is guaranteeing you that you will leave with your limit of walleyes! 100% Walleye Limit Guarantee! All you have to do is fish with one of our guides for a minimum of two days. If you don’t end the two days with a limit of walleyes to take home, we will pay you $10 per walleye less than your limit or find walleye to send you home with! Fish eaten during your stay is counted toward your limit.
The weather was good for a few days however; it now seems to be taunting us again. Looks like it will only last a couple of days though and then we should be back in to some nicer temps.

No fussy fish lately…
Fishing has been good this week, nice sixteen inch to nineteen inch eater walleyes, along with a twenty seven inch and twenty nine inch walleye and even a report of a 37 inch Northern Pike. The sand bars seem to be producing the best eater size fish, while the trophy fish have been found in the mud. Fishing has been best in twelve feet to twenty feet of water recently along the east and west bar and Little Oak. Presentation doesn’t seem to make a real big difference lately. Worms, minnows and leeches are all working the same in producing a nice limit. If you are looking for that trophy we suggest using a shad rap. Once we get back into warmer days, keep your eye on the rock reefs as the walleyes will be on the move. Talk with your guide about what type of fish you would like to catch and they will be sure to land you on the fish.

If you’re looking for trophies now is the time
The DNR says you have a 1 in 10 chance to catch a 10lb walleye on Lake of the Woods in July and August. Come on out and try your luck!

Take a Kid Fishing!
With school just around the corner, now is the time to take a little family time. How about fishing! Anyone of all ages can enjoy this wonderful sport and it offers a great chance for good family bonding time. No video games, shopping malls, or distractions.
No equipment is required; we supply the guide, boat, poles, bait, tackle and clean your fish. We know kids like to keep busy, after a half day of fishing plan on an island shore lunch. Great time to stretch your legs and get off the boat, let the kids run the beach all while enjoying a gourmet fish fry cooked right before your eyes. Sounds like a long lasting memory to me. After lunch, you’re off for more fun! Enjoy a dip in the indoor pool and hot tub, games in the game room, live entertainment, free fish for appetizers in the bar and beautiful riverside dining. That’s a lot, but not all! Check out our top website for the 25 things to do at Sportsman’s this summer for great family fun. See you at the lake!

Family Fun Discount!
For every child 16 and under that is on one of our fishing packages, at great kids rates of course, receive a free $25 Sportsman’s Lodge gift certificate to be used for food, beverages or gift shop items!

Enter to win!
2 nights lodging, 1 day charter fishing trip for TWO PEOPLE!! Contest ends Sept 1! Log on to sportsmanslodges.com and enter now!

Lake of the Woods Oak Island Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
www.oakislandlodge.com
800-772-8411

7/15/09

Great fishing continues….
Fishing has been great. One boat went out yesterday and caught a combination of 150 walleye and saugers! They had an absolute blast catching & releasing fish all day. Fishing has been best in 8′-20′ of water just near Little Oak, a short jaunt south of Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Jigging with minnows or leeches or crawlers with a gold crawler harness all are working well.
The weather has kicked up a bit with some wind and rain the past two days, but it looks like sunnier skies will be back by Saturday.

The Muskies are active!
We have been hearing lots of reports of incredible Muskie fishing this year. For some reason this started out even as early as May when people were fishing for walleyes. Give us a call and we will set you up with a seasoned guide that will give you an experience to remember. Pump up your arms, your going to need it!

Have a great week!
 

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Fishing Report 7/8

Posted on July 9, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Lodge

www.sportsmanslodges.com

800-862-8602


7/8/09


Fishing the best in 80 years!

Dan Carlson, one of our professional guides at Sportsman’s Lodge said fishing is so good that yesterday all he did was bait hooks all day long; he didn’t even have time to wet a line! True Story! The weather has been fabulous and the “catching” continues to stay absolutely superb! I talked with an old timers this week who has lived on the lake and fished for eighty years, he said this is the best walleye fishing that he has ever seen and the number of trophy fish he said is definitely the best he had ever seen.

100% Walleye Limit Guarantee!

Yes, you heard it right! Sportsman’s Lodge is guaranteeing you will get your limit of walleyes if you fish with one of our professional guides for a minimum of two days now thru Oct 31, 2009 or we will send you home with fish or credit your bill $10 per fish less than your limit. Fish eaten during your stay is counted toward your limit. Call us now to book your trip 800-862-8602.

Why is the fishing so good?

Well of course only the man upstairs really knows, but when consulting many officials, guides and long time anglers. They all say that a series of events over fifty year time frame have all played a part. The commercial netters being taken off the lake, pollution control, and now more recently in the past few years the reduction in the limit of walleyes from six to four new slot limit now enforced, no walleyes can be kept between 19.5”-28” and only one walleye can be kept over 28”. This still leaves room for four walleyes and four saugers per person to take home and plenty of trophy fish to be kept or caught & released. Along with great fishing, the number of trophy fish has been astonishing too. Lake of the Woods is the healthiest it has been in years and the future looks bright, so grab your shades and come on fishing!
 

Hungry walleyes await you!

Drifting in eight to thirteen feet of water in either mud or rocks is your best option right now in Big Traverse Bay. A gold crawler harness tipped with a fat worm has been best. Book a trip with one of our professional guides, they will land you right on the fish.

Time to bring the kids

If you are looking for a fun getaway with kids before school starts back in to session, fishing is a great activity for kids and all members of the family to enjoy. Come enjoy a beautiful day on the boat, fun fishing action, a stop for a noon shore lunch (your fish fried over an open flame right on the beach) for some beach fun and good food. After a fun day of fishing take a dip in the pool, play a game in the game room, have a little dinner in our riverside dining room and top it off with a little live entertainment in our Sandbar. We know kids like to stay busy, check out our website at www.sporstmanslodges.com for the “Top 25 things to do at Sportsman’s” to extend your stay after fishing. Here at Sportsman’s we have something for everyone at one of our three locations.

Hot Deal

$50 off & Free $25 Gift Certificate for you to use towards food, beverages or gift shop items when you book a two night two day fishing package or better on select dates now thru Oct 31, 2009. Get in on our Hook, Line & Sinker packages now log on to www.deals.fishsportsmans.com and reel in your limit of walleyes and a super deal!

Lake of the Woods NW Angle & Oak Island Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge

www.oakislandlodge.com

800-772-8411

7/8/09


The Fireworks woke up the fish

Wow! It must have been the fireworks that woke up the walleyes. Fishing has been great all year, but in the past recent days the fish have really kicked it up! The weather has been stable and in a look ahead to the forecast it looks like the next 10 days it will continue! Anglers have been catching many nice walleyes in the sand and rock bottoms around eighteen to twenty-two feet of water. A gold spinner, bright colored jig are the hot lures tipped with a leech or worm. Watch for the Muskie reports to start reeling in a few weeks when they start to really snap.

A limit of walleyes and plenty of eater walleyes between fourteen to nineteen inches are not hard to come by in a few days of fishing. Come for the fishing and stay for the fun on beautiful Oak Island, MN.

Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off

Aug 7 & 8, 2009
 

Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, “Island Style”

The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an “island style” Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team’s dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on “donate” then search by team with keyword “Oak Island”. Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge’s team this year is the Bobbie’s Bay Bobber’s. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman’s website shortly after the event.

Have a great week!

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Fishing Report 06/25

Posted on June 25, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Lodge

www.sportsmanslodges.com

800-862-8602

 

6/24/09

 

Great Weather! Great Fishing!

Eighty degrees, soft breeze, beautiful island scenery and lots of walleyes!! Good times! Another great week!

 

We started to see more hammered gold spinners then jigs leave the tackle shop this week and the bait is starting to change up as well, we are seeing more colors in the bait boxes from just the faithful old minnow to a mix of choices including crawlers and leeches. This week marks a start of a transition on the Lake of the Woods. This year it will be a slower transition than normal due to the lengthy cool weather we experienced this spring, but just like everything change is always the constant. The bait, the drifting technique and the move toward the rock bottoms and structure are all common changes that will take place in the upcoming weeks. We will continue to see plenty of good eater size fish between 14”-20”, but most likely around mid July the trophy walleyes will really start to be known. Trophy walleye season is in July and August, so if you’re looking for some BIG excitement be sure to plan your trip for those two months. Statistics show that of all the Minnesota lakes, you have a 1 in 10 chance to catch a 10lb plus walleye during the months of July & August on Lake of the Woods!

 

The best way to reel in a nice limit right now is to drift in the mud flats around 28’-33’ of water just outside the Lighthouse Gap approximately 15 miles from the Sportsman’s Lodge or on the South Shore areas of Lake of the Woods including Graceton Beach and Zippel Bay. The rock reefs will also be an attraction in some good fishing in the weeks to come as the water really starts to warm up.

 

Leave the hassles to us!

Sportsman’s Lodge offers no hassle, no equipment required fishing trips! We include the boat, experienced guide, poles, bait, tackle and clean you fish, we will even pack you a lunch or cook up a traditional island fish fry too! Come for the fun and not the work!

 

$50 off PLUS $25 Gift Certificate for you and your friends!

Awesome deals at Sportsman’s Lodge! Check out deals.fishsportsmans.com for this and more HOT DEALS!

 

4th of July Celebration

Come enjoy a good small town old fashion 4th of July this summer at Sportsman’s Lodge! Sportsman’s is just 12 miles north of Baudette, MN and boy does Baudette know how to celebrate Independence Day! Carnival, Parade, River Cruises, Spectacular fireworks display (best in 200 miles), kids games, entertainment, street dance and much more. Come celebrate at the lake! Go to sportsmanslodges.com for more info.

 

Family Fun in the north woods

Boating, fishing, indoor pool, live entertainment, river boat cruises, beach, golf, casino, museum, movie theater, state park, playground, festivals, and more. We have something for everyone! Check out our top 25 things to do this summer at Sportsman’s Lodges at www.sportsmanslodges.com

 

Railroad Daze

Rainy River just a short hop over the bridge to Canada from Baudette, MN (12 miles S of Sportsman’s Lodge) is hosting their annual Railroad Daze Celebration July 10-12.

Picnics, Scavenger Hunt, Auction, Slow Pitch Tournament, Dance, Flea Market, Classic Car Show, Magic Show, Monster Bingo and much more! Check out www.railraoddaze.ca for more info! Sportsman’s has rooms and cabins available for lodging needs!

 

Lake of the Woods NW Angle & Oak Island Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report

Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge

www.oakislandlodge.com

800-772-8411

 

6/24/09

 

Walleyes!

 

Plenty of walleyes hanging around waiting for you! Anglers are starting to move a little further out into more structure in the recent days, but their has been no changes in the fishing, that remains solid! 15’-22 of water just 4-5 miles out into the islands of the Northwest Angle have produced the best walleye catch rate this past week.

 

The hammered gold spinner with a minnow is still the bait of choice; however crawlers and leeches will soon be an item to have in the bait box soon. Many walleyes in the good eater size range of 14’-19” have been caught lately. Muskie season officially opened this past weekend, but normally the best Muskie season will be starting mid July right thru October. However we have heard lots of reports of some hungry Muskies following walleye presentations in the past week, so who knows now may be the time!

 

Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off

Aug 7 & 8, 2009

 

Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, “Island Style”

The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an “island style” Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team’s dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on “donate” then search by team with keyword “Oak Island”. Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge’s team this year is the Bobbie’s Bay Bobber’s. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman’s website shortly after the event.

 

Have a great week!
 

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Fishing Report 6/17

Posted on June 17, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report
Sportsman’s Lodge
www.sportsmanslodges.com
800-862-8602

6/17/09

100 fish per boat!

Another great week! 100 fish per boat per day is not uncommon and a nice 31” walleye was released and is waiting for you this week. I continue to brag about the fishing up here in the northland this year and it really is not a fish tale, this is true facts right from the dock pad. Watch our dock cam daily between 5pm -6pm and you will see for yourself the exceptional fishing we have to offer.

“Catching” is up as the technique starts to change

It really is nice to finally have some true summer weather. The temperatures are now in the “normal” range with high’s in the 70’s , we are finally starting to see the water temperature starting to warm up. This recent weather change has also started the best “catching” technique to change. Anglers are just starting to pull the anchor and do more drifting. We are also starting to use a few leeches and spinners come out of the tackle boxes compared to the consistent jig and minnow technique that we have used the past six weeks. The ideal depth continues to be between 24’-31’ just a six to fifteen mile ride from the Sportsman’s Lodge in Big Traverse Bay on Lake of the Woods. The catch has been mainly walleyes, but saugers and PERCH continue to round out the fish cooler at the end of the day. Yes, as I said last week the PERCH are biting! Twenty perch per boat has not been uncommon lately, one boat even boasted 34 perch & 42 walleyes (limit) a few days ago. They may be smaller than a walleye, but they keep you busy and pretty tasty too.

No more ties!

Don’t forget about dear old Dad! Sportsman’s has great fishing packages and gift certificates for your dad this Father’s Day. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21. Two nights lodging and one full day of guided fishing starting at only $185 per person plus tax.

4th of July Celebration

Come enjoy a good small town old fashion 4th of July this summer at Sportsman’s Lodge! Sportsman’s is just 12 miles north of Baudette, MN and boy does Baudette know how to celebrate Independence Day! Carnival, Parade, River Cruises, Spectacular fireworks display (best in 200 miles), kids games, entertainment, street dance and much more. Come celebrate at the lake!

$50 off & $25 Free Gift Certificate waiting for you!

The fishing is hot and so are the prices this summer! We have your $50 discount and a $25 gift certificate that can be used for food, beverages or gift shop items waiting for you. All you have to do is call and book a two night lodging, two days fishing package or better to claim on select dates this summer.

Family Fun in the north woods

Boating, fishing, indoor pool, live entertainment, river boat cruises, beach, golf, casino, museum, movie theater, state park, playground, festivals, and more. We have something for everyone! Check out our top 25 things to do this summer at Sportsman’s Lodges at www.sportsmanslodges.com

Lake of the Woods NW Angle & Oak Island Fishing, Outdoor & Area Information Report
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
www.oakislandlodge.com
800-772-8411

6/17/09

70 degree days, calm waters & plenty of walleyes!

Can’t beat the beautiful weather we have had lately! No empty stringers here! Anglers have been more than satisfied with the recent catch rate lately! Daily limits of walleyes, full bellies of fresh fried fish and catch & release has been exercised daily the past few weeks as angler’s continue to pull in the walleyes! We had one group that really found a hot spot this week, they were in by 10am to get more bait, wow!!

Jigs to spinners

Jigging with a minnow has been working well, but a few people are just starting to pull a spinner with a bright colored blade tipped with a night crawler too. The walleyes have been ranging in size from 18 -19 inches on the average, with many 24-26 inchers pulled in and released as well. The best fishing remains in close to Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge just within 5 miles. Reports of hooking into a nice northern pike, or a feisty small mouth bass has also been found in the daily fishing chatter. Call us up – some dates are still open. We’re just across the Lake – in a whole different world! Check out our "Adventure Packages!"

Annual Blueberry Festival & Chili Cook Off

Aug 7 & 8, 2009

Oak Island to host the Relay for Life, “Island Style”

The American Cancer Society, directed by Patti Swanson is planning an “island style” Relay for Life Aug 8. Luminaries are being sold for $10 in honor of a survivor or in memory of someone that was close to you that fought the battle with cancer. Instead of the traditional relay for life walk or run, many island teams are pulling together to raise money for this event and will unite to light luminaries and put them at the end of each team’s dock the evening of Aug 8. It will truly be a sight! Every dollar raised is a step closer to finding the cure! To donate, go to www.relayforlife.org/kittsonmn and click on “donate” then search by team with keyword “Oak Island”. Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge’s team this year is the Bobbie’s Bay Bobber’s. Aerial photos will be taken and posted on the Sportsman’s website shortly after the event.

Have a great week!

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Fishing Report 6/11

Posted on June 12, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore & Oak Island Fishing & Outdoor Report
Sportsman’s Lodges
Locations in Baudette & Oak Island
Lake of the Woods, MN
800-862-8602
www.sportsmanslodges.com
6/11/09

Ooooh, do I have phenomenal fishing information for you this week!
12 people catch 1,011 fish!!! The Ibberson party from parts of Minnesota and South Dakota, long time guests of the Sportsman’s Lodges (19 years) recently experienced the BEST FISHING EVER! Even though temps were 20 degrees below average, the fish were wild! The group was fishing for walleyes using brightly colored jigs and northern pike using spoons, but to their surprise also snagged a Muskie! This wasn’t a small Muskie either! 50.5 inches and 34 lbs! Wow! The interesting thing is this is not the first time this year this has happened! The Muskie population is hungry for anglers this season and can’t wait for the baits to start swimming June 20, the season open date. The Ibberson party of 12 people caught 1,011 fish in the 3 1/2 days they were at the lodge! Obviously most of them were released and only a limit for each person was kept, but the catch & release action was phenomenal! What a trip!

Isolated incident? No way!
May walleye opener started out with a bang this year and many guides are calling it the best they have seen in 15 years! Just this week several groups enjoyed fantastic fishing. The Olson Party, from Duluth, MN landed a 24", 27" & 29" walleyes all in the same day and had no problem filling a limit to bring home. Just yesterday another group fishing with our guide, Darryl had an awesome day too, plenty of good eater fish and 5 large fish between 22"-29" walleyes to round out their day. Another surprise lately has been the jumbo perch! Maybe they still think it is March with the cool temps we have had? You must think this is all a "fishing story", no it is the real deal and I have pictures to prove it! Check them out!
What is the secret? Well of course no one really will give up their "spot", only hiring a good guide from the Sportsman’s Lodges is your best bet, but I can tell you that fishing in 14′-18′ or 22′-26′ on the mud flats anchoring, using brightly colored jigs tipped with a chub minnow or emerald shiner have proven results lately. No equipment? No problem! Book one of our charter trips and we include everything for you! Come enjoy a day on the lake.

Fishing for savings in this down economy?
We have a deal for you! $50 off the regular package price & a Free $25 gift certificate for you to use for food, beverages or gift shop items during your stay. This great offer and much more are available on select dates all summer long at the Sportsman’s Lodge Rainy River location when you book a 2 nights lodging, 2 day fishing trip or better. So what are you waiting for, come and reel in the walleyes & the savings! Check us out on the web for more details at http://www.sportsmanslodges.com/ or call us to book your trip today 800-862-8602.
 

 

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Fishing Report 5/25

Posted on May 27, 2009 by sportsmans

Lake of the Woods South Shore Fishing & Outdoor Report

Sportsman’s Lodge

Baudette, MN

800-862-8602

www.sportsmanslodge.scom

5/27/09

The fishing is good, the weather is warming up, and it’s time to escape to the lake!

The walleyes have continued to be active and anglers are continuing to brag about the best fishing in years. As the spawning season comes to an end we are starting to see the fish move from the Rainy River to Lake of the Woods, just four miles away from Sportsman’s Lodge. The cooler temperature has been holding on, but it looks like the forecast for the days ahead are calling for 70′s and sunshine! Summer will finally be here!

Many walleyes slot size and larger are still prominent as well as plenty of keepers to fill out a limit in a day or two. What is the lucky presentation & technique? Brightly colored 3/8 – ½ oz jigs tipped with a chub either drifting or anchoring. No equipment or experience? No problem! We have it all ready and waiting, jump on one of our 27′ Sports craft with one of our experienced guides where the poles, bait, tackle are all ready to go.

   

The view…

The leaves are finally starting to show their faces this week. Come and watch summer unfold on beautiful Lake of the Woods.

Morel Mushrooms & Asparagus Anyone?

The morel mushrooms & wild asparagus are just starting to pop up this week. This season usually only lasts a week or two so don’t miss out! Come & explore the 66,000 acres of Beltrami State Forest just outside our back door.

Morel Mushroom Recipe

Rinse with water & pat dry. Cut in half. Roll mushroom in egg & then in flour. Fry to a golden brown in butter. Salt to taste. Enjoy!

Lake of the Woods Northwest Angle & Oak Island Fishing & Outdoor Report

Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge

Oak Island, MN

800-772-8411

www.sportsmanslodges.com

Fishing is HOT! HOT! HOT!

Check out these recent pictures from a group that recently enjoyed some phenomenal fishing with "Flip" one of our experienced guides. The early season bite has been nothing short of hot, hot, hot! The walleyes remain in close to Oak Island just a few miles away from the Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. The best presentation has been 3/8 oz gold, pink or orange jigs tipped with a chub minnow. Anchoring or Drifting techniques have both done well. Lots of nice fish being brought in daily, come enjoy some fun!

The view…

The trees are just starting to get their leaves and the landscape is finally starting to really green up. There is nothing better than enjoying your morning coffee on the deck at Oak Island listening to the birds chirp and looking at the beautiful island scenery as an eagle lands on the bay. Oak Island is a true north woods beauty, come experience the area today.

No more ties!

Father’s Day is just around the corner! Get Dad what he really wants, a fishing trip! On a budget? We have gift cards too! Packages starting at just $204 per person (plus tax) for 2 nights lodging and meals.
 

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