Lake of the Woods MN Fishing Report 12/23/2025

 4 days ago by Chris Munchow 

Modified Dec 23rd, 2025 at 1:58 PM

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report

Ice Fishing Conditions, Ice Roads & Bite Update

Lake of the Woods, Minnesota is off to an outstanding start to the ice fishing season. Strong early ice, improving travel conditions, and excellent fishing reports are coming in from the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Resorts are open, fish houses are out, and anglers are enjoying some of the best early ice fishing anywhere in the Midwest.

South Shore Ice Fishing Report – Ice Roads Improving, Fishing Excellent

Ice conditions along the South Shore of Lake of the Woods are progressing nicely. While ice thickness varies by location, some resort-maintained ice roads are now allowing ½-ton pickups. Weight limits vary by road, so anglers should always check directly with their resort or outfitter for current travel recommendations.

Fishing remains very good with a mixed bag of:

  • Walleyes
  • Saugers
  • Jumbo perch
  • Eelpout
  • Occasional northern pike

Most fish are being caught in 23 to 28 feet of water.

Lake of the Woods is a massive body of water, and ice expands and contracts with temperature changes. Resorts and outfitters check ice daily, maintain ice roads and trails, and provide the safest access. Traveling through a resort is strongly recommended rather than venturing out independently.

Best Ice Fishing Presentations on Lake of the Woods

The classic Lake of the Woods one-two punch continues to be the most productive approach:

Jigging Line

  • Small to medium jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head or tail
  • Rippin’ Raps
  • Jig and minnow combinations
  • Light-up lures are producing very well

Deadstick Line

  • Plain hook or small ice jig
  • Live minnow set 6 inches to 2 feet off the bottom

Best Ice Fishing Colors

These colors continue to shine in the stained waters of Lake of the Woods:

  • Gold
  • Pink
  • Glow red
  • Glow white
  • Firetiger

Rainy River Ice Fishing Report – Ice Thickening, Work Through an Outfitter

Ice conditions on the Rainy River are continuing to improve as cold weather settles in. Because river current creates variable ice thickness, anglers should always work through a Rainy River outfitter for safe access.

Those fishing with resorts are reporting:

  • Good walleye action
  • Ongoing lake sturgeon activity

Safety remains the top priority on the Rainy River.

Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report – Resorts Open, Strong Early Bite

Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle has started out strong. Many resorts are now open, fish houses are being placed, and early-season fishing has been very productive.

Anglers are catching:

  • Walleyes
  • Saugers
  • Perch
  • Northern pike

In addition, some very nice crappies are being caught when working through Northwest Angle resorts, particularly when fishing the Ontario side among island areas.

Resorts continue to check ice daily, mark safe travel routes, and provide access to productive fishing locations.

Ice Fishing Safety on Lake of the Woods

No matter where you fish, always remember:

  • Ice conditions vary from area to area
  • Work through a resort or outfitter
  • Stay on marked ice roads and trails
  • Follow posted weight limits
  • Do not venture off on your own

There are plenty of fish where resorts are placing their houses. Let the professionals handle ice safety so you can focus on fishing.

Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Outlook

With continued cold temperatures in the forecast, ice conditions will keep improving across the lake. Early ice fishing on Lake of the Woods has started out excellent, and December traditionally offers some of the best fishing of the entire winter season.

For trip planning, lodging, and up-to-date ice fishing information, visit:
👉 https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/ice-fishing/

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