How to Fish Lake of the Woods (CA): Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake of the Woods (CA)

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Jun 12, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake of the Woods (CA)

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	39-55	Smallmouth bass transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging locations, actively feeding but still temperature dependent Fish gathering around boulder fields in 8-15 feet, showing increased activity as water temperatures rise above 50°F	Boulder fields in 8-15 feet of water Main lake points with rock structure Offshore humps with access to deeper water	Damiki Rig suspended above fish in colder conditions (sub-45°F) Ned Rigs worked slowly around boulders Swim Jigs slow-rolled over structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish and minnows	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	45-55	Pre-spawn walleyes are actively moving towards rocky spawning areas, with increased feeding activity in 8-12 feet of water over boulder fields Fish are transitioning between shallow rocky areas and adjacent deeper water (20-40 feet), suggesting daily movement patterns based on light and temperature	Boulder fields and rocky areas in 8-12 feet of water Transitional areas between shallow rocks and deeper water (20-40 feet) Rocky points and shorelines near spawning areas	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly over rocks in 8-12 feet Live Bait Rigs with minnows in 20-40 feet Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along transitional areas	Yellow Perch Shiners	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-62	Pre-spawn bass are transitioning from winter depths to spawning areas, following migration routes along points and channel edges Fish are beginning to feed more actively as water warms, with aggressive feeding periods during stable weather	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays Channel edges adjacent to spawning flats in 8-12 feet	Lipless Crankbaits worked through emerging vegetation Hard Jerkbaits worked slowly along points and channel edges Bladed Jigs around sparse vegetation and transitional areas	Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas Crawfish becoming more active as water warms	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Pre-spawn muskies are beginning to move from winter deep-water haunts to transitional structures, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are starting to feed more aggressively to recover energy from winter and prepare for spawning, particularly targeting larger forage like walleye and perch	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with boulder fields Shallow bays with emerging vegetation near deep-water access Wind-blown shorelines where currents concentrate baitfish	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along transition areas Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along points and structure edges Inline Spinners retrieved at moderate speeds in shallower areas as waters warm	Walleye moving shallow for their own spawn Yellow Perch schooling near emerging vegetation Suckers beginning their spring spawning runs	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	38-48	Moving from deep winter haunts (25+ ft) to transitional structure in 15-20 ft range as water warms Staging in loose schools near spawning areas, actively feeding to prepare for spawn Most active during morning and evening hours, following baitfish movements	Rocky points and boulder fields in 15-20 ft adjacent to spawning bays Transition areas where coontail meets deeper structure Submerged humps with mixed rock and vegetation in 18-25 ft	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Small crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bloodworms in softer bottom areas Juvenile perch in and around vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-48	Pre-spawn pike are staging near spawning areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for reproduction Fish are moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning zones, particularly focused on wind-blown sides of reed beds Aggressive feeding behavior during warming trends, with pike actively pursuing prey in emerging vegetation	Reed bed edges and emerging vegetation in 2-6 foot depths Wind-blown shorelines with direct access to deeper water Protected bays and coves with early-warming water	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along reed edges and through emerging vegetation Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near vegetation transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily through staging areas	Perch congregating in pre-spawn locations Various minnow species moving shallow with warming water Young-of-year baitfish from previous season	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-62	Smallmouth bass transitioning to spawning areas, primarily focused on pre-spawn staging and spawning activities in 8-15 foot depths Males actively preparing and guarding nests while females move between deeper staging areas and shallow spawning flats Aggressive territorial behavior around nesting sites, with feeding occurring opportunistically	Protected shallow bays with boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range Main lake points adjacent to spawning bays serving as staging areas Rock islands and shallow boulder fields providing optimal spawning habitat	Tubes worked slowly around boulder fields and spawning areas Ned Rigs fished with subtle presentations near staging points Drop Shot with finesse presentations for wary pre-spawn fish	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small yellow perch in staging areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	45-55	Moving into shallow rocky areas (8-12 feet) for spawning, with peak activity during lower light conditions given the northern latitude Pre and post-spawn fish staging near adjacent deeper water breaks, actively feeding to build energy reserves	Rocky shorelines and boulder areas in 8-12 feet depth Tributary mouths and river channels where spawning occurs Adjacent deeper breaks in 15-20 feet where pre/post spawn fish stage	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along rocky transitions Blade Baits worked vertically on staging areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow presentations	Yellow Perch concentrated in spawning areas Shiners moving through tributary systems Small baitfish gathering in warming shallows	Chartreuse Colors Natural Perch Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Largemouth bass moving into shallow spawning areas 2-6 feet deep, particularly in protected bays and coves with firm bottom Males actively guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning waves Increased aggression and territorial behavior around spawning sites, especially during stable weather	Protected shallow bays with coontail vegetation and firm bottom Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water escape routes	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked slowly around visible beds and cover Soft Jerkbaits worked with subtle twitches near spawning areas Wacky Rigs fished with dead-stick presentation near bedding areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small perch in shallow vegetation Juvenile bluegill in spawning areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	48-65	During spawn, muskies are moving into shallow bays and areas with vegetation, typically staging near spawning areas in 5-15 feet of water Post-spawn females begin actively feeding to recover energy, while males guard nesting areas Fish become more active as water temperatures rise, with feeding increasing during warming trends	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning bays Wind-blown shorelines with structure, particularly those warming fastest in spring	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly near spawning areas Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily along emerging weed edges Inline Spinners for covering water and triggering reaction strikes	Perch congregating in shallow spawning areas Walleye in transitional areas between shallow and deep water Various smaller fish utilizing emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	38-52	Yellow perch are transitioning to spawning areas in shallow bays and around vegetation, typically gathering in large schools Fish are actively feeding pre and post-spawn, with increased activity during warmer parts of the day Males arrive first at spawning areas, followed by larger females	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation and coontail in 4-12 feet Transition areas between spawning bays and deeper water in 12-18 feet Areas near boulder fields and humps that provide staging areas	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms worked slowly near bottom Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs tipped with soft plastics Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through spawning areas	Small invertebrates and insects emerging with spring warmup Smaller baitfish and juvenile perch Bloodworms and small crayfish near bottom structure	Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-52	Moving into shallow spawning areas near reed beds and vegetation, particularly active on wind-blown sides Post-spawn fish staging near spawning areas, actively feeding to recover energy Highly territorial and aggressive during spawning period, defending nesting areas	Reed beds and shallow vegetated bays with emerging vegetation Wind-blown points adjacent to spawning areas Shallow bays with direct access to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through and around reed beds Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near vegetation Live Bait Rigs with large minnows for post-spawn fish	Spawning perch in shallow areas Shallow water minnows Young of the year panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding and utilizing shallow boulder fields as primary holding areas, taking advantage of rock shade lines for ambush points Fish are showing preference for bottom-oriented presentations, suggesting a focus on crawfish forage during this transition period	Shallow boulder fields in 5-15 foot depth range, especially those with good sun exposure creating shade lines Main lake points with scattered rock and boulder structure Transition areas between spawning bays and summer locations featuring rock or boulder structure	Ned Rigs worked slowly around boulders and rock structure Drop Shot with smaller profile baits targeting shade lines Tubes dragged and hopped through boulder fields	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small perch around rocky areas Juvenile baitfish beginning to school	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	55-68	Walleye are transitioning to deeper structure post-spawn, with reports showing successful catches in 20+ feet using trolling techniques Fish are actively feeding on minnows, with a recent report showing a significant 28-inch catch during a trolling session Activity patterns suggest fish are holding on or near submerged vegetation, likely using these areas as transition zones between spawning and summer locations	Deep edges of submerged vegetation in 20+ feet of water Rocky structures transitioning from shallow to deep water (8-12 feet dropping to 20+ feet) Main lake humps in 20-27 foot range	Trolling Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+)	Minnows Yellow Perch	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn largemouth are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between shallow cover and adjacent deeper water Fish are establishing summer patterns, relating heavily to emerging weed growth and utilizing the extensive shoreline cover for ambush points	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 feet adjacent to spawning bays Secondary points with coontail growth in 2-6 feet Protected shallow coves with developing vegetation	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around emerging vegetation and cover Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges and points Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly over developing weed beds	Perch concentrating around newly established weed growth Crawfish active in warming shallows and around rocky areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	52-65	Recovering from spawn, muskies are beginning to actively feed but still conserving energy, often setting up in predictable ambush locations Fish are following typical post-spawn patterns, moving between shallow and moderate depths as they track warming water temperatures and forage movement	Boulder fields adjacent to spawning bays where fish stage during post-spawn recovery Emerging weed edges in 8-15 foot depths near points and structural transitions Wind-blown points and shorelines where current positions forage fish	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along structure edges Spinnerbaits retrieved at moderate speeds parallel to emerging weed edges Trolling Shallow (0-9') along wind-blown structure and points	Perch congregating near boulder fields and emerging vegetation Walleye in transitional areas between spawning locations and summer habitat Various baitfish species moving shallow as water warms	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	48-62	Post-spawn perch transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper structure, actively feeding to recover energy Schools becoming more concentrated around transition areas between weeds and deeper structure Feeding patterns increasing during morning and evening hours, with periodic activity throughout the day	Weed edges and coontail beds in 8-15 feet of water Boulder and hump transitions in 15-25 feet of water Protected bays with emerging vegetation in 5-12 feet	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) Live Bait Rigs	Small invertebrates and insect larvae Juvenile baitfish Small crawfish	Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	48-62	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, congregating along reed edges and utilizing wind-blown areas for ambush opportunities Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior in shallow waters, particularly responding to flash and movement of spoons and swimbaits	Reed beds on wind-blown shorelines, especially in bays and points Shallow vegetated areas near spawning locations Complex shoreline areas with emerging weed growth	Spoons worked with an aggressive retrieve along reed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to vegetation Inline Spinners cast into wind-blown areas	Minnows concentrating in shallow areas Perch moving through reed edges	Metallic Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	68-76	Active feeding on rocky structures during warmer water periods (68-76°F), showing aggressive pursuit of prey especially during morning and evening periods Utilizing boulder fields as primary feeding zones, moving between shallow and slightly deeper areas based on sun and temperature Showing strong reaction strikes to fast-moving baits, indicating active feeding behavior and good visibility conditions	Shallow boulder fields (8-15 feet) especially those adjacent to deeper water Wind-blown main lake points with rock or boulder structure Rock islands with associated laydowns and submerged boulders	Ned Rigs worked slowly around boulders for better quality fish Fast-retrieved Lipless Crankbaits and Spinnerbaits for reaction strikes Drop Shot on wind-blown points, especially when fish are mixing with walleyes Topwater presentations during morning and evening periods over boulder fields	Crawfish - primary forage evidenced by multiple successful presentations mimicking crawfish Minnows - secondary forage especially around rock islands and points	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	68-75	Walleyes are holding on main lake humps and deeper structure during peak summer temperatures, with most active feeding during evening hours (6-7 PM noted in reports) Fish are showing preference for specific depth ranges (20-27 feet on humps, 15-30 feet along shorelines) and responding well to slow-moving live bait presentations	Main lake humps in 20-27 feet of water Deep shoreline breaks in 15-30 feet Rocky reefs with adjacent deep water access	Live Bait Rigs with 1/4 oz jigs tipped with minnows Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along shoreline breaks Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) on main lake humps	Minnows (primary forage based on recent success with live bait) Yellow Perch (indicated by lake profile as primary forage base)	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	70-75	Actively feeding in and around heavy vegetation, especially during overcast conditions, with aggressive strikes on prey around ambush points Maintaining position in 2-10 foot depth range near abundant cover, moving shallower during cloudy periods Exhibiting peak feeding activity with optimal metabolism in 70-75°F water temperatures	Dense coontail and weed beds in 2-10 foot depth range Dock areas with adjacent vegetation Rocky points with nearby weed growth	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) with heavy braid in thick cover Bladed Jigs ripped through deep coontail, especially effective on overcast days Swim Jigs worked through vegetation edges	Perch active in and around weed beds Crawfish utilizing rocky areas and vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Muskie	68-78	Muskies actively patrolling weed edges and transitional areas between shallow and deep water Fish become more active during low light conditions and on wind-blown areas Suspending near baitfish schools in open water during peak summer periods	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake structure Wind-blown points with boulder fields Main lake humps with nearby deep water access	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and structure breaks Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked through suspended baitfish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) near boulder fields and points	Yellow Perch concentrated around weed edges Walleye as opportunistic forage around structure Various baitfish schools suspending in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	65-75	Yellow perch forming loose schools around deep weed edges and boulder-strewn areas, actively feeding during morning and evening periods Seeking thermal refuge in deeper water (18-25ft) during mid-day heat, moving shallower during prime feeding periods	Weed edges and coontail beds in 12-18 feet of water adjacent to deeper water Boulder and hump structures in 18-32 feet, especially where they intersect with weed edges Transition areas between weeds and rock structure where smaller prey fish concentrate	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with light jigs tipped with live bait around weed edges Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly near bottom structure Live Bait Rigs with slip bobbers during morning and evening feeding periods	Small crayfish around boulder areas and weed edges Juvenile perch and small baitfish in weed beds Aquatic insects around vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	65-78	Pike are actively following perch and baitfish schools in deeper water, using submerged weed edges and main lake humps as ambush points During early morning and evening, pike move shallower to feed in coontail beds and weed edges On windy days, pike position on windward structure for aggressive feeding opportunities	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake structure (15-25 feet) Main lake humps with nearby deep water access Coontail beds in 8-15 foot ranges Wind-blown points with good baitfish activity	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges with consistent speed Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended fish Spinnerbaits burned through shallow weeds during low light periods Spoons worked vertically through baitfish schools	Perch schooling along deep weed edges Baitfish schools suspended over main lake structure Small pike and panfish in weed beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Green Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake of the Woods (CA)

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding on perch in deeper water (18-22 feet), particularly around isolated boulder structures, as they build energy reserves for winter Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior, striking baits on the fall, indicating an active fall feeding pattern	Isolated big boulders in 18-22 feet of water, especially on main lake humps Deep rock-to-sand transitions near main lake points Offshore boulder fields adjacent to deeper wintering areas	Damiki Rig with precise 20-30 foot pitches, allowing bait to fall naturally Drop Shot with small profile baits mimicking perch Soft Jerkbaits worked with a falling presentation	Perch - primary forage during fall transition Crawfish - still available but becoming secondary as fish transition to larger forage	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Walleye	52-62	Actively feeding on perch and shiners in deeper water (18-32 feet), with increased activity around main lake humps and deep structure Beginning fall migration patterns influenced by shiner runs in tributary systems, showing both deep main lake and transitional movements	Main lake humps in 18-32 foot range with boulder structure Deep water areas 24-27 feet on south end of lake Tributary mouth areas where shiners are running	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with underspin rigs Trolling Deep (20'+) with leadcore Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along deep structure	Perch - primary forage currently being targeted by walleyes Shiners - becoming more prevalent with fall runs beginning Other Baitfish - typical of deep structure areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	55-68	Actively feeding on baitfish and crawfish to build up reserves for winter, following baitfish schools into shallower bays and coves Moving between deep weedlines and adjacent shallow areas, particularly during low-light periods and overcast conditions Becoming more aggressive as water temperatures cool, with peak activity during stable weather patterns	Deep weedline edges adjacent to shallow feeding flats (6-12 feet) Protected bays with remaining green vegetation Secondary points leading into major bays Shallow wood cover in 2-6 feet of water near deeper access	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weedlines and through scattered vegetation Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting remaining thick vegetation Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around points and flats Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for actively feeding fish chasing baitfish schools	Yellow Perch schooling in bays and along weedlines Crawfish active in remaining vegetation Various baitfish species schooling in the shallows	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	55-68	Muskies are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior in shallower zones, particularly around structural elements, as they bulk up for winter Fish are showing a preference for surface-oriented prey, with reports indicating successful topwater patterns Activity levels peak during wind-blown conditions, using structural elements like points and brush piles as ambush locations	Main lake points, especially those with adjacent deep water access Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water Wind-blown shorelines with boulder fields	Hard Topwater (Prop) - work aggressively near structure during low light periods Inline Spinners - retrieved at varying speeds around brush piles and points Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) - worked along deeper edges of structure	Perch - primary forage base confirmed by lake reports Walleye - abundant population provides larger forage option Surface-oriented baitfish - targeted during topwater feeding periods	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	45-58	Yellow Perch are schooling heavily during fall, feeding aggressively as they prepare for winter. They are following baitfish movements and relating strongly to deep structure transitions. Fish are making daily movements between deeper main lake structure (18-32 ft) and adjacent shallower feeding zones, particularly around boulder and hump areas.	Deep boulder fields and humps in 18-32 ft adjacent to feeding flats Outer edges of dying weed beds where they meet clean bottom Main lake points and structural transitions where baitfish congregate	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Drop Shot	Young-of-year perch Small crawfish Bloodworms	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	45-62	Pike are following large schools of perch and other baitfish as they move to deeper structure, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter Aggressive feeding patterns during overcast days and lower light conditions, particularly near remaining weed edges and points	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points where vegetation meets deeper water (15-25 feet) Wind-blown points with access to deep water and remaining green vegetation Main lake humps and structures near baitfish schools in 20-30 foot ranges	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges and through suspended baitfish schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large profile baits parallel to weed edges Spoons worked vertically through baitfish schools when pike are holding deeper	Large schools of yellow perch moving to deeper structure Various baitfish species congregating in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	45-52	Walleye actively feeding during low-light conditions, staging near deep structure during daylight hours Fish concentrating on main lake humps and deep rocky structures in 20-27 foot range	Main lake humps in 20-27 foot range with boulder structure Deep rocky points transitioning to offshore structure Deep basin areas adjacent to structural elements	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Trolling Deep (20'+)	Yellow Perch concentrating in deep water Shiners schooling near structure	Chartreuse Colors Natural Perch Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-48	Late fall/early winter muskies are actively feeding to build up reserves, often following large schools of perch and walleye near deep structure transitions Fish become more concentrated around key structural elements that hold baitfish, making location more predictable but requiring precise presentation	Deep boulder fields adjacent to main lake points where perch and walleye concentrate Main lake humps near deep water access that provide vertical structure for baitfish schools Wind-blown points with remaining vegetation that concentrate baitfish	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with large soft plastics worked slowly around baitfish schools Trolling Deep (20'+) along structure edges where baitfish are present Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked methodically through baitfish concentrations	Perch congregating in large winter schools near structure Walleye utilizing similar deep structure areas Remaining baitfish schools condensing near primary structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	34-39	Schools of perch actively feeding around deep structure transitions between 18-32 feet, particularly near boulder fields and humps Fish remain relatively stationary in deeper water during daylight hours, becoming more active during low-light periods	Main lake humps and boulder fields in 18-32 foot depth range Transitions between deep structure and weed edges Deep water adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Small crawfish around boulder fields Bloodworms in deeper areas Juvenile perch in schools	Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	39-45	Pike are actively feeding on perch and other baitfish in mid-depth ranges (15-25 feet) near edges of main lake structures Fish are following schools of perch and concentrating around underwater points and humps that provide ambush opportunities	Main lake humps and underwater points in 15-25 foot depth range Deep weed edges adjacent to deeper water Transition areas between shallow flats and deep basin areas	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Spoons	Perch concentrated in deeper water Large schools of baitfish Suspended cisco in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	32-34	Walleye holding on deep main lake humps and structure, particularly around 23-foot depths as evidenced by recent catch reports Fish showing preference for jigging presentations with spoons, likely relating to typical winter feeding patterns focused on suspended baitfish	Main lake humps in 20-27 foot range, especially those with access to deeper water Deep rocky structure areas holding baitfish schools Transition areas between humps and adjacent basins where baitfish suspend	Ice Fishing Spoons, particularly flutter-style presentations as mentioned in successful reports Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with live bait for slower presentations Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along structure edges to intercept actively feeding fish	Emerald Shiners, as specifically mentioned in recent success Shad schools suspended near structure Yellow Perch relating to bottom structure	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	32-34	Perch are congregating in deeper water (around 25 ft) during the cold winter period, showing finicky but active feeding patterns near bottom structure Fish are responding well to subtle movements, requiring minimal jigging action (6 inches off bottom) due to cold front conditions	Deep main lake structure (humps and boulders) in 18-32 ft range Transition areas between deep structure and remaining vegetation in 20-25 ft Deep basin areas adjacent to structure in 25-30 ft	Ice Fishing Spoons with subtle 6-inch jigging motion Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly near bottom Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set just off bottom in deeper holes	Small crawfish in winter patterns Bloodworms near bottom structure Small baitfish relating to deep structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-35	Pike are typically suspended 1-3 feet below the ice near key structure, actively feeding during prime dawn/dusk periods Following perch schools in mid-depth basins and transitional areas between deep and shallow water	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins (15-25 feet) Points and inside turns near reed bed areas (8-15 feet) Main lake humps with nearby deep water access	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large dead baits or live suckers Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for finesse presentation	Yellow Perch schools congregating in mid-depth basins Cisco/Tullibees suspending over deeper water Small panfish near remaining weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake of the Woods (CA)

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields in 8-15 feet of water	Main lake points with rock structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Boulder fields and rocky areas in 8-12 feet of water	Transitional areas between shallow rocks and deeper water (20-40 feet)
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with boulder fields	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation near deep-water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Rocky points and boulder fields in 15-20 ft adjacent to spawning bays	Transition areas where coontail meets deeper structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed bed edges and emerging vegetation in 2-6 foot depths	Wind-blown shorelines with direct access to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range	Main lake points adjacent to spawning bays serving as staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky shorelines and boulder areas in 8-12 feet depth	Tributary mouths and river channels where spawning occurs
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with coontail vegetation and firm bottom	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access	Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation and coontail in 4-12 feet	Transition areas between spawning bays and deeper water in 12-18 feet
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed beds and shallow vegetated bays with emerging vegetation	Wind-blown points adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow boulder fields in 5-15 foot depth range, especially those with good sun exposure creating shade lines	Main lake points with scattered rock and boulder structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Deep edges of submerged vegetation in 20+ feet of water	Rocky structures transitioning from shallow to deep water (8-12 feet dropping to 20+ feet)
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 feet adjacent to spawning bays	Secondary points with coontail growth in 2-6 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Boulder fields adjacent to spawning bays where fish stage during post-spawn recovery	Emerging weed edges in 8-15 foot depths near points and structural transitions
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Weed edges and coontail beds in 8-15 feet of water	Boulder and hump transitions in 15-25 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed beds on wind-blown shorelines, especially in bays and points	Shallow vegetated areas near spawning locations
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow boulder fields (8-15 feet) especially those adjacent to deeper water	Wind-blown main lake points with rock or boulder structure
Summer	Walleye	Main lake humps in 20-27 feet of water	Deep shoreline breaks in 15-30 feet
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Dense coontail and weed beds in 2-10 foot depth range	Dock areas with adjacent vegetation
Summer	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake structure	Wind-blown points with boulder fields
Summer	Yellow Perch	Weed edges and coontail beds in 12-18 feet of water adjacent to deeper water	Boulder and hump structures in 18-32 feet, especially where they intersect with weed edges
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake structure (15-25 feet)	Main lake humps with nearby deep water access
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Isolated big boulders in 18-22 feet of water, especially on main lake humps	Deep rock-to-sand transitions near main lake points
Fall	Walleye	Main lake humps in 18-32 foot range with boulder structure	Deep water areas 24-27 feet on south end of lake
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedline edges adjacent to shallow feeding flats (6-12 feet)	Protected bays with remaining green vegetation
Fall	Muskie	Main lake points, especially those with adjacent deep water access	Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water
Fall	Yellow Perch	Deep boulder fields and humps in 18-32 ft adjacent to feeding flats	Outer edges of dying weed beds where they meet clean bottom
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points where vegetation meets deeper water (15-25 feet)	Wind-blown points with access to deep water and remaining green vegetation
Winter	Walleye	Main lake humps in 20-27 foot range with boulder structure	Deep rocky points transitioning to offshore structure
Winter	Muskie	Deep boulder fields adjacent to main lake points where perch and walleye concentrate	Main lake humps near deep water access that provide vertical structure for baitfish schools
Winter	Yellow Perch	Main lake humps and boulder fields in 18-32 foot depth range	Transitions between deep structure and weed edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Main lake humps and underwater points in 15-25 foot depth range	Deep weed edges adjacent to deeper water
Ice	Walleye	Main lake humps in 20-27 foot range, especially those with access to deeper water	Deep rocky structure areas holding baitfish schools
Ice	Yellow Perch	Deep main lake structure (humps and boulders) in 18-32 ft range	Transition areas between deep structure and remaining vegetation in 20-25 ft
Ice	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins (15-25 feet)	Points and inside turns near reed bed areas (8-15 feet)

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish and minnows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Yellow Perch	Shiners
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas	Crawfish becoming more active as water warms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Walleye moving shallow for their own spawn	Yellow Perch schooling near emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bloodworms in softer bottom areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Perch congregating in pre-spawn locations	Various minnow species moving shallow with warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small yellow perch in staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Yellow Perch concentrated in spawning areas	Shiners moving through tributary systems
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small perch in shallow vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Perch congregating in shallow spawning areas	Walleye in transitional areas between shallow and deep water
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small invertebrates and insects emerging with spring warmup	Smaller baitfish and juvenile perch
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Spawning perch in shallow areas	Shallow water minnows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small perch around rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows	Yellow Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Perch concentrating around newly established weed growth	Crawfish active in warming shallows and around rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Perch congregating near boulder fields and emerging vegetation	Walleye in transitional areas between spawning locations and summer habitat
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small invertebrates and insect larvae	Juvenile baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Minnows concentrating in shallow areas	Perch moving through reed edges
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish - primary forage evidenced by multiple successful presentations mimicking crawfish	Minnows - secondary forage especially around rock islands and points
Summer	Walleye	Minnows (primary forage based on recent success with live bait)	Yellow Perch (indicated by lake profile as primary forage base)
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Perch active in and around weed beds	Crawfish utilizing rocky areas and vegetation
Summer	Muskie	Yellow Perch concentrated around weed edges	Walleye as opportunistic forage around structure
Summer	Yellow Perch	Small crayfish around boulder areas and weed edges	Juvenile perch and small baitfish in weed beds
Summer	Northern Pike	Perch schooling along deep weed edges	Baitfish schools suspended over main lake structure
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Perch - primary forage during fall transition	Crawfish - still available but becoming secondary as fish transition to larger forage
Fall	Walleye	Perch - primary forage currently being targeted by walleyes	Shiners - becoming more prevalent with fall runs beginning
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Yellow Perch schooling in bays and along weedlines	Crawfish active in remaining vegetation
Fall	Muskie	Perch - primary forage base confirmed by lake reports	Walleye - abundant population provides larger forage option
Fall	Yellow Perch	Young-of-year perch	Small crawfish
Fall	Northern Pike	Large schools of yellow perch moving to deeper structure	Various baitfish species congregating in deeper water
Winter	Walleye	Yellow Perch concentrating in deep water	Shiners schooling near structure
Winter	Muskie	Perch congregating in large winter schools near structure	Walleye utilizing similar deep structure areas
Winter	Yellow Perch	Small crawfish around boulder fields	Bloodworms in deeper areas
Winter	Northern Pike	Perch concentrated in deeper water	Large schools of baitfish
Ice	Walleye	Emerald Shiners, as specifically mentioned in recent success	Shad schools suspended near structure
Ice	Yellow Perch	Small crawfish in winter patterns	Bloodworms near bottom structure
Ice	Northern Pike	Yellow Perch schools congregating in mid-depth basins	Cisco/Tullibees suspending over deeper water

Bait Colors by Season for Lake of the Woods (CA)

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Craw Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Perch Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Metallic Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Green Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Perch Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	Vibrant Craw Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors