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

Lake of the Woods (US)

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Jun 11, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake of the Woods (US)

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	33-40	Pre-spawn walleyes are actively moving into river channels and staging areas, with fish relating heavily to current breaks and channel edges Fish showing moderate to aggressive feeding behavior despite cold water, particularly responsive to slow-rolling and bottom-contact presentations	River channel edges and breaks, particularly where shallow flats meet deeper water in 12-18 foot range Current seams and eddies adjacent to main river channel Shoreline breaks in river systems where fish stage during pre-spawn movement	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with 3/8-1/2oz jigs, working edges of channel breaks Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) trolled upstream at 0.3-1.0 mph Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') on three-way rigs with 2-3oz weights and 5-6ft leaders	Minnows and shiners concentrated in river systems Small suckers moving into spawning areas	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	55-58	Pre-spawn pike actively staging in and around reed beds, making aggressive feeding movements to build energy reserves before spawning Fish are showing classic spawning migration patterns, concentrating in predictable shallow locations with emergent vegetation	Reed beds and cattail areas in shallow bays Points and coves with emerging vegetation Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas	Inline Spinners worked through and along reed edges Spinnerbaits parallel to emergent vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves	Cisco/Whitefish schools Shallow water baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Burbot	38-45	Burbot are transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to slightly shallower feeding areas, remaining most active during low-light periods Fish are staging near deep-to-shallow transitions and structural elements, preparing for post-spawn dispersal	Deep basin edges transitioning to shallower flats in 25-35 feet Rocky points and humps adjacent to deep water basins Offshore structural elements 3-4.5 miles from shore where reported winter catches occurred	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Large Hair Jigs (Preacher)	Cisco/Whitefish Emerald Shiners	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	33-40	Pre-spawn sturgeon are actively moving through river channels, staging in deeper holes and channel breaks while migrating towards spawning areas Fish are feeding primarily by scent, particularly active during this pre-spawn period as they build energy reserves	Upstream sections of deeper holes in river channels (14-18 ft) Edges and bottom sides of river channel holes Soft-bottom areas along migration routes	Live Bait Rigs with 3-4oz flat no-roll weights, heavy swivel, and 5/0 circle hook on 12-inch fluorocarbon leader Live Bait Rigs with pyramid weights and sinker slides for anchoring in current	Nightcrawlers and frozen shiners combined for maximum scent dispersion Natural river forage including small fish and invertebrates	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	45-58	Pre-spawn smallmouth bass transitioning from winter deep water to warming shallow areas, staging near spawning locations but still focused on feeding Fish moving between deep wintering areas and shallow feeding zones, particularly active during warming trends	Rocky points and gravel areas adjacent to deeper water where fish stage before spawning Protected shallow bays with hard bottom that warm quickly Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats	Blade Baits worked slowly along depth transitions Tubes dragged and hopped on rocky points Ned Rigs worked methodically through staging areas	Ciscoes suspending near transition areas Crayfish becoming more active in rocky areas Small perch in shallow warming bays	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Moving from winter deep-water areas to shallow spawning locations, staging on transitional structures Becoming more active with warming water temperatures, but still relatively lethargic compared to summer Feeding opportunistically to rebuild energy after winter, with increased activity during warmer afternoons	Rock points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading into spawning bays Shallow reed beds in protected bays where water warms first Steep breaklines near potential spawning areas	Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Hard Jerkbaits	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in transitional areas Northern Pike gathering in similar spawning areas Yellow Perch moving shallow with warming water	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	38-48	Lake Whitefish transitioning from deep winter holding areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish becoming more active in water column as temperatures rise, following cisco and perch movements	Rocky reefs and structural elements in 20-30 foot depth range Transition areas between deep basins and spawning grounds Points and breaks adjacent to deep water holding areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Ciscoes suspended in mid-depth ranges Yellow Perch around structure Small baitfish in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Moving into river channels and tributary areas for spawning, with males staging in pre-spawn areas and females moving in as temperatures rise Fish becoming more active during daylight hours as they prepare for spawn, with peak activity during dawn and dusk Post-spawn fish gradually transitioning back to main lake points and adjacent structure	River channel edges and current breaks in 8-15 feet of water Transitional areas where hard bottom meets soft bottom near spawning areas Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Emerald Shiners concentrating in spawning areas Small Yellow Perch in transitional areas Juvenile White Suckers in river systems	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-58	Post ice-out spring spawning migration into shallow bays and creek mouths, with aggressive feeding behavior Concentrated in shallow, warmer waters around emergent vegetation, actively patrolling spawning areas	Shallow bays with reeds and cattails Creek mouths and tributary inflows Protected areas between points with emerging vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked steadily through shallow spawning areas Spinnerbaits retrieved near reed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through warming bays	Juvenile panfish in warming bays Small pike gathering in spawning areas Resident baitfish schools in tributary areas	Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Burbot	34-42	Burbot are completing their spawn in deep basin areas, transitioning from winter spawning grounds to post-spawn feeding locations Fish are primarily active during low-light and nighttime hours, showing increased feeding activity as they recover from spawning	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore in 30-40 feet of water Transition areas where basin slopes meet structural elements like points Rocky substrate areas near deep water that provided spawning habitat	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with minnow-tipped jigs worked slowly near bottom Live Bait Rigs with large minnows or cut bait presented stationary on bottom Ice Fishing Spoons (during early spring when ice is still present) with glow patterns	Emerald Shiners concentrated in deep basins Cisco/Whitefish schools in transitional areas	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	33-40	Pre-spawn sturgeon are congregating in moderate depth river channels (14-18ft) and staging in deeper holes before spawning Fish are actively moving upstream to spawning areas when water temperatures reach mid-30s Feeding activity is focused on scent-based location of prey in soft-bottom areas	River channel breaks and deep holes serving as staging areas Upstream portions of deeper holes with moderate current Edges and bottom sides of holes with soft, muddy substrate	Live Bait Rigs with circle hooks positioned near bottom Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with scented bait Structure Jigs worked slowly along channel edges	Emerald Shiners Bottom-dwelling invertebrates Smaller baitfish species	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-62	Smallmouth bass transitioning to spawning areas, with pre-spawn fish staging on adjacent points and breaks Males actively preparing and guarding nests in protected rocky areas, while females move between staging and spawning areas Feeding activity increases during warmer parts of the day, especially in shallow rock-strewn areas	Protected shallow rock and boulder fields in 2-6 feet of water, especially in bays sheltered from predominant winds Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel near spawning bays Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water, particularly where rock structure is present	Tubes worked slowly around rocky areas and potential nest sites Ned Rigs fished with subtle movements near staging areas Soft Jerkbaits worked with long pauses to trigger reaction strikes from guardians	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish groups in warming shallows Young-of-year perch in rocky areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	48-58	During spawn, muskies move into shallow bays and areas with emerging vegetation, typically in 3-8 feet of water Post-spawn females will remain shallow but transition to nearby ambush points like rock edges and reed lines for recovery feeding Males may guard spawning areas for a period after spawn, making them more territorial and aggressive	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and soft bottom, especially on the north side of the lake which warms first Reed edges adjacent to spawning bays where post-spawn females stage Rock points and structure near spawning areas providing ambush positions	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through spawning areas Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily along reed edges Inline Spinners for aggressive males in spawning areas	Northern Pike Suckers Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	38-52	Post-spawn Lake Whitefish transitioning from spawning reefs to feeding areas, becoming more active as water temperatures warm Fish moving between deeper basins and shallow feeding zones, following cisco and perch movements	Rocky reefs and adjacent drop-offs in 15-30 foot range Transition areas between spawning grounds and deep basins Points and structural elements near deep water access	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Ciscoes Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-58	Post-spawn walleyes are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily relating to current areas and river channels Fish are holding in moderate depths (18-24ft) and using current seams as feeding stations	River channel outlets in 18-24 feet of water Current breaks and eddies near deeper water Rocky points and reefs adjacent to spawning areas	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Trolling Mid Depth (10-19')	Emerald Shiners Small Perch	Vibrant Assorted Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	55-58	Pike are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer locations, actively feeding to recover energy after spawn Fish are utilizing emerging weed edges and reed lines as ambush points, particularly during morning and evening periods	Emerging weed edges adjacent to spawning bays Reed lines and cattail edges in 4-8 feet of water Points and shoreline transitions near spawning bays	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Inline Spinners near reed edges	Young-of-year baitfish schools Ciscoes in transitional areas Small pike and panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Burbot	38-48	Post-spawn burbot transitioning from deep winter basins (32+ feet) to slightly shallower feeding areas (20-30 feet), becoming more active during early morning and late evening Fish gradually dispersing from spawning aggregations, following cisco and emerald shiner movements along deep basin edges	Deep basin edges where 20-30 foot contours meet main lake basins Complex points and underwater structures near deep water access Offshore humps and saddles in 25-35 foot range	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with minnow-tipped jigs working along basin edges Live Bait Rigs with larger minnows dragged slowly along depth transitions Blade Baits worked vertically in areas of concentrated baitfish	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in deep basin areas Emerald Shiners along structure edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	40-55	Post-spawn sturgeon are actively transitioning from river channels to main lake areas, following forage and maintaining position near bottom structure Fish are becoming more active feeders as they recover from spawn, primarily targeting baitfish and bottom-dwelling prey in deeper holes and channel edges	River channel breaks and deep holes (14-18ft) where post-spawn fish stage during transition Soft-bottom areas adjacent to river channels where sturgeon feed Main lake transition areas where channels meet larger basin	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers and circle hooks positioned just off bottom Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with scented bait presentations	Emerald Shiners and other baitfish schools Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, targeting both shallow rocky areas and transitional zones between spawning and summer locations Fish are showing aggressive chase behavior in moderately stained water (2.7m clarity), particularly responsive to moving baits over hard bottom areas	Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-15 foot depths, especially those adjacent to deeper water Windward shorelines with hard bottom composition, where wave action concentrates baitfish Transition areas between spawning bays and main lake points	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to rocky shorelines and across points Tubes dragged and hopped through boulder fields Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for actively feeding fish Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses between twitches	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy in rocky areas Young-of-year shad schools beginning to form Juvenile cisco in deeper transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	52-65	Post-spawn muskies are actively recovering and beginning to feed, with increased activity during warming trends Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer locations, following cisco and whitefish movements Most active during low-light periods given the moderate staining (2.7m Secchi)	Shallow rock points adjacent to spawning bays Reed edges in 5-12 feet of water Emerging weedlines near complex shoreline areas	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked with moderate retrieve speeds Spinnerbaits worked parallel to reed edges Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses between twitches	Cisco/Whitefish schools beginning to move to structural elements Northern Pike congregating in similar areas Various panfish species in emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	42-54	Post-spawn Lake Whitefish are actively feeding to recover energy, following baitfish schools in mid-depth ranges Fish are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to more active feeding in moderate depths, especially near structure	Rocky reefs and structural elements in 15-30 foot depth range Transition areas between deep basins and shallow feeding flats Points and breaks near deep water access	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits	Ciscos suspended in mid-depth ranges Yellow Perch around structure Small baitfish schools	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Walleye	69-76	Fish are actively feeding in 20-30 feet of water, relating strongly to structure and following typical summer thermocline patterns Showing both deep and shallow patterns, with some fish utilizing shallow rock/sand flats while others hold in deeper basin areas	Rock piles and humps in 20-30 feet of water Shallow rock/sand flats in 9-15 feet Boulder fields and reefs with crawfish populations	Live Bait Rigs with crawler harnesses and bottom bouncers in 20-30 FOW Trolling Shallow (0-9') along rock/sand transitions Drop Shot presentations around rock piles Inline Spinners with gold/red/chartreuse combinations	Crawfish, particularly around rocky structures Minnows/emerald shiners in open water Insects, particularly for fish feeding on mayfly hatches	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	68-78	Northern Pike are actively feeding along weed edges and reed lines, using vegetation as ambush points for prey Fish are showing preference for shallow to mid-depth zones where submerged vegetation provides cover and feeding opportunities	Submerged weed beds, particularly the outer edges where weeds meet deeper water Reed lines and emergent vegetation edges Points and bays with mixed vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges and reed lines Inline Spinners retrieved steadily above submerged vegetation Hard Topwater (Walking) worked near vegetation edges for aggressive fish	Crawfish around reed beds and rocky areas Smaller pike and panfish in weed beds Ciscoes in deeper adjacent areas	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Burbot	45-55	Burbot retreat to deep basins and offshore structures during summer months, becoming more lethargic and seeking cooler water temperatures Limited daytime activity with brief feeding periods during low light conditions, primarily at dawn and dusk	Deep offshore basins 3-4.5 miles from shore in 30-40 feet of water Transitional areas where deep basin meets structural elements like points or humps Deep rock piles and boulder fields near basin areas	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs tipped with minnows Trolling Deep (20'+) using deep diving crankbaits during low light periods Live Bait Rigs with large minnows or cut bait near bottom structure	Cisco/Whitefish in deep water columns Emerald Shiners concentrated in deep basin areas Bottom-dwelling prey such as sculpins and crayfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	65-75	Sturgeon disperse from spring spawning areas to main lake locations, actively feeding in deeper areas with soft bottom composition Fish become more active in feeding during dawn and dusk periods, using scent to locate prey in deeper water	Deep river channel edges and holes (14-20 feet) with proximity to main lake areas Soft-bottom flats adjacent to river channels in 12-18 feet Main lake transition areas where river channels meet lake basin	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers and circle hooks for bottom presentation Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with scented bait for deep hole fishing	Emerald Shiners and other small baitfish Crayfish and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates Aquatic insect larvae and mollusks	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-78	Actively feeding on shad in shallow rocky areas, showing aggressive chase behavior Moving between shallow feeding zones and adjacent deeper water based on sun and temperature	Shallow boulder fields and rocky areas in 3-8 feet Main lake points with rock-to-sand transitions Wind-blown shorelines with boulder structure	Lipless Crankbaits worked at steady speeds over rocks Spinnerbaits on windy shorelines Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for imitating shad	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depths Ciscoes in deeper adjacent areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	68-78	Muskies are actively feeding on ciscos near structural elements, showing aggressive behavior with response to both fast and slow presentations Fish are utilizing shallow rock points as primary hunting grounds, taking advantage of the moderate water clarity for ambush opportunities	Shallow rock points, especially those with quick access to deeper water Reed beds adjacent to deeper water Complex shoreline areas with multiple points and bays	Hard Body Swimbaits with varied retrieve speeds, from burning to slow rolling Spinnerbaits worked along structure edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with upgraded hooks for better hookup ratio	Cisco/Whitefish - primary summer forage Large Baitfish schools in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Summer	Lake Whitefish	48-58	Lake Whitefish moving to deeper, cooler water (30-50 feet) during summer months, following preferred temperature ranges and suspending near thermocline Feeding activity concentrated during early morning and late evening periods when light penetration is lower	Deep basin areas adjacent to reef structures in 30-50 foot depths Main lake points with access to deep water Steep breaks near rocky substrate areas where cool water upwelling occurs	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to maintain precise depth control Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on electronics Spoons worked vertically through suspended schools	Ciscoes in deeper, cooler water Small Yellow Perch along deep structure edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake of the Woods (US)

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Walleye	48-58	Walleyes are actively feeding and relating to specific structural elements in preparation for winter, with reports showing consistent patterns in the 17-22 foot depth range Fish are following baitfish schools and utilizing current areas, suggesting increased feeding activity typical of fall patterns	Points and reefs in 17-22 feet of water, particularly those with current flow Neck-down areas with current Flats adjacent to deeper water in the 17-22 foot range	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs	Minnows/emerald shiners as primary forage Crawfish in rocky areas as secondary forage	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	48-62	Pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following large schools of cisco and whitefish as they move to deeper water Fish are transitioning from summer weed edges to deeper structures, becoming more pelagic in their hunting patterns	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins where cisco schools congregate Points and breaks near deep water that intersect with cisco migration routes Remaining green weed beds in 15-25 foot depth range	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large presentations to cover water and intersect with roaming fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges and points Spoons worked vertically through baitfish schools	Ciscoes/Whitefish schooling in deeper water Young-of-year baitfish congregating near remaining weed growth Late-season yellow perch in deeper weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Burbot	45-55	Burbot begin transitioning from summer deep-water patterns to more active feeding periods, especially during low-light conditions Fish are starting to move into slightly shallower basin areas (25-35 feet) as water temperatures cool, following concentrations of cisco and whitefish	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore where primary forage species concentrate Transition areas near complex points where depths quickly drop from 20 to 35 feet Deep rock piles and irregular bottom structure in 25-35 foot range	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Spoons	Cisco/Whitefish schools concentrating in basin areas Emerald Shiners gathering in large schools Various bottom-dwelling prey species	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sturgeon	45-58	Fall sturgeon begin transitioning from main lake summer areas back to deeper river channels and holes, following forage movements Feeding activity increases as fish prepare for winter, with sturgeon actively scenting for prey along channel edges and deeper holes	Deep river channel holes (14-18ft) with soft bottom composition Edge transitions where river channels meet main lake basins Muddy bottom flats adjacent to deeper holes where forage concentrates	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in deeper holes Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along channel edges with scented bait Trolling Deep (20'+) to cover water when locating transitioning fish	Emerald Shiners concentrating in deeper water Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish Small baitfish schools following river current edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	48-62	Actively feeding on ciscoes and shad, following baitfish schools and transitioning between depths based on forage location Moving between shallow rocky areas and deeper structure, with increased activity during warm fall days	Wind-blown rocky points adjacent to deep water Deep boulder fields in 15-25 foot range Primary channel edges near baitfish schools	Drop Shot with slow, deliberate movements near bottom structure Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended baitfish schools Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along rocky transitions	Ciscoes/Whitefish concentrating in cold water zones Shad schools in transitional depths Crayfish in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Muskie	48-65	Muskies are actively feeding to build reserves for winter, with aggressive responses to larger prey profiles Fish are following large schools of cisco/whitefish as they move shallower during fall turnover Most active during low-light periods and overcast days, with increased shallow water presence	Main lake points with access to deep water, especially those with exposed rock structure Shallow reed beds adjacent to deeper water, particularly in protected bays Steep breaks and edges where cisco schools congregate during their fall migration	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along deep-to-shallow transitions Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weedlines and point edges Spinnerbaits burned through shallow water on warm days	Ciscoes/Whitefish schooling in transitional areas Northern Pike concentrating in reed areas Various smaller baitfish species in shallow bays	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Fall	Lake Whitefish	45-55	Lake Whitefish begin staging for spawning near deep rocky reefs and points, moving between pre-spawn feeding areas and spawning locations Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves before spawning, with increased activity during dawn and dusk periods Schools becoming more concentrated around structural elements compared to summer dispersal patterns	Deep rocky reefs in 25-35 foot depth range near spawning areas Transition areas between deep basins and shallow reef structures Main lake points with access to deep water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Ciscoes Yellow Perch Small native baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	38-45	Walleye are primarily suspended in main basin areas, following large schools of baitfish like emerald shiners Fish are actively feeding during low-light periods, moving between basin areas and structural elements	Deep basin areas 25-34 feet where baitfish schools congregate Transitional areas between basins and structural elements like points and reefs Deeper sections of river channels where current provides oxygenated water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Trolling Deep (20'+)	Emerald Shiners Small Perch Juvenile Ciscoes	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	38-45	Northern Pike are actively feeding in open water basins, following schools of cisco and whitefish Fish suspend at varying depths, typically 15-30 feet, adjusting position based on forage movement	Deep main lake basins near structural transitions to shallower flats Steep breaks and points adjacent to deep water Suspended over deep water near large cisco schools	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large profile baits Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near suspended bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through the water column	Ciscoes suspended in open water Whitefish in deeper basins Large Yellow Perch near structure transitions	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Burbot	33-39	Burbot are actively feeding during low-light periods and overnight hours, targeting deep basin areas 32+ feet deep where forage concentrates Fish move to deep-water basins 3-4.5 miles offshore, following concentrations of cisco and emerald shiners	Deep basin areas in 32-45 feet of water where cisco and whitefish concentrate Transition areas between points and deep basins where burbot can ambush prey Offshore structure 3-4.5 miles from shore in main lake basins	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with minnow-tipped presentations Ice Fishing Spoons worked slowly near bottom in deep basins Live Bait Rigs with larger minnows presented along deep basin edges	Cisco/Whitefish schools concentrating in deep basins Emerald Shiners in deep water columns	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	33-38	Sturgeon become more lethargic and concentrate in deep river channels and holes during winter, typically moving less and feeding opportunistically Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often gathering in specific deep holes where current is present but moderate	Deep river channels 14-18 feet with moderate current Bottom side edges of deep holes where current meets structure Deeper muddy areas near river channel confluences	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with scented bait Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait presentations	Emerald Shiners Bottom-dwelling invertebrates Small fish species in deep winter holes	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskie become more lethargic but still feed opportunistically, especially during stable weather periods and peak solar periods Fish concentrate near remaining green weeds and around deep structural elements that hold baitfish schools Feeding windows are shorter but more predictable, often occurring during mid-afternoon when water temperatures peak	Deep weed edges adjacent to rock points where green vegetation still exists Main lake points and humps near cisco wintering areas Protected bays with remaining green vegetation near deep water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along deep weed edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over suspended baitfish schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along contour breaks near wintering baitfish	Cisco/Whitefish concentrating in deeper, warmer water Northern Pike weakened by cold conditions Yellow Perch schooling near remaining vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Lake Whitefish	34-39	Lake Whitefish are actively feeding in deep basins and transitional areas, following schools of Ciscos and other pelagic forage Fish are suspending in the water column, typically 5-15 feet off bottom in 30-34 foot depths	Deep basin areas in 30-34 foot depths where Ciscos congregate Transitional areas between reefs and deep basins Suspended schools over prominent structural elements	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Spoons Blade Baits	Ciscos Yellow Perch Small baitfish	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	33-35	Walleyes are actively feeding in deeper basin areas (30-34 feet), with larger fish suspending 15-20 feet down to chase baitfish schools Peak feeding activity occurs during low light periods, with a strong midday bite reported when using aggressive jigging techniques	Deep basin areas 30-34 feet with concentrations of baitfish Mud flats transitioning to reefs in 25-29 feet Suspended water column 15-20 feet down over deeper basins	Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively with 'keep away' technique when fish appear on electronics Deadsticking with live minnows as secondary technique Aggressive jigging with Rippin' Raps for active fish	Emerald Shiners in large schools General Minnow species Tullibees (noted in deeper water)	Gold Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Pike are relatively inactive during mid-winter, conserving energy with periodic feeding windows, typically during dawn and dusk Fish tend to suspend near the bottom in areas adjacent to shallow feeding flats, moving up to feed on concentrations of baitfish	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats where ciscos concentrate Points and breaks near deep basins where suspended baitfish schools gather Shallow bays with remaining green weeds, particularly near deeper water access	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at various depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for finesse presentation	Ciscoes/Whitefish concentrating in deep water Small Yellow Perch along weed edges Suspended Whitefish schools in basin areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Burbot	32-34	Burbot exhibit strong nocturnal feeding patterns, becoming most active during sunset and nighttime hours in deep basin areas Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior when located, particularly responding to bottom-oriented presentations in 30-35 foot depths	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore, particularly in 32-35 foot depths Open water basin areas near Pine Island on the south shore Transitional areas where deep basins meet structural elements	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with glow spoons tipped with fathead minnows, especially effective during sunset periods Ice Fishing Spoons worked along bottom, particularly effective during active feeding periods	Fathead Minnows Emerald Shiners Cisco/Whitefish	Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Ice	Lake Whitefish	32-34	Lake Whitefish are actively feeding on suspended Ciscos in deep basin areas, showing preference for pelagic zones Fish are responding well to flash and vibration, suggesting aggressive feeding behavior when prey is located	Deep basin areas in 30-34 foot depths where Ciscos are concentrating Rocky reef structures adjacent to deep water basins Suspended water column in 15-30 foot range over deeper basins	Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging motions to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with live bait for more finicky fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with flash/vibration baits to target suspended fish	Ciscos suspended in basin areas Yellow Perch in and around structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake of the Woods (US)

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	River channel edges and breaks, particularly where shallow flats meet deeper water in 12-18 foot range	Current seams and eddies adjacent to main river channel
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed beds and cattail areas in shallow bays	Points and coves with emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Burbot	Deep basin edges transitioning to shallower flats in 25-35 feet	Rocky points and humps adjacent to deep water basins
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Upstream sections of deeper holes in river channels (14-18 ft)	Edges and bottom sides of river channel holes
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and gravel areas adjacent to deeper water where fish stage before spawning	Protected shallow bays with hard bottom that warm quickly
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Rock points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading into spawning bays	Shallow reed beds in protected bays where water warms first
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Rocky reefs and structural elements in 20-30 foot depth range	Transition areas between deep basins and spawning grounds
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	River channel edges and current breaks in 8-15 feet of water	Transitional areas where hard bottom meets soft bottom near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with reeds and cattails	Creek mouths and tributary inflows
Spring (Spawn)	Burbot	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore in 30-40 feet of water	Transition areas where basin slopes meet structural elements like points
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	River channel breaks and deep holes serving as staging areas	Upstream portions of deeper holes with moderate current
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected shallow rock and boulder fields in 2-6 feet of water, especially in bays sheltered from predominant winds	Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel near spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and soft bottom, especially on the north side of the lake which warms first	Reed edges adjacent to spawning bays where post-spawn females stage
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Rocky reefs and adjacent drop-offs in 15-30 foot range	Transition areas between spawning grounds and deep basins
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	River channel outlets in 18-24 feet of water	Current breaks and eddies near deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Emerging weed edges adjacent to spawning bays	Reed lines and cattail edges in 4-8 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Burbot	Deep basin edges where 20-30 foot contours meet main lake basins	Complex points and underwater structures near deep water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	River channel breaks and deep holes (14-18ft) where post-spawn fish stage during transition	Soft-bottom areas adjacent to river channels where sturgeon feed
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-15 foot depths, especially those adjacent to deeper water	Windward shorelines with hard bottom composition, where wave action concentrates baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow rock points adjacent to spawning bays	Reed edges in 5-12 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Rocky reefs and structural elements in 15-30 foot depth range	Transition areas between deep basins and shallow feeding flats
Summer	Walleye	Rock piles and humps in 20-30 feet of water	Shallow rock/sand flats in 9-15 feet
Summer	Northern Pike	Submerged weed beds, particularly the outer edges where weeds meet deeper water	Reed lines and emergent vegetation edges
Summer	Burbot	Deep offshore basins 3-4.5 miles from shore in 30-40 feet of water	Transitional areas where deep basin meets structural elements like points or humps
Summer	Sturgeon	Deep river channel edges and holes (14-20 feet) with proximity to main lake areas	Soft-bottom flats adjacent to river channels in 12-18 feet
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow boulder fields and rocky areas in 3-8 feet	Main lake points with rock-to-sand transitions
Summer	Muskie	Shallow rock points, especially those with quick access to deeper water	Reed beds adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Lake Whitefish	Deep basin areas adjacent to reef structures in 30-50 foot depths	Main lake points with access to deep water
Fall	Walleye	Points and reefs in 17-22 feet of water, particularly those with current flow	Neck-down areas with current
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake basins where cisco schools congregate	Points and breaks near deep water that intersect with cisco migration routes
Fall	Burbot	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore where primary forage species concentrate	Transition areas near complex points where depths quickly drop from 20 to 35 feet
Fall	Sturgeon	Deep river channel holes (14-18ft) with soft bottom composition	Edge transitions where river channels meet main lake basins
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Wind-blown rocky points adjacent to deep water	Deep boulder fields in 15-25 foot range
Fall	Muskie	Main lake points with access to deep water, especially those with exposed rock structure	Shallow reed beds adjacent to deeper water, particularly in protected bays
Fall	Lake Whitefish	Deep rocky reefs in 25-35 foot depth range near spawning areas	Transition areas between deep basins and shallow reef structures
Winter	Walleye	Deep basin areas 25-34 feet where baitfish schools congregate	Transitional areas between basins and structural elements like points and reefs
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep main lake basins near structural transitions to shallower flats	Steep breaks and points adjacent to deep water
Winter	Burbot	Deep basin areas in 32-45 feet of water where cisco and whitefish concentrate	Transition areas between points and deep basins where burbot can ambush prey
Winter	Sturgeon	Deep river channels 14-18 feet with moderate current	Bottom side edges of deep holes where current meets structure
Winter	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to rock points where green vegetation still exists	Main lake points and humps near cisco wintering areas
Winter	Lake Whitefish	Deep basin areas in 30-34 foot depths where Ciscos congregate	Transitional areas between reefs and deep basins
Ice	Walleye	Deep basin areas 30-34 feet with concentrations of baitfish	Mud flats transitioning to reefs in 25-29 feet
Ice	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats where ciscos concentrate	Points and breaks near deep basins where suspended baitfish schools gather
Ice	Burbot	Deep basin areas 3-4.5 miles offshore, particularly in 32-35 foot depths	Open water basin areas near Pine Island on the south shore
Ice	Lake Whitefish	Deep basin areas in 30-34 foot depths where Ciscos are concentrating	Rocky reef structures adjacent to deep water basins

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows and shiners concentrated in river systems	Small suckers moving into spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Cisco/Whitefish schools	Shallow water baitfish
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Burbot	Cisco/Whitefish	Emerald Shiners
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Nightcrawlers and frozen shiners combined for maximum scent dispersion	Natural river forage including small fish and invertebrates
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Ciscoes suspending near transition areas	Crayfish becoming more active in rocky areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in transitional areas	Northern Pike gathering in similar spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Ciscoes suspended in mid-depth ranges	Yellow Perch around structure
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Emerald Shiners concentrating in spawning areas	Small Yellow Perch in transitional areas
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Juvenile panfish in warming bays	Small pike gathering in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Burbot	Emerald Shiners concentrated in deep basins	Cisco/Whitefish schools in transitional areas
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Emerald Shiners	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish groups in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Northern Pike	Suckers
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Ciscoes	Yellow Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Emerald Shiners	Small Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Young-of-year baitfish schools	Ciscoes in transitional areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Burbot	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in deep basin areas	Emerald Shiners along structure edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Emerald Shiners and other baitfish schools	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy in rocky areas	Young-of-year shad schools beginning to form
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Cisco/Whitefish schools beginning to move to structural elements	Northern Pike congregating in similar areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Ciscos suspended in mid-depth ranges	Yellow Perch around structure
Summer	Walleye	Crawfish, particularly around rocky structures	Minnows/emerald shiners in open water
Summer	Northern Pike	Crawfish around reed beds and rocky areas	Smaller pike and panfish in weed beds
Summer	Burbot	Cisco/Whitefish in deep water columns	Emerald Shiners concentrated in deep basin areas
Summer	Sturgeon	Emerald Shiners and other small baitfish	Crayfish and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depths	Ciscoes in deeper adjacent areas
Summer	Muskie	Cisco/Whitefish - primary summer forage	Large Baitfish schools in open water
Summer	Lake Whitefish	Ciscoes in deeper, cooler water	Small Yellow Perch along deep structure edges
Fall	Walleye	Minnows/emerald shiners as primary forage	Crawfish in rocky areas as secondary forage
Fall	Northern Pike	Ciscoes/Whitefish schooling in deeper water	Young-of-year baitfish congregating near remaining weed growth
Fall	Burbot	Cisco/Whitefish schools concentrating in basin areas	Emerald Shiners gathering in large schools
Fall	Sturgeon	Emerald Shiners concentrating in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Ciscoes/Whitefish concentrating in cold water zones	Shad schools in transitional depths
Fall	Muskie	Ciscoes/Whitefish schooling in transitional areas	Northern Pike concentrating in reed areas
Fall	Lake Whitefish	Ciscoes	Yellow Perch
Winter	Walleye	Emerald Shiners	Small Perch
Winter	Northern Pike	Ciscoes suspended in open water	Whitefish in deeper basins
Winter	Burbot	Cisco/Whitefish schools concentrating in deep basins	Emerald Shiners in deep water columns
Winter	Sturgeon	Emerald Shiners	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates
Winter	Muskie	Cisco/Whitefish concentrating in deeper, warmer water	Northern Pike weakened by cold conditions
Winter	Lake Whitefish	Ciscos	Yellow Perch
Ice	Walleye	Emerald Shiners in large schools	General Minnow species
Ice	Northern Pike	Ciscoes/Whitefish concentrating in deep water	Small Yellow Perch along weed edges
Ice	Burbot	Fathead Minnows	Emerald Shiners
Ice	Lake Whitefish	Ciscos suspended in basin areas	Yellow Perch in and around structure

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

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Burbot	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Burbot	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Assorted Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Burbot	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Burbot	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Summer	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Burbot	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Fall	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Burbot	Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Lake Whitefish	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	Gold Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Burbot	Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Ice	Lake Whitefish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors