Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report December 24, 2025
Last week, there were numerous reports of an outstanding start to the ice fishing season on Lake of the Woods. This week's ice fishing report from Lake of the Woods claims that anglers continue to enjoy the good early ice fishing. Following are notes from Joe Henry at L.O.W tourism.
Ice Fishing Conditions, Ice Roads & Bite Update: Strong early ice, improving travel conditions, and excellent fishing reports are coming in from the South Shore, Rainy River, and Northwest Angle. Resorts are open, fish houses are out, and anglers are enjoying some of the best early ice fishing anywhere in the Midwest.
South Shore Ice Fishing Report – Ice Roads Improving, Fishing Excellent Ice conditions along the South Shore of Lake of the Woods are progressing nicely. While ice thickness varies by location, some resort-maintained ice roads are now allowing ½-ton pickups. Lake of the Woods is a massive body of water, and ice expands and contracts with temperature changes. Resorts and outfitters check ice daily, maintain ice roads and trails, and provide the safest access. Traveling through a resort is strongly recommended rather than venturing out independently. Weight limits vary by road, so anglers should always check directly with their resort or outfitter for current travel recommendations.
Fishing remains very good with a mixed bag of: Walleyes, Saugers, Jumbo perch, Eelpout and an occasional northern pike. Most fish are being caught in 23 to 28 feet of water.
Best Ice Fishing Presentations on Lake of the Woods. The classic Lake of the Woods one-two punch continues to be the most productive approach: Jigging Line. Small to medium jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head or tail. Rippin’ Raps. Jig and minnow combinations. Light-up lures are producing very well. Deadstick Line with Plain hook or small ice jig and Live minnow set 6 inches to 2 feet off the bottom
These colors continue to shine as "Best Ice Fishing Colors" in the stained waters of Lake of the Woods: Gold. Pink, Glow red. Glow white and Firetiger.
Rainy River Ice Fishing Report – Ice Thickening, Work Through an Outfitter Ice conditions on the Rainy River are continuing to improve as cold weather settles in. Because river current creates variable ice thickness, anglers should always work through a Rainy River outfitter for safe access.
Those fishing with resorts are reporting: Good walleye action. Ongoing lake sturgeon activity. Safety remains the top priority on the Rainy River.
Northwest Angle Ice Fishing Report – Resorts Open, Strong Early Bite. Ice fishing at the Northwest Angle has started out strong. Many resorts are now open, fish houses are being placed, and early-season fishing has been very productive.
Anglers are catching: Walleyes, Saugers, Perch and Northern pike. In addition, some very nice crappies are being caught when working through Northwest Angle resorts, particularly when fishing the Ontario side among island areas.
Ice Fishing Safety on Lake of the Woods. Resorts continue to check ice daily, mark safe travel routes, and provide access to productive fishing locations. No matter where you fish, always remember: Ice conditions vary from area to area. Work through a resort or outfitter. Stay on marked ice roads and trails. Follow posted weight limits. Do not venture off on your own. There are plenty of fish where resorts are placing their houses. Let the professionals handle ice safety so you can focus on fishing.
Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Outlook. With continued cold temperatures in the forecast, ice conditions will keep improving across the lake. Early ice fishing on Lake of the Woods has started out excellent, and December traditionally offers some of the best fishing of the entire winter season." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH
More Recent Fishing Reports
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Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report December 24, 2025
Lake Ice Quality Report •
After a wild week of weather that included 50's, rain, -20, snow and whiteout conditions. Little has changed with our current ice conditions on Ely area lake. Lakes remain 10 to 14 inches of super clear, solid ice. Snow cover on area lakes is mainly drifted snow to bare ice, so 4 wheelers and side by sides have been a common sight.
Ice Fishing Reports •
Walleye - After a wild week in weather, walleye reports were as expected poor over the weekend. Good news is the forecast is calling for stable weather this week and reports from anglers fishing last night and so far today have been positive.
Active walleyes are being found in 20 to 27 feet of water, over mud flats and rocks. Walleyes have been aggressive enough to be hitting rippin raps and jigging spoons. Larger minnows like rainbows and pike suckers have been very effective fished on a deadstick or rattle reel. Perch, hot pink and chartreuse have been good colors.
Pike - During the warm spell anglers were able to throw out tip ups and catch some really nice pike. Larger baits like alewife's or large suckers were very effective in 5 to 10 feet of water. Weeds were best, but mouths of shallow bays or small creeks produced many flags for anglers.
Panfish - Crappies and sunnies have also been up and down for anglers this last week. When it is up anglers have been finding some nice crappies in 25 to 30 feet of water, over deep mud flats during the middle of the day. Small soft plastics tipped on a small jig has been effective if the crappies are active, but it never hurts to have a crappie minnow suspended under a bobber close by. Pink, white and purple have been the colors to have for crappies." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358
Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report December 18, 2025
"Ice fishing is off to a fantastic start! So says Joe Henry from the Lake of the Woods tourism office. Resorts along the south end of the lake report strong early ice conditions, fishing rental houses are out, and fishing has been outstanding. Most day houses have now been out for about a week. Some resorts are allowing travel by ATV, snowmobile, or side-by-side to their fish houses. Others continue to transport anglers directly to the door of their heated houses.
Henry, "As always, we remind anglers that Lake of the Woods is a massive body of water with conditions that vary from place to place. With great fluctuations in temps, ice cracks and expands. Resorts and outfitters check ice daily, maintaining their ice road or snow machine trails for maximum safety. We strongly recommend working through them rather than traveling independently."
On the ice, anglers are catching a mixed bag of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, an occasional eelpout, pike, and once in a while even a surprise sturgeon through the ice.
Best presentations include jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head or tail, or an attractor type jigging lure like a Rippin’ Rap. Incorporate a dead stick rod too and rig it with either a plain hook or small ice jig tipped with a live minnow set 6 to 12 inches above the bottom.
Hot colors that continue to shine in both the stained waters of Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River include Gold, Glow Red, Pink, Glow White, Orange and Chartreuse.
On the Rainy River, ice is forming well, but anglers should use extreme caution becaue as always, water current creates variable conditions. Resorts and outfitters on the river monitor the ice continuously and provide the safest access, please check with them before venturing out. Those folks fishing through resorts have reported catching nice walleyes and also some good sturgeon action so far.
The Northwest Angle is off to a strong start as well. Favorable early ice conditions have some resorts opening earlier than normal. Initial fishing reports mirror the action along the south shore, reports indicate very good fishing right out of the gate.
Resorts continue to check ice, mark safe ice routes, and place fish houses. The trail from Four Mile Bay on the south shore to Northwest Angle was staked on Monday, December 15, 2025 and is open. Some designated ice aviation areas are active as well. Snowmobile trails throughout the Angle are marked, with snow depth is around 5 inches in most places but varies due to wind drifting, trails will improve as they see more use.
With reports of excellent early fishing activity, getting an early start is tempting. But exercise safety first as your rule of thumb. No matter which area you fish, please remember:
- Every area of ice is different.
- Work through a resort or outfitter.
- Stay on marked ice roads and trails.
- Follow posted weight limits.
- Do not venture off on your own.
There are already plenty of fish where resorts are placing their houses. Let the professionals keep you safe. With additional cold weather in the forecast, ice conditions will continue improving. Early ice fishing has begun with excellent success, and December typically brings some of the best fishing of the year." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH
Wired2Fish December 18, 2025 "What Science Says About Black Versus White Crappie"
"Here in Louisiana, fishermen’s opinions run a dime a dozen, and it seems everyone has their own take on lures, techniques, and theories when it comes to crappie fishing.
Take a recent crappie fishing tournament, where I witnessed a conversation ignite about the differences between white and black crappie that left me questioning what was actually true and what was hearsay.
The Anglers Weigh In: It all started with Toby Bean, the afternoon’s designated fish fry cook. As Bean checked the temperature of the oil before adding the first crappie fillet, he examined the fillet by holding it up to the sunlight. “Looks like a fillet from a white slab,” he said. I asked him how he could tell. “Easy,” Bean replied. “White crappie fillets are always thinner. Black crappie are thicker and ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> What Science Says About Black Versus White Crappie
Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report December 17, 2025
Ely Lakes Ice Conditions Report:
Another cold, cold weekend has ice reports at 10 to 12 inches of good, solid, clear ice. Ice roads have opened up on many lake accesses and trucks with permanent ice houses have popped up almost overnight.
Ice Fishing Reports:
Walleyes - Walleye fishing has been either lights out or you're left wondering why you braved the freezing cold temperatures just to mark nothing. Key depth has been between 23 to 26 feet of water over deep flats. Pike suckers have been working as well as they did in November. Perch colored jigging spoons have also been getting the job done for many anglers too.
Northern Pike - Cold weather has limited anglers activity with pike. Anglers spearing pike have been having good luck seeing consistent action. Large decoy suckers have been very effective at drawing in pike.
Panfish - Anglers able to get out during the brief warm-ups have been finding cooperative crappies on area lakes. Like the walleyes, crappies are being found in 23 to 28 feet of water and are often there one day gone the next. Good news is, like the walleyes, if they are there, they are biting and have been good size. Small tungsten jigs tipped with a small plastic, wax worm or crappie minnow have been effective." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358
December 15, 2025 Sundin: "Christmas Fishing Gifts Last Call"
Today, before it’s too late, let’s go through a few last-minute Christmas gift for anglers on your shopping list. I’ll start with some affordable ones and wrap them with a few higher end ideas.
Panfish anglers will love this stocking stuffer, Berkley’s Gulp Alive. For me, the 1-inch Gulp Alive “Fish Fry” is a staple item during both fall and winter. These small baits are excellent when used as a dressing on small, tungsten ice fishing lures. Also effective on small jigs or ice lures is the 1-inch size Gulp Alive Minnow.
These lures are available at any of the better tackle shops or bait stores where you’re gonna find them in small jars. Whatever the special happy sauce in those jars is. Panfish and perch really like it and I’m recommending this as a stocking stuffer.
Another Berkley item that I’ve mentioned before is the Gulp Ripple Shad. These soft plastic bodies have come in awfully handy for me over the years, both for open water, and in some cases in the winter too.
In the summertime, I really like the larger sizes, 3, 3-1/2 and 4-inch Ripple Shads. They are available in a wide array of colors and they swim very effectively. Use a long, wide gap style jig head in the 1/8 to ¼-ounce sizes for maximum hook setting effectiveness. During winter, the 2-inch size Ripple Shads are effective too, use them on 1/16-ounce jig heads.
For added variety, grab a couple packs of Berkley’s Powerbait Nymph. They come in a 2-inch size that you can use for panfish during fall and winter and they have been very effective for me.
Whenever we talk about catch and release fishing, the subject of proper fishhook removal comes up. For fish survival, it’s crucial to get them off of the hook safely, so they can be released safely. A couple of years back, I chronicled my search for some of the better hook removal tools.
I hate to be the one to break the bad news to everybody, but most of the inexpensive clamps, needle nose and forceps found at most bait stores are junk. Most do not provide a good grip on fishhooks, or they start off good but wear out quickly.
I’ve had the opportunity to fish with doctors and dentists who because it’s part of their profession, have access to fantastic tools. Professional grade needle drivers, ones that allow us to grab a fishhook and hold on tight are, in my view essential for effective catch and release angling.
I tracked down a company called Cynamed and purchased a few models of needle drivers from their website. The best size for you will depend on your fishing preferences, but a great needle puller for either walleye or panfish can be found for around 20 bucks. These are much more effective than the ones I’ve found at tackle and bait shops and are well worth the money. View the original article for specific guidance about models and where to purchase them. Learn More >> Catch and Release Fish Safely With Excellent Tools Jeff Sundin November 2023
Now let’s talk about a couple of higher end ideas for somebody special on your Christmas list.
In recent years, I’ve been searching constantly for something that keeps my fingers warm on the ice. No matter what I’ve tried, I’ve found that using gloves, even some of the higher end ones still allow my fingers to get cold. Mittens, for me, are the only way to keep my hands truly warm. The problem is they are not really handy, pardon the pun, to fish with.
This year, in preparation for the chilly deer season I tried something different. Instead of buying gloves or mittens typically offered for hunting or ice fishing, I bought the kind of mittens that they sell to cross-country skiers. Using these it’s easier to get a grip on the trigger, or a fishing rod because the index finger is a single finger like gloves. The rest of my hand is in a nice warm mitten that helps keep my whole hand warm. I’ve been running my snowblower in very cold weather recently, and they’re doing a marvelous job keeping my hands toasty warm and I think they’re gonna be great for ice fishing too.
They’re gonna cost you about $65 to $75 depending on which ones you find. But I think cross-country ski mittens are worth checking out at your favorite sporting goods stores.
Okay, a little bit more expensive but exceptional is a jacket I bought in Grand Rapids at 1000 Lakes Sporting Goods a couple years ago. At a couple hundred bucks, the Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie Jacket is the best jacket that I’ve ever had! I can wear it when it’s not too cold outside, but I’m still comfortable even now, when it is sub-zero cold outside. Whatever the insulation is in these things is really good, but it is not waterproof. Still, the jacket is lightweight and thin enough to be comfortable underneath my raingear.
I enjoyed mine so much that I decided that Susan should have one too. Susan and I have fun being involved in the gift giving process, that’s just our way of doing things. So, I’m not blowing any secrets by letting you know right now that hers arrived yesterday, she wore it outside last evening when the temperature was about zero, and she says she loves it.
Getting one in time for Christmas could be tricky, but I think it is still possible. Your best bet will be to find the Orvis website and then sign up to receive email notifications about sale events. That's what I did last week, and within hours, they had sent me a sale offer on the exact jacket I was shopping for. 
— Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X
Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report December 10, 2025 - Ice Fishing Has Begun!
"Ice fishing is officially underway across the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Many resorts have fish houses out on the ice and ready to fish. Resorts will transport you out to their heated fish houses where the holes are drilled and cleaned, the heat is on, and everything is ready for you to start fishing.
Initial reports are good with walleyes, saugers and jumbo perch in the mix! Be brilliant at the basics, utilizing the one two punch of jigging one line and deadsticking the second line.
On the jigging line, a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head or tail or an attractor such as a Rippin Rap is the ticket. On the deadstick, a plain hook or small ice fishing jig with a live minnow normally set 6 inches to a foot off of the bottom. Colors, gold, glow red, glow white, pink, orange, chartreuse.
Important Safety Reminder: Every area of ice can be different. Work through a resort or ice fishing guide, stay on their marked trails, adhere to their weight limits, and don't wander off on your own. Safety is the #1 priority. There are plenty of fish where houses are being placed.
Rainy River Update, ice is coming along nicely on the Rainy River. Naturally, with the current, work through a resort or outfitter on river ice. Initial resort reports indicate some nice walleyes and sturgeon so far. Safety first!
Northwest Angle Ice Covered!
The Angle iceis coming along nicely and resorts have been checking ice, marking ice trails and placing houses. Some airplane traffic in designated ice areas that have been checked and marked.
Initial fishing reports are very good. Contact your favorite Angle reset or outfitter for current ice conditions and reservations.
In a nutshell, basically snowmobile traffic so far up at the Angle. Snowmobile trails up at the Angle are in the process of being marked, The plan for the snowmobile trail to be marked and staked from the south shore of Lake of the Woods up to the Angle is Monday December 15. 2025 but stay tuned for the official announcement.
The cold weather in the forecast ahead is welcomed by resorts, outfitters and ice anglers alike. Ice fishing has begun and December fishing is excellent." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH
Lake Winnie Cutfoot Chain of Lakes Fisheries Management Plan December 10, 2025
"The future management plan of Lake Winnibigoshish, a fishery management plan that will be in place for the next 10 years is in development. As of December 12, 2025 the official public comment period has closed.
Thank you for participating! Bill, Gail, Jens & Ashley Heig, Bowen Lodge Lake Winnie and Cutfoot Sioux
What's the Lake Winnibigoshish Fisheries Survey All About?
"The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites people interested in Lake Winnibigoshish to share their thoughts on prioritizing future management of the lake, as an initial step in updating the lake’s management plan.
The Lake Winnibigoshish management plan (including Cut Foot, Little Cut Foot and Sugar lakes) is set to be updated over the next two years. The updated master plan will consider current public values and attitudes about the lake and will be used to guide management of Lake Winnibigoshish fish populations and habitats. It will include management goals, objectives and strategies for the lake for the next 10 years. The U.S. Army Core of Engineers operates the lake’s master control system and maintains a separate master manual, which is not within the scope of the DNR’s planning efforts.
Public input opportunities Have Ended December 12, 2025
Wired2Fish December 10, 2025 "Are Tournament Cancellations a Wakeup Call?"
"Alabama bass fishing tournaments have been getting canceled recently by those who host them. Notably, the Black Friday Guntersville Open in November and Auburn University Bass Fishing Team’s final tournament at Lake Jordan.
At the heart of the Alabama tournament cancellations is liability, stemming from fresh-in-mind tragic events. Three men — John K. Clark, Jeffrey C. Little, and Joey Broom—were killed in a boat collision during a Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Invitational Tournament in April. Pro bass fisherman Flint Davis was indicted on three counts of manslaughter following the boat crash. Lisa Little, widow of Jeffrey Little, filed a lawsuit against Major League Fishing. Is this a wakeup call for bass events?
Negativity is Front and Center: I have been watching the changes in my ..." Read Full Story and Learn More >> Are Tournament Cancellations a Wakeup Call?
Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report December 10, 2025
"Ice Quality Report:
Colder than normal temperatures continue in the Ely area this last week, which in turn has helped the area lakes to make great ice. 4-8" of good clear ice was being reported from anglers.
Ice Fishing Report:
Walleyes were a popular target this last weekend but results were mixed as usual for first ice. Anglers that fished in 10-16ft of water reported poor fishing. Successful anglers were finding walleyes in deep water 20-27ft during the evening hours and just a little after dark. Perch colored jigging spoons tipped with a fresh chunk of minnow was effective on calling fish in to bite. Deadsticking a shiners one to two feet off the bottom was also effective for many anglers.
Northern Pike - Cold temperatures kept many anglers from throwing out tip ups for pike, so pike reports were limited from anglers. Anglers that did throw out some tip ups did have success finding pike in 4-10ft of water in the traditional first ice spots." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358
December 5, 2025 Sundin: "Ice Season Startup, L.O.W. Ice Rescue + More Gift Ideas"
Notices about ice accesses opening to the public this weekend are popping up everywhere. On Lake Winnibigoshish for example, reports of ice thickness ranging from 6 to 8 inches are common. Some resorts and rental operators have announced that they’ll allow foot traffic, along with lightweight ATV access this weekend. Similar reports from Leech Lake,
Some small lakes in the Grand Rapids area have anglers fishing them already, but only the shallowest, most wind protected lakes should be considered. Deep water, or wind exposed areas have been slower to freeze and ice should be allowed to “lock up” for another week or so.
Explore cautiously, because even when the ice looks good, there may be unseen dangers. Case in point, Lake of the Woods, where Lake of the Woods County sheriff’s department was called out to rescue an ice fisherman on Thursday.
The angler entered the ice on foot from Graceton Beach landing where the ice appeared to be safe. Not long afterward, brisk south winds developed, breaking away the ice sheet. Floating north into open water with the ice fisherman on it. Sheriff’s boat and water safety officers provided the transport back to shore using their large air boat.
It’s understandable that folks get anxious for good early ice fishing action. Stop and think about it though, the last thing your family wants to hear is that you died during a “hot walleye bite”. Rapidly changing weather conditions are a recipe for ice disaster, so do yourself a favor and play it safe. The best policy is to wait for ice and weather conditions to stabilize before venturing out. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X
December 5, 2025 Sundin: "More Christmas Fishing Gift Ideas"
As supplies of good quality live minnows become increasingly difficult to ensure, my interest in using artificial lures to catch walleyes has intensified. Some have worked out better than others, but in 2025 I experienced using some really good ones. Today, in the interest of fulfilling yesterday’s promise to share ideas about great Christmas gifts, I want to highlight a few more of them.
Last spring I fished on Upper Red Lake with one of my favorite fishing crews. For me, Red Lake walleyes have always been plenty easy to catch using live bait. But on that trip, we decided to spend a day using crankbaits instead.
At the West Wind Resort, I asked for guidance about some of the best choices for trolling crankbaits on the big lake. They turned me on to one of their top choices, Berkley’s Flickr Shads. Now I already had plenty of crankbaits and brought along some of may favorites. Throughout the day, we experimented with several, comparing the effectiveness of various shapes, sizes and colors. Long story short, the recommended Flickr Shads did perform very well, better than most of the others we tried.
You may recall the report from that trip, if not, you can read the full story here >> Upper Red Lake Walleye Report May 15, 2025. On that day we used the #5 size, and if you’re interested in lures for fishing on Upper Red Lake, that would be a solid choice. But if you fish elsewhere, then larger sizes may serve you better. Either way, the Flicker Shad would make a great stocking stuffer this Christmas.
As always, my strong preference is to shop locally and there are plenty of great tackle and bait ops that have these baits on hand. That said, if you can’t find them locally, the I suggest checking out the Berkley website. Not only will they have the lures in stock, but right now, they’re offering discounts for the holiday season too. Follow link to >> Berkley Flicker Shad
Next up on my Christmas list is Suffix 832 fishing line. Over the years, I’ve shunned most of the so-called “super lines” that I’ve used. This line is different from the others, I think. It rarely gets tangled, casts like a dream and for me, has been less prone to blowing around wildly in the wind. While there are still many times that I prefer to use standard monofilament lines, the Suffix 832 is my top choice of “super lines”. I think your favorite angler would be very happy with it too, and it would be an excellent stocking stuffer.
Again, shop locally if you can, but if you can’t use the link to >> Rapala’s website to purchase Suffix 832 fishing line.
Fishing reels are a frequent topic of conversation in my boat and for me, there is only one choice. Pflueger’s President spinning reels are smooth operating, easy to use and above all, durable. Comparable in quality to reels that cost much more, the Presidents have been my first choice for several years now.
If you’re buying a reel for ice fishing, most ice rods will balance nicely with the size 20 spinning reel. For open water fishing with live bait, jig and minnow, lindy rig, or light artificials the 25-size spinning reel will balance best with light, or medium light action rods in the 6- to 6-1/2-foot lengths. Consult the charts for larger sizes they have available for trolling, casting and larger size artificial lures. Follow the link to >> Pflueger Fishing Reels
Here’s an idea for ice fishing and it’s a lure that I cannot live without. It’s Lindy’s Tungsten Toad in the #6 size. My favorite colors are Glow/Pink, and Yellow/Pink for crappies. For perch and sunfish, I love the Orange/Brown color and use it frequently. Most often, we tip these with waxworms, euro larvae and the like, but small plastics can be used effectively too.
Again, shop locally if you can, but if you can’t use the link to >> Lindy’s Tungsten Toad on the Lurenet website.
Okay, I may have a few more ideas in the coming days. But maybe you have questions about unique ideas for anglers on your fishing list. It's easy to to contact me, and I'd be happy to offer ideas for you, just drop me a line. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X
December 4, 2025 Sundin: "Christmas Fishing Gift Ideas"
Last summer, I offered guidance about some of the fishing gear that provided me, and my customers great success. This morning, I thought it wise to offer up some ideas for fishing lures that will make great stocking stuffers for Christmas.
Remember the story about Tim Meyer, the guy that turned me on to using Eye Candy to catch walleyes and perch on Lake Winnie? The full article rand on September 14, 2025 and maybe this snippet will jog your memory.
“Tim Meyer, owner of Beauty Bay Lodge in Nevis MN was exceedingly helpful, gracious and generous. Meyer not only showed us the lures he and his crew were using but also gave us a small supply of them to try for ourselves. Northland Tackle’s Eye-Candy, Paddle Shad paired with their 1/8-ounce Smeltinator Jig was the lure they had set up. Their method consisted of trolling at about .7 to 1.0 mph while they fished the jigs using an aggressive sweep-fall presentation. “You can’t jig it too hard,” Meyer advised.
Once we got rigged up with the lures, and became familiar with the correct jigging motion, fish began to cooperate with us. As you can see by accompanying pictures, we caught perch, walleye and pike using them."
The setup, a 1/8 ounce SMELTINATOR® JIG , paired with a 3-1/2 or 4 inch Eye Candy Paddletail Shad would make a great Christmas gift. As always, I encourage you to shop locally and get them from a tackle shop or bait store in your hometown. But if you can'd find them there, click here to visit the Northland Fishing Tackle Website, to check out their full lineup of fishing lures, they'll be happy to sell them to you directly.
Tomorrow morning, I'll share a more announcements, along with a few more gift ideas so be sure to check in before you go shopping! — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X
December 4, 2025 Sundin: "Ice Fishing Season Startup" Events on The Radar
If you want to be ice fishing this weekend, you can be. Obviously, folks are already walleye fishing on Upper Red Lake. Less obvious, and likely less visible are folks finding their way onto smaller, shallow water lakes for catching panfish and spearing northern pike. With overnight lows in the single digits, ice is forming fast and new opportunity presents itself every day.
For me, it’s been the “surgery season” and I’ve been sidelined due to cataract surgeries. I got my 2nd one completed about a week ago and now look forward to another week of recovery before I can get too serious about anything outside. Because I sat out most of the deer hunting season, I’m hoping to get the green light on December 11, to hunt the final 3 days of the muzzleloader season. After that, we’ll start drilling holes in the ice in the Grand Rapids area.
During my time off, I’ve been keeping tabs on upcoming events, organizing fishing article ideas and preparing for Christmas. Here are a few current items on the radar screen this morning.
December 7, 2025 MN-FISH World’s Greatest Ice Auction Ended.
“With the ice fishing season already upon us and the holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to check out MN-FISH’s World’s Greatest Ice Fishing Auction. This auction is special, with more than 70 items up for bid, including a new Ice Castle wheelhouse, shelters, augers, electronics, clothing, guided fishing trips, vacation stays and much more.
Here’s the best part. All proceeds from the auction will support MN-FISH’s vital mission work in St. Paul and across the state. Already we have secured more than $100 million in state investment back into fishing, but there’s much more to do. So, stop by the World Greatest Ice Auction site right now, check out the great prizes, and bid. NOTE: Auction Ended December 7, 2025
"The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites people interested in Lake Winnibigoshish to share their thoughts on prioritizing future management of the lake, as an initial step in updating the lake’s management plan.
The Lake Winnibigoshish management plan (including Cut Foot, Little Cut Foot and Sugar lakes) is set to be updated over the next two years.
The updated master plan will consider current public values and attitudes about the lake and will be used to guide management of Lake Winnibigoshish fish populations and habitats. It will include management goals, objectives and strategies for the lake. NOTE: Public Comment Period Ended 12.12.2025 — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X
Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing Report December 3, 2025
"For folks looking forward to ice fishing at Lake of the Woods, things are shaping up nicely. As you can see in the image from Big Traverse Bay, there is ice forming on bays and along the south side of Lake of the Woods as well. The upcoming weather forecast shows lots of below zero and single digit air temperatures and that will accelerate progress.
As always, ice conditions vary, but hearing good ice reports from Four Mile Bay, Bostic Bay and Zippel Bay. Ice guides are out checking conditions and will share when their ice roads and trails will be opening. They are not open yet.
Some checks have also been done out from Pine Island and Zippel Bay on the main lake (Big Traverse Bay). Again, things are looking good and coming right along. It's not ready yet, but good progress is being made.
On average, day houses normally get out around December 10th, give or take, with spear houses on back bays and some collapsible fish house travel before. Again, every area is different, every year is different and Mother Nature is in control. Resorts and ice guides will make the call. As of now, things are looking good.
On the Rainy River, the majority of the river is ice covered but the ice is still thin, but it is ice covered, stay tuned!
Up at the Northwest Angle, the lake is ice covered, which is great news. The ice is not ready yet. Local resorts and ice guides will keep anxious ice anglers posted with reports soon. Up at the Angle, some resorts open before Christmas and offer ice fishing. Other resorts traditionally open December 26th. Check with your favorite ice fishing resort for details if you want to get out in December.
The cold weather in the forecast is welcomed by resorts, outfitters and ice anglers alike. It won't be long, stay tuned!" — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH
Wired2Fish December 3, 2025 "How to Store Lithium Batteries for Winter"
"As temperatures begin to drop, Wired2fish’s own Nick Dumke walks through how to prepare lithium batteries for winter. Whether you remove them from your boat or leave them installed, Dumke outlines practical MillerTech recommendations that protect performance and extend battery life.
Step-By-Step Storage Tips: When winter arrives, Dumke explains that anglers can safely store MillerTech lithium batteries either in or out of their boats. Around the Wired2fish office, the team often removes batteries when harsh weather or moisture becomes an issue.
Once removed, the batteries are stored indoors on a ..." View Video and Learn More >> How to Store Lithium Batteries for Winter
News Release "DNR keeps walleye limit at three for winter on Mille Lacs Lake"
The walleye limit for ice fishing season on Mille Lacs Lake will remain at three fish longer than 17 inches, only one of which can be longer than 20 inches.
“Mille Lacs’ walleye population is trending in a good direction for both adult and juvenile fish,” said Brad Parsons, fisheries section manager for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “We’re pleased to keep the current regulation in place for this winter and offer anglers this harvest opportunity.”
For yellow perch, the daily and possession limit will be 10. The change is a shift from last year, which began with a perch daily and possession limit of ..." Read Full Report >> 2026 Mille Lacs Winter Ice Fishing Regulations
News Release November 2025 "DNR invites public input to update of Lake Winnibigoshish management plan November 10, 2025"
"The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites people interested in Lake Winnibigoshish to share their thoughts on prioritizing future management of the lake, as an initial step in updating the lake’s management plan.
The Lake Winnibigoshish management plan (including Cut Foot, Little Cut Foot and Sugar lakes) is set to be updated over the next two years.
The updated master plan will consider current public values and attitudes about the lake and will be used to guide management of Lake Winnibigoshish fish populations and habitats. It will include management goals, objectives and strategies for the lake for..." Learn More >> November 11, 20225 Lake Winnibigoshish Management Public Comments
You Are Invited To Become A Duly Deputized Fishrapper Cub Reporter Too!
If you've been waiting for a gold engraved invitation to participate in the daily reports, then stop waiting and consider this your own personal invitation.
Helping your fellow fishermen and women stay abreast of fishing conditions in your area is good for everybody and it's easier than you think! You don't have to write a book, you don't have to share your secret fishing spots and you don't even have to mention your lake. You see, with just a few words about general trends, seasonal patterns or local weather conditions you can help steer your fellow anglers to more gratifying fishing experiences. So, be like Dan and Sean, and become a duly deputized "Cub Reporter", it's good for fishing and that's good for everybody!
Use the Contact Us page, or if you prefer to be "social", use our community page on facebook Fishing Reports Minnesota, that is the Facebook counterpart to this page and it is open to the public, so you can post your own fishing update or just share a photo of a nice catch.