When ice fishing in Minnesota, no two days are the same, especially in Lake of the Woods. More and more visitors come to this popular fishing area after hearing about friends’ successes. Lake of the Woods is the largest inland freshwater lake in the continental US. However, it doesn’t take very long for the ice to form and action to get going. Out of nearly 50 resorts around Lake of the Woods, River Bend’s Resort has the best Lake of the Woods fishing guides around.
Ice Fishing in Minnesota Regulations
While ice fishing regulations vary from year to year, the rules listed below are active for the current fishing season. Make it a habit to reference the Minnesota DNR’s website for the most up-to-date regulations on ice fishing in Minnesota.
Walleye and Sauger
Limit: Six Walleye and Sauger aggregate; maximum of four can be Walleye
Release: Any Walleye between 19.5 and 28 inches
Keep: Under 19.5 inches and one Walleye/Sauger over 28 inches
Exception: Rainy River mandates catch and release from March 1, 2020 – April 14, 2020
Northern Pike
Limit: Three possessed Northern Pike
Release: All Northern Pike between 30 and 40 inches
Keep: Under 30 inches and one Northern Pike over 40 inches
Exception: Lake of the Woods and Rainy River have no closed season for Northern Pike
Yellow Perch
Limit: Twenty Yellow Perch daily
Exception: Yellow Perch may be fished year-round
Lake Sturgeon
Release: Do not harvest Lake Sturgeon from October 1, 2019 – April 23, 2020
Exception: Catch and release is allowed year-round
Reference the Canada-Minnesota boundary waters section in the fishing regulation guide for more specific details.
Ice Fishing Package at River Bend’s Resort
River Bend’s Resort is one of the best ice fishing resorts in MN because we offer a stellar ice fishing package. You and your buddies will stay in one of our spacious cabins, decked with a full kitchen and cooking supplies. However, if cooking sounds like the last thing you’d like to do on your ice fishing trip, our guests can always dine at our new lodge. Our ice fishing package also includes your transport to and from our resort’s clean, comfortable ice houses. Our knowledgeable staff is constantly moving ice houses to ensure successful ice fishing trips. River Bend’s Resort Ice Fishing Package also includes bait and fish cleaning. All other necessary supplies and gear are available. Flasher rental also available upon request.
This year’s ice fishing package is the perfect gift for your loved one, parent, best friend, or sibling! Start planning your ice fishing in Minnesota vacation today by visiting our website, or talking to our staff at 800-292-3084.
