Category: River Fishing

Sturgeon Season on Rainy River

5/23/2019

Photo by: Full Throttle Guiding

Catch yourself a big one this year!

Sturgeon Tag Season reopens July 1 and it's looking plentiful for everyone.

Catch and Release Season will be back October 1, 2019 to April 23, 2020.
(Note: It is illegal to fish for sturgeon outside of sturgeon season)

From boat or land, we have seen some great action this year. Just make sure your gear can land a fish over 100lbs!!!

The current state record was caught by Darren Troseth:

Weight: *120lbs

Length: 78 inches
Girth: 29½
Date: Feb 9, 2019

Some Things to remember during Sturgeon Season:

It is recommended to use a circle hook to allow for easy release.
Always support the fish horizontally. Do not hold sturgeon in a vertical position by their head, gills or tails, even for taking photos.
Before you bring a big fish into your boat, make sure fishing rods, tackle boxes and other loose objects are out of the way.
Never touch their eyes or gills.
Minimize their time out of the water.
Remember, some fish are just too big to safely bring into your boat.

Sturgeon Tag season from July 1 - Sep 30:

Keep 1 per calendar year.
Fish must be 45"-50" inclusive or over 75".
Fish must be immediately tagged and registered within 48 hours.

Hot spot:
The Ron Hall access in International Falls is a sturgeon hot spot. It is just below the dam.

If you'd rather learn the tips and tricks from a pro, check the guide services below.

Guide Services

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Fishing and Exploring Rainy River, Minnesota

8/17/2018

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Exploring Rainy River
The Rainy River forms part of the border between Minnesota and Ontario and is a haven for anglers and boaters of all stripes. Perhaps best known for fishing, the river is one of the world’s top destinations for premiere walleye fishing each spring and is also home to other game fish. In addition to anglers, canoers and kayakers enjoy Rainy River’s numerous access points along its 85-mile route, and its many resorts provide a welcome rest regardless of the day’s activities.

The Route
Flowing from approximately the west end of Rainy Lake and the communities of International Falls, MN and Fort Frances, ON, the river travels west-northwest to Baudette, MN, and Rainy River, ON, then enters Four Mile Bay on Lake of the Woods.

Rainy River’s watershed is largely forested and composed of peatland and bogs that were part of Lake Agassiz 10,000 years ago. In the past, its waters were used by fur traders, lumber mills and commercial fishing boats.

River Fishing
Rainy River is counted among the finest fishing destinations in America. Each spring, resident walleyes flood the waterway, offering anglers the chance to land a “lunker.” The early fishing season runs approximately early March through mid-April (check the MN DNR website for exact dates each year). Though walleye is the river’s premier gamefish species, anglers also target sturgeon, smallmouth bass and northern pike. Notable Rainy River catches include a 35.1-inch walleye (released) and a 100-plus pound sturgeon (also released).

Because Rainy River is between the U.S. and Canada, anglers who plan to fish the Canadian side of the river must have a valid Ontario fishing license, as well as an Outdoors Card and a Remote Area Border Crossing permit.

U.S. Rainy River Access Points
Multiple access points mean options abound for exploring Rainy River. Camping is not allowed at the following boat launch sites unless otherwise noted.

Ron Hall Memorial Access in International Falls is on Shorewood Drive and includes a parking area across the street.
Kuttes Landing is just east of the junction of Highway 71 and Highway 11 at Pelland.
Reedy Flats Access is on the south side of State Highway 11, along the Bigfork River.
Black River Access is in Loman. Camping is available in authorized areas of the park.
Manitou Rapids Access is approximately 34 miles east of Baudette on Highway 11, or about ½ mile west of the Indus School. The primitive boat access is appropriate for boats that can be carried or transported on the marked trail with an ATV. The site includes ample shore fishing areas.
Upper Sault Access is near Franze Jevne Park at the end of Koochiching County Road 85, just east of Birchdale. This ramp is best suited to small boats.
Nelson Park – Birchdale north of Birchdale on Koochiching County Road UT 118, which runs from State Highway 11 to Nelson Park. The site includes with a double ramp, and camping is allowed in designated areas.
Frontier Access is approximately 17 miles east of Baudette along State Highway 11.
Vidas Access is 1.5 miles east of Clementson at the end of Koochiching County Road UT 392. Signs have been installed to direct traffic and reduce congestion.
Baudette Access in Timbermill Park includes a boat access with a double ramp and is located near the City Park, on the east edge of Baudette. No camping is allowed at the access, however, camping is allowed in authorized areas of the City Park.
Wheeler’s Point Access is located 12 miles north of Baudette on State Highway 172, near the mouth of the Rainy River and includes a boat dock and triple ramp.

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Tips for Fishing with Kids

6/12/2018

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Although you may not remember your first sandwich or the first time you put on socks, you can probably recall – perhaps in great detail – your first fishing trip. Part of that memory likely includes who took you on that early adventure. Today you can create the same lasting remembrance for your own children with a fishing trip on Rainy Lake. We’ve got the following tips on how to make it the best possible experience for budding anglers

Your first outing should focus on fun. Don’t worry about teaching proper technique today. Instead, share with your child what you love most about fishing – being outside and on the water with family and friends.
Set yourself up for success by choose a fishing spot you’re familiar with and is easy to get to, whether on shore or by boat. If you’re not sure where the fish are currently biting, ask at the bait shop for recommendations.
Have gear that’s suited for children, like a small fishing rod that’s easier for them to handle. You can also cast for your child or attach a sinker that will he or she can release straight down into the water.
Kids come with lots of “stuff,” and a fishing trip is no exception. In addition to the usual snacks and drinks, be sure to pack small games or books in case your child needs a break from fishing.
By law, children must wear a life jacket when on the lake. Be sure to discuss the importance of staying safe on the water, and keep hooks and large tackle away from curious hands.
Know when to call it a day. Older kids will be able to fish longer than their younger counterparts, but regardless of age, know when your angler has had enough.

The most important factor in the success of your first fishing trip is patience. The goal is to introduce your child to the sport in a way that will make him or her want to continue for years to come.

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Sturgeon Season on Rainy River

Fishing and Exploring Rainy River, Minnesota

Tips for Fishing with Kids

Keep Up With Rainy Lake!

Plan Your Trip!

Learn More:

MINNESOTA VACATIONS:

Sturgeon Season on Rainy River

Fishing and Exploring Rainy River, Minnesota

​Tips for Fishing with Kids

Keep Up With Rainy Lake!

Plan Your Trip!

Learn More:

MINNESOTA VACATIONS:

Tips for Fishing with Kids