Category: Fishing

Catch and Release on Rainy River: Must-Haves for the Extended Season

2/20/2020

Come March, who isn’t itching to get out on the water, soak up the sun, and float the day away while waiting for the big one? This month, we celebrate the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere but it might not feel or look like it. Ice still covers the lakes, the threat of late winter snow storms looms over us, and the temps aren’t quite warm enough to bury your winter coat in the back of your closet yet. But just as winter starts to retreat, migrating season begins for walleye making their way to spawning grounds and that means it’s prime season for many anglers looking to catch the big one.

Anglers migrate to the north every spring for one big reason: catch-and-release season. Fishers with cabin fever can delight knowing that they don’t have to wait for the May fishing opener in Minnesota to get out on the water and start casting. This catch-and-release season is in effect from March 1 to April 14 on Rainy River. With anglers migrating from all over the region for the extended season, here’s what you need to know:

License: Just like the regular season, anyone 16 and older will need a fishing license before they cast. You can buy online here or search for a license agent near you.
The Right Gear: Start off with safety. Pack enough life jackets for everyone on the boat and make sure you’re cleaning in and cleaning out. To help avoid the spread of aquatic invasive species, follow these tips from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). For equipment, fishing trips don’t have to break the bank. Know what you’re angling for and what lures or jigs they like best. In this case, anglers are casting in hopes of catching a mighty walleye that they can snap a photo of before releasing. New to walleye fishing? Don’t worry; we’ve created a list of a few essentials that we recommend for fishing on Rainy Lake here to get you started. The Minnesota DNR also shares a few tips here.
The Right Location: Rainy River has a few water access options to get you closer to that perfect spot. Whether you choose a rocky spot or a shallow bottom, plan to spend a few hours looking for the sweet spot that keeps them biting. Explore Minnesota suggests learning the seasonal patterns of walleye, which will help you place the big one with a little more accuracy.
The Right Clothes: This is likely a tip you already know, but dress in layers. March tends to be a cooler month but there are exceptions to this. Come with waterproof winter gear and easy to remove layers that will help insulate you in case of colder temps.
The Right Knowledge: Beyond knowing the basics of jigging, you’ll need to know what you can and can’t keep. Again, this is a catch-and-release opener and the regulations in place for this season safeguard the walleye species and ensure that the females make it to their destination to spawn. Any walleye will need to be immediately released after you snap your picture of the big guy. Here’s more info on these regulations and how to make sure you’re following the rules.

Now that you’re ready to go, make sure you have a place to stay. From hotels to resorts and cabins to B&Bs, we’re here to help you find a place to rest your head after a long day of fishing. Let the season begin!

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Sturgeon Season on Rainy River

5/23/2019

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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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Take a Mom Fishing, but first...

4/5/2019

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Photo by John Connelly

What's a fisherman to do when Mothers' Day is the same weekend as fishing opener? That is a dilemma many men face in Minnesota each spring. If Mom loves fishing as much as her husband, problem solved! Take Mom fishing! But first, take the time to include a Mother's Day Brunch and include some flowers or chocolates or whatever says "I love you" to her. Most mom's just want to know she is appreciated and nothing says that better than quality time. Fishing season lasts many months, but Mother's Day is only 24 hours. What if fishermen put the same effort into planning how to honor their wives and/or mothers as they do into a fishing trip? I can tell you the result: Mom's would be happy to say, "go fishing, you big dope!"

Remember, you can always give up the helm!

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Catch and Release on Rainy River: Must-Haves for the Extended Season

Sturgeon Season on Rainy River

Take a Mom Fishing, but first...

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