The warmer weather is expected to result in more action for ice anglers. The walleye and crappie bite has been strongest in the morning and evening hours. Jigging with live bait is most effective and the advice is that a bright color, or even a jig that produces some noise attracts more attention. Most areas of Rainy Lake are accessible for folks with snowmobiles and portable gear. The usual ice road to Sand Bay and the short roads to the east are available for light vehicles and the National Park ice road is open to Rainy Lake City.

The border waters will remain open to walleye fishing after this weekend which always allows for the latest ice fishing in the region. The earliest open water walleye fishing is usually available on Rainy River and the accesses will be open as soon as the weather and safety permits. The border waters walleye season extends to mid-April. 

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.
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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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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!

The International Falls Bass Championship is a unique bass fishing event on Rainy Lake and Rainy River, MN. ​With great fishing on the lake and river, we take full advantage of the great fishing the borderland has to offer. Reel in more than $30,000 dollars in prize money and 3 days of events and entertainment for the whole family, you won’t want to miss out on the excitement!

International Falls Bass Championship-Daytime Activities
Thursday, August 22
2:00pm - 6:00pm
Smokey Bear Park, 600 3rd St
International Falls, MN 56649

The Bass Championship kicks off in smokey Bear Park.

Here's the afternoon schedule.
2pm
Concessions open
Arts and Crafts Sale
Midco Bass Bucks on sale
Raffle tickets available
Flea market

4pm
Beer Gardens and VIP Livewell Lounge open