Minnesota Fishing Opener: Rainy Lake a Top Choice

Scott Walsh featured in Midwest Outdoors

Article by Ron Kruger Aug 1, 2017

At the top of Minnesota, a gem of a fishery awaits anglers willing to ply cold, early-season water temperatures and unpredictable weather for the Minnesota Fishing Opener on May 13. This vast body of water is an expanse of 275,000 acres, straddling the northern border with Ontario and features multi-species action.
While huge ice-out crappies lure anglers to kick off the open-water season, it’s the primary gamefish species—walleyes, smallmouths, pike—that offer the greatest temptation to explore Rainy Lake in mid-May.
This popular tourism destination attracts families and fishermen in all seasons, with the height of summer providing a water-based playground for fishing, water sports, houseboating or simply enjoying quality time in the Minnesota’s Northwoods.
The resorts here can fill up early for peak dates, so advance planning and research is recommended. However, because mid-May weather in northern Minnesota delivers a potential mixed bag, you can usually find last-minute accommodations or rent a houseboat to explore this waterway during the early season.        Rainy Lake is home to Voyageur’s National Park, meaning you’ll encounter a setting that feels mostly pristine and beautiful. But it’s the fishing action that is the main attraction...

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