International Falls, Minnesota

What's biting

• Walleye

  Where: Rainy River main channel and deeper pools; Baudette area flats; Lake of the Woods bays and structure

  Peak early-fall bite as water cools to 20°C. Work 3–5 m (10–16 ft) depths with live shiners or crawlers at dawn and dusk; jigging works well over structure. Expect good numbers through mid-September.

  Caution: Check current size and bag limits with Minnesota DNR before fishing.

• Northern Pike

  Where: Rainy River weed edges and backwater bays; shallow weedy areas of Lake of the Woods

  Still active in warm shallows but moving deeper as water cools. Cast spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or large shiners along weed lines at 1–3 m (3–10 ft). Early morning and overcast days are best.

  Caution: Verify current regulations and any catch-and-release requirements.

• Yellow Perch

  Where: Lake of the Woods shallow bays; Rainy River slack-water areas and drop-offs

  Schooling and feeding heavily before autumn turnover. Fish 2–4 m (6–13 ft) with small jigs tipped with minnow or worm; often caught in clusters. Excellent panfish option.

  Caution: None, but confirm bag limits locally.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Rocky shoals and structure in Lake of the Woods; Rainy River current breaks

  Still feeding but slowing as water temperature drops. Use small crankbaits, soft plastics, or live crawfish in 2–4 m (6–13 ft) water. Topwater works at dawn.

  Caution: Confirm size and season status with Minnesota DNR.

• Lake Sturgeon

  Where: Rainy River main channel, deep holes and current seams

  Rare but present; fall is a migration window. Requires specialized heavy tackle and patience; check DNR for current regulations and any special restrictions.

  Caution: Strictly regulated—verify all rules before attempting to fish for sturgeon.