9.26.16 Sunset Lodge Fishing Report

Hello everyone! Checking back in with you from Sunset Lodge on beautiful Oak Island here in the Northwest Angle on world famous Lake of the Woods. Hope you all had a fantastic week!

Here in the Angle, Autumn is in full swing, as the temps are dropping, leaves are changing into their bright fall colors and  the local wildlife is preparing for winter. The weather the last week has been a mix of clouds and sun, rain and high winds along with falling temperatures. Fall fishing can be some of the best and easiest of the season, as the fish start to put on the feed bags in the big push towards winter freeze up.

On the American side of the lake, the water temp is between 60 and 62 degrees and falling as the air temps continue to drop. Anglers have been catching a mix of walleyes and saugers in the waters between Oak and Flag Island. Drifting bottom bouncers with minnows and spinners in depths of 18 to 30 feet has been effective as well as jigging with a minnow and trolling crankbaits. Hot colors are gold, pink and orange. Also, look to the deeper holes and mud areas here on the Minnesota side.

In Ontario waters, fishing has really been heating up despite the falling temps for a variety of species! Walleyes and saugers have been red hot as they begin to stack up in the deep holes and current areas as they prey on baitfish and bulk up for winter. Check the areas of Outer Bay, Bishop Bay, Johnston Passage and Tranquil Channel. Use electronics to locate schools of fish and work a jig and minnow combo to put fish in the boat. Use bottom bouncers with spinners and minnows to cover water and locate scattered fish. Crappie action has been picking up as of late as the water temps continue to dip, look for sharp drop offs into deep water of 30 feet or more and areas of trees and flooded timber. Work a jig with a minnow or plastic to put these jumbo slabs in the box. We've had several fish coming in topping 15 inches! Fall is also a time when the muskie action can be top notch! Most muskie anglers have switched from casting baits to trolling large minnow baits such as Jakes, Grandmas and Believers to locate these active predators. This time of year, these giants are at their largest as they are feeding heavily on suckers and tulibees. Fall is definitely the best time to land a true giant!

With September coming to a close and October on the horizon, time is running out on the open water season. But there's still time to make one last dash to the Angle for some world class fishing and hunting! This last weekend, the Minnesota Waterfowl season kicked off and there have been plenty of ducks around to put a smile on any wingshooters face! Maybe a weekend cast and blast would be a nice way to cap off the fall? We would love to be your hosts for that next outdoor excursion on your calendar.

Until next week folks, take care!
Cale Albers