RAINY RUN & SPRING STURGEON: Just Two Of The Many Topics We Talk To Mr. Lake of the Woods About

·43 min·4 clips

A resort owner asked Joe Henry what to do about Lake of the Woods' 'pike problem'—too many big pike.

Host Kev Jackson interviews Joe Henry, executive director of Lake of the Woods Tourism, on the Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors podcast. The episode begins with an update on late-season ice fishing on Lake of the Woods, where walleye and sauger seasons extend to April 14th and pike fishing is year-round. Henry notes that ice conditions vary by location, with some areas still accessible via ATVs or ice roads. He emphasizes the strong populations of walleye, sauger, and jumbo perch, and describes pike fishing techniques using tip-ups and quick-strike rigs. The discussion then shifts to the Rainy River, which opens for spring walleye fishing in late March, with Henry explaining the collaborative efforts of local counties and agencies to clear boat ramps. He outlines walleye fishing methods in the river, including jigging and trolling crankbaits. Sturgeon fishing on the Rainy River is highlighted as a premier fishery, with over 100,000 sturgeon over 40 inches. Henry details sturgeon seasons, tagging requirements for keeping fish, and fishing gear like heavy rods and circle hooks. The conversation also touches on eelpout (burbot), once discarded but now valued for their lobster-like meat. Henry discusses the overall health of the Lake of the Woods fishery, attributing it to abundant forage and vast shoreline. The episode concludes with a 'Fast Five' quiz where Henry answers questions about the lake's acreage, islands, and species diversity, and mentions an upcoming professional muskie tournament at the Northwest Angle.

As heard by us

A grounded Rainy River walleye primer with broader Lake of the Woods color around the edges.

Lake of the Woods is framed as a fishery where the season changes the rules. Joe Henry lays out why the Rainy River pulls big walleyes into tight water before the spawn, then turns to the practical side: jigs, plastics, minnows, crankbaits, and a three-way rig.

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Why you'd press play

You get Rainy River walleye tactics, big Lake of the Woods energy, and a fast five with Joe Henry.

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