Pre-ice-out walleye fishing in Minnesota offers anglers exceptional opportunities to target this prized species. Key locations such as Mississippi River Pools 2 and 4, as well as the Rainy River, become hotspots during this period. Understanding the optimal dates, specific locations, and effective tactics can enhance your fishing experience.
Mississippi River Pool 2
Brian with a nice early season pool 2 Minnesota walleye caught while dragging a jig on the Mississippi River
Location: Extends from the Ford Dam in Minneapolis downstream to the Hastings Dam.
Season: Pool 2 remains open for walleye fishing year-round; however, it is designated as a catch-and-release zone for walleyes, saugers, largemouth, and smallmouth bass. fishingminnesota.com
Tactics: Early spring is prime time for targeting walleyes in Pool 2. Anglers often find success by pitching and dragging jigs with plastics slowly along wing dams and current breaks. It’s essential to maintain a respectful distance from other boats, especially when fishing popular structures like wing dams. in-depthoutdoors.com
Mississippi River Pool 4
Toby K dusting the winter rust off the open water rods with a nice Mississippi river Pool 4 walleye caught on a jig and minnow in early April
Location: Stretches from Lock and Dam No. 3 near Red Wing, Minnesota, downstream to Lock and Dam No. 4 near Alma, Wisconsin.
Season: Pool 4 offers year-round fishing opportunities. The period just before ice-out, typically from late February through March, is particularly productive for walleyes.
Tactics: Focus on the first few miles downstream from Lock and Dam No. 3. As water temperatures rise, walleyes move into these areas to prepare for spawning. Effective techniques include dragging jigs tipped with plastics or minnows slowly along the bottom.
Rainy River
Justin C proudly holds a rainy river walleye smiling at the camera during an early Walleye fishing adventure
Location: Forms part of the border between Minnesota and Ontario, flowing from Rainy Lake to Lake of the Woods.
Season: The prime walleye fishing season occurs immediately after ice-out, which can vary but often happens in late March to early April. It’s crucial to plan trips before the ice breaks on the Big Fork and Little Fork Rivers, as their melt can muddy the waters and affect fishing conditions.
Tactics: Anglers should monitor local conditions closely, as the river’s clarity and flow can change rapidly with melting ice and snow. Plan to fish the changing current conditions with a variety of jigs and minnows or plastics. Current seams and sand dunes are typical locations that hold large schools of walleye.
Lodging Options on the Rainy River
For those planning a fishing trip to the Rainy River, here are some lodging options in Baudette, Minnesota:
Border View Lodge: Offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to spacious lodges suitable for large groups. Amenities include a full-service restaurant featuring Certified Angus Beef®, jumbo broiled shrimp, and more. borderviewlodge.com
Sportsman’s Lodge: Features 30 lodge rooms, including standard rooms with two queen beds, king suites, and an executive suite. All rooms come equipped with modern amenities, and the lodge provides guided fishing services to enhance your angling experience. sportsmanslodges.com
Planning your trip around these insights can lead to a successful and enjoyable pre-ice-out walleye fishing adventure in Minnesota.
Guided Fishing Services
For anglers seeking a guided experience, Leisure Outdoor Adventures offers professional fishing guide services across Minnesota’s premier lakes, including Leech Lake, Lake Vermilion, and the Brainerd Lakes Area. Their experienced guides are dedicated to providing exceptional fishing adventures tailored to both novice and seasoned anglers.
Planning your trip around these insights can lead to a successful and enjoyable pre-ice-out walleye fishing adventure in Minnesota.
