Joe Henry tells spring seasonal movements to catch walleyes on the Rainy River.

 This is the spring run on the Rainy. It all begins with reports about open water on the river, and the news travels fast. Boat access typically begins near the Upper Sault Access (Franz Jevne), which is 28 miles east of Baudette and continues west. After Franz Jevne, the open water progresses west to Birchdale (Nelson Park landing), Frontier landing, Vidas landing(Clementson), Timber Mill Park (east Baudette), Peace Park in Baudette Bay, Bayview public access and finally Wheeler’s Point public access at the mouth of the Rainy River. Depending upon the spring, open water often appears the third week of March, but every year is different. The best way to keep abreast of the open water on the river is to keep connected with Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau’s website and social media for updates and any other pertinent information.

The first anglers to appear are the brave souls who elect to bring up smaller boats that can be pushed across the shore ice and carefully slid into the icy waters. These are the pioneers of the walleye run and obviously “safety first” is their mantra. Most anglers wait for the accesses to be ice-free, and the county is good at using backhoes to help speed up the natural process of the excess ice moving out.

Tackle now is simple: a good jigging rod, handful of jigs and minnows or bright plastics. For most, a jig and minnow—preferably the emerald shiner—is the go-to bait during the cold-water period. Brightly colored glow and gold jigs are a good start. Most of the walleyes are hungry, but want the bait slow, as they are not in the chasing mode. Don’t worry about using a heavier jig. A lighter one can rise up and move too fast in the current with less control. Depending upon the flow of the river, start out with a 3/8 or1/2 ounce and go from there. Don’t be afraid to go heavier if the water is moving quickly, as this jig will slow down your offering, just the way the walleyes want it.

Many vertically jig over the side of their boats, working the bottom foot of the water column. Anchor up and give it 30minutes in a spot before moving. Anglers will anchor up on key spots such as a hole, bar or current seam. Often, groups of walleyes are on the move and will come to you.

Want to be ready for the fishing season?  Check out the April issue of MidWest Outdoors magazine, available the first full week of April at a newsstand near you. You may also subscribe to MidWest Outdoors online or by phoning 800-606-3474.

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