SECTION THREE
On the northern end of lake is the northernmost
point of the continental U.S. called the NW An-
gle. There is another breed of angler here whose
sights are on a predator exceeding 50 inches.
Muskies have their feed bag on, as well. Some
anglers are still casting while others are trolling
points, neck down areas and transition areas
amongst the 14,552 islands.
Other anglers have their hearts set on the lake’s
huge black crappies. These fish range from 12
– 17” and can exceed two pounds. Fall is a great
time to catch schooling crappies amongst the
island areas of Lake of the Woods.
With the migration is in full swing, anglers fish-
ing the Angle will share sightings of huge flocks
of diver ducks staging amongst the islands. It
typically takes a strong north wind, snow or cold
weather to push them down.
Goose hunters are setting decoys amongst fields
just before dawn. Scattered flocks of Canadian
geese staged on the lake are hungry and use adja-
cent agricultural land to satisfy their appetite and
keep energy levels high for their journey.
PHOTO CREDIT: MATT SOBERG
Inland, grouse hunters are navigating the hun-
dreds of thousands of acres of public forest
land this area boasts. There are three species of
grouse in the area but the most popular quarry
are ruffed grouse which some call the “Chicken
of the North Woods”. Spruce grouse also inhabit
the forest, usually in close proximity to the pines.
Sharp tailed grouse are also in the area, but prefer
the agricultural areas bordering tree lines.
Another bird species to catch the attention of
hunters is the woodcock. Some are locals while
others are simply using the area as a resting place
as they pass through.
The deer activity is increasing. Black bears are
bulking up for a long nap. Fall is a special time
up at Lake of the Woods. The sights, the smells
and the sounds. It can leave a lasting impression
on even the most traveled adventurer. Yes, the
fishing is good, but there is so much more.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOE HENRY
HORIZONS | 33