Rainy River Walleye Fishing Report and Tips for 2023

Introduction

The Rainy River is a popular fishing destination located on the Minnesota-Ontario border. Known for its excellent walleye fishing, the Rainy River attracts anglers from across North America each spring. This article will provide an in-depth Rainy River fishing report for 2023, including information on the peak times to fish, techniques, hot spots, and tips from the experts to help you catch more and bigger walleye on your next fishing trip.

The Rainy River Walleye Run

Each spring, millions of walleye make their spawning migration up the Rainy River from Lake of the Woods into tributary streams and rivers in Minnesota and Ontario. This spawning run usually kicks off in mid-April and continues through early May as water temperatures climb into the low 40s Fahrenheit. The peak of the Rainy River walleye run typically occurs around the last week of April and first week of May when the biggest numbers of fish are moving through.

As the walleye run ramps up, popular fishing spots become crowded with boats and anglers. The boats cram into spots like Wheeler's Point, the mouths of the Rapid and Littlefork Rivers, and the fast water around the dams. Shore fishermen also congregate below the dams and bridge crossings. All are after one thing - hooking into hard fighting Rainy River walleye.

Rainy River Fishing Techniques

There are two main techniques used to catch walleye on the Rainy River during the spring fishing season - jigging and trolling:

Jigging

Jigging with minnows is an extremely effective way to catch Rainy River walleye. Anglers vertically jig lightweight jigs tipped with a minnow along deep holes, drop-offs, and current seams. Common jig weights range from 1/8 to 3/8 ounce. Bright colored jigs in chartreuse, pink, orange and glow colors work well. When a walleye grabs the bait, dropoff indicators like Slip Bobbers allow anglers to see the bite and set the hook.

Trolling

Trolling with crankbaits is another productive technique used on the Rainy. Shallow diving crankbaits that run 5-10 feet work well, especially when trolled along outside river bends and structure. Some popular crankbait colors for Rainy River walleye are gold, orange, pink, and perch patterns. In-line planer boards help spread out trolling baits to cover more water.

Top Spots to Fish

While walleye can be caught along almost any part of the river, there are a few spots that consistently produce each spring. Here are some of the top spots to try your luck:

Wheeler's Point

Located just downstream from the Lake of the Woods inlet, Wheeler's Point is arguably the most popular and productive walleye spot on the entire river. The sharp bend in the river just north of Wheeler's Point creates excellent current that congregates baitfish and feeding walleye.

Dams

The dams at International Falls, Ranier, and Fort Frances see heavy fishing pressure as walleye stack up below the fast water. Shore fishing can be very productive using jigs or drifting live bait rigs.

Confluence of Tributaries

The current seams at the mouths of tributaries like the Rapid River, Littlefork River, and Manitou River attract walleye moving into these smaller spawning rivers. Trolling crankbaits along these transitional zones can be deadly.

Baudette Bridge

There is almost always someone fishing on each side of the bridge at Baudette. From shore, anglers can cast jigs tipped with minnows into the deep holes around the bridge pilings.

Rainy River Fishing Tips

To maximize your chances of success on a Rainy River fishing trip, make sure to follow these tips from the local experts:

Follow Safety Rules

Fishing near dams and fast water demands extra precautions. Wear a PFD and engine kill switch at all times. Hazards like debris and cold hypothermic water are serious threats.

Find Clear Water

Stained water from run-off will congregate fish in areas of clearer water. Focus efforts on tributary mouths or upstream sections.

Watch Your Electronics

Your fish finder can reveal prime structure, baitfish, and even suspended walleye. Watch for these clues to find active fish.

Vary Retrieval Speed

When jigging or trolling, experiment with different speeds including stopping completely. Walleye want the bait at their preferred speed.

Stay Mobile

With so many boats, don't be afraid to move and cover water until you locate a productive area holding active fish.

Conclusion

For anglers interested in world-class walleye fishing, a spring trip to the Rainy River should be at the top of the bucket list. Though busy, the excellent walleye bite makes it worth navigating the crowds. With a little preparation and strategy, you stand an excellent chance of catching your limit and landing the trophy walleye of a lifetime on the Rainy River!

FAQs

When is the best time to fish the Rainy River?

The peak of the Rainy River walleye run usually happens around the last week of April and first week of May when water temperatures reach about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This is typically the best time to target trophy walleye.

Where are the best spots to fish on the Rainy River?

Popular hot spots are Wheeler's Point, the dams at International Falls, Ranier and Fort Frances, the mouths of tributaries like the Rapid River, and the bridge at Baudette. Focus on areas with current and structure.

What baits and techniques work best?

Jigging with minnows is extremely effective. Vertical jigging along deep holes and structure is a go-to technique. Trolling shallow diving crankbaits along current seams and bends also produces a lot of walleye.

Is there shore fishing access on the Rainy River?

Yes, there are several excellent shore fishing opportunities below the dams and around bridge crossings. Just be sure to avoid private property.

Do I need a Minnesota or Ontario fishing license?

If you are fishing on the Minnesota side of the river, you will need a Minnesota fishing license. For the Ontario side, you will need an Ontario license. Be sure to know which province you are fishing in.