JANUARY 25

Hey Sportsfans! 

The long weekend (January 16-19) packed the house… and the action on the ice delivered. Hands down, it was the best fishing we’ve seen all season! One of those weekends that makes you seriously consider a first, second, or maybe even third trip to Lake of the Woods this winter. If you weren’t out there… yeah, this is a full-on FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) alert.

The bite was fueled by an approaching cold front. As temperatures dropped quickly this week, the action slowed a bit. Even through below-zero days, we’re still seeing solid numbers of fish. Plenty for a classic fish fry dinner.

Heading our way? Come prepared for a 20-mile ride out, set up in 30–34 feet of water, and then it’s game on. Positioned near Bridges Island and surrounding reefs, the guides have the houses parked in prime end-of-January real estate.

We’ve seen it all this week: overs ready to be replicated for the wall, slot fish… plus PERCH to keep things busy.

As for what they wanted:

  • Pink and red jigs were absolute producers
  • Wonder Bread jigging spoons… crushed
  • Dirty Bombs on fire!

If this is a sign of what February will bring… buckle up.

 

SET THE HOOK!

JANUARY 18

Hey Sportsfans, 

Strong winds this week pushed our houses farther north, and the weather has been perfectly cold. We’re expecting another cold week ahead—good thing our cabins are warm and comfortable.

We’re now set up about 18 miles past Pine Island, roughly a one-hour bomber ride. Be sure to bring good conversation—or headphones if you’d rather ignore your neighbor.

Guides are reporting great numbers of solid-sized fish, along with plenty of perch. We’re currently fishing up at Bridge Island and the rubble fields in between.

We’ve been staying busy and having a blast with all of you. See you soon!

Set the Hook!

JANUARY 11

Hey Sportsfans,

Another successful week on the lake is officially in the books!

This week was particularly exciting, highlighted by the bomber’s debut on Monday.

The weather has been cooperating, making for excellent travel and fishing conditions. Our guides have been busy relocating ice houses farther onto the ice, following active fish and dialing in even better bites.

We’ve also started pushing closer to the border. The ride out to the ice houses remains a smooth 25-minute trip, covering roughly 7–8 miles.

Anglers have been landing some beautiful walleye this week, including several solid slot fish. One mighty fisher even hooked an impressive 28.5-inch walleye!

Set the Hook! 🎣

January 2nd, 2026

Happy New Year from the Ballard’s Team! It is Jan 2, 2026 and we are now full steam ahead!

Currently we are fishing 3-4 miles out in front of Morris point gap. We are jigging around 30’ of water and seeing the best results with a pink, white or gold lure. The bite has overall been consistent with many fish fry’s taking place nightly!

We are still hauling people out in the geo trackers and trailers as we are waiting for enough snow to fire up the bombardiers! We are hoping within the next few days we will make the transition, weather pending. We are measuring 18-22” of ice on the lake and we’ve started grooming the river where we are seeing anywhere from 10-15”.

Overall it’s been a great start to our 25-26 winter season, and we look forward to seeing you up here! As always, “SET THE HOOK!”