​Minnesota walleye fishing opener is just a few weeks away (May 13, 2017 to be exact). Where will you be? If you’re smart like the generations of seasoned fishermen that frequent our Minnesota fishing resort, you’ll be on Lake Winnibigoshish enjoying one of Minnesota’s favorite pastimes.

If you’re really smart, you’ll be staying in one of the beautiful cabins at Northland Lodge the night before so you can beat the crowds to the early morning bite. You’ve probably heard about and seen photos of the legendary lunkers that have been pulled from Lake Winnie’s waters throughout the years. But did you know that there is a highly complex and meticulous process that is occurring right now, producing more than 10 million walleye fry each year?

Cut Foot Sioux (located just a few minutes north of our Minnesota fishing resort) is a natural spawning location since walleye are attracted to the warmer, flowing water. The Cut Foot Sioux Walleye Hatchery is located here and we are fascinated by the scrupulous job the men and women do there. The crew is busy prepping for fishing season by assisting in the production of walleye eggs all this week, and you can read more about the process here.

If you want to be the subject of fisherman’s tales for years to come, plan to spend your Minnesota walleye fishing opener on Lake Winnie this year. We still have cabin and campsite rentals available so book now before they’re all taken. The walleye slot limit on Winnie has changed in recent years, so be sure to brush up on that before you go. You can also check into fishing with one of our recommended fishing guides.  

Other northern Minnesota resorts boast about their walleye fishing, but don’t be fooled. The walleye are all here on Lake Winnibigoshish, and that’s where you should be too!

Although we are a community of northern Minnesota fishing fanatics, there are many additional ways to enjoy your resort vacation on Lake Winnibigoshish.

By Lake 
As a family-friendly resort, we encourage you to take your crew out to explore Minnesota’s fifth largest lake by fishing boat or pontoon. Rentals are available daily or weekly. Going solo? We also offer paddleboats, canoes and kayaks free of charge. Channel your inner nature lover while you listen for the call of the loon and watch eagles swoop for nearby fish. Nearby points of interest (by boat) include Cutfoot Sioux (a MN DNR walleye spawning site) and the Winnibigoshish Dam (just northeast of Northland Lodge where the Mississippi River flows into Little Lake Winnibigoshish).

By Land
Land lubbers can pack a picnic lunch and take a day drive to the Lost Forty Scientific & Natural Area for a hike or a cruise up the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic byway. Our beautiful protected forests are optimal for wildlife viewing too. Species you’ll observe include whitetail deer, blue heron, red fox, bald eagles, lady’s slipper orchids and many more! There are plenty of hiking trails within the beautiful Chippewa National Forest too. Our resort staff would be happy to recommend some of the more popular trails and local attractions.
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Do What the Locals Do! 
As the sun sets, bring your fresh catch of the day to the nearby Big Fish Supper Club, famous for the giant roadside muskie greeting travelers along Highway 2. It’s a short drive from our family fishing resort and the chef will cook up your fresh catch to perfection. Take an obligatory selfie (locals do it too!) with the 65-foot registered historic landmark and be the envy of your friends back home.

Whether exploring the woods or waters of northern Minnesota’s natural beauty, you won’t be disappointed while vacationing at our family fun fishing resort, Northland Lodge. Reserve your cabin today!