North Arm vs. US

[waterspaniel]

I've fished the North Arm for 16 years each June (will be there starting the 9th) and I love it, but I have never fished the US side. For those that fish both, how would you compare both the fishing and the overall experience? I'm asking as I'm considering a second Rainy Trip this year, possibly in Sept.

Thanks!

Wats

[fishhound]

Wats

Are you talking about South of the Causway or US waters? I fish all three areas but prefer Canadian waters due to crowds. Some of the popular spots on the US side can get a little crowded.

Overall I find we do better north of the Causway (size and variety of fish), but I think that's because we've spent more time up there learning the lake. Structure is about the same on both sides. It just takes time to learn the newer areas and patterns.

Maybe there's a little more sand on the south end. We tend to use more Lindy Rigs down there. If you want to expedite learning the south end I suggest you hire a guide for a 1/2 or full day. I've used a lot of different guides on Rainy. They're all good but I favor Woody from Woody's Resort. If you're looking for a new place to say his resort is perfect for fishing East, NE into Canadian waters south of the Causway, or going straight North under the Causway onto North Arm.

Postiives about fishing the US side is that it's a lot less work. Fewer dumb rules. You can keep more fish, buy cheaper bait and can have cold beer in your boat. Regardless of which part of Rainy you're on it's one of my favorite lakes of all time. Good luck.

[waterspaniel]

Thanks! For some of the reasons you mentioned (border crossing/logistics etc.) I was thinking of a 3-5 day fall trip on the US side. I agree that a day w/ Woody would be $ well spent.

[fishhound]

I didn't read your post close enough. When people mention the North Arm they usually mean north side of the Causway. Point I was trying to make is that there's a lot of good fishing water that's in Canada but south of the Causway. NE of Woody's can be productive fishing and doensn't get as much pressure.

Strictly US water will produce a lot of fish for you. You will see a few more boats than you may be used to.

[waterspaniel]

We stay near Aimee Point/Sears Bay and fish that area, north to Moose Bay / Waller Island and west into Ash and Alexandria. I've never ventured into Northwest bay however.

[bitz]

I can't speak for the south of the cause way part, never have fished that end. My biggest reason for going to the North side is the lack of crowds and even other boats on some days. From all of your posts I am guessing those are things you like also. As to NW bay, the fishing is very good there, but for some reason, when ever the weather is good (wind) we try and head up to Ame Point area from NW bat area where you hang out. I find the fishing there more consistant and for some reason, I like the scenery better (that may sound odd, but I find the North Arm different than the nw bay area) and since I have been fishing it since about 1961, I guess I know the place better.

The limits are a pain sometimes but that said, never have I not had enough fish for lunch and to bring home. Rumor is they are going to increase the eye limit in 2014 on the north side, but that is just a rumor I heard while there last week. I have crossed the board at least a 100 times and never had an issue period... being able to buy a lic on line now makes that easy and since I don't drink booze, that has never been an issue for me either.

Bottom line for me is crowds and my guess is, Sept on the US side won't be an issue after labor day.

Bitz

[waterspaniel]

I'm not giving up on our North Arm Trip--it's the highlight of my year! I'm just wondering if a shorter, simpler trip in Sept. might be worth a Mn. visit--or if I'll be disappointed compared to the North Arm.

[fishhound]

You wont be. I'd still suggest you hire a guide to speed up the learning process. 220,000 acres. Lot of great area's to explore.