Top 10 Things to Do on Lake Winnie this Summer

July 25, 2024

In July and August the summer sun is here to bring the heat, which calls for a refreshing escape. Lake Winnibigoshish, Minnesota's "Winnie," is heaven on earth for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a summer getaway. With its beautiful waters, lush forests, and many surrounding towns, you will surely find something for everyone this summer. Here are 10 ways to make the most of your visit:

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1. Hit the Water: July and August are prime times for enjoying the lake's calm waters. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard from a local company near you listed under ‘Area Businesses’ and explore hidden coves, or cast a line for walleye, pike, and bass. If you’re looking to find the best fishing spot, fishing guides such as Northern Drift Outfitters, are available for those who want to maximize their catch.

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2. Hike and Bike: The Chippewa National Forest surrounding Lake Winnie has over 100 miles of trails perfect for exploring on foot or bike. Hike through the towering pine trees, spot wildlife like eagles and deer, or take a scenic ride on the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway near Cass Lake. There are trails available for beginners, as well as longer, hillier ones for the seasoned bikers / hikers.

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3. Berry Picking: July is blueberry season in Minnesota, and August is raspberry season! Head to nearby patches or explore the national forest for a rewarding berry-picking adventure. Don't forget to check availability and any picking regulations before you head out.

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4. Explore Charming Towns: Venture beyond the lake to discover the unique towns within an hour's drive. Bemidji, the "First City on the Mississippi," offers quirky attractions like the Paul Bunyan and Babe statues, while Grand Rapids is filled with Judy Garland history and cultural gems. Each town offers restaurants, shops, and local events.

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5. Visit Itasca State Park: Journey to the source of the mighty Mississippi River at Itasca State Park. Hike to the iconic headwaters, explore the surrounding wilderness, and learn about the river's history.

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6. Attend a Local Event: July and August often feature festivals and celebrations in the area. Check with local tourism boards or our website for upcoming events like the Dragon Boat Festival in Bemidji or the Cass Lake Summer Celebration.

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7. Tee Off: Your Lake Winnibigoshish vacation doesn't have to be on the water. Take a break from casting lines and explore the world-class golf courses just a short drive away. If golf is your passion, several championship courses are a short drive from Lake Winnie, offering scenic views and challenging play for all skill levels.

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8. Take a Historical Tour: Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. Visit the Cass Lake Museum to learn about logging and Native American heritage, or explore the Lost Forty, a unique area where the pine trees have remained untouched by loggers. This area is filled with engaging history.

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9. Relax and Unwind: Soak up the tranquility of the lake. Curl up with a book on a dock, enjoy a campfire under the starry sky, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings. Lake Winnibigoshish is the perfect place to clear your mind and reset yourself.

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10. Spoil Yourself: After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at a lakeside restaurant, Forest Lake Restaurant, or indulge in a relaxing massage at a nearby spa. There are many surrounding towns around Lake Winnie that offer relaxation time.

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Bonus Tip: Don't forget to pack for the weather! July and August can bring warm days and cool nights, so layers are recommended. The weather in our area is always fluctuating so it’s important to be prepared for any type of weather.

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With its abundance of activities and natural beauty, Lake Winnibigoshish offers the perfect summer escape. There are many surrounding resorts filled with activities suitable for the entire family. Come experience the magic of "Winnie" for yourself!

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The Hunt is ON at Lake Winnie

Fall is a prime time for hunting around Lake Winnie. Other than being on the lake fishing, being out in the woods hunting is the next best thing. We’ve got a diverse landscape, with a mix of forests, wetlands, and open fields, all offering abundant hunting opportunities. Whether you prefer the thrill of a bow hunt or the challenge of a shotgun, the Lake Winnie area has something for every hunter.

October 25th Fishing Report

Temperatures in the north country are definitely dropping. Fishing on Lake Winnie has remained steady, with anglers reporting great days still.

October 11th Fishing Report

Walleye fishing on the big pond is still producing well, as water temperatures drop and fish start to feed heavily. Many bites are happening across the lake, with most activity concentrated on typical fall shoreline structures.

October 4th Fishing Report

The Lake Winnie region has been battered by wind for about a week now. Shoreline fish should be set up and ready to feed for the upcoming weekend; however, it doesn't look like we'll catch a break this weekend either. With strong winds on the horizon, anglers should remember that the south shore of Winnie often fishes better in a heavy south wind, which may be counterintuitive. In contrast, the north shore seems to perform better when the wind is pushing in.

September 20th Fishing Report

Water temperatures on Lake Winnie are ranging from 65 to 70 degrees. Most of the walleye, perch, and pike fishing has been taking place along shoreline structures in 7 to 10 feet of water. Key areas to focus on include the south shoreline, stretching from Richards Townsite to the west. The east shore, from Highbanks down into Musky Bay, is also holding good numbers of fish.

September 20th Fishing Report

Prime fall fishing is still a couple of weeks away, but Little Cutfoot has been producing good numbers of panfish, with crappies getting significantly larger over the past week. As for the big lake, anglers should be prepared to adapt. Reports indicate a solid spinner bite, while others are having success with jigging techniques, whether trolling or casting.