When September rolls around, Lake of the Woods comes alive with some of the best fall walleye fishing you can find anywhere in North America. In this extended episode of Destination Fish TV, host Jon Thelen shares his proven fall jigging techniques for catching both numbers of walleyes and true trophy-class fish as the seasons change.
Why September is Prime Time for Walleyes
Late summer gives way to crisp mornings and cool evenings, and as water temperatures begin to drop, walleyes feed aggressively in preparation for winter. On Lake of the Woods, this transition period means giant schools of walleyes push shallow, holding on structure, reefs, points, and shorelines. Jon explains exactly where to locate fall walleyes, how baitfish movements influence fish behavior, and why jigging is the go-to presentation during this time of year.
Subtle Jigging Techniques That Trigger Strikes
Catching September walleyes isn’t just about dropping a jig—it’s about presentation. Jon demonstrates the importance of jig size, weight, cadence, and color, showing how small adjustments can mean the difference between a slow day and a boat limit. He explains how to vary jigging speed depending on current, depth, and water clarity, and how to coax bites from finicky walleyes in both clear and stained waters. These subtle jigging techniques are perfect not only for Lake of the Woods but also for other northern fisheries across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Canada.
Lake of the Woods Fall Fishing Experience
What makes this destination so unique is more than just the action—it’s the full Lake of the Woods experience. Jon captures the beauty of this massive fishery, the variety of structure it offers, and the sheer numbers of walleyes available. From charter boats to resort packages, anglers from across the U.S. and Canada travel here to experience the thrill of catching a trophy walleye of a lifetime. September is considered one of the best months for a walleye trip because the fish are grouped up, aggressive, and feeding heavily before ice-up.
Tips for More Success on the Water
Throughout the episode, Jon covers:
How to pick the right jigging rods, reels, and line setups
Choosing jig colors based on water clarity and forage base
The role of boat control in staying vertical over structure
How to adjust tactics for windy conditions versus calm water days
Why fall fishing trips at Lake of the Woods are a must-do for serious anglers
These tips are designed not only for seasoned walleye anglers but also for those planning their first trip north. Jon makes it clear that whether you’re fishing with a Minnesota guide service, Canadian resort, or your own boat, these tactics will help you land more fish.
Beyond Walleyes – A Multi-Species Paradise
One of the hidden bonuses of fishing Lake of the Woods in September is the chance to hook into a variety of other species while jigging for walleyes. Saugers, perch, and even pike often fall for the same presentations. Jon shows how targeting walleyes in the fall can also mean a multi-species fishing adventure.
Must-Watch for Northern Walleye Fans
If you’ve ever searched for:
Best time to catch walleyes on Lake of the Woods
Fall jigging tips for walleyes
Where to fish walleyes in September in Minnesota or Canada
Lake of the Woods fishing resorts and charters
…then this episode is for you. It’s packed with high-level fishing instruction, beautiful scenery, and the kind of action that makes Lake of the Woods famous across the fishing world.
Don’t miss your chance to learn from Jon Thelen, one of the Midwest’s most trusted fishing experts, as he shows exactly how to make the most of your September fishing trip.

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