The stunning international waters of Lake of the Woods and Rainy River provide some of the best fishing in the world. Anglers flock here year-round in search of that elusive record catch.

The waters near the Northwest Angle & Islands are home to a variety and volume of fish. Walleye and muskie are king here, but exceptional smallmouth bass, northern pike and crappie fishing can be found, too.

The South Shore is home to trophy walleye and northern. During the winter months, anglers can ice fish to their hearts' content for walleye and sauger during the day or all night long in comfortable condos. Or they can add variety by checking out the hot northern pike action in tip-up and spearing houses.

The Rainy River, which meanders between Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods, forms a natural boundary between the U.S. and Canada. In the winter, the river holds ice fishermen in toasty houses, while spring heralds a fishing frenzy for pre-spawn walleyes near Franz Jevne State Park.

Birdwatching has become a national obsession and is one of the country's fastest growing hobbies. Lake of the Woods County is recognized statewide as a bird watcher's paradise. Almost 300 species of birds nest here and can be seen and heard in any season of the year. Several national tour agencies list the county as one of the hotspots for people who watch birds as a hobby.

A very unique way to observe birds on Lake of the Woods is by boat. Along shorelines you will find Canadian Geese, Tundra Swans, herons, mallards and loons. White Pelicans, Double-crested Cormorants, and four species of gulls and terns can be found on the many islands that dot the lake. Pine and Curry Islands host the endangered Piping Plover and have been designated a state Scientific and Natural Area.

Included in the bird of prey list are the Bald Eagle, Osprey and Turkey Vulture. The sight of a Great Gray or Snowy Owl, Sandhill Crane, or crow-sized Pileated Woodpecker is a thrill for any bird lover.

Spring's ambassador is the Red Wing Blackbird, followed by sparrows, warblers, robins, vireos, orioles and hummingbirds. Their activities and song continue into late fall. Dropping temperatures bring northern birds such as Junco and Snow Bunting as short term guests.

The Deer Hunting Season begins in late October for Bow hunters, the first part of November for firearms and runs through mid December for muzzle loaders. Grouse, duck, and goose hunting are also popular. There are several hunt clubs and game farms in the area.

Come revisit Oak Harbor Golf Club.

Open to the public and under new ownership. The new Oak Harbor Golf Club will include an 18-hole par-72 golf course. Located along the Rainy River, 8.5 miles north of Baudette on Highway 172. The course is open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week and includes a clubhouse with a bar/restaurant and cart/equipment rental.

All day Tuesday is Lady’s Day and Wednesday from noon until dusk is Men’s Day. The course operates from May 1-November 1 (weather permitting). Its five-tee system will provide golfers of all skill and ability levels with fair, enjoyable and exciting golf experiences, as well as speed play. The Championship Tees at over 6,700 yards will challenge the best golfers.

For those visiting the Northwest Angle area, bring your clubs along and golf the most northern course in the contiguous United States. You can then boast of being a top golfer (at the top of the states anyway).