Kenora and Lake of the Woods

Weather, Fishing and Lifestyle Report

January 22th, 2026

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☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is under an extreme cold pattern this week as a powerful Arctic airmass remains locked over the region. Wind chills in the −40 to −45 range are expected to continue through the weekend, with little daytime relief. Daytime highs will remain in the mid to high minus 20s, with overnight lows plunging into the mid −30s. Winds gusting up to 50 km/h at times will make conditions especially dangerous, with frostbite possible on exposed skin within minutes. Early next week shows only modest improvement, with temperatures still well below seasonal norms. Source.

❄️ Ice Conditions & Safety Update

According to Leonard’s latest updates, extreme cold, strong winds, and blowing snow have created very hazardous conditions on the ice road. As of Sunday and again on Thursday, travel on the ice road is not advised due to reduced visibility, severe wind chills, and dangerous working conditions. These factors significantly increase risk for anyone attempting to travel or remain on the ice.

As always, use of the ice road is at your own risk. Conditions can change rapidly, and extreme cold increases the danger of mechanical failure, frostbite, and delayed response in case of emergency. If you must travel, ensure you are properly equipped, dressed for extreme cold, and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Updated weekly during ice season by Nacho Boveri, local real estate agent and lake enthusiast. Whether you're looking for your next home or just love keeping up with life on the lake, I'm glad you're here.

January 14th, 2026

26-01-14 Kenora Sunset
☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is locked into a deep-winter pattern this week, with bitter cold and dangerous wind chills to start things off. Sunshine today comes with wind chills near −30°C and a risk of frostbite, followed by periods of snow Thursday and Friday bringing a few centimetres of accumulation. The weekend stays cold, with highs in the high teens below zero, but conditions look stable overall—classic January weather that demands layers and caution outdoors. Source.

❄️ Ice Conditions & Safety Update

According to the latest update from Leonard, ice thickness from the MNR landing to Horse Island is averaging around 22 inches, with reduced thickness of 16–19 inches between Horse Island and Toad Stool Point, then increasing again to 22–24 inches toward Windigo Island. Current weight limits are set at 25,000 lbs from the MNR landing to Horse Island (with speeds restricted to 20 km/h or less), and 15,000 lbs from Horse Island to French Portage, with no exceptions.

Plowing is ongoing on the ice road to Windigo Island, and anyone parked on the road is asked to stay close to their vehicle. If plows are approaching, vehicles will need to be moved—or they may be moved to allow equipment through. As always, use of the ice road is at your own risk, and conditions can change quickly.

Updated weekly during ice season by Nacho Boveri, local real estate agent and lake enthusiast. Whether you're looking for your next home or just love keeping up with life on the lake, I'm glad you're here.

January 7th, 2026

26-01-07 Ice fishing

❄️ Winter 2026

Welcome to 2026, and welcome back to full-on ice fishing season on Lake of the Woods. With consistent cold weather behind us, anglers are settling into their winter routines—hauling sleds, drilling holes, and chasing walleye, trout, and pike across the ice. It’s that time of year when the lake feels quieter and slower, yet just as alive—proof that lake life doesn’t pause for winter, it simply changes pace.

Ice conditions can still vary widely across the lake, so caution is key. Any travel on the ice should always be done at your own risk, with close attention paid to pressure cracks, current areas, and changing conditions. Many locals follow Leonard Boucha’s updates through the Windigo Ice Road Facebook group, which is known for its practical, safety-focused reporting. No matter the source, always verify conditions yourself before heading out.

☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is settling into a classic January pattern, with cold temperatures and a mix of cloud cover and occasional flurries through the weekend. Daytime highs will range from about −1°C today to near −10°C by Saturday, with overnight lows dipping into the mid-teens below zero. Winds will add a noticeable chill at times, but overall conditions look stable—good winter weather for being out on the ice with proper cold-weather prep. Source.

Written by Nacho Boveri, local real estate agent and lake enthusiast. Whether you're looking for your next home or just love keeping up with life on the lake, I'm glad you're here.

July 16th, 2025

☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is in for a pleasantly warm week, with highs in the upper teens to low twenties °C (mid-60s to mid-70s °F). Expect a mix of sun and clouds through the weekend, with a slight cooldown and a chance of thunderstorms early next week. It's a classic summer rhythm—great for being outdoors, just keep an eye on the sky late in the day!

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions

Lake temperatures are holding steady around 75°F, and the summer patterns are setting in. Walleyes have moved a bit shallower again, with some nice keepers coming from 18 to 20 feet earlier this week. Bass are definitely out of their beds now and spreading out into typical summer spots. It’s a good time to mix things up—try different depths and keep moving until you find the bite.

🌿 Community Life

The Kenora Open Air Market was in full swing this past weekend, and the vibe couldn’t have been better. Families, visitors, and locals strolled through the stalls, enjoying live music, shopping, and soaking up some classic Northwestern Ontario summer weather. Century 21 Northern Choice Realty had a booth at the event, and I was there too—chatting with folks, catching up with familiar faces, and meeting new ones. It’s these small-town summer moments that remind you why life on the lake is hard to beat.

Written by Nacho Boveri, local real estate agent and lake enthusiast. Whether you're looking for your next home or just love keeping up with life on the lake, I'm glad you're here.

July 2nd, 2025

☀️ Weather Outlook: Kenora is set for a warm and varied week. Expect highs in the upper 20s°C (around 84 °F) on Thursday and Friday, with a strong possibility of afternoon thunderstorms—including heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds. By the weekend, the heat will ease, and skies will turn partly to mostly cloudy with cooler, more comfortable temperatures.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions: Lake temps have climbed to around 78°F, creating ideal conditions for a summer bite. Bass are staying active and hitting spinnerbaits hard, especially in shallow structure. Walleyes are settling at 20–25 feet deep and appear more consistent than last week. Meanwhile, northern pike and musky have been less predictable—likely due to shifting weather patterns and warming waters.

🌿 Community Life: Kenora is coasting off the high of a picture-perfect Canada Day. With celebrations stretching across the waterfront and plenty of people taking Monday off, it felt more like a four-day weekend than just a single holiday. The streets were lively, boats were out early, and fireworks capped off a classic start to July. Summer's rhythm is setting in, and the lake is calling louder every day.

Written by Nacho Boveri, local real estate agent and lake enthusiast. Whether you're looking for your next home or just love keeping up with life on the lake, I'm glad you're here.

June 18th, 2025

☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is in for a mix of classic summer weather this week. Expect a few scattered showers and the chance of thunderstorms through Friday, followed by a sunny and warm Saturday with highs near 28°C. Things cool off early next week, with clearer skies and more comfortable temps. A little bit of everything—just how summer starts around here.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions

Lake temperatures have climbed into the upper 60s °F, and bass are aggressively chasing spinnerbaits in warmer bays. Walleyes remain hit-or-miss, with reports of catches coming from both shallow water and depths over 25 feet. Northern pike are becoming more active and aggressive as the water continues to warm. Big news for anglers: this Saturday marks the musky opener, and many are gearing up for what’s expected to be a busy weekend on the water.

June 4th, 2025

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☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is experiencing a mix of sun and haze this week, with daytime highs around 21°C and cooler nights near 9°C. Local smoke from regional wildfires may affect air quality, especially in the afternoons. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions when outdoors.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions

Lake of the Woods has warmed up to 68°F, and the bass bite has been strong—especially in shallow bays and rocky shorelines. Walleyes, however, have been a bit more elusive. Recent reports indicate that walleyes are scattered, with some anglers finding success using jigs and minnows near shoreline structures like points and weed edges. The inconsistent weather patterns may be contributing to their unpredictable behavior.

May 28th, 2025

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☀️ Weather Outlook

Kenora is enjoying a stretch of sunny, mild weather, with daytime highs hovering around 23°C and cooler nights near 12°C. The region continues to monitor several active wildfires, including Kenora 20, which has grown to over 32,000 hectares. A slight breeze and scattered clouds have helped ease the smoke, but dry conditions mean fire risk remains top of mind.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions

Lake temps have jumped to around 63°F, bringing a noticeable shift in fish activity. Bass are starting to move into the shallows, and the bite has definitely picked up—especially in warmer bays and rocky shorelines. If you're out this week, it's a great time to start working those early season bass patterns.

May 21st, 2025

Man holding a 22' walleye

🌤️ Weather Outlook: Kenora is enjoying a stretch of sunny, mild weather, with daytime highs hovering around 18°C and cooler nights near 6°C. However, the region is contending with several active wildfires, including the Kenora 20 blaze, which has expanded to over 30,000 hectares and remains uncontained. While the fire risk has lessened slightly due to recent cooler temperatures, residents should stay informed and adhere to any fire restrictions in place.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions: Lake of the Woods is wide open, with water temps sitting around 48°F. It’s still a bit cool for peak walleye activity, but fish are starting to move—especially in shallower areas. A solid 22" was caught over the weekend, but overall the action remains spotty as the lake slowly warms up.

🌿 Slowly but surely: The long weekend came and went with barbecues, boat launches, and the first real taste of summer in the air. Patios are filling up, the market is back in full swing, and town feels just a little more awake each day. Even with smoke on the horizon and a few cool mornings, the pace has shifted—people are out, windows are open, and summer plans are starting to take shape.

May 14th, 2025

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🌤️ Weather Outlook: Kenora is coming off a stretch of unseasonably hot weather, with highs hitting 33°C and smoky skies from nearby wildfires. Temperatures will cool through the week, with a chance of showers Thursday and a dip to around 10°C by the weekend. Flurries aren’t out of the question as spring keeps us guessing.

🎣 Fishing & Lake Conditions: The ice has officially cleared from Lake of the Woods, marking the true start of open water season. Just in time, too—the walleye opener is this Saturday, May 17. Anglers can expect cooler temperatures and possible rain on opening day, with highs around 9°C. As always, be sure to review the latest MNR regulations, specially regarding limits and size restrictions.

🌿 Kenora in Bloom: There’s a unique energy in Kenora this time of year—part anticipation, part tradition. With the ice gone and the walleye opener around the corner, garden beds are being cleared, bikes are back on the streets, and patios are nearly ready. The footbridge to Coney Island will be coming out any day now, just as the first farmers’ market of the season returns to the Whitecap Pavilion on Saturday. The best of lake season is still ahead—and you can feel it coming.

May 7th, 2025

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Weather outlook: Spring has officially arrived in Sunset Country, and it’s starting to feel like it—sunshine, warmer temps, and the unmistakable scent of fresh earth and thawing shoreline. That said, the ice hasn’t completely left the lake just yet. Many of the larger bays and deeper sections are still hanging onto lingering sheets, and while things are breaking up quickly, it’s not quite open water season across the board.

Fishing: Getting close!!! Fishing is starting to pick up in the usual spring spots where water is open, especially in shallow inlets and streams. Just remember that walleye season is still closed. Be sure to check the latest MNR regulations before heading out.

Events This Week

May 10: DanceWorks Kenora 2025 Recital
Experience the energy and talent of local dancers at this annual recital, held at the Beaver Brae Theatre. A showcase of multiple dance styles by students of all ages. [Source]

May 11: Mother's Day Market & Tailgater Sale
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a fun afternoon of local vendors, crafts, plants, farm animals, yard games, and food. Held at 66 Cambrian Drive, Kenora. Admission: $5 (children under 2 free). [Source]

April 30th, 2025

🌤️ Weather Outlook: Kenora is bidding farewell to April with a mix of spring showers and sunshine. Today brings breezy conditions and scattered showers, with highs around 10°C. As we move into the weekend, expect a warming trend: Saturday will be partly sunny with temperatures reaching 20°C, and by Sunday, we'll see plenty of sunshine and a high of 23°C.

❄️ Ice Conditions: As of late April, Lake of the Woods is showing significant signs of thawing. While the main bodies of lake ice remain relatively strong, there's considerable shoreline thawing at the south end, and open water is expanding from areas with strong currents in the north.

📅 Events This Week

May 2–4: Kenora Home & Leisure Show
Explore the latest in home improvement, outdoor living, and leisure activities at the Moncrief Construction Sports Centre. This annual event is a great opportunity to connect with local vendors and discover new ideas for your home and lifestyle.

May 4: Lake of the Woods Museum Open House
A special open house event featuring new exhibits and family-friendly activities at the Lake of the Woods Museum.

April 23th, 2025

Kenora. Green belt. Spring. Lake.

🌤️ Weather Outlook: Spring is slowly waking up in Kenora. Daytime temperatures are inching into the low teens, but early mornings still carry that crisp edge. Expect a blend of sunny breaks and cloud cover, with a few scattered showers in the mix.

❄️ Ice Conditions: Fishing season is still closed for walleye, giving the fish time to spawn undisturbed. Meanwhile, locals are watching the ice breakup closely. Open water is starting to show around Kenora and down toward Matheson Bay—great news for cabin owners getting ready for lake access. 

📅 Events This Week

April 24: Earth Day Clean-Up
Join the Kenora Youth Wellness Hub for an Earth Day clean-up from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

April 28: Photography at Rushing River
Join the Right to Play team for a photography session capturing the natural beauty of Rushing River.

April 16th, 2025

🌤️ Weather Outlook: Kenora is experiencing typical spring conditions with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 12°C. Expect a mix of cool mornings and milder afternoons as we transition into late April.

🎣 Fishing Update: Walleye fishing is currently closed to protect spawning fish. Anglers are reminded to respect the seasonal closure to ensure healthy fish populations for the upcoming season.

🎉 Upcoming Local Events:

April 17: Rotary Online Auction Begins
The annual Kenora Rotary Online Auction starts today, supporting local and global community projects.

April 23: S.A.G.E. Meeting
Join the Kenora Youth Wellness Hub for the S.A.G.E. Meeting from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm.

April 9th, 2025

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Hey everyone! Here's a quick look at what’s happening around Lake of the Woods:

🌤 Weather: Temps are slowly climbing! Expect a mix of sun and clouds this week, with highs ranging from 5°C to 13°C. Some light showers possible on the weekend—classic spring in Kenora.

🎣 Fishing: Ice fishing season is wrapping up. Most resort accesses are closed, and conditions are changing fast—stay safe if you're heading out!

📅 Local Events:

Apr 9 – Thunder Bay Symphony with Lenard Whiting @ Knox United Church, 7:30 PM

Apr 11 – Friday Soup Lunch, 12 PM @ 211 Bay St, Keewatin

More soon—stay cozy and see you around town!
– Nacho