During last week’s warm up we lost the couple inches of snow we did have along with a couple inches of ice. This made for a slippery wet surface on the lakes, but that didn’t keep anglers from enjoying the beautiful weather. There were a few isolated incidents where large fish houses had drawn in enough heat to melt through the ice, but other than that the lakes remained in excellent shape.
Currently we have a quality 10-18” of ice across the area lakes. People are putting out houses daily and the little villages are forming steadily. Vehicle traffic is also increasing, but with the inconsistent weather I’d still recommend traveling by snowmobile or ATV.
The reports across the area have been positive from most anglers I’ve talked to. The walleye action has been best in 15-20 feet of water on the outside weed edge near deep water. Jigging a minnow or a minnow on a set line have both been producing in the low light time periods.
The best crappie and sunfish action has still been in the flat basin areas 15-20’ deep. I’ve been finding my best fish near standing vegetation or a slight depth change. Jigging a small #12 Lindy toad and Euro larva has been producing best during the day. During the evening a jig and a crappie minnow have been doing the trick.
Have fun fishing and Merry Christmas!
