Yesterday, we checked the ice and found 4-5 inches out about 100 yards from shore.  The main lake ice is less than the ice in the bays. We finished and watered down the road approach. Today, the NW wind has already begun blowing and gusting to the 40’s.  So, we will not be checking more until it’s over tomorrow.

1st picture: access.   2nd picture: Whitecap NW of Hennepin Island (3 miles out for us). Click images to enlarge.

This year, we have rough dishpan-style ice almost everywhere, and walking will be difficult until I establish some trails to areas. Currently, there is not enough ice for ATVs or snowmobiles, but there should be after a couple of cold nights. We will check ice depths tomorrow and decide for the weekend whether to open the access. I am hoping we will have some clear skies to see the MODIS satellite view of the lake tomorrow.

Keep a Tight Line!

Eddy

We will be checking ice depths today in some of the in-close fishing areas to see if we will be able to open up for walking or ATVs this weekend. I’m pretty sure we have 5-6 inches out in front. We are going to be getting some strong NW winds Wednesday-Thursday and then a warm-up, which will mean southerly winds over the weekend. If we do open, the decision will likely not be made until Friday.  Being on the open lake, I am slightly more cautious than those in the bays.  I’ll post it as soon as I know.

When we open, we will have room for wheelhouse camping for those interested and plenty of parking for all portable fishermen  The only charge will be the access fee.

Keep a Tight Line!

Eddy

I

The ice has made it out about 2 miles in front of us. From what I can see, there is open water from there.  The weather over the next week will determine how much stays and how much goes with the forecasted winds.

Yesterday, I worked on the approach to the ice a bit and will finish it today so it has time to freeze up.  I am still undecided about letting walking access out for the weekend. There will need to be some significant changes out there before I do.

I have also revised some prices for the “basic” rentals during the week. Many retired fishermen have come up themselves for a 12, 24, and sometimes 48-hour period and rented one of our “basics.” This year, from Monday to Thursday, they will be half the price of our standard rate for anyone 65 or older (limit two anglers per house). I want to make it affordable to those who still want to get out there and fish.  See the rental rate sheet on this website. There are also some changes in seasonal rates for wheelhouses to look at.

Pic of road approach: Click to enlarge

Eddy