This morning, the cold weather showed up overnight with a low of -12F.  We made some ice and will find out how much today when we head towards the Banana Reef and the Tundra. Unfortunately, a broad ridge of piled ice formed when we had those strong NW winds as the lake was freezing a week ago.  It skirted just south of Hennepin Island, headed southwest toward the Banana Reef, and then west towards the north end of the Tundra.  Today, we will see exactly where it is and what it will change for fishing spots. I’m sure we will get across it at some point so we can head to the East Bar, but there is much to do closer to shore for now.

Yesterday, some anglers went out with ATVs and portables West and northwest of Spider Island. They came in at sunset with reports of lots of small Walleye C/R and steady Perch action, but they were also throwbacks. Back in the late 70’s and early 80’s we had a fishing cycle similar to what I heard from the fishermen yesterday. Will this be the year of the “quarter pounder” once again?  Time will tell.  There are a lot of nice-sized Walleye out there, but when there are so many baitfish and smaller Perch and Walleye, the larger ones are well-fed for now.

We will be open for portables, ATVs, and SxSs for the weekend. Wheelhouse camping at N/C is available, and there is plenty of parking for rigs. Depending on the ice thickness we find today, I might have some smaller 4-hole basic rentals out by the weekend. If I do, it will be in the report tomorrow.

Keep a Tight Line!

Eddy