Happy New Year to all of you! It looks like anglers are in luck, as cold weather is coming our way. The colder temps will build ice much faster, making area lakes safer! Right now we have found anywhere from 5” to 9” on a variety of lakes. We’ve seen the thinnest ice in deeper water. By next week, it will likely be safe to travel on ATVs and UTVs in most areas. Some lakes should be able to support skid houses safely, too. Be sure to check conditions at your lake of choice before making any decisions, though.
The walleye bite has been strong in 12’-20’, as they begin their journey deeper, away from the shoreline. A fathead minnow hooked on the side, or through the tail on a bobber or deadstick will do the trick. Jigging has produced slightly less results recently. Bluegills are abundant and hungry right now too, and small tungsten jigs tipped with a wax worm have outperformed spoons. Have fun fishing this week and stay safe!
Brady Baxter
Owner and Fishing Guide
Baxstar Fishing LLC
brady@baxstarfishing.com
701-261-3703