Rental Houses are out!

Today we did another ice check out front and found about 8 inches. It's good clear ice. As always, keep an eye out for springs and anything marked with branches. Having said that we are very happy with the ice. We've used our 4-wheeler to pull a couple of small rental houses into Waconia Bay and felt comfortable doing so. We have not brought our bigger wheel houses out yet, but we will wait until we are closer to driving ice. If you're thinking about coming out to rent a fish house, we've got a couple of 4-holers on the ice ready to go. As of now, our hours continue to be 9 am until 5:30 pm. We will be closed on Christmas Day. After Christmas, we will be extending our hours. Monday-Friday, we will be open from 7:30 am until 6 pm. Saturday and Sunday we will be open from 6:30 am - 6 pm. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holidays!

12-16-11 Ice Report

Yesterday we were down to about 5 inches of ice after the warm up, rain and wind we just came out of. After last night's cold temps, where we have checked today, we have found about 6 inches of ice. Things have firmed up pretty nice. If heading over to the Wagener's Bay Gravel Public access, use caution. A friend called and told me about some open bubbling springs North and West of the access. I headed over to check it out this afternoon, and with his help we marked about 15, YES 15 OPEN, BUBBLING springs with pine bows and flagging tape! Use Caution, and please mark anything you think looks suspicious! Another area to be wary of is just North of the Rock Dock. Geese have been keeping a hole open just off shore. If You decide to run the shoreline with your snowmobile or ATV, keep it in mind!

Remember For your last minute Christmas Gifts, You are sure to find something here!
From Stocking stuffers, Ice Augers, to Gift Certificates, we can help you pick the perfect gift!

It's Ice Fishing Season!

It's time to go Ice Fishing! Lake Waconia has been frozen over for a few days now, and we have seen some encouraging ice thicknesses. Ben checked this morning out from Waconia Bay and "Under the Wires" to the south side of the island, and over to Cemetery Reef and walked back to the marina crossing the commonly fished walleye spot between the 2 marinas. He also took a 2nd walk this afternoon from the small access in Wagener's Bay, around Harm's Point and back to our marina. Throughout his walk, he found ice averaging a strong 4 inches.

We can't speak of other areas yet, and it is important to remember to use caution either way. This early in the ice forming process, we recommend chiseling in front of yourself as a precaution. Having said that, we expect to see a lot of happy anglers!

Our store hours right now are 9 am to 5:30 pm daily. We will extend our hours as the ice thickens.

We hope to see you soon!

Greet US Rep John Kline @ In Towne Marina ! Waconia Visit Wed 10/19/11

In Towne Marina is honored to welcome MN US Rep. Congressman John Kline to Waconia & his visit HERE- in our bait shop, from 12:15 to 1 pm this coming Wed, 10/19/2011!

We'll open from Noon to 3 pm, to receive guests wishing to see him. Please come to join him & discuss his Oct 3, 20ll proposed bill HR.3074, regarding Cormorant Control for Natural Resource Preservation.

Thanks also to bi-partisan bill co-sponsor, US Rep Collin Peterson for supporting the bill, and for previous work done on this issue!

This visit, is the culmination of years of work by Congressman Kline and his staff.

We're grateful that he listened when local concerns were raised. Our families 2009 Cormorant Control citizens petition collected 3,028 citizens signatures, in less than 6 weeks!

He received a copy of the originals delivered to MN DNR and US Dept of Interior officials , as action action agencies. His packet also included a City of Waconia Resolution along with Waconia Chamber of Commerce and Waconia Heritage Association letters of petition support!

Lets hope the bill passes and leads to better solution!

See You at the Lake this Wednesday!

Submitted by : Cindy Mase

Petition Sponsors & Co-Owner

Husband Jim Mase & sons Ben and JimmyMase
In Towne Marina
Waconia, MN

Fall Fishing & Waconia Fun

In the final weeks of August, successful anglers had best luck catching Largemouth Bass from 2 to 4+ lbs's , Sunfish for the pan around 4-5 oz, Crappies 7-12 ozs and finally, some 40+ inch Muskie were reported [caught & released]! Northern around 3-8 lbs have also shown up!

As of this writing, cooler nights have brought recent day-time lake temps to low- mid 70's. Casting along shallow weedy shorelines & tops of reefs with weedless & topwater artificials has worked well. Live bait anglers report early morning and late evening catches near schools of bait fish -locating above weeds in 12'-14' feet of water near drop-offs.

Muskies & Northern Pike are becoming more aggressive. The bite will be ON for them and all species as water temps continue to fall and they feed to fatten for the Winter. Lake vegetation will thin-out, making weed edges easier to fish. Later, Lunkers can be expected to follow baitfish as they migrate to warmer shallow locations to feed. This season is when some of the BIGGEST fish are caught. Don't forget your camera and net!

Our Bait Shop & Launch has shortend hours now, after Labor Day.
In Sept, we open M-F @ 10 am ; Sat & Sun Open:7am & Close @ Sunset.

We hate to face it, but we'll begin removing boats and docks in later Sept. & early Oct. to store them for the winter.

Our final Shop & Launch Day for this Summer/Fall Season is Oct. 8th.
Of course, we RE-OPEN with first walking ice, for the ICE Fishing Season from Dec-March!

Come enjoy the lake at it's best, now! If you want to arrive before our business hours, just give us a call to arrange launch and ask for parking directions. Always feel free to call before coming for weather,wind, lake & fishing reports. Your convenience is important to us!

Our blog will continue until Oct. closing & begin again in Winter. Continue to watch here for updates & stop in for your bait, boat winterization supplies, launch, goodies & fishing or boating news! We'd love to share your fish photo or report here! Fill in an application NOW to arrange to have your boat here in 2012! Slip & Buoy applications @ our website can be printed to submit .

We're proud Bronze Sponsors of Waconia's 50th Anniversay "NICKLE DICKLE DAY", Sat, Sept 17th ! The day is full of "Crazy Sales", food & fun Events! Don't miss it! ALSO stick around for a STREET DANCE that evening!!!! Go to destinationwaconia.org for info. See our PROMOTION PAGE @ our website , to learn about our FREE KIDS Fishing Pond that day:) !

See You at the Lake!

The Mase family, In Towne Marina

Celebrating the Carver County Fair with a Parade

Last Sunday, we had the pleasure of being involved in the 100th birthday celebration parade of the Carver County Fair. We joined in the fun, with our float that was the brainchild and labor of our good friend Doug Docken (special thanks to Earl Rademacher for the fine paint job). Doug was the captain of this vessel with a helping hand from Cindy who was in control of the fishing pole fightin' the lunker walleye. Jim pulled the float with the 4-wheeler while the rest of the Mase family followed along, walking beside handing out goodies. We couldn't believe the turnout. Families were everywhere and happy kids made a haul with tons of candy tossed their way. The weather couldn't have been better! We hope you enjoyed it...

In Towne Marina Employee Fishing Contest!

It's that time of year again! The In Towne staff was all hands on deck for the Annual Employee Fishing Contest. This Years Species? Sheepshead! After seeing a picture of the monsterous 36" Sheep caught a couple of weeks ago, we were inspired to chase the elusive Freshwater Drum! We decided to include Walleyes in the contest figuring if we did't, all we would catch is Mr. Marble-Eyes! Fishing was 5pm-8pm followed by pizza and cupcakes! What a great night of fishing, Eating and Fun! The old guys were victorious in the fishing department! The Team of "Guru" Chuck Corey and partner Ben Mase hopped in a Marina pontoon and boated 2 nice Sheepshead! What a great time as always!

A special thanks to Jim and Cindy for putting on a fun tournament for us!

Waconia LIONS annual "Take a Kid Fishing" Event

THANKS to our Waconia LIONS for choosing our marina to once again host their annual "Take a Kid Fishing" event on Saturday, 7/23rd! About 35 kids shared donuts & juice while they received new rod and reel combos and goody bags of tackle & treats to take home! Even though the day was cut short by storm conditions, the kids are rigged & learned how to get fish- next time they go out!

Fun Event on Lake Waconia!

A big thanks to Avtex , who brought 100's of employees to Waconia on Friday, 7/22. One of the lucky groups was bused to the In Towne Marina. About 80 lucky guests enjoyed fishing Lake Waconia out of our marina. Travis Frank of Trophy Encounters Guide Service, along with several other local guides he recruited, showed the Avtex group a good time on the water.

Our 4 Marina Rental Pontoons were also filled with groups touring the lake & having fun in the sun! Island View Country Club hosted a coinciding golf group while more were bused to visit the Arboretum. All joined together at 1pm for lunch at Waconia s' Regional Park & Event Center- & also to share games at the beach & grounds ! What a great business - and lucky workers! Thank you especially to Keith Rachey, Waconia resident & Avtex exec, for introducing your company and employees to Waconia for their fun day!

End July 2011 Waconia Fishing Report

As July 2011 wraps up, this month will be remembered for weather extremes! Changing strong winds, heavy rain, temperature & humidity spikes kept us watchful while on or in the water!

This past week it either felt like or was 100 for a few days!

High temps can be good and bad for fishing- some species get much more aggressive- making for great fun. However, if you intend to catch & release- take extra care not to overtire fish before releasing. Heat makes it tough for fish to recover from battling your hook. Live bait & fish kept for a meal, will stay more lively & fresh if kept in a cooler or on ice, rather than on a stringer or in a live well. Keep fish & bait cool, & the fish will stay firm, fresh & safe to eat. Also, bait kept cool [we share refrigerated water for FREE] won't have to be disposed of if it's NOT held in lake-water [new exotics law]. Drag out the old Coleman cooler for hot days, you'll win all the way around!

Bass

These fish have been the go-to fish for a few weeks now! Their numbers have been excellent this year. Guys are finding them in all types of terrain, such as reefs shallows and break-lines. To start the day, grab a top water bait -throw it in the shallow shorelines or move to

Cemetery, Reds or Center Reefs to try a spinner-bait or a jig and a leech.

Sunfish

Sunfish are as active as ever, if you don't mind waiting to find the ones to keep & release the young for future outings. Those finding sizable fish to stay in the boat, locate them in weed pockets near or on reefs, in 12-15 feet of water. Most productive reefs have been Center, North, and Kegs. This week those using a small jig tipped with a small leech or wax worm, had luck.

It's good to finally complain about "hot" weather- it seemed like it would never arrive! There's lots of Summer left, and fun to be had! Hope you come here to enjoy it!

See you here, on beautiful Lake Waconia!

The Mase Family & Staff,

In Towne Marina

Slip & Buoy Customer Appreciation Day 2011

Saturday, July 16th we enjoyed gathering with our slip and buoy members and their families to thank them for choosing to share their boating summer with us at the In Towne Marina. It turned out to be a great, albeit hot day for the festivities. We started the day with a "laid back" small fishing contest for them. The winning bass was a 3 lb 8 oz. lunker caught by young Haileigh Norling (see photo), representing the Wong family. Jon Ragnow was the winner in the Crappie portion by catching a 5-ouncer. The Wellhausen family had a hoot watching their granddaughter Dyllan catch the winning sunfish that weighed near 4 oz. Marina Gift Certificates were awarded in all 3 categories.

After the contest, we provided lunch for all attending, as members listened for their name to be drawn to win one of over $600 total value in FREE drawing prizes. There were lots of smiles, especially on the faces of the kids when their name was called. Every child received something! The Grand Prize ticket ($100 Gift Certificate) was awarded to sailors Dave and Jane Shaw (see photo).

All in all, we couldn't have been happier with the turnout and the day. Thanks to those who could join us and also those who couldn't make it. We can't thank you enough for the opportunity to do business with you. We are blessed to say, ALL our marina customers are the BEST! Slip and buoy members help make it possible for our family to continue serving all lake users. Thanks for partying with us! See you at the lake!

July 6th Fishing Report

Summer is finally here! We want to thank everyone who celebrated Independence Day weekend with us! It was an enjoyable and problem-free weekend, with a spectacular fireworks show as always on the 4th. Special thanks to the Waconia Lions Club for their great work putting on the show, as well as the Waconia Chamber of Commerce and the many who donated to the effort.

The last few days have been great for boaters of all kinds. Water temps are in the mid to high 70's, which makes for excellent water sports and summer pattern fishing.

Panfish

If you're just looking to keep busy, smaller sunfish will always be hanging out by most docks in swallow water. Now that the spawn is mostly over out here on Waconia, we need to start thinking deeper water. Sunfish will hide themselves in the weeds on the reefs such as Center and Keg's. If you find a weed line and drop down a small jig and a wax worm, or a small chunk of angleworm you'll have a good chance to find a few nice sunfish.

Bass

Since there is a lot mid lake structure there are a lot of areas for the big bass to take cover. Cemetery and Red's seem to be producing the most fish off the points and where you can find a few rocks. Bright spinner-baits and lip-less crankbaits have been the most popular choice while a Texas-rig worm wouldn't be a bad try. The most popular live bait continues to be large or jumbo leeches.

Walleye

Water temps are rising which sends the walleyes deeper. Like every year Keg's is a great spot to hit every night with a jig and a leech or a jig and a minnow. Most reports are coming from 14-16 feet of water on the edges of the reefs.

It looks like the forecasters are predicting continued "Summer-like" weather and temperatures in the low to mid 80's for the next week. Take advantage of this great weather and join us on Lake Waconia for continued boating fun and fishing!

June 26th Fishing Report

The weather hasn't been what we have been hoping for this summer yet, but it's been favorable for good fishing. We have been seeing a variety of species being caught on a regular basis, with sunfish and bass biting best most recently.

Panfish

The sunfish are still trying to spawn in the shallows within the pencil reeds and bulrushes. Wax-worms and angleworms have been the go to bait on beetle spins, while jigs with small crappie minnows have been producing larger sunfish and some crappies.

Bass

Many reports that have been coming off of the lake are that the bass numbers are great. If you're looking for numbers, guys have been working the shallows with plastic worms or top water baits on calm days. If the lunkers are more your style, deeper water is the place to be. Try to find points off of reefs such as red's and cemetery with jigs, deeper crankbaits, or a bobber with a leech, fathead or a small sucker minnow.

Walleye

Low light periods during the early morning and evenings have been a huge factor in producing fish. We are starting to see some smaller walleyes off most reefs, with the best bites being on Keg's, North, and Stone Reefs. Keepers (16" and over) are also being caught as well. The preferred bait is a jumbo leech and a jig while working a weed edge in 12 to 14 feet of water.

Muskie/Pike

We have not seen the numbers of Muskies we are used to, but guys are still catching a few out there. Some of the successful fishermen have been using cowgirls and bulldawgs off center and Pillsbury reef. The pike reports have been up from past years, where guys are finding them on red's, cemetery and the break-line on the south shoreline. Both species, being the predators they are, have also been spotted in the shallows preying on smaller fish that are spawning.

If your wanting to get out on the lake, but don't own a boat, remember we have boats and pontoons to rent. Just give us a call or stop in to reserve a time that works for you and we will have the boat ready to go when you get here. Hope to see you out here!!!

Don't forget, the Lake Waconia Fireworks Festival presented by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce and Waconia Lions, is coming up on the 4th of July. Join us here for some of the best viewing on the lake!

Mid-June Fishing Report

After the excessive heat for a few days last week and a drop in temperature soon after, we have finally found ourselves in a fairly consistent weather pattern. And a consistent weather pattern means consistent fishing.

The sunfish are easy to find as they are in the shallow waters preparing to spawn. Within the last few days the females have been shallow and are full of eggs. You can also find some big males in shallow ready to take over the beds as soon as the females are spawned out. Areas to find them are along the west and northwest shoreline in and around the pencil reeds and also along the south shoreline. The preferred bait is wax worms, crawlers, or leeches. If live bait isn't your thing then some Berkely Gulp or a beetle spin will work wonders as well. Crappies have moved out deeper but are still catch-able. Try to find a solid weedline on a reef and that is where the crappies will be hanging out.

Walleyes have started to head out to their summer areas now that the water has warmed up. Their preferred meal is a jig and a minnow, jig and a leech, or a Lindy rig with a leech. Low light around dawn and dusk have been the key times in catching walleyes. A lot of the walleye fisherman have been fishing the reefs; including Kegs, North, and Andersons along the weedlines in 14-18 feet of water.

The first two weeks of the muskie season has been a challenge for most anglers. The fish haven't been as active as they usually are this time of year. There have been a few reports of guys catching a muskie or two around the moon phases and low light hours. A bucktail or large plastics have been working the best.

Bass fisherman have been having very good luck catching fish. You can find some up shallow in the pencil reeds and along the docks around Harm's Point. If you like fishing deeper water for them try throwing a jig or a worm along the weeds out on Cemetary, Center, or North Reef.

Fishing Report 6-12-11

Now with all fishing seasons open for Lake Waconia, it's time to update everyone on the bite. With the funny weather patterns we have be noticing, where temps would reach 100+ degrees one day then fall to a high of 65 the next, the water temps have been fluctuating between low 60's and mid 70's in different parts of the lake.

Walleye

Early in the season the walleye fishermen were encountering big walleyes on a nightly basis. Lately the bite has slowed, but anglers are finding the walleyes on the corners of the island, as well as the mid-lake reefs such as Keg's and North. We're still waiting to see the variety of walleye sizes being caught. It seems when you get one, it almost always is at least 18 inches, with fewer young fish being caught. Don't forget that walleyes must be at least 16" to keep on Waconia, with one over 20" being allowed.

Sunfish

Sunfish are attempting to get into their spawning routine and are being found in shallow water. Most guys are catching sunfish in the area that they would make their beds. The females (which have huge bellies full of eggs right now) should be moving in, in a few days. The preferred bait is anything that can fit into a sunfishes mouth, such as angleworms or wax-worms on a small jig, beetle spin, or a small fly. The crappies have for the most part moved off their beds and into deeper water but some are still being sighted in the reeds on the northwest shoreline.

Bass

With the water temps doing what they have been doing the Bass have been working the shallows around their spawning areas. They are hitting all your typical bass lures like plastic worms, spinnerbaits, but there is nothing wrong with throwing a leech out on a jig with a bobber. Those targeting big bass have had more success fishing reefs like Center, Pillsbury or North.

If you are looking to get on the water, but don't have a boat, don't forget we rent Fishing Boats with Motors, as well as Pontoons. Check out our "Pontoon & Boat Rental" page for rates and descriptions.

We hope to see you on the lake!

5/20/2011 It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like a Marina…

The Marina just doesn’t look right until the boats are here to fill it up! Good News! We’re happy to say we have steadily emptied our Marina boat storage area to return marina & customer boats, completing the scene! Bobbing boats at slips buoys & on the lake are the final icing on the cake!

Welcome to our old and new marina members & customers-if you aren’t here yet- “Yes, Your boats’ slip or buoy is ready to bring it to its’ summer home !” Members are now scheduling to launch & tie boats into their space. Daily launch customers are breaking-in all forms of watercraft to fish, swim, ski, drift and tour Lake Waconia this summer.

Walleye anglers have had a great start. Overcast, wet & windy days- scorned by others- has been PERFECT for Walleye! Since opener, reports are consistently good. Some bigger fish from upper 20” to 30” + inches [most reportedly released] are being hooked. Numerous over 16” [Waconia walleye minimum length limit] are reported daily/nightly. Both live & artificial bait has worked yet in productive shallow shoreline areas & tops of reefs.

The water temps are finally staying in the 50’s & rising. When weather allows, daytime fisherman are actively pursuing panfish, and as of late they have been more successful! 4 & sometimes even 3 to a pound Sunfish “keepers” can be found- mixed in with lots of young. Crappies are activating & better-sized too, with most caught this week in 6’-12’ of water. Panfish spawning has just begun- so watch for change as they finish breeding to guard nests.

We invite marina members, launch and retail clients, as well as Pontoon & Boat Rental customers to join us! Call to reserve a 14’ Rental boat & motor, available NOW. Pontoon Rental starts Memorial Weekend. Reserve now- for later use!

Go To: www. intownemarina.com for Rental times/prices & details.

Summer Shop Hours have begun [weather permitting]:

Mon-Fri: 7:30am-8: 30 pm Sat/Sun & Holidays: 6:30am-8: 30 pm.

See you at the Lake!

In Towne Marina on –“ Lake Waconia: Site of MN Gov.’s Opener 2012”

Look for more Waconia fun @destinationwaconia.org -Waconia’s Chamber Site!

Lake WACONIA Chosen for 2012 GOVERNOR's OPENER

Our family & business, In Towne Marina on Lake Waconia, thanks Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton for accepting Waconia's invitation to fish Lake Waconia for the 2012 Minnesota Gamefish Opener May 12, 2012!

We're proud he chose Waconia to host this important day and honored to help him celebrate with all accompanying visitors. Waconia is a perfect place to kick-off Minnesota fishing and summer fun!

Our "welcome mat" is rolled out to him & all that come to fish and boat that day & every day!

Read here for Opener details in the coming months. "SAVE the DATE" to get in on the fun!

Jim, Cindy, Ben & Jimmy Mase

In Towne Marina

Fishing Opener Early Report

It has officially begun. The Fishing opener is well into day one, and for those anglers who fished the early morning hours, many had success. Walleyes ranging from nice keepers in the 17-20 inch range, up to whoppers as big as 30 inches were reported on the lake. There weren't many anglers out due to the weather, but those who made it out found them in shallow water (less than 10 feet). Live bait such as fatheads, shiners and leeches worked well for some, while others chose their favorite artificial bait, such as a small profile rapala. With the water temperatures still hovering in the upper 40's/low 50's, expect the walleyes to stay shallow for a bit longer. This upcoming week looks like we'll be entering the beautiful portion of spring, with sunny weather and temps getting into the 60's. The sunfish and crappie bite should continue to improve daily with this weather. Come join us at the lake while the bite is good!

MAY, 2011 Lake Waconia Gamefish Opener WEEK

Mother Nature has challenged Minnesota anglers and boaters this spring! It may be taking a little longer to get gear out and weather to use it, but as the saying goes, “Nothing worth waiting for, comes Easy”!

Even as waves crashed, clouds tumbled & the thermometer dipped instead of raised, the lake scene here remained fascinating, as we worked on spring marina assembly. We hope the beauty of the lake and the first hum of your motor help you forget the long wait, soon! FISH ON!! BOAT ON!!

Our launch is ready and bait tanks are filled, coolers, candy bins, ice & tackle stocked. Need a new combo, or tackle to rig it- we have it all, just in time to go after the big ones! By next week at this time our docks & buoys will be filling with stored boats of valued marina members. We’re anxious for their arrival & a great summer!

THIS Friday 5/ 13 we’ll be serving up opener bait and sharing fishing wisdom & smart talk with anyone who wants to join in, ALL NIGHT LONG!! No matter if you forgot your license, battery for your flashlight, lighter, leader, rod tips or line? We’ve been supplying what you’ve forgotten, broken or just plain wish you had for lot’s of years now [over 30]! Stop in, if we don’t have it, we’ll help find it.

Just a few OPENER LAKE NOTES as of this writing 5/11/11:

-Yesterday was the 2^nd day the surface water temp rose above 50 degrees

-Shoreline trees greened up just a few days ago- No lilacs are blooming yet

-Lake water level is 16” higher than Fall 2010, before ice formed

-Creek and surface water is actively running into & out of the lake

-Last seasons cattails are generally flooded

-Water clarity has been low [visibility 4’ down or less] but is improving daily

-Carver County Water Patrol placed Danger Buoys on the west shore Wagener’s Bay marking the “Rock Dock”; at the N/E Public Approach & a few on the north shore.

DNR Reminder: Pull your boat plug & drain live-wells when exiting all waters. Do NOT transport bait or fish in LAKE water. Do not dispose of bait held in “lake” water into the lake, or on its shore. Ensure your boat plug is IN & boat free of exotics BEFORE launching/leaving. Keep live bait out of lake water, to hold it.

To Help You comply-WE Offer:

• FREE “fresh” non-chlorine water to transport & refresh live bait.
• Bring your unwanted bait, dead or alive to our SHOP. We will properly dispose of it, FREE. PLEASE do NOT put bait in our Trash Containers!
• We sell ice to legally transport your catch.

We’re working with you, to help protect our resources! Thank you to all our regular customers as you patiently waited and watched as we assembled the marina to receive you! Welcome, also to all Waconia newbie visitors! We’re happy to greet you too! You can’t find a better lake, town or fellow boaters than here! Opener updates will be posted as they come in, and more frequent reports will be provided to keep you in the know. Thank You and see you at the lake!

Late April Update

The Bait Shop is opening with limited hours this Thursday, April 28th. Monday-Friday hours will be Noon-6 pm. Saturday and Sunday hours will be 9 am-6 pm. As usual, we will be open all night Friday, May 13th for fishing opener. Normal Summer hours will begin after the opener.

We are witnessing a slow start to the open water panfish season. The cold and nasty weather has definitely affected the bite. Today, Jim took a water temperature reading of only 38 degrees off our dock. People have been out on the nicer days, but for the most part, not our normal start to the season.

Thank You for being patient while we install our docks. The "Ice Out" date was pretty average this year, but our installation process has been slowed due to the extreme weather. Hopefully the weather starts to cooperate soon so we can make some good progress.

Lake, Marina Shop & Boat Launch News 4-19-11

We went to bed Tuesday, April 12th with ice still floating on the majority of Lake Waconia and awoke Wednesday morning, April 13th to WATER. What a welcome sight!

As of this writing, our shop & boat landing will remain temporarily closed for a short time, as we move docks off our parking lot into the lake, to make room for customer vehicle and/or trailer parking.

Unusual high winds and cold have interrupted work, and comfortable boating. When things calm, Marina dock system installation begins ASAP.

We will update news on our phone message @ (952) 442-2096, and also this blog. When parking space allows we’ll open the shop & launch with shortened hours to accommodate early boaters. We look forward to resuming regular hours as soon possible, as the weather allows us to complete summer business preparations.

Thank you for your patience, see you at the lake ! Let the fun & fishing start soon!

OTHER NEWS:

-Water levels are very high -use closed throttle near shore to avoid erosion

-This year we have a NEW reduced rate Mon-Friday Season Pass [excludes Holidays & Weekends]. FULL Summer Season Passes can still be purchased which includes all Weekends & holidays.

-We have added 2 NEW 21’ Rental Pontoons to our Pontoon & 14’ Boat Rental fleet. Go to our web site @ intownemarina.com for rental details, rates & times.

-Regular Summer Hours will Resume by Opening Fishing Weekend, 5/15/11 or before.

-Go to www.destinationwaconia.org for lots of fun and savings in Waconia, every day!

Closed Until After Ice Out

The marina is now closed for the season as of Monday, March 7th. Thank you for your business during this unusually snowy winter. The access will remain open until the ice starts to deteriorate or if there is any more significant snowfall, whichever comes first.

We look forward to opening soon after the ice turns into open water, and after we begin our dock-building process. See you then!

If you are interested in keeping a boat with us for this summer, please email your information and boat specs to InTowneMarina@gmail.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

There are still roads plowed on the lake

Jim and Ben spent several hours on Tuesday plowing new roads from our marina past Waconia Bay, out to Center Reef and finishing off at Pillsbury Reef. These roads took the place of the old roads that got roughed up during the warm weather last week. It is still possible to travel off-road in many areas, although 4 wheel drive is a must. Ice is still in excellent shape. It's much quieter on the lake now, so take advantage of the light traffic and join us on the lake for the last weekend of Gamefish season!

We survived the meltdown! Let's get fishing!

A blast of spring came through this week, causing a stir amongst ice anglers all over. While we lost all of the snow on the lake, the ice remains in excellent condition. The snow melt caused a few inches of water on top of the ice, but the cold front that passed through on Thursday night, allowed most of that water to freeze back to the surface. The accesses and old roads will be the roughest areas. Take it slow when entering the ice. Once on, we suggest navigating off the old roads, driving cross-country to have a smoother ride. All in all, we are very pleased with the condition of the ice despite the intense sun and 50+ degree weather. Now it's time to get back fishing!

Crappies continue to be the best chance to get fish for the frying pan. We're still hearing good reports in 20 to 25 feet of water south of Pillsbury Reef, mostly after 5 pm. Center Reef continues to be a quality location to find a variety of panfish. Expect to sort through a number of littler ones as well as perch to get a few keepers. Before the thaw, anglers could see close to 20 feet down with excellent water clarity. Because of the melt, you will notice that the clarity has greatly diminished for the time being.

A quick reminder that Gamefish season is closed after Sunday, February 27. Also, fish houses must be off the ice no later than midnight on Monday, March 7th.

This is the final weekend of our Ice and Dice Prize Giveaway, so don't forget to weigh your catch for a chance to win a great prize.

See you on the ice!

Fishing Report 1-31-11

Wow! Ice fishing season seemed like it just got started, and February is knocking on the door. The action on Lake Waconia has been decent since the extreme cold a week and a half ago. Many anglers continue to catch sunfish during the day, although the size of those fish aren't what we hoped we'd see this winter. Sunfishermen have certainly caught some nice keepers, but patience is needed to sort out the littler ones. We're still hearing the best action by Pillsbury and Center Reefs between 10 to 15 feet of water. If you're looking for a better chance to have a fish fry, crappies continue to be the best bet in the evening between 5 and 9 pm. We're not talking giant slabs here, but quality fish in the 9 1/2 to 10 inch range. Again, Pillsbury and Center Reefs have been the place to go, although some have found them in a tad deeper water south of Pillsbury in 18 to 22 feet. Walleye anglers have had a tougher go of it pinpointing a consistent bite. Many have moved around lake with varying success. Anderson's Reef and Kegs Reef are both worth spending a little time on, as there are good weeds to work from and both areas haven't had a lot of pressure yet this year. Find depths ranging from 14 to 20 feet.

We want to congratulate the Waconia 2011 Ride-In Vintage Snowmobile Event for 3 great days on the lake. It was their 21st Annual, and thousands of enthusiasts came out to see the action.

This Saturday February 5th, the Waconia Lions are hosting their 29th Annual Wild Game Dinner at the Lake Waconia Event Center. There is a huge raffle with over 140 prizes including 16 guns. Hor d'oerves begin at 4, with the dinner at 7:30. Fish all day, and join the party for a great dinner and prizes in the evening. Cost is $35 advance and $40 at the door.

Don't forget, we still have our FREE Ice and Dice Prize Giveaway going on. Just weigh a qualifying fish caught on Lake Waconia, for your chance to win! See you on the lake!

Adrian Peterson Blizzard Blitz contest a success!

What a beautiful day Monday turned out to be! Anglers of all ages came out to Lake Waconia to support the Starkey Hearing Foundation and the Adrian Peterson All Day Foundation. While the bite wasn't what we had hoped, we witnessed many smiles across the crowd who enjoyed the nice weather and the chance to meet some celebrities. The Minnesota Vikings very own Jim Kleinsasser, John Sullivan, Ben Leber, and Hall of Famer Paul Krause were present. Minnesota Wild goalie Josh Harding was there, and looked at home on Lake Waconia's ice. "Minnesota Bound" star Raven along with her good buddy Ron Schara made a point of stopping out as well! Adrian Peterson of the Vikes was the big draw though, and people sure were excited to see him! Many very nice prizes were given out throughout the day. The top 3 fishing prizes for the Adults were all won with perch, while the Kids did a little better with the top fish being a 6.9 oz. crappie caught by Nathan Heinen. The 2nd and 3rd place prizes were awarded to kids who also caught perch.

We were very happy to be a part of this event and want to thank some very special volunteers that helped us make this event run so smooth. Fred Radde III, Fred Radde IV and his wife Jennifer of "Fred W. Radde and Sons Auctioneers" donated the use of a lot of essential equipment as well as countless hours in planning, as well as on-ice time to help anglers get on and off the ice safely. Jeff Schulz, Dan Goetz and others from the Waconia Lions, as well as Travis Frank of Ron Schara Outdoors were instrumental helping at the gates and in the contest site. Kris Raether went above and beyond spending the entire day working with parking and contest set-up and take down. Kellie Sites and Carmen Gesinger from the Waconia Chamber did a wonderful job promoting this event and showcasing Waconia. Thanks to our ITM staff for their time helping us put this event together. We also would like to thank Lola's Lakehouse for their efforts in bringing this contest to Waconia and the great food on the ice as well as the sponsor dinner after the event. There were many others who contributed to the success of the event. The Starkey Hearing Foundation and Adrian Peterson have mentioned their intention to hold this event again next year. We are already looking forward to the next "Blizzard Blitz"!

Moving Day on Lake Waconia

Saturday was the big day to bring permanent fish houses out to Lake Waconia. Lots of happy anglers have been coming through in a constant flow for most of the day. Please remember to give each other space when deciding where to place your house. Common courtesy is to stay 20 to 25 feet away from each other with houses. Doing so makes it easier to navigate between the houses, and allows us to continue to plow roads to the groups of houses without as much difficulty. Thank you.

Fishing is expected to pick up, as we are now able to spread around the lake to all the areas we've been waiting to get to. Keep in mind to look for healthy weeds when searching for your spot. While there are plenty of weeds in the lake, finding the healthier weeds will increase your chances for getting on a spot that will hold fish for a while. If you are looking for sunnies and crappies, find around 11 to 14 feet. Walleyes will hang in those depths as well, although it is good to find areas that drop off up to 20 feet.

Don't forget to stop in to weigh your fish to see if it will qualify for a chance to shake the dice in our free Ice and Dice prize game. We hope to see you soon!

Fish House Rental

The In Towne Marina Fish House rental fleet is out in full force! Jim, Ben and Jimmy have been on the ice this week taking advantage of the very good conditions on Lake Waconia. Ice thicknesses between 10" and 24" can be found with 13"-16" being common. Call 952-442-2096 to make a reservation for a house if you have that itch to get out there!

Our access is now open to driving cars and trucks. As always, no matter how much ice we have we never say ice is safe, but we are comfortably driving our trucks to the rental fish houses. We are seeing Vehicles and Wheel houses of all sizes making their way onto the ice. Folks not comfortable driving large vehicles yet, are getting around great on ATV's and snowmobiles. Remember our daily access rate for a vehicle is $2 including tax. A Season Pass is a great deal at $25 including sales tax! If you choose to walk we only ask $1!

At this point roads have not been plowed because of the minimal snow on the lake(about 1"). Obvious paths have been made by the vehicle traffic from our frontage out to Waconia Bay, Center Reef, and Pillsbury Reef. With such little snow, cars and 2 wheel drive trucks haven't had many problems getting around on the lake. Conditions out on the ice are much better than just 10 days ago, we really couldn't be happier!

Thanks for reading, and we will see you on the ice!

In Towne Marina

952-442-2096

Enter NOW !! Mon., 1/17/10 Adrian Peterson FISHING CONTEST on Lake Waconia

Don't miss the chance to fish with Viking, Adrian Peterson on Lake Waconia!!! From Noon to 3pm on Monday, Jan. 17th -Martin Luther King Day- Adrian Peterson and Starkey Hearing Foundations are hosting the "ALL DAY" Blizzard Blitz Fishing Contest & family fun event on the south shore of Lake Waconia between In Towne Marina and Lola's Lakehouse. Proceeds will benefit those in need worldwide, with the gift of hearing.

1st, 2nd & 3rd place Fishing Prizes will be awarded in both Adult and Children's Categories. Drawings for prizes will also take place every 15 minutes, throughout. Holes will be pre-drilled Courtesy of STRIKEMASTER Pro-team who will be on hand to share fishing & ice tips. Prizes range from: fishing tackle , an OTTER & CLAM Portable Fish House, Strikemaster Augers, In Towne Pontoon Rental Gift Certificate, tickets to upcoming Vikings and Twins Venues .....and much more!! KFAN Radio will broadcast live from their stage with MC's Billy Hildebrandt and Mike Kurre , and guest Viking Announcer- Paul Allen & other DJ's from Clear Channel Network-providing entertainment.

TIPS Foundation Volunteer, Mark Tipler and many industry ice-fishing pros will be onhand to teach kids how to rig a jig rod, fishing techniques and ice safety! Many visiting guest celebrities will stop in to support the cause- from professional baseball, hockey, football and even the Olympics! Fish and chips and other snacks will be sold within the contest circle- prepared by Lola's Lakehouse with proceeds, also going to the cause!

Parking will be provided at the Carver County Waconia Regional Park Lot and free buses will drop off and pick-up to & from the In Towne Marina and Lola's Lake House entries to the lake & gate. Preregistration is available Online [ adult- $25, children-$15] to prepay your tickets to pick up at the gate on contest day. Go to our home page click the link provided for times, rules, maps, and ticket entry. On sight ticket sales are also available at the gate [$5 more ], entry is limited to 500 -600 guests, so act fast ! Be sure to wear your ticket visibly once entering, to enter your fish, or redeem a drawing prize! [If you must leave early, prizes will be redeemable after the event for a limited time- if you present your ticket -at the Starkey Foundation , Eden Prairie MN].

In Towne Marina is proud to be the Fish Weigh-In Station in the contest circle , & allow free ice entry for participants. Stop at our shop to get fresh bait & gear, after exiting the bus & walk free, onto the ice here. Don't miss out on the fun! Join us in supporting this worthy cause, to fish for HEARING & win PRIZES on Monday, January 17th with Viking Running Back Adrian Peterson and the Starkey Foundation for Hearing!!!

Much improved ice!

Good News! Lake Waconia's ice has been improving for the past several days. We (Ben and Jimmy) spent most of Sunday 1/2/11 on the ice measuring thicknesses lakewide. We drilled and checked on and around most of the major reefs and found anywhere from 10 to 22 inches, with 12-14 inches being very common. Having said that, there are areas near each reef, that we still found varying layered ice that consisted of a 6-8 inch bottom layer, with a 1-3 inch middle water layer, and a 2-3 inch crusty frozen slush top layer. These locations are a textured white in color on the surface, and are this way because some of the deeper snow did not completely saturate like most of the lake did when it rained last Thursday. If you are going to be traveling across the lake with a 4-wheeler and a fish house, we advise you to skirt around these areas to avoid getting stuck.

At this time we are not allowing cars or trucks to come through our access, because of the previously mentioned layered ice. For the most part, we feel very good about the ice that we found across the lake! Remember, we drilled a lot of holes, but can't possibly check it all. So as usual check ahead of yourself!

We will be placing our rental fish houses this week. We hope you can join us on the lake! Call 952-442-2096 to make a reservation.