It's been a good start to the ice fishing season so far. As we approach the New Year, we continue to see more fishermen flock to the ice getting set up with permanent and portable fish houses. Anglers are beginning to spread out to their favorite reefs, as the ice has incrementally thickened. Our latest ice news is a similar story to what we've been preaching most of this season, albeit improved from our last report. The key word is "varied". While we've been comfortable driving in Waconia Bay and out to Cemetery Reef for almost 2 weeks, we have just started to head toward Center Reef with a plowed road. The road fans out at the end just before the main group, but doesn't continue around the reef as of yet. The reason for this is because of the variability of the ice. While you are sure to find plenty of ice ranging from 14 to 18 inches around Center, keep in mind there is also the potential to come across isolated patches of ice with as little as 7.5 inches (we found this just southeast of Center on 12/24). If you're looking to go to Center with a big house, we suggest using our road to get near the area and do a check yourself beyond that point to get a feel for the ice in the area to plot your path. We have not plowed toward Pillsbury Reef as of yet, due to a good-sized area of slush a couple hundred yards north and east of Harm's Point between Pillsbury and Center. With the upcoming weekend ending with the start of another cold snap, we hope these areas will firm up so we can make it easier for you to get to your favorite honey holes. As always, ice is never safe, but we'll do our best to inform you of the conditions so your experience can be safer.
As for the fishing, we continue to have good reports on panfish. Waconia Bay has been producing some nice action yet, but the theme continues with a lot of little ones to sift through. If you're looking for sunfish, 9 to 12 feet of water would be there range to find them. Crappies are there too, but can also be found a touch deeper as well, up to 14 feet. Northern pike have been biting on the more mild days, so get your tip-ups out this weekend before the cold comes later on Sunday. For those going to Center Reef, we've been hearing of some good crappie action in 12 to 13 feet of water around weeds. Between 3 to 6 pm has been the best bite for some who have been out lately. Walleyes have still been producing action, although as expected, several reports have been of shorter walleyes under 16 inches that must be released. Some of the reported recent keepers have been coming from Waconia Bay, Wagener's Bay and toward Pillsbury Reef in 12 to 15 feet of water.
We now have ALL 5 of our Rental Fish Houses out on the ice! We're filling reservations during this holiday stretch, so call us now while we still have availability. If
you're looking to get on the ice, and want it to be an easy, pleasant
experience, try us out. We drill the holes, and the heat is on! All
you need is a license, rods, and bait. If you don't have some of the
equipment, we rent jig sticks either individually, or in buckets for a
group. Underwater cameras are also available to rent! We also sell
licenses, bait, tackle and snacks! Call (952) 442-2096 to reserve.
We hope to see you at the lake!
