Saturday, December 29, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/29/18 - Pay Access open for Snowmobiles, ATVs, Side by Sides and Single-Axle Wheel Houses
First things first we are allowing Snowmobiles, ATV’s, Side by Sides, and Single-Axle Wheel Houses to use our pay access again! Lake Waconia survived the rain/snow event late this week! Despite a few inches of snow and lots of rain, the lake is in good shape! Most of the water and slush that was left behind at storm’s end has now frozen to the existing ice. We were hoping the cold after the storm would completely heal the ice, but there are still some areas scattered all over that have some layered ice (usually under the white drifted areas). Since we had good ice pre-storm, the layered ice isn’t as dangerous as it sounds. As we mentioned in our last report on Wednesday, aside from springs or previous late-freezing spots (which are few and far between), the minimums we had found on the most popular locations like Waconia Bay, Center and Pillsbury Reef was 9 inches. Today we checked a couple of those locations and found 10.5 to 11 inches. As for conditions on the ice, there is minimal snow left, so with continued cold we should gain ice thickness more quickly! However, because we didn’t gain as much ice as we hoped so far, we have decided that we are not allowing car and truck traffic at this point in time. Check back here for continued updates. We’ll see you on the ice!
Thursday, December 27, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/27/18: Access temporarily closed to Snowmobiles, ATV's and Wheel Houses!
We are temporarily closing our access to Snowmobiles, ATV’s and Wheel Houses until Saturday morning in hopes it will firm up when we get single digit temps on Friday night. Thankfully we have missed extreme snow totals so far, but with the rain, it is very slushy/soupy on the lake, and especially our access. We apologize for the inconvenience but feel it’s best to allow it to freeze without extreme ruts. We hope to report improved lake conditions this weekend!
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/26/18
We took a pre-storm ice check today, 12/26/18. Santa brought us enough cold weather to help increase ice thicknesses lakewide since our last check. Because there is so much info to report, we are presenting it to you differently than most reports. We hope the impending storm doesn’t turn into a bunch of snow. We will be monitoring lake conditions once the storm has passed and will update when we know more. At this time, we are still only allowing ATV’s through our pay access.
Keep in mind, all of the below ice thicknesses are what we found today. We are unable to check every portion of every area/reef, even areas/reefs we are reporting on below. We always advise to check your own ice.
-Waconia Bay: 9 to 14 inches (9 inches where there is still snow. Most ice is between 10 to 12 inches, with a little mixed in 14)
-Under the Wires: 9 to 12 (We did find a somewhat large area of 9 inches in newer, clear ice, but most of it was 10 to 11 inches)
-Center Reef (where a lot of people fish): 9 to 11 inches
-Shallow part of Center Reef (in the duck/goose area that was open about 2 weeks ago): As little as 3.5 inches to 5.5 inches, with ice on the perimeter between 7 to 8.
-Pillsbury Reef: 9 to 11.5 inches
-West of Pillsbury as it drops off: We found a mildly active spring with as little as 3.5 inches in a small location. We marked it with lath board and flagging tape. Pay attention to this area in case it becomes more active.
-Western Part of Wagener’s Bay/Rock Dock: 10 to 13 inches
-Wagener’s Bay Deep Hole: 9 to 13 inches (9 under leftover snow, with a lot of it between 10 to 12 inches with a little mixed in 13)
-Harms Point: 9 to 12 inches
-South and West of Keg’s Reef: We stopped and marked with lath board and flagging tape 2 active springs that had as little as 1 inch of ice on top. These are generally small in size, but both areas need to be avoided. We haven’t made it to Keg’s Reef yet.
-East of Coney Island: We marked with lath board and flagging tape an active spring with less than 1 inch of ice coating it. Avoid that marked area.
-South of Red’s Reef: We marked 1 active and 1 mildly active spring with lath board and flagging tape. Avoid both areas we marked. We have not been on Red’s Reef yet, as we had to stop short and head back.
-Cemetery Reef: 9 to 12 inches
-Walleye Hole/Hump between the marinas: 9 to 12 inches
Keep your fingers crossed that we get minimal snow so we can keep making ice and get around on the lake easier! We’ll update conditions when we know more this weekend.
Keep in mind, all of the below ice thicknesses are what we found today. We are unable to check every portion of every area/reef, even areas/reefs we are reporting on below. We always advise to check your own ice.
-Waconia Bay: 9 to 14 inches (9 inches where there is still snow. Most ice is between 10 to 12 inches, with a little mixed in 14)
-Under the Wires: 9 to 12 (We did find a somewhat large area of 9 inches in newer, clear ice, but most of it was 10 to 11 inches)
-Center Reef (where a lot of people fish): 9 to 11 inches
-Shallow part of Center Reef (in the duck/goose area that was open about 2 weeks ago): As little as 3.5 inches to 5.5 inches, with ice on the perimeter between 7 to 8.
-Pillsbury Reef: 9 to 11.5 inches
-West of Pillsbury as it drops off: We found a mildly active spring with as little as 3.5 inches in a small location. We marked it with lath board and flagging tape. Pay attention to this area in case it becomes more active.
-Western Part of Wagener’s Bay/Rock Dock: 10 to 13 inches
-Wagener’s Bay Deep Hole: 9 to 13 inches (9 under leftover snow, with a lot of it between 10 to 12 inches with a little mixed in 13)
-Harms Point: 9 to 12 inches
-South and West of Keg’s Reef: We stopped and marked with lath board and flagging tape 2 active springs that had as little as 1 inch of ice on top. These are generally small in size, but both areas need to be avoided. We haven’t made it to Keg’s Reef yet.
-East of Coney Island: We marked with lath board and flagging tape an active spring with less than 1 inch of ice coating it. Avoid that marked area.
-South of Red’s Reef: We marked 1 active and 1 mildly active spring with lath board and flagging tape. Avoid both areas we marked. We have not been on Red’s Reef yet, as we had to stop short and head back.
-Cemetery Reef: 9 to 12 inches
-Walleye Hole/Hump between the marinas: 9 to 12 inches
Keep your fingers crossed that we get minimal snow so we can keep making ice and get around on the lake easier! We’ll update conditions when we know more this weekend.
Saturday, December 22, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/20/18
Hi everyone! First and foremost we are extending our hours beginning this Saturday, 12/22. Our hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 6 pm. Monday, Christmas Eve we will be open from 8 am to 4 pm, and CLOSED on Christmas Day. After Christmas our weekday hours will be Monday through Friday from 8 am to 6 pm. Stop on in for your last minute Christmas Shopping! Grab a gift certificate or check out our supply of good stocking stuffers as well as Rod and Reel combos! We also have a great big-ticket item such a new Strikemaster Lithium 40 volt 8 inch Lazer Auger for $549.99 for your favorite fisherperson!
On 12/19 and 12/20 we spent a good amount of time on the ice doing another thickness check and to look for historic springs that have been active in the past. We drilled a bunch of holes from Waconia Bay to Center Reef, and east of the marina to Cemetery Reef. We did not do any drilling in the other locations we’ve checked in the past. We generally found that the ice has grown from our previous report on 12/14 by typically around 1 inch to sometimes as much as 2 inches. It has obviously been a mild stretch of weather this past week which has definitely hampered ice growth. The good news is, a lot of the snow has melted, so if we can get some cold, it should help the ice grow quicker. Where there remain snow drifts, you can expect a lot of slush underneath at this time. Since the warm-up, there was a little water on the surface that will freeze and make it very slippery, so be prepared with a good set of ice cleats.
As for our search for historically springs, we definitely saw what we expected. We found two major springs located between Cemetery Reef and Anderson’s Reef. Both springs have been active in the past and are active again and dangerous. We marked them both with lath board and flagging tape. Despite our markings, we still suggest paying extra attention on that side of the lake. While looking for the springs today, we walked around a lot of the ice beyond Cemetery and toward Anderson’s. We never took our ATV on that ice, as we just didn’t ever feel comfortable enough with the quality of the ice there yet. Lots of variability.
If you’re heading our way with a wheel-house this weekend, you are still welcome to use our pay access. If you plan to leave your house on the ice for more than a day or two, pay attention to the weather forecast for after Christmas as there are predictions for significant snowfall. For us Ice Fishing enthusiasts, keep your fingers crossed that the forecasts are wrong so we can keep building quality ice with cold weather and little snow.
Stay safe and we’ll see you on the lake!
On 12/19 and 12/20 we spent a good amount of time on the ice doing another thickness check and to look for historic springs that have been active in the past. We drilled a bunch of holes from Waconia Bay to Center Reef, and east of the marina to Cemetery Reef. We did not do any drilling in the other locations we’ve checked in the past. We generally found that the ice has grown from our previous report on 12/14 by typically around 1 inch to sometimes as much as 2 inches. It has obviously been a mild stretch of weather this past week which has definitely hampered ice growth. The good news is, a lot of the snow has melted, so if we can get some cold, it should help the ice grow quicker. Where there remain snow drifts, you can expect a lot of slush underneath at this time. Since the warm-up, there was a little water on the surface that will freeze and make it very slippery, so be prepared with a good set of ice cleats.
As for our search for historically springs, we definitely saw what we expected. We found two major springs located between Cemetery Reef and Anderson’s Reef. Both springs have been active in the past and are active again and dangerous. We marked them both with lath board and flagging tape. Despite our markings, we still suggest paying extra attention on that side of the lake. While looking for the springs today, we walked around a lot of the ice beyond Cemetery and toward Anderson’s. We never took our ATV on that ice, as we just didn’t ever feel comfortable enough with the quality of the ice there yet. Lots of variability.
If you’re heading our way with a wheel-house this weekend, you are still welcome to use our pay access. If you plan to leave your house on the ice for more than a day or two, pay attention to the weather forecast for after Christmas as there are predictions for significant snowfall. For us Ice Fishing enthusiasts, keep your fingers crossed that the forecasts are wrong so we can keep building quality ice with cold weather and little snow.
Stay safe and we’ll see you on the lake!
Friday, December 14, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/14/18
We went for another ice check today, 12/14/18 and continue to see improved ice thicknesses! To cover more ground, we took our ATV on the ice today over ice that we have thoroughly checked in the past. If we go anywhere new, we walk to those locations and test the ice before driving the ATV on it.
It’s important to remember our last report when we talked about the effect snow has on ice growth and why the lower numbers are what they are. Cemetery Reef had the most inconsistent ice that we found today. We found some ice as thin as 3.5 inches that was wet with slush, or 5 inches under snow. Most of the common ice near Cemetery was 7 to 8 inches. The ice in Waconia Bay is now in the 6.5 to 10.5 inch range. In the area people fish around Center Reef, we measured 6 to 8 inches. Keep in mind, there is still a large area of open water on top of Center Reef (the shallower part of the reef most people don’t fish). Pillsbury Reef has a lot of newer ice too and is around 6 to 8 inches as well. Wagener’s Bay has older ice and is thicker because of it, but also still affected by snow drifts. You can see a video we posted on our Facebook page that gives a good description by Ben of why that area varies from 6.5 to 11 inches. This video was done earlier in the day before Ben had seen the lesser ice near Cemetery Reef.
If you’re thinking of coming out with ATV’s and smaller houses this weekend, you are welcome to use our pay access. Being that the ice is variable, we always recommend doing some of your own thorough checking ahead of where you plan to go. We do our best to provide accurate ice reports, but cannot check everything! It’s still a good idea to avoid areas we have marked with lath board and caution tape unless you check them well. We have not ventured beyond the areas mentioned above, so there are no reports by us from Kegs, Red’s, North or Anderson’s Reefs. Definitely check ahead if you wish to head with anything heavy to those locations.
We likely won’t make much ice this weekend with the mild weather, but it will make for some comfortable fishing on the ice! We look forward to seeing you!
If you’re thinking of coming out with ATV’s and smaller houses this weekend, you are welcome to use our pay access. Being that the ice is variable, we always recommend doing some of your own thorough checking ahead of where you plan to go. We do our best to provide accurate ice reports, but cannot check everything! It’s still a good idea to avoid areas we have marked with lath board and caution tape unless you check them well. We have not ventured beyond the areas mentioned above, so there are no reports by us from Kegs, Red’s, North or Anderson’s Reefs. Definitely check ahead if you wish to head with anything heavy to those locations.
We likely won’t make much ice this weekend with the mild weather, but it will make for some comfortable fishing on the ice! We look forward to seeing you!
Monday, December 10, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/10/18
We went for another ice check yesterday afternoon (12/9/18) and today (12/10/18). The cold weather over the weekend has definitely helped gain us some more ice and slowly started to thicken up some areas that are covered in snow. When we are talking about thicknesses, generally the lesser ice will be under snow or wet slush (that insulates the ice, hampering growth) and where it’s thicker it usually is clear ice, but potentially combination ice (mostly good ice with frozen slush on the surface).
Yesterday we walked to Waconia Bay, past “Under the wires” (between Coney Island and Lakeview Terrace) and out to Center Reef. Waconia Bay now has between 5.5 to 10 inches, with a lot of it between 7 to 9 inches. “Under the wires” was between 6 to 9 inches. North of “Under the wires” is where the transition from older to new ice is, which encompasses Center Reef and areas to the east that we have not checked yet. There is a very large area of very thin ice or open-water near the shallow part of Center Reef. This bad area is near where many anglers like to fish. As you get a little further away from there to other locations people fish on Center, you’ll find thicknesses between 3.5 to 7 inches, with a lot of it around 5 to 7 inches as there is less snow on that ice.
Today, we headed out from the marina and to the east. Between the marinas in the “walleye hole” we have ice in the 5 to 9 inch range. With the ice thickening, we were able to get to Cemetery Reef where it is between 3 and 7 inches. However, a lot of Cemetery is closer to the 7 inch range, as there aren’t many snow-packed areas there either.
We also did a short walk in Wagener’s Bay today as well. Again, it varies depending on where the snow is or isn’t, but we found between 6 to 11 inches. We’ve had people ask us what the wood lath board with flagging tape was marking out from the access. Those are marking small springs we found last week and continue to be areas to watch out for.
It’s certainly exciting that we are seeing increased ice thicknesses! As usual, we always caution to do thorough checking yourself if you intend to go out with anything heavy. We do our best to get accurate info for you, but we cannot cover everything!
We look forward to seeing you!
Yesterday we walked to Waconia Bay, past “Under the wires” (between Coney Island and Lakeview Terrace) and out to Center Reef. Waconia Bay now has between 5.5 to 10 inches, with a lot of it between 7 to 9 inches. “Under the wires” was between 6 to 9 inches. North of “Under the wires” is where the transition from older to new ice is, which encompasses Center Reef and areas to the east that we have not checked yet. There is a very large area of very thin ice or open-water near the shallow part of Center Reef. This bad area is near where many anglers like to fish. As you get a little further away from there to other locations people fish on Center, you’ll find thicknesses between 3.5 to 7 inches, with a lot of it around 5 to 7 inches as there is less snow on that ice.
Today, we headed out from the marina and to the east. Between the marinas in the “walleye hole” we have ice in the 5 to 9 inch range. With the ice thickening, we were able to get to Cemetery Reef where it is between 3 and 7 inches. However, a lot of Cemetery is closer to the 7 inch range, as there aren’t many snow-packed areas there either.
We also did a short walk in Wagener’s Bay today as well. Again, it varies depending on where the snow is or isn’t, but we found between 6 to 11 inches. We’ve had people ask us what the wood lath board with flagging tape was marking out from the access. Those are marking small springs we found last week and continue to be areas to watch out for.
It’s certainly exciting that we are seeing increased ice thicknesses! As usual, we always caution to do thorough checking yourself if you intend to go out with anything heavy. We do our best to get accurate info for you, but we cannot cover everything!
We look forward to seeing you!
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/5/18
We look forward to seeing you this Friday when we open at 9:30 am. We wanted to give another Lake Waconia ice update, so we took another ice walk today.
This time we went to Wagener’s Bay, Harm’s Point and Pillsbury Reef. Where we checked in Wagener’s Bay, there was anywhere from 4 to 6.5 inches and was thicker due to being older ice from before Thanksgiving. Where it was 4 inches, it was under snow. Out from the Wagener’s Bay access, we marked several small active springs again, similar to year’s past. We also marked a weak spot that had been open a week ago north of that access as well. Definitely pay attention if you’re going out that way as we can’t mark everything.
As we headed toward Harm’s Point and Pillsbury Reef, we marked a slushy crack just north of the point. It became apparent the ice was changing and we were getting into “newer” ice. There were obvious transition lines. Again, where the ice was older, it was thicker in the 5 to 6 inch range because there was less snow that far out. Some of the newer ice is clear, smooth, black ice, and was about 3 inches thick, with 2.5 inches under snow. This newer ice seems to be riding a little lower than the surrounding thicker ice.
We started seeing variances with less ice than we were comfortable with, so we did not continue further today. Check out our video on Facebook to get a little bit of an idea of what we found. We’ll see you Friday!
This time we went to Wagener’s Bay, Harm’s Point and Pillsbury Reef. Where we checked in Wagener’s Bay, there was anywhere from 4 to 6.5 inches and was thicker due to being older ice from before Thanksgiving. Where it was 4 inches, it was under snow. Out from the Wagener’s Bay access, we marked several small active springs again, similar to year’s past. We also marked a weak spot that had been open a week ago north of that access as well. Definitely pay attention if you’re going out that way as we can’t mark everything.
As we headed toward Harm’s Point and Pillsbury Reef, we marked a slushy crack just north of the point. It became apparent the ice was changing and we were getting into “newer” ice. There were obvious transition lines. Again, where the ice was older, it was thicker in the 5 to 6 inch range because there was less snow that far out. Some of the newer ice is clear, smooth, black ice, and was about 3 inches thick, with 2.5 inches under snow. This newer ice seems to be riding a little lower than the surrounding thicker ice.
We started seeing variances with less ice than we were comfortable with, so we did not continue further today. Check out our video on Facebook to get a little bit of an idea of what we found. We’ll see you Friday!
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 12/4/18 - Opening for the Season on Friday, 12/7 at 9:30 am!
We will be opening for the season this FRIDAY, December 7th at 9:30 am! Early season hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 5:30 pm and Monday thru Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
We did a quick ice walk in front of the marina to check some of the bad areas we had marked last week and they are slowly improving. To the left in Waconia Bay the ice is thicker than most areas as it’s some of the first ice that formed on the lake. We measured between 5 to 8 inches, but nearby in the bad stuff it was still as little as 1.5 inches. Toward the “walleye hole” between the marinas, there was 5.5 to 6 inches with as little as 1.5 inches in the bad stuff. The wind blew the snow around causing bare ice spots, but also heavy drifts as well, which will hold back ice growth in random spots. We hope to do a more extensive check in the coming days and will update then!
We did a quick ice walk in front of the marina to check some of the bad areas we had marked last week and they are slowly improving. To the left in Waconia Bay the ice is thicker than most areas as it’s some of the first ice that formed on the lake. We measured between 5 to 8 inches, but nearby in the bad stuff it was still as little as 1.5 inches. Toward the “walleye hole” between the marinas, there was 5.5 to 6 inches with as little as 1.5 inches in the bad stuff. The wind blew the snow around causing bare ice spots, but also heavy drifts as well, which will hold back ice growth in random spots. We hope to do a more extensive check in the coming days and will update then!
Friday, November 30, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 11/30/18 - We remain temporarily closed
We thank everyone for your patience with us while we look forward to getting our ice fishing season underway hopefully sooner than later. We will remain closed at this time while we wait for colder weather to improve Lake Waconia’s ice conditions. We hope to open for the season next weekend if things improve, but we must see a significant change for the better for that to happen. This has been an interesting start to the ice season. Early ice can sometimes be challenging, and this year seems to be one of those years. We were hopeful that with the early November cold, the lake would lock up evenly with consistent thicknesses, but that is just not the case.
The rain and wind over Thanksgiving weekend caused some major open areas scattered throughout the lake. The cold temps this week helped freeze most of those open areas up, but then the snow came. The snow is a problem for a couple of reasons. It hides bad spots and insulates the ice, which makes it more difficult to see ice thickness transitions and also hampers the ice growth. It’s very problematic this year, because where the ice is newly formed, it is dangerously thin and now covered in snow. Unfortunately, some of these newly formed areas are scattered all over the lake.
We have done an ice check this week in front of our marina, to Waconia Bay and out to the “walleye hole” between the marinas. We were out as the snow was falling (earlier this week) and carefully tried to mark as much of the extremely thin areas as we could, but it’s impossible to mark them all. Where the older ice is in Waconia Bay there is as much as 4.5 to 6.5 inches, but also had areas we marked that had been open recently with as little as ½ inch as well. In front of the marina on the way to the “walleye hole” there is mixed chunk ice that is up to 5 to 6.5 inches, but beyond the chunk ice it ranges between 4 or 5 inches with cracks and seeping water. One of those open spots we marked as best as we could from early in the week on the hump north of the “walleye hole” is only ½ inch and hidden by snow. While it’s possible to get out fishing in some of these areas described above, you have to be very diligent.
We haven’t checked ice elsewhere, but know what we saw earlier in the week from land and that was a vast area of open water from Center Reef, over Keg’s and to the east shore that will have a very thin skim of ice on it hidden under snow and will remain unmarked as it’s far too expansive.
Basically, if you’re looking to get ice fishing on Lake Waconia, use extreme caution. We haven’t seen anyone fishing out in front of us as of this writing. Don’t just assume the ice ahead of you is the same thickness as what you might be standing on. Chisel ahead of yourself and trust your instinct if something looks different.
Let’s hope the projected snow this weekend stays away and cold temps help improve conditions. We’ll update sometime next week and hopefully have better news to report!
The rain and wind over Thanksgiving weekend caused some major open areas scattered throughout the lake. The cold temps this week helped freeze most of those open areas up, but then the snow came. The snow is a problem for a couple of reasons. It hides bad spots and insulates the ice, which makes it more difficult to see ice thickness transitions and also hampers the ice growth. It’s very problematic this year, because where the ice is newly formed, it is dangerously thin and now covered in snow. Unfortunately, some of these newly formed areas are scattered all over the lake.
We have done an ice check this week in front of our marina, to Waconia Bay and out to the “walleye hole” between the marinas. We were out as the snow was falling (earlier this week) and carefully tried to mark as much of the extremely thin areas as we could, but it’s impossible to mark them all. Where the older ice is in Waconia Bay there is as much as 4.5 to 6.5 inches, but also had areas we marked that had been open recently with as little as ½ inch as well. In front of the marina on the way to the “walleye hole” there is mixed chunk ice that is up to 5 to 6.5 inches, but beyond the chunk ice it ranges between 4 or 5 inches with cracks and seeping water. One of those open spots we marked as best as we could from early in the week on the hump north of the “walleye hole” is only ½ inch and hidden by snow. While it’s possible to get out fishing in some of these areas described above, you have to be very diligent.
We haven’t checked ice elsewhere, but know what we saw earlier in the week from land and that was a vast area of open water from Center Reef, over Keg’s and to the east shore that will have a very thin skim of ice on it hidden under snow and will remain unmarked as it’s far too expansive.
Basically, if you’re looking to get ice fishing on Lake Waconia, use extreme caution. We haven’t seen anyone fishing out in front of us as of this writing. Don’t just assume the ice ahead of you is the same thickness as what you might be standing on. Chisel ahead of yourself and trust your instinct if something looks different.
Let’s hope the projected snow this weekend stays away and cold temps help improve conditions. We’ll update sometime next week and hopefully have better news to report!
Monday, November 26, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice Report - 11/26/18 - We remain temporarily closed
We hope you had a great Thanksgiving Weekend! We remain closed while we wait for better ice conditions. With the rain we had most of Black Friday and the warmer temps and wind through Saturday, there are now several areas of open water on Lake Waconia.
The largest open water area extends from parts of Center Reef and goes all the way to Reinke’s Bay and to the south encompassing Keg’s Reef toward the island. Another large open area is east of the island and extends south encompassing all of Cemetery Reef and beyond. There are also several random smaller open spots on the eastern fringe of Waconia Bay and east of the marina out to the “walleye hole”. We also noticed a couple of small open spots just north of the Wagener’s Bay access as well. All of these areas we spotted from land. Basically, there are scattered open spots in several locations.
As of this post (Monday 11/26/18 at 11 am), there is still plenty of wind keeping the open areas wavy and unable to freeze. To be quite honest, despite the cold, we feel the open water areas are getting bigger. Because of this, we will be holding off on doing our first ice walk until a later time. Let’s hope for much cooler temperatures and calmer winds to re-freeze the lake and start building ice thickness!
The largest open water area extends from parts of Center Reef and goes all the way to Reinke’s Bay and to the south encompassing Keg’s Reef toward the island. Another large open area is east of the island and extends south encompassing all of Cemetery Reef and beyond. There are also several random smaller open spots on the eastern fringe of Waconia Bay and east of the marina out to the “walleye hole”. We also noticed a couple of small open spots just north of the Wagener’s Bay access as well. All of these areas we spotted from land. Basically, there are scattered open spots in several locations.
As of this post (Monday 11/26/18 at 11 am), there is still plenty of wind keeping the open areas wavy and unable to freeze. To be quite honest, despite the cold, we feel the open water areas are getting bigger. Because of this, we will be holding off on doing our first ice walk until a later time. Let’s hope for much cooler temperatures and calmer winds to re-freeze the lake and start building ice thickness!
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Update - 11/20/18 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Winter is here early! The colder than usual weather has locked up most of Lake Waconia with ice. However as of 11/20, from the marina vantage point, there are some areas that remain open.
We look forward to spending this holiday weekend with our families and we hope you have a great Thanksgiving as well!
We expect to do an ice check later next week depending on the upcoming weather. Our shop will remain temporarily closed for now, and we will update you with opening hours as soon as we know more. Thank you!
We look forward to spending this holiday weekend with our families and we hope you have a great Thanksgiving as well!
We expect to do an ice check later next week depending on the upcoming weather. Our shop will remain temporarily closed for now, and we will update you with opening hours as soon as we know more. Thank you!
Monday, September 3, 2018
In Towne Marina New Hours after Labor Day starting Tuesday 9/4...
Hours from Tuesday, 9/4 until 9/30 are Monday thru Friday 11:30 am to Sunset and on Saturday/Sunday from 8 am to Sunset. Our Gas Pump Service will end each night at 7 pm. Shop and Gas Pump hours are weather dependent. We close for the season after Sunday, September 30th.
Our pontoon and fishing boat rental season is coming to a close soon. We will be renting through the weekend of September 8th/9th with limited rentals. After that, our boats will likely be stored for the season. If you wish to rent, we highly recommend calling ahead of time to reserve at (952) 442-2096 and we'll let you know if we have something available. Thank you!
Our pontoon and fishing boat rental season is coming to a close soon. We will be renting through the weekend of September 8th/9th with limited rentals. After that, our boats will likely be stored for the season. If you wish to rent, we highly recommend calling ahead of time to reserve at (952) 442-2096 and we'll let you know if we have something available. Thank you!
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Fishing Report and Updated Hours - 8/22/18
The summer season is winding down and daylight is getting shorter. With school starting for many families and some of our summer staff moving on to their education, we have shortened our store and gas pump hours. Currently through Labor Day we are open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 am to Sunset, and on Saturday & Sunday from 7:30 am to Sunset. Gas Pump Services ends at 7:30 pm. After Labor Day we will update with more shortened hours.
While the season got off to a late and slow start in June, we have had wonderful weather in July and August! Fishing has been very good longer into the season than normal. Sunfish action has been excellent all summer long, with many caught that were bigger than what we normally see out of Lake Waconia. The bite for sunnies has been so good, that walleye anglers have been frustrated with the constant biting of their leeches, crawlers and even minnows. Many different depths have worked for the sunnies, but you’ll generally always have success in or on the edge of the weeds around 12 feet of water. An easy spot to always try is on the southeast side or north side of Coney Island. Don’t be surprised to find action for crappies and bass too in those depths as they have been good as well. Bigger bass has been caught in the weeds off reefs such as North, Cemetery, Center and Pillsbury. Don’t hesitate to hit up the super shallows using topwater lures for some exciting bass action as well. As far as walleyes, the bite lately has been deeper. Locations such as Keg’s, Red’s or the east end of the island are all worth trying. Depths from 17 to 25 feet have produced some success with fathead minnows. Northern pike continue their resurgence on Lake Waconia. We aren’t up to the numbers from 20 years ago, but it’s fairly common to catch some pike if you’re targeting them, and even if you’re trying to get bass or walleye, anglers have had surprise pike bites. Muskies have gotten more active in August. We’ve had reports of catches in the upper 30’s to low 40 inch range, with one even up to 53 inches reported earlier in the week. Areas by the weeds of North and Kegs reef are good locations, as well as the weedline on southeast side of the island. Working the south shoreline weeds to the east toward the beach is also well worth targeting muskies.
We have a couple of quick notes we want to share regarding our slip and buoy members at the marina. We are thankful for all of the families that have chosen the In Towne Marina to trust us with their boat this summer! We celebrated another season with them in late July by having a fun get together with buffet lunch, drawing prizes and an informal fishing contest. Fun was had by all and there were some impressive fish caught. The Royer family won our grand prize drawing. As for the fishing contest, the winning sunfish was caught by young Logan DeMarce with a HALF POUND Pumpkinseed! Robbie Olson had the winning bass at over 2 pounds.
As I previously mentioned, some of our staff have moved back to college recently, and we celebrated them last week with our Employee Fishing Contest! Of course a full year’s worth of bragging rights were at stake, and the winners were Ben Hester and Kort Oelfke, with over 10 pounds of bass to take 1st Place! We’re thankful for the job our wonderful staff does!
Come out to the lake while the summer temps are still here! We will be renting fishing boats and pontoons through the 2nd weekend of September. Give us a call at (952) 442-2096 to reserve!
While the season got off to a late and slow start in June, we have had wonderful weather in July and August! Fishing has been very good longer into the season than normal. Sunfish action has been excellent all summer long, with many caught that were bigger than what we normally see out of Lake Waconia. The bite for sunnies has been so good, that walleye anglers have been frustrated with the constant biting of their leeches, crawlers and even minnows. Many different depths have worked for the sunnies, but you’ll generally always have success in or on the edge of the weeds around 12 feet of water. An easy spot to always try is on the southeast side or north side of Coney Island. Don’t be surprised to find action for crappies and bass too in those depths as they have been good as well. Bigger bass has been caught in the weeds off reefs such as North, Cemetery, Center and Pillsbury. Don’t hesitate to hit up the super shallows using topwater lures for some exciting bass action as well. As far as walleyes, the bite lately has been deeper. Locations such as Keg’s, Red’s or the east end of the island are all worth trying. Depths from 17 to 25 feet have produced some success with fathead minnows. Northern pike continue their resurgence on Lake Waconia. We aren’t up to the numbers from 20 years ago, but it’s fairly common to catch some pike if you’re targeting them, and even if you’re trying to get bass or walleye, anglers have had surprise pike bites. Muskies have gotten more active in August. We’ve had reports of catches in the upper 30’s to low 40 inch range, with one even up to 53 inches reported earlier in the week. Areas by the weeds of North and Kegs reef are good locations, as well as the weedline on southeast side of the island. Working the south shoreline weeds to the east toward the beach is also well worth targeting muskies.
We have a couple of quick notes we want to share regarding our slip and buoy members at the marina. We are thankful for all of the families that have chosen the In Towne Marina to trust us with their boat this summer! We celebrated another season with them in late July by having a fun get together with buffet lunch, drawing prizes and an informal fishing contest. Fun was had by all and there were some impressive fish caught. The Royer family won our grand prize drawing. As for the fishing contest, the winning sunfish was caught by young Logan DeMarce with a HALF POUND Pumpkinseed! Robbie Olson had the winning bass at over 2 pounds.
As I previously mentioned, some of our staff have moved back to college recently, and we celebrated them last week with our Employee Fishing Contest! Of course a full year’s worth of bragging rights were at stake, and the winners were Ben Hester and Kort Oelfke, with over 10 pounds of bass to take 1st Place! We’re thankful for the job our wonderful staff does!
Come out to the lake while the summer temps are still here! We will be renting fishing boats and pontoons through the 2nd weekend of September. Give us a call at (952) 442-2096 to reserve!
We look forward to seeing you at the lake!
Friday, June 8, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Fishing Report and Updated Hours - 6/8/18
Our Pontoon and Fishing Boat Rental Season is now in full swing! We have 3 pontoons that hold up to 9 adults each and 1 that holds 12 adults. We rent 2 fishing boats with 15 hp motors that hold up to 4 people each and 1 fishing boat with a 9.9 hp motor that holds 3 people. For more information, click on this link… http://intownemarina.com/Pontoon&BoatRental.htm
If you are interested in reserving a pontoon or fishing boat, please call (952) 442-2096.
We will be extending our shop and access hours starting this Saturday, June 9th. Hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm, and on Monday thru Friday from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
The bite is still on for many species in Lake Waconia! Water temps have been hovering in the low-to-mid 70’s. The sunfish spawn has continued in the shallows. Expect a strong sunfish bite on waxies and crawlers. Crappies have moved a little deeper. Fish them in the weeds in 8 to 16 feet of water with crappie minnows for good action in places like Keg’s, North and Center Reefs or on the north end of Coney Island. Walleye anglers have been catching some nice crappies occasionally on fatheads as well. As for the walleyes, with the transition into more of a summer pattern, we suggest fishing with fatheads and leeches off the deeper weed lines and drops such as Keg’s, North, Red’s and Anderson’s Reef as well as the east end of Coney Island. Muskie season began last week and we had some reports of catches in the low-to-mid 40 inch range. Big Spinners have been a common choice in 12 to 16 feet of water. Bass action has still been very good. We’ve had a wide range of sizes being caught both shallow and deeper. Different angling styles have worked. Soft plastics have been good in less than 8 feet of water, while spinnerbaits and jigs have produced some nice ones in the weeds on the reefs. We continue to have some decent reports of northern pike being caught. Many times they are caught while fishing bass or walleye.
We look forward to seeing you! Good luck fishing!
If you are interested in reserving a pontoon or fishing boat, please call (952) 442-2096.
We will be extending our shop and access hours starting this Saturday, June 9th. Hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm, and on Monday thru Friday from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
The bite is still on for many species in Lake Waconia! Water temps have been hovering in the low-to-mid 70’s. The sunfish spawn has continued in the shallows. Expect a strong sunfish bite on waxies and crawlers. Crappies have moved a little deeper. Fish them in the weeds in 8 to 16 feet of water with crappie minnows for good action in places like Keg’s, North and Center Reefs or on the north end of Coney Island. Walleye anglers have been catching some nice crappies occasionally on fatheads as well. As for the walleyes, with the transition into more of a summer pattern, we suggest fishing with fatheads and leeches off the deeper weed lines and drops such as Keg’s, North, Red’s and Anderson’s Reef as well as the east end of Coney Island. Muskie season began last week and we had some reports of catches in the low-to-mid 40 inch range. Big Spinners have been a common choice in 12 to 16 feet of water. Bass action has still been very good. We’ve had a wide range of sizes being caught both shallow and deeper. Different angling styles have worked. Soft plastics have been good in less than 8 feet of water, while spinnerbaits and jigs have produced some nice ones in the weeds on the reefs. We continue to have some decent reports of northern pike being caught. Many times they are caught while fishing bass or walleye.
We look forward to seeing you! Good luck fishing!
Thursday, May 24, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Fishing Report and Updated Hours
Memorial Weekend is right around the corner and our shop hours will be extended starting this Saturday, 5/26. Saturday and Sunday hours will be 7 am to 8 pm, and Monday through Friday will be 8 am to 8 pm. There are still plenty of moving parts going on at our marina as we catch up from the late spring. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we will be returning customer boats from storage to their slips and moorings over the next 2 weeks and will continue to have limited parking during this time. We will also announce soon when our gas pump service is available.
As for the fishing, this weekend is Bass Opener, and they have been very active! Those fishing for walleye have had to contend with bass biting on a consistent basis. Bass have been caught in varied depths, but trying shallow early in the season is always a good, easy plan. Leeches or crawlers are a great if you’re using live bait. Soft plastic worms or flukes are good artificials to try.
The water temp yesterday morning was 63 degrees and we expect it to climb into the upper 60’s and maybe the low 70’s with this weekend’s warmth, so we expect the walleye bite to move deeper. Areas like Keg’s, North and Red’s Reefs are worth hitting up. You can still fish areas like the Clay Banks and Harm’s point for action. Fatheads and leeches are recommended.
We expect the sunfish and crappie bite to remain strong as well. Crappies in particular have been very good so far this spring. Sunfish may begin their spawning pattern soon with the aforementioned water temperature increase. Expect to have the most success in 12 feet or less, but don’t be surprised to find them a little deeper too. Crappie Minnows, Wax worms and chunks of night crawler should do the trick.
For those looking to rent fishing boats or pontoons from us, we are thankful for your interest and patience. We hope to be renting in early June. The late spring and necessary dock installation process has delayed our ability to rent thus far. Please call (952) 442-2096 for your future reservation needs!
As for the fishing, this weekend is Bass Opener, and they have been very active! Those fishing for walleye have had to contend with bass biting on a consistent basis. Bass have been caught in varied depths, but trying shallow early in the season is always a good, easy plan. Leeches or crawlers are a great if you’re using live bait. Soft plastic worms or flukes are good artificials to try.
The water temp yesterday morning was 63 degrees and we expect it to climb into the upper 60’s and maybe the low 70’s with this weekend’s warmth, so we expect the walleye bite to move deeper. Areas like Keg’s, North and Red’s Reefs are worth hitting up. You can still fish areas like the Clay Banks and Harm’s point for action. Fatheads and leeches are recommended.
We expect the sunfish and crappie bite to remain strong as well. Crappies in particular have been very good so far this spring. Sunfish may begin their spawning pattern soon with the aforementioned water temperature increase. Expect to have the most success in 12 feet or less, but don’t be surprised to find them a little deeper too. Crappie Minnows, Wax worms and chunks of night crawler should do the trick.
For those looking to rent fishing boats or pontoons from us, we are thankful for your interest and patience. We hope to be renting in early June. The late spring and necessary dock installation process has delayed our ability to rent thus far. Please call (952) 442-2096 for your future reservation needs!
See you at the lake!
Thursday, May 10, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Lake and Fishing Report - Opening for the Season Friday, May 11th / Shortened Hours after Opener
Fishing Opener is right around the corner and we will once again be there for your overnight needs! The Bait Shop and Access will open for the season this Friday, May 11th at 2 pm. We stay open all night Friday night until closing Saturday, May 12th at 6:30 pm. Because of our continued marina dock work, we will have shortened hours for the near future. Those interim hours after Opener are Monday through Friday 2 pm to 6:30 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 8 am to 6:30 pm.
We thank you for your continued patience while we assemble our marina later than usual because of the record spring late ice-out. Parking will be limited until we have all of our equipment in the water. Our Boat and Motor, Pontoon Rentals and Gas Dock Service are not available at this time. We will update when we get closer renting and gas becomes available.
As for the fishing, we hope for a strong walleye bite this opener. Water temps are in the low 50’s and we expect good shallow water action overnight and into the early morning. Places like Harm’s Point, the Rock Dock, the Carp Trap (Peterson’s Creek area), or any shallow emerging weedline should be good starting points. We should have all the bait on hand that you’ll need to get those Lake Waconia walleyes. For those fishing for crappies, we have been seeing plenty of activity in Waconia Bay. Anglers are fishing in 10 to 14 feet of water as of now. The open-water season is just getting going, so we hope to report some great catches after this weekend!
Good luck fishing this weekend!
We thank you for your continued patience while we assemble our marina later than usual because of the record spring late ice-out. Parking will be limited until we have all of our equipment in the water. Our Boat and Motor, Pontoon Rentals and Gas Dock Service are not available at this time. We will update when we get closer renting and gas becomes available.
As for the fishing, we hope for a strong walleye bite this opener. Water temps are in the low 50’s and we expect good shallow water action overnight and into the early morning. Places like Harm’s Point, the Rock Dock, the Carp Trap (Peterson’s Creek area), or any shallow emerging weedline should be good starting points. We should have all the bait on hand that you’ll need to get those Lake Waconia walleyes. For those fishing for crappies, we have been seeing plenty of activity in Waconia Bay. Anglers are fishing in 10 to 14 feet of water as of now. The open-water season is just getting going, so we hope to report some great catches after this weekend!
Good luck fishing this weekend!
Friday, May 4, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Report - Shop/Access remain temporarily closed.
The record has been broken. Lake Waconia ice-out has never been later. The official ice-out is today, May 4th. Due to the extremely late start to the open-water season, our bait shop and access will remain closed for an interim period of time while we begin constructing our marina docks. We will update mid-next week with any potential opening hours for both our bait shop and access.
It takes several weeks for us to complete work needed to safely use our docks. We appreciate everyone’s patience during this time as there will be periodic disruptions moving heavy dock equipment from our parking lot into the lake that we normally don’t have to worry about this time of year.
It takes several weeks for us to complete work needed to safely use our docks. We appreciate everyone’s patience during this time as there will be periodic disruptions moving heavy dock equipment from our parking lot into the lake that we normally don’t have to worry about this time of year.
Monday, April 30, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Report - 4/30/18
It’s April 30th and we STILL have ice on Lake Waconia. Lake resident and naturalist Jim Gilbert of WCCO recently shared his lake ice-out record information with us (that dates back to 1940). The latest Lake Waconia ice has ever gone out on record was May 1st, which has happened 3 times (1941, 1950 and 1965). Unless something drastically changes in the next 36 hours, that record will unfortunately be broken.
We will remain closed for an interim period (even after the ice is out) while we construct our marina docks. We will update any potential store opening hours as we know more and progress with our dock building. We appreciate everyone’s patience with us, as we will be working very hard to get things set up safely for use.
We will remain closed for an interim period (even after the ice is out) while we construct our marina docks. We will update any potential store opening hours as we know more and progress with our dock building. We appreciate everyone’s patience with us, as we will be working very hard to get things set up safely for use.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
In Towne Marina Closing for the Season after Sunday, March 4th
Our bait shop and main access will be closed for the season
after Sunday, March 4th. We will keep an alternate access lane open
(where we launch boats in the summer) for a limited time depending on ice and
snow conditions (Drive at your own risk).
Also, after Sunday, March 4th we will not be plowing any more
lake roads. We appreciate those of you that joined us for a great winter on
Lake Waconia. It sure was nice to have good ice all season and good fishing
action too!
Don’t forget to get your 2018 fishing license before heading out for spring ice fishing! Also, fish houses must be removed from lakes on Monday, March 5th. With a forecast with temps in the upper 40’s this weekend, with rain/snow coming Sunday into Monday, we recommend getting ahead of the weather by removing your fish house early if possible. Ice on the main lake is currently in great shape. With the warmth melting the snow and potential rain, we expect a lot of water, especially in plowed roads. Our access currently is still in good shape as well, but we expect it to worsen this weekend.
Thanks again! The Mase’s
and Staff
Friday, February 23, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Ice & Fishing Report - 2/23/18
All of the lake roads we have plowed all season have been opened back up by Ben today after last night’s snowfall. Conditions off-road have gotten more difficult with drifts scattered all over. Those with 4-wheel drive trucks can still get around off-road, but if we continue to get measurable snow this weekend, removing fish houses will get exponentially more difficult. We will continue to plow to the same areas we have all winter while we remain open for the season, but will not be plowing to new areas. We close for the Winter Season after Sunday, March 4th.
As for the fishing, we continue to get good sunfish reports during the daytime. Wax worms and larva have been doing the trick in 11 to 15 feet of water in areas like Waconia Bay, Center Reef and Wagener’s Bay/Pillsbury. Crappies continue to bite shallower than normal for this time of year. Using crappie minnows and fishing in the same areas as the sunfish, but in the evening after 6 pm has worked for many. Gamefish season closes after this weekend, so get after those walleye and northern pike while you can. There continues to be a large-minnow shortage, so for those going after the big fish will have to use fathead minnows unless you possess stock of shiners or suckers from earlier in the season.
This is weekend (the 24th/25th) is our final weekend renting fish houses for the season. We want to thank those who used our rental service this year! Lots of nice sunfish, crappies and northern pike were caught by many groups and families. We will be pulling our houses off the lake early in the week.
We’ll see you on the lake!
As for the fishing, we continue to get good sunfish reports during the daytime. Wax worms and larva have been doing the trick in 11 to 15 feet of water in areas like Waconia Bay, Center Reef and Wagener’s Bay/Pillsbury. Crappies continue to bite shallower than normal for this time of year. Using crappie minnows and fishing in the same areas as the sunfish, but in the evening after 6 pm has worked for many. Gamefish season closes after this weekend, so get after those walleye and northern pike while you can. There continues to be a large-minnow shortage, so for those going after the big fish will have to use fathead minnows unless you possess stock of shiners or suckers from earlier in the season.
This is weekend (the 24th/25th) is our final weekend renting fish houses for the season. We want to thank those who used our rental service this year! Lots of nice sunfish, crappies and northern pike were caught by many groups and families. We will be pulling our houses off the lake early in the week.
We’ll see you on the lake!
Thursday, February 8, 2018
Only 3 Weekends left in our Fish House Rental season.
Only 3 more weekends left in our Fish House Rental season! If you’re looking to get ice fishing on Lake Waconia and want to have the ease and comfort of renting from us, call to reserve soon as dates are filling up. We have the houses set up on good sunfish action, with northern pike possibilities during the daytime, and good crappie prospects in the evening. We drill and slush the holes and the heat is on a comfortable temperature. If you don’t have any ice equipment, we rent basic jig sticks ($2.50 each) or rods with reels ($5 each) that are equipped with line, bobber and jig. If you are interested in a daytime underwater camera, we rent those as well for $30. We have bait for sale in our bait and tackle shop. Call (952) 442-2096 to reserve!
Monday, January 29, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Fishing Report - 1/29/18
There is lots happening on Lake Waconia! This past weekend the Midwest Vintage Snowmobile “Waconia Ride In” was held at the Lake Waconia Regional Park. Thousands of snowmobile enthusiast took to the lake and watched racing events as well as showed off their own vintage ride!
This upcoming weekend is of course the Super Bowl being held in Minneapolis at US Bank Stadium. With the multitude of media outlets in the area, there are many that are taking advantage of learning our culture of Ice Fishing. Besides that, we hope Lake Waconia will be hopping with fishermen Tuesday, 1/30 in the evening after 6 pm. NBC Sports will be out on the ice to get some video shots that could very well be played during the Super Bowl! How cool would that be!
As for the fishing itself, we continue to have good action for northern pike! We’ve had plenty of happy anglers catching many different sizes of fish, which shows the health of the northern pike population in the lake. Those having success are using sucker minnows and setting up on a weed edge or above the weeds in 10 to 14 feet of water around similar locations people are fishing for panfish.
Speaking of panfish, we continue to have good sunfish activity on Waconia. Daytime fishing with a wax worm and small jig (pink and orange have been popular colors) has worked well. Crappies have been more active in the evening, although best fishing times have varied for many. Crappie minnows have been best with a glow hook.
Walleyes action has improved as the season has gone on. While we still are reporting many undersized fish, we have had plenty of reports of nice keepers (must be over 16”) and even some in the upper 20’s, for which many have been released! While it’s not a requirement, we still suggest getting away from the large crowds of houses and spending time in the late evening or overnight for your best chance.
Our Fish House Rental season has been good for many groups! We have had good success with sunfish, crappies and northern pike. If you’re interested in renting with us, please call (952) 442-2096 to reserve! We do all the hard work, and have the heat on and holes drilled ready for you to fish!
See you on the lake!
This upcoming weekend is of course the Super Bowl being held in Minneapolis at US Bank Stadium. With the multitude of media outlets in the area, there are many that are taking advantage of learning our culture of Ice Fishing. Besides that, we hope Lake Waconia will be hopping with fishermen Tuesday, 1/30 in the evening after 6 pm. NBC Sports will be out on the ice to get some video shots that could very well be played during the Super Bowl! How cool would that be!
As for the fishing itself, we continue to have good action for northern pike! We’ve had plenty of happy anglers catching many different sizes of fish, which shows the health of the northern pike population in the lake. Those having success are using sucker minnows and setting up on a weed edge or above the weeds in 10 to 14 feet of water around similar locations people are fishing for panfish.
Speaking of panfish, we continue to have good sunfish activity on Waconia. Daytime fishing with a wax worm and small jig (pink and orange have been popular colors) has worked well. Crappies have been more active in the evening, although best fishing times have varied for many. Crappie minnows have been best with a glow hook.
Walleyes action has improved as the season has gone on. While we still are reporting many undersized fish, we have had plenty of reports of nice keepers (must be over 16”) and even some in the upper 20’s, for which many have been released! While it’s not a requirement, we still suggest getting away from the large crowds of houses and spending time in the late evening or overnight for your best chance.
Our Fish House Rental season has been good for many groups! We have had good success with sunfish, crappies and northern pike. If you’re interested in renting with us, please call (952) 442-2096 to reserve! We do all the hard work, and have the heat on and holes drilled ready for you to fish!
See you on the lake!
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
1/23/18 Lake Waconia Update
Ben and Jim have been out with the plow truck today on Lake Waconia. We got roughly 8 to 10 inches of snow. They have roads plowed from the marina past Waconia Bay, to Center Reef and feathering out at Pillsbury Reef. We also have a road that goes to Cemetery Reef. For those with 4-wheel drive trucks wanting to venture out off-road, it is possible and we haven’t heard anyone having issues. If you’re looking to haul a fish house to a spot off road, we suggest driving a path with the pick-up only to create a beaten road to follow with the house. Expect heavy drifting around fish houses groups. Don't forget, we ask $2 to drive on our access, and as always it is drive at your own risk. Thank you! We’ll see you on the lake.
Friday, January 19, 2018
In Towne Marina Lake Waconia Fishing Report - 1/19/18
If you need a reason to get out ice fishing, this warm weather could be just what you are looking for! The Northern Pike bite has been better than average this winter, and tip-up fishing weather is here! Using sucker minnows near a decent weed edge in 10’-16’ of water is the ticket. Waconia Bay, Wagener’s Bay, Center Reef or any other good weed edge is working well for the Pike.
Walleye action has been decent still. Some “Eater sized fish have been reported, but many anglers are catching fish under the legal size(16”) you are able to keep on Waconia. Finding a quiet weed edge away from most traffic is always a good way to go on Lake Waconia for Marble Eyes. 12’-18’ of water is the targeted depth for most successful Walleye hunters. Fatheads on a good glow jig are working as well as anything. Right around dark and into the overnight is best for time of day as usual.
Sunfish action has remained good as long as you do some scouting to find some quality weeds and you fish the edge. Fishing in 10-15’ of water in Waconia Bay, Wagner’s Bay, Pillsbury Reef and Center Reef continue to be the best bets for Sunnies.
Crappies haven’t been as active as recent years on Lake Waconia. The good deep water bite has not really happened yet, so we recommend still hitting most of the areas the Sunnies are at for the best action. Setting up on good weed edges in 12’-15’ of water and downsizing baits is a smart move right now.
Walleye action has been decent still. Some “Eater sized fish have been reported, but many anglers are catching fish under the legal size(16”) you are able to keep on Waconia. Finding a quiet weed edge away from most traffic is always a good way to go on Lake Waconia for Marble Eyes. 12’-18’ of water is the targeted depth for most successful Walleye hunters. Fatheads on a good glow jig are working as well as anything. Right around dark and into the overnight is best for time of day as usual.
Sunfish action has remained good as long as you do some scouting to find some quality weeds and you fish the edge. Fishing in 10-15’ of water in Waconia Bay, Wagner’s Bay, Pillsbury Reef and Center Reef continue to be the best bets for Sunnies.
Crappies haven’t been as active as recent years on Lake Waconia. The good deep water bite has not really happened yet, so we recommend still hitting most of the areas the Sunnies are at for the best action. Setting up on good weed edges in 12’-15’ of water and downsizing baits is a smart move right now.
Don’t forget, we rent fish houses! We do all the hard work for you. Houses are placed on good sunfish, crappie and northern pike areas, with an occasional chance at a walleye. We drill and slush the holes, and the heat is on so it’s toasty warm when you arrive. Call (952) 442-2096 to reserve!
Ice conditions remain great on Lake Waconia to most of the main areas people are fishing. Our lake access is currently in great shape, with a little snow melt. The access by County Roads 155 and 30 is still not good with a pressure ridge you must pay attention to.
We’ll see you on the lake!
Ice conditions remain great on Lake Waconia to most of the main areas people are fishing. Our lake access is currently in great shape, with a little snow melt. The access by County Roads 155 and 30 is still not good with a pressure ridge you must pay attention to.
We’ll see you on the lake!
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