Yesterday (12/18) before the snow Avery was out checking ice thickness again on the side by side. The General ice thickness that he was finding was right around 9 inches. Finding as little as 8 inches but up to 10 being mixed in as well. He drove around Waconia Bay, Cemetery, Center and Pillsbury reefs and then down to Wagener’s bay.
He headed behind the island to check for some of the known areas for spring activity. Avery was able to find and mark one of the springs north of the island. In general the springs do not seem as active this year but still use caution when traveling to known spring areas. The new snow cover on the lake will make it difficult to spot the differences in ice.
The goose and swan hole off the northeast corner of the island is shrinking but remains open water as of now. Avery was able to mark the south side of the bird hole with sticks and flagging tape. Give this area plenty of room if in the area
As of early this afternoon the snow we have received is light and fluffy but has created deeper drifts in spots. Atv’s and SxS’s can still get around (with tire chains) on the lake. The snow and wind are still whipping so conditions will probably get tougher after this report goes out. Unfortunately the snow will impact foot traffic more, making it difficult if pulling a sled.
Walleye fishing remains steady for anglers in the evening. 12 to 18 feet of water jigging with fatheads or a set line with a shiner has been the ticket. Some anglers are having success with crappies in Waconia Bay around 10 to 14 feet of water using jigs tipped with small minnows or euro larva. Also, on the south weed line in Wagener’s Bay. Sunfish have been active during the daytime in similar areas along with parts of Pillsbury and Center reef. For those looking to spear the water clarity is great as of now and the pike have been active.
At this time at our access we will still be allowing Atv’s, SXS’s, Snowmobiles etc. Small trailers will be allowed behind them as long as your machine has chains. We are NOT allowing wheel houses yet mostly because of the weight of the snow on the ice.
