12/10/06
Walked out this morning to check the ice thickness. It is at 6 to 7 inches for a ½ mile out. That was farther than I really wanted to walk without going fishing too, but there is plenty of time for that. I did find a spot out where the ice had blown back in last wed afternoon. Just beyond that, the newly formed ice was only 3 inches. That is what is so very spooky about this time of the year. Inconsistent ice!
There were a few people out on 4 wheelers and to my amazement; they were driving around after dark. It seems like no matter how many times I say it; there are always some people who must push the envelope and do really crazy things. They will find out some day that it was not such a great idea to get out too early. I had 50 people stop in this weekend to ask about going out of my access with their 4 wheelers.
Not today. I told them the same thing I’m telling you. It is not safe enough out there yet. So what do they do? They go down the road and access from the shoreline. What can I say, I tried. They were driving around in circles for over an hour after dark before they could find a way off, and where was that might you ask? My access of course. It is the only spot along this shore line that hasn’t pushed up.
The ice had pushed up along the shoreline during the day and I think they were lost. Next weekend will be better for the 3 and 4 wheelers. With the warm temps coming all week, we will not be putting on much ice. Guys, pull back on the reins just a little bit. I do not want to see anyone lose their lives over a dam fish.
As my grandmother us to say to me; Johnni, slow down you move to fast. I also say the same to you all. The ice will come, lets just let it happen, or else. Mother Nature will not give you too many chances to escape her grasp out on the big pond.
Be very, very, very safe. Even if some resort owner says go ahead with your 4 wheelers this coming week. I would think very hard on it. I will not be one of them to say that until I know it is as safe as I can make it. I have been doing this ice thing for 18 yrs now and I think I know what I am talking about!
We will see you this weekend with the smaller 3 and 4 wheelers or a snowmobile, or just plan on walking out. You do not have to walk more than a quarter to half mile out to get to good fishing spots in front.
The Rockman
