Bank
For steelhead, their numbers have definately improved over the years… From stringent regulations in both the streams and in the lake itself… Overall, I would say fishing for them can be good to fair overall…
The best river to concentrait your efforts around is the Brule, she has the largest run of steelies.. But with that, it also gets the most pressure. Not saying you wont be able to tie into a few fish though.. Just have to work to find spots that are not that accessible for other fishers not wanting to work for a fish… Other streams here on the south shore that were mentioned also do get runs… The Sioux, Fish Creek, Pikes, Cranberry, etc etc do get some fish in them…
For ice out conditons.. You can keep up to date on my website if you wish (see my profile)… One bait shop in the area here is Outdoor Allure. The owner, Craig Putchat, is very friendly and helpful…