Snyder’s Bend Today

Going shopping with my toddlers today, but they fell asleep in the truck, so instead of trying to wake them up and suffer the consequences of their crabbiness, I did the usual and drove down to Snyder’s Bend to see if anything was going on, plus give them opportunity to nap longer. I was very, very surprised to see several vehicles (trucks) on the ice, in fact, three full size trucks parked right next to each other, right near the channel. I checked the lake out on Christmas Day and found that there was no ice anywhere. My point is that seems crazy to me. I know people frequently drive out on the ice, but have never, ever seen it at this lat/long. Seems like they were taking some chances. I have never driven out on the ice before. Seems kind of creepy. Anyway, was wondering what you guys thought of that. Didn’t go fishing this weekend because the wife is out of town, so I had the toddlers. I will make up for it tomorrow. Planning on hitting a local bass pond all day. No one has even been out there this year. Regardless, you won’t see my truck on the pond.

Uh, ya, that does sound crazy!! I know the ice is mega thick because of all the weather we’ve had previously, but it’s real nice out here today, and I’m guessing it is up where you are too. By the way, where are you located and where’s Snyder’s Bend?

I wouldn’t park trucks all together like that myself but I’ll bet the ice is VERY thick. As cold as it’s been for the past few weeks, there could be well over 12 inches on there, depending on where you’re at. There’s been a huge change between Christmas and now. Today is the first warm day we’ve had in a while. We’re finally going to see highs in the 30s and even hit the forties. I’d think the ice will be good for a while. In Iowa, the DNR has even pushed back the date to remove permanent ice houses, due to the extremely cold weather.

Brian, Snyders is by Sioux City.

All I can say “it weren’t me!” All things aside, this has been the first year in many where I’d dare to say that the ice might just be thick enough. The last time I drove out was 1997, (down here) ever since we have had those cold snaps ruined by a warm-up. To be safe, drill a hole every 20 feet and check the ice for yourself. Since the lake is low, there should be no flow from the river causing a current. We nailed them the first week of December straight across from the landing in the lilly pads.