Peterson lake Wabasha Mn Ice?

Hi All,

I’m making a trip down to Wabasha this week. Does Peterson Lake (just north of lock and dam no. 4) produce safe ice for snowmobile/ATV traffic? I have never fished it but wanted to give it a go. Being so close to the Dam I’m going to be overly careful and ask ahead of time.

Thanks,

I do not consider river ice to ever be safe. There are some areas that have a significant amount of ice, but it does not always freeze up evenly. I would not consider driving a vehicle out in this area. ATVs and snowmobiles can be used with caution and a bit of guidance from someone who knows the area.

Do your homework well-ahead of going. There are some very shallow areas that span hundreds of yards that are essentially swamp that freeze down to within a foot of the bottom. The areas that do have depth generally have some sort of current.

There is definitely safe ice in that area, but it’s so hard to pinpoint the good vs the bad that it generally isn’t safe for vehicle traffic. Like Bucky said, there’s some incredible shallow areas that might even be completely frozen, but the fishable areas could have anywhere from 4-18″ of ice. I make a habit of taking the leather express (foot) just about everywhere on backwater areas unless I know exactly where I’m going, and even then I’m cautious.

I have not heard many reports of good fishing in just about any backwater area this year, but people are still catching some fish. On the other hand, you don’t normally hear of good bites in that area because the locals attempt to stay tight lipped.

Thanks Guys

I was on Peterson last week with ATV, over 12 everywhere I was. I do not know that area super well, so be careful. I simply went where I know how the current flows. I did not do well, scrapped out a few fish but not worth my drive