Lake Zumbro has continued to be slow this past week. I have not had many reports from people fishing there this past week. The ice is changing and driving on it is not advisable. I have heard that the ice around the edges is thin.
Foster-Arends Lake is producing quite a few trout and some small panfish. Some days are producing lots of fish, while others are slow. Minnows, ice jigs tipped with waxies, and power bait are working best. Those fishing in a shack are able to see all the way to the bottom even in deeper water. Many of the fish are swimming around just under the ice. Ice is about 12-16 inches in most places, but is opening near some of the shoreline and there is an open spring near the NE corner. Use caution when walking in that area.
Chester Woods continues to be slow. Be alert for thin ice near the beach or around wood, as well as the shorelines.
Willow Creek has finally cooled off with the runoff staining the water. It will probably pick up again when the water clears.
The Gamehaven Lake (boy scout camp) has had thin ice around the edges and may be difficult to access.
Country Club Manor pits are producing lots of gills and crappies, although most of the fish are small. Minnows and small ice jigs tipped with waxies are working. Ice is 10-16 inches in most places, but is subject to thinning as there are springs and some melting near shorelines. Be careful where you park as some areas are not legal.
The Mississippi backwaters are going well in some places. A few of the harbors are starting to produce some nice fish. Wilcox, West Newton, the Finger Lakes, the Dike Road, Winona, Alma, etc. are all producing fish – mostly bluegills, but there are some very nice crappies. Small ice jigs tipped with waxies or spikes are working, with minnows producing a few fish. Ice in most places is 10-18 inches. Use caution around springs and shorelines.
Please help to keep our fishing areas free from trash. Maybe some of us can make it a habit to take a bag with us and pick up some trash left by others.
Good Fishing,
Mike
