Most area ice is around 4-10 inches, but I am sure there are going to be a few areas with thinner ice due to the warmer weather. Use caution and remember that the DNR always says that no ice is ever 100% safe.
Foster Arends Lake:
Nice trout are being caught as well as small panfish. Minnows, waxies, and power bait are working or try flash lures like Swedish Pimples.
Lake Zumbro:
Some nice bluegills and a few crappies are being caught. Ice jigs tipped with waxies or spikes seem to be working best. Most fish are in deep water.
Chester Woods:
Some nice gills and a few crappies are being caught on ice jigs tipped with a waxie or spike. Be careful around exposed wood as it absorbs heat and the ice will be thinner around the wood.
Willow Creek:
Some nice gills and crappies are being caught on ice jigs tipped with a waxie or spike.
Boyscout (Gamehaven) Lake:
Good action on gills and crappies. Ice jigs tipped with spikes or waxies are working.
Mississippi River backwaters:
Most of the backwaters have 3-8 inches of ice. Some of the areas do have some current or springs, so the ice may not be safe in those areas. Wilcox, West Newton, the Dike Road, Moseman’s, and several boat harbors should be worth checking for action on gills and crappies. Ice jigs tipped with a waxie or small jigs with plastic (like Ratso’s) are usually best.
Stop by Hooked On Fishing for all your fishing needs. We have the largest selection of ice jigs in the area, and offer new ice auger blades at the lowest prices. We also have minnows, waxies, spikes, and red colored spikes.
We are located 1 1/2 miles past 37 St. NW on Hwy. 63 (North Broadway.)
Good Fishing,
Mike
By the way, are you and Ricky fishing the IDA tourneys?