The Northwest winds have finally sent the fog migrating south with the birds; as temperatures are now on par with a regular mid-December Minnesota winter. We are back on track and making ice by the minute. The “hard water” conditions were less than desirable with the recent warm weather, but the water on the top side of the ice has now re-frozen. Fish Hook Lake has ice up to 15 inches thick while Big Sand Lake has been reported to only have 3 to 6 inches. Long Lake (east) has up to 13 inches on the South end while the North end has 6 to 9 inches. The elusive walleye are not so elusive in recent days if you are willing to beat the sunlight in the morning. A plain hook, weight, light line and rainbow minnow has been enticing big ‘eyes to bite in 7 to 12 feet at daybreak. The musky action is hot on Mantrap Lake and they are attacking very large sucker minnows in 6 to 10 feet of water. Bluegills and large perch are easiest to find and catch on Upper Bottle Lake, North of Park Rapids. Stop by the store to get your Ice Castle Fish House accessories and the most up to date Park Rapids area fishing report. We hope to see you very soon!