Wow, what a change in events this week ice fishing wise. Although there have been warm temps and rain, ice fishing is still in high swing. Have a backup plan as far as travel goes like a ATV or walking as the shorelines in some areas are weak for now. Only a few more days of the pike/walleye season and then its an easy game of focusing on pan fish. I have been finding good number of pan fish already in staging areas outside Spring spawning grounds. If you have a secret Spring shallow water spot, just drill some holes on the closest break line near those areas. With water running down the holes/cracks in the ice, make sure to fish high in the water column—sometimes only a few feet below the ice. Use small natural colored tiny jigs (mimic the water insects they eat). I prefer 3 lb test line and a long rod with a soft tip to see the bite vs using a bobber. Skip the split shot too. The fish should only concentrate on your hook not a “jigging sinker” Be safe, good luck, Capt Josh, Minnesota Fishing Guide Service www.minnesotaguideservice.com www.minnesotaicefishhouserental.com 218-732-9919
