Finally a true cold snap to help make some safe ice! Nothing has changed much fishing wise since last week nor will anglers see any true heavy changes in the next couple of weeks other than better ice conditions. While most of the smaller lakes are walkable and even able to support smaller atvs, the larger lakes still have danger zones—so be careful. Anyway, if you’re on the search for panfish, look no further than shallow weed flats in the 5-10 ft range. I prefer the edge near the deep water where you can encounter pike and walleyes as well on the old weed lines that are lingering green in the 10-15 ft. range. Drill a series of holes along the drop off and set a tip-up for walleye or pike while “hole hopping” shallower with a small jig and a waxworm for bluegills and crappies. Do not waste your time fishing the deep holes for crappies yet—it’s basically too early. “Lotsa Fish! Lotsa Fun!” Captain Josh Hagemeister, Minnesota Fishing Guide Service, www.minnesotaicefishhouserental.com www.minnesotaguideservice.com www.mycampfish.com 218-732-9919
