Wow has the travel on the ice become difficult. However, the fishing is great if you can get out there.
Late ice fishing patterns are starting as the panfish are beginning to gather near potential spawning areas. With that said concentrate on the drop off near shallow spawning bays usually not too far from shore. Depths can range from 5-15 ft. Small jigs of just about any kind tipped with a waxie or spike will do the trick. Small black or glow white jigs seem to produce well.
No need for tungsten either, to shallow and the fish don’t care, so save your money. Pay attention to the water just under the ice. The fish can be cruising there looking for oxygen rich run off from melting snow and food as well.
Lotsa Fish! Lotsa Fun! Minnesota Fishing Guide Service, Captain Josh Hagemeister.
Making the trip up? Here’s where to stay.
Once you’re in the area, stop into the Tourist Information Center off of Highway 71 South in Park Rapids. We’ve got lake maps, river maps and more. What we don’t have, we’ll find for you.
Tourist Information Center
1204 Park Avenue South
Park Rapids, MN 56470