Report from the Dock
While the recent cold snap has been ideal for ice-making, it seems to have had a negative effect on the fish bite throughout the state. The front, along with the lack of snow on top of the ice in most areas, has meant lethargic or spooky walleyes and panfish. Those conditions have meant that low-light periods and overnight hours have been most productive for crappies and walleyes in most areas. Smaller presentations, setlines with small minnows, and getting away from the crowds will also tip the odds in your favor. The clear ice has allowed the weeds to stay green, and they seem to be holding good numbers of bluegills and northern pike. It’s also worth noting that ice cleats are a must due to the lack of snow. Ice depths have improved quite a bit since last week statewide. There are more trucks showing up on lakes, and bigger fish houses have started to be pulled out. There have also been ice heaves developing, so watch for those.
Leech Lake Ice Fishing Report
Walleyes continue to hit best late in the day and at night on the main lake and south shore structure areas in 18 to 23 feet. There’s also a short window of walleye activity each evening on the 20- to 30-foot humps in Walker Bay. Setlines seem to be working better than do spoons in most areas. You’ll find perch in 14 to 16 feet in the GrandVu Flats and Pine Point areas, along with some deeper fish on Huddle’s Reef and around Pelican Island. Generally, ice conditions are excellent. There are a few cracks in some areas, but the resorts that are open have those pegged, so work through them.