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Even with the cool temps we’ve been having, most of the snow we received early last week is gone.  The outlook for the weekend looks to be much warmer though with temps in the 50’s.  The ice is still in mid-winter condition, so this weekend would be a great time to get out.   I’d still plan on using an extension this weekend.  You could probably get by without one in most places, but an extension does make drilling a bit easier on the auger and back.  I’d also recommend throwing in a pair of ice cleats just in case.  With the warm temps it could get quite slippery out there.

Fishing is still excellent with plenty of sunfish and crappie action to be had during the day and consistent crappie action throughout the evening hours.  A small #12 jig like the Lindy toad has been producing for me all year.  I just put a small piece of worm on to cover the tip of the hook and it’s time to catch fish.  Once night fall rolls around a small jig and a crappie minnow will do the trick.

As we move toward spring the majority of panfish will be moving shallower.  As of right now I’m finding fish all over, from deep to shallow.  I’ve found the shallower the lake, the quicker the fish move shallow so for example on the bigger lakes most of the fish are still in the 15’-25’ foot of water.  Where as, in the shallower lakes especially ones with water running through them, I’ve seen fish in as shallow as 3 feet of water.  These shallow fish have been much more aggressive as well.

The fishing and ice conditions will be changing quite a bit over the next month, so check back here often for more info.  Like always, if you have specific questions feel free to email me anytime.  Good luck!