EELPOUT!

[Judge Smails]

I know its still 6 weeks away, but I have been plotting since first ice.

Who is making it up this year?

[ERdeerhunter]

My dad, brothers and I will be first timers this year. I've seen video and pics, looks like a crazy time. I've been trying to get a feel for the layout to get an idea for where to drop the ice castle. Don't want to get caught in the traffic, any tips?

[dukhntr]

I have been going for several years. We usually get there before noon on Friday. We don't even drill a hole. As far as set up, I don't think there is a master plan anywhere. Just pick a spot, and let the party begin!

dukhntr

[CrappieNight]

If you can, try to show up on Thursday night. We did last year and got in to some walters before the circus rolled in. Always a good time, I've been going since I was a kid.

If you plan on drinking heavily, bring multiple changes of outerwear. I've seen too many people fall into puddles on the roads and under or around fire pits.

Be sure to support the local groups and such, ie. buy beer and bait from the local stores and try the 'pout nuggets, they're delicious.

Have fun.

[ERdeerhunter]

Good tips, we plan on getting there Thursday afternoon.

[CaptainGary]

We live in Walker and have a group of houses that come up for the fest every year. We like to fish, so we try to set up on the edge of the activities but close enough to walk through the "streets" on the ice to the events. Last year it was pretty warm and there were many holes drilled outside. A friend stepped into one and didn't have extra boots along, so bringing along extra gear - even if you aren't drinking - is a good idea!

[fishing is hot]

Been going for years live just south of City Park.

[puddleduck]

We need a serious melt down and refreeze like a couple of years ago or I doubt if it will be held. It's a mess out there.

[creepworm]

We need a serious melt down and refreeze like a couple of years ago or I doubt if it will be held. It's a mess out there.

I am going to pretend I did not just read that.

[ERdeerhunter]

Question for you guys who actually drill holes, what is the best depth if you want to have some walleye/eelpout action? Just curious because I see Walker Bay gets pretty deep.

[bk_MN_iceman]

What are the conditions out in Walker bay where most of the action happens? Too much snow? Slush? I'm assuming the ice is decent? Let me know. Have a group of 8 coming up this year and want to make sure its worth the 3+ hour trip.

[Gofishleech]

Its to early to call but as of now walker bay has some messy spots. You never know what mother nature will give us before the event. What we need is a melt down and a cold snap. Right now there is too much snow for the cold to lock things up solid,,,amazing how the snow insulates the water underneath. If the fest was next weekend it would be mess if they had it at all. We just got another 4 to 6 inches of snow by the way.

[diederich06]

any ice condition updates? Is there still alot of slush in walker bay?

[josh_c]

if you're looking for eyes or perch I've had my best luck in the 30' to 35' range. Go deeper for pout but then you're not in the mix.

#1 accessory for "pout"----ice cleats-----trust me, you can laugh at everyone else falling that way.