Ice Conditions

[Crappeye]

If anyone has noticed I am looking to head out tomorrow and Friday to do some fishing. I was wondering if anyone knows if the ice is still safe enough to drive on on any specific lakes? Any input would be GREATLY appreciated as I would still like to drive out there if it is still solid enough. Thanks.

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Gone Fishin'

[bturck]

Crappeye: Each lake will react this time of year to the warm temps just as they do with initial freeze up in the winter. I would check with local bait shops regarding a specific lake, rather than just take off on your own. Also you will notice at the lake as you arrive if vehicles are being driven or not. When in doubt I think walking or ATV is the best option. Good luck and hang on. Bill

[woodview]

I was out Friday - ice was around 2' and big sunnies were biting, so I fished until dark.
I put the headlamp on (great gizmo - especially for the predawn hike up the mountain in search of Wyoming Muleys) and headed back to the landing by a different route. Caught sight of some "deadheads" sticking out of the water and started skirting them - figuring they'd absorb a lot of the sun and I didn't want to chance the ice at this time of year.
One of them moved: and the three muskrats dove down the hole. Not a good moment in my existance! Got around the hole and about 40 yards to the landing when my right foot broke through. I did a real good imitation of those Basilisk lizards that run on top of the water.
Ice was pretty good and thick everywhere but at the shoreline, so use caution and don't be stupid and travel new routes in the dark.
I'm not normally timid about such things, but I think it's my last hardwater venture for the winter.

[This message has been edited by woodview (edited 03-21-2004).]

[bturck]

Woodview: Its that time of year and things can go south real fast. I talked to my nephew this morning. He said he fell into 5' of water out from an access that we were still driving on last week. Over 2' of ice in the main lake, but the shoreline took a beating. Definitley the time of year to be awfully careful. Bill

[Guest]

Was out on Pearl lake today and the ice is retreating from the access 5' but you are able to get around. The outlet has open water past the reeds. The ice is strong enough for 4 wheeler on the main ice that is in good shape. Well worth it. A truck was on the ice on Thursday.

[IceHawk]

The ice on the chain is starting to take a beating, the main lake ice is fine but the shorelines are really starting to open up. I would say this could be the last week of fishing locally if the warm weather and rain shows up like their talking. So get your 2x6 plank out and enjoy some of the best pan fishing of the season while it lasts.