looking better!

[BDR]

Warmer temps coming, River level on th rise,hopfully sunshine with the temps I think small boats may have a chance by end of March. I have no facts justwhat I've experienced, but it seems with sunshine, decent temps and water levels not too low it goes out alot faster than last year. If I remember correctly the levels were boucing in the high 2's to low 3's last year.They are looking much better this year.I hope this means it will not stall so long around birchdale as it did last year. Maybe I'm just wishing real hards but when it gets going I hope for those 4-5 mile days. I have always done best in that last week of March and first couple days of April, even when I,ve had to make a channel thru ice and then use the wake to clear fishable holes in the ice. I really hope I don't have to do it with an auger this year, That could be a blast though getting some of those pigs on ice gear!

[Guest]

Dear BDR,
Yes, the temperatures will get warmer. Yes, You could probably get a boat in now up by the dam in Int'l. Falls. Yes, we will probably see 4-5 mile days. Where are you getting your water level data? There is a Corp of Engineers website that has historical levels for the Manitou Rapids (did you know the water level this last summer was the highest since 1950 or 52?). I don't think the cracking in the ice I heard last night was do to the water rising (temp around -10 F., it's -8 now at 11AM). Unless we get alot more snow the water levels will be low, as they usualy are in the early spring. I'd be willing to bet you ($10)the Canadian Backwater on the Sault Rapids won't be open and fishable with a boat before March 27th (and that is wishful thinking). I suggest you bring your ice fishing gear. Good Luck

[BDR]

Randy, I was referring to the manitou rapids levels and referring to levels at this time in years past,It really doesn't matter what levels are in the summer for this ice out. It doesn't hurt to be optimistic.It only makes sense to me that temps are similiar to last year at the same time frame,water levels are higher, if this continues to follow the same pattern it shouldn't open later? It all depends on mother nature.I think water level and sunshine are as important or more than strictly temps.

[This message has been edited by BDR (edited 03-09-2003).]

[Guest]

It does have a long way to go 30-36" of ice in the baudette area

[Walleye Wegs]

Lets all pray and keep our fingers crossed!
Wegs

[trophyhunter]

54 degrees here! Is the river open yet? Just Kidding. Lets hope this weather continues. Hoping to get there the April 5th.