iced over

[hitthebricks]

Is the launch at Bluffs Regional iced over yet?

[southerner]

Nope. I was down there on the lower Croix yesterday and water temps were reading 43.5F. I'd say we still have a couple weeks 'til any backwater/slackwater areas become impassable, at least on the lower Croix.

Fishing was pretty slow in terms of quantity, but I did manage a personal best with a 27" FAT walleye . Purple ringworm w/blue flake was the ticket. It was one of only 4 fish boated in 4 hours. Can't give specifics as to the location, but as you might imagine, the walleyes were found shallower than the saugers.

We'll see the rest of you diehards out there on Saturday, assuming you're not traveling.

[walleyefanatic]

Congrats on the eye southerner. With as much time as you put into the river you deserve more of those. You didn't happen to be anywhere near the honey hole were you? I tried real hard to make it out for a couple of hours after work on Tuesday but I was too busy to leave. I hope we get back early enough from the inlaws on Sunday to hit the water for a while. Good luck to all that are able to be on the water this weekend.

[southerner]

Hiya W-fanatic. Nope, wasn't near the honey hole. 'Twas closer to Prescott. I did see a couple other boats out yesterday but didn't chat w/anyone.

My bro-in-law from NY will be in town this weekend so I hope to put him on some fish. We'll see what happens. He's not much on the outdoors so this promises if nothing else to be a memorable experience for him.

I placed a bag 'o sand in the back of the truck for slippery ramp issues, and will pick up some salt tomorrow in preparation for the next few (hopefully) weeks. Though yesterday wasn't a representative day on the water, the bite is in full swing.

[TrollerX]

Southerner,

Are you going to brave the weather tomorrow? I am thinking about it and cannot determine what the weather will bring. If it seems at all bearable maybe I will see you on the water.

[southerner]

Hey TrollerX... As much as I'd like to, I won't be on the river tomorrow. We're expecting family to visit this weekend and I've got some serious domestic chores to take care of prior to their arrival. Maybe I should get off the darned website and started cleaning!?

If you get out there have a great time! I'll be out on Saturday for awhile. Again, as a suggestion, don't fish the crowds; Fish the fish. Look for something that looks different in terms of current or depth.

[TrollerX]

Well, I wimped out. I opted to get caught up on some work related matters rather than braving the sleet. So far, I am not proud of my choice. It hasn't been much for weather so far. I will be out tomorrow come hell or high water. I will have some salt for the ramp in the car if it gets ugly. I will be fishing a few miles north of Prescott. Look me up if you are around. Otherwise, good luck to you!!

[TRZ]

last weekend i got a 36 inch pike near bayport, my best ever. just wish i could locate some pike in the winter. i have had my shack on the river for the last 5 years. i think i will move this year. i got sick of the slow crappie action 2 years ago and last year i over dosed on sturgeon- i probably caught 20 over 40 inches. i think i may move to water with more night fishing possiblilties. my shack was the little pink one all alone- the winter river rats will remember it.

[Turk]

TRZ,

I know your shack well TR... last year you sat half way between the Big Point and the Ferry landing. For about two months then you pulled er. Right? I tell ya it better be better down there, or I hate to say it but that bite is close to being OVER rated??

I do love to yank fish out of the holes- icing is the BEST!

Come on St. Croix deliver! DELIVER!

OH I have heard people brag about nailing walleyes way after dark out there but there is also something called a BIG FISH STORY! ha!

Keep Catchin!!!!

Turk