Our unseasonal weather is about to change this weekend with a Winter Weather Advisory in place.  Forecasters  are calling for 3 to 6 inches of snow, plus a mix of some freezing rain.  However, the daytime temperatures will remain in the 20’s, which is still above the normal averages for this time of year.  Hopefully this snow will get the snowmobiles running again.  Ice thicknesses vary from lake to lake, but for the most part anglers are reporting 8 to 12 inches of ice.  Still not safe enough for vehicles yet as there has been a couple of breakthroughs reported.   Snowmobiles or ATV’s travel is the only vehicles that should be on the lake at this time.  Some lake are reporting some scattered areas of slush. 

As for the fishing, there seems to be a upturn in the bite.  Anglers are reporting some good catches in almost all species.   

Area lakes have been putting out plenty of action, you just have to try something different.  It is also important to spread out and seek out new areas for new bites. We are past the stages of new ice, so those community spots that have been fished a lot will hold on to a lot of picky fish. 

Many of the panfish bites are on account of being in areas of less pressured fish.  A couple different baits have been working well for both crappies, perch and bluegill. One method is the old fashioned simple hook and live bait, split shot and slip bobber.  If you cannot get fish to commit to that, try going with the common small jigging patterns with a tungsten jig and wax worms.   Do not be surprised to lock up with random bass and pike when hunting panfish.  Walleyes are still being caught, but getting a little bit harder every day. 

Low light periods are important for the next several weeks.  Set up on the side of mid-lake humps or other structures in the later afternoons. 

No ice is safe ice, so here are some safety tips:

• Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
• Dress for winter comfort and bring safety gear.
• Warm layers that are water-resistant.
• Sturdy waterproof boots with spike-style creepers for traction.
• Extra hat and gloves.
• Rescue throw rope.
• Ice picks. 

For snowmobilers, we have not had any new snow and we have had warm temps, but the trails have held on to what they have and held up somewhat.  Spoke to several riders and all say they continue to be surprised how good the trails have held up from the Flowage to the north. There are some rocks and some inside corners that have some washboard and the trails along the highways are pretty brown, but once into the woods they are good. 

No groomers have been out.  All this being said the forecast is calling for snow Thursday and Friday before the weekend.  This will be very much welcomed, even if it is only 3 inches that would make conditions in many areas of the county excellent.