Merry Fishmas!
By Randin Olson of Lock Jaw Guide Service
We officially have a white Christmas! That’s great for all the family photos but not so good for the lakes. We have a slush problem here but the good news is that the fishing is still good, it’s just harder to get around. We’re seeing anywhere from 9in up to 14in of ice on surrounding lakes.
Walleye
The walleye bite is going steady. A combination of set lines and aggressive jigging is getting fish. Multiple patterns are available so don’t be afraid to get away from the crowd. Soft to hard bottom transitions, rock piles, and weedlines are all producing fish. You will still have to work for them but they are biting.
Crappies
Crappies have settled into two patterns. Shallow weeds and deep basin. I like to fish both patterns the same. Stay mobile and cover water. Baits such as the ripping shad and buckshot spoons are my top producers. Normally, the amount of holes you drill dictates how many fish you catch. And if you haven’t tried plastics for panfish yet, your really missing out! For crappies I really like the minnow style plastics in the 1-2in range.
Pike
Pike are feeding aggressively on the weedlines and in the basins. If your fishing the basin, keep your lines in the top half of the water column. These fish like to ride high.
Getting around is tough but the effort is with it! And please remember to stay safe and always bring a friend.