Mid Winter Ice Fishing Report
By Randin Olson of Lock Jaw Guide Service
Here is your mid winter ice fishing report for Otter Tail County, MN. This one comes from Randin Olson of Lock Jaw Guide Service.
Slow down and enjoy the time. We’re in mid winter now and that means it’s time to slow down and get picky on your spots. This time of year is notorious for being a tough bite but someone forgot to tell the fish!
Walleyes
Walleyes are mostly deeper now and classic structures are holding them. Take your time when picking a spot and pick it apart to find the spot on the spot. Underwater cameras like the Marcum pursuit HD are a great tool for dissecting a piece of structure. I’m looking for the edges of rock piles, transition lines, and bait fish. And don’t forget about the mud! Walleyes are roamers and the mud holds lots of food in the winter. Deep water is relative to the lake your fishing but 20-30ft is a good place to start.
Crappies
Crappies can be found roaming the edges of deep basin holes. I’ve been finding more fish on the top edge of the holes rather than the deepest part. You’re going to need a good auger like the ION Alpha because you will drill lots and lots of holes. These fish are cruising looking for minnows and bugs so stay mobile.
Pike
Pike are spread out all over. While most of the bigger ones are suspended over deep water, there’s plenty of nice ones along weed edges and around shallow rock piles.
Take your time and dial in your spot and it will pay off!
Randin Olson โข Lock Jaw Guide Service โข 218-640-0158