Park is offering some great ice fishing this year due to an
overstocked lake. According to local fishermen, the normal stocking
of some 900 rainbows was boosted by an unexpected delivery of nearly
2000 browns and brooks, most above 12 inches. A paperwork error
apparently led to this well appreciated overstocking, and the locals
are making good use of it.
Despite high temperatures the ice remains thick enough to support the
weight of grown men and their gear, with most places boasting 6-9
inches of ice. The ice today, Sunday the 8th, was beginning to melt
around the edges but was easy and safe enough to cross to solid ice.
Many fishermen are catching the brown and brook trout at the shallower
end of the lake (opposite the dam) in the center. The water is
between 10-12 feet there and the fish seem to be hitting on small to
medium size shinners. Others claim yellow/green Powerbait is working
well. Yellow perch are also hungry right now, with an 11 inch half
pound one caught today around 2:00pm.
With temperatures predicted to stay well over freezing for the entire
next week, tomorrow may be the last good chance to ice-fish this lake
for quite some time. Make sure to wear waterproof boots and a
windproof jacket if you are planning to make a trip here.
SOME QUICK TIPS:
ReplyDeleteStay away from any debris (logs or sticks) poking from the surface
Bring a tape-measure to make sure you are on at least 4-5 solid inches (not slush).
There are cracks beginning to show, so keep an eye out for these
Fish near the others, but not right next to them. Spread out the weight
Keep your holes spread out at least six feet apart from each other