Anglers Anticipate Ice Fishing as Lake Superior Season Ends

The open-water fishing season on Lake Superior has officially concluded, prompting anglers to store their boats as they await the arrival of ice. As of now, only a handful of fishermen managed to take advantage of the final days of the season, which was marked by pleasant weather until a significant snowstorm swept through last week. With the onset of winter, fishing enthusiasts are turning their attention to ice fishing, anticipating that operations will commence around New Year’s Day.

Transition to Ice Fishing

The St. Louis River has begun to freeze, with favorable conditions expected if wind levels remain low and additional snowfall is minimal. Similar conditions are anticipated across various lakes, reservoirs, flowages, and ponds in the region. Experts predict that within the next two weeks, most local waters will see an increase in fishing activity as ice forms.

Before the ice solidifies, local fishing expert Hayden Anderson provided insights into recent fishing conditions. Anderson noted that anglers experienced success targeting smallmouth bass in deeper wintering holes. He recommended focusing on areas with 20- to 30-foot hard bottoms that feature scattered rocks. According to him, using SteelShad blade baits and 2.5-inch big bite bait salt tubes rigged with a 3/8-ounce tube jig proved effective.

“The key to getting bites was moving the baits as slowly as possible,” Anderson explained. He emphasized a technique involving short lifts and drops followed by long pauses, stating that most bites occurred after the bait had remained still for ten seconds or more. He also highlighted the importance of using sensitive rods, such as ‘The Spin Boss’ from Vocelka Fishing and Customs, to detect light bites during this late season.

Safety and Preparedness for Ice Fishing

With winter fishing now fully underway, Anderson urged anglers to prioritize safety. As excitement builds for the upcoming ice fishing season, he reminded enthusiasts to practice safe habits on the ice. Observing these precautions will ensure that fishermen can enjoy their time outdoors while minimizing risks associated with winter conditions.

As the anticipation for ice fishing grows, anglers are reminded to prepare their gear and stay informed about local conditions. The upcoming weeks promise to bring new opportunities for fishing enthusiasts eager to explore the frozen waters of the region.