Fishing/Outdoor Report:

It is almost time to wrap up the 2013 open water season. Some of the small lakes and ponds have already developed a layer of skim ice. ...more The larger lakes remain open, but with the increasing cold temperatures the landings could become an issue. Musky anglers will be targeting the larger deep water lakes as long as they can. Keys to a successful outing would be to locate the bait fish and fish around them. Be aware of the feeding times as it is a short window during the cold water period and usually associated with the lunar periods like moonrise and sunup. The best techniques have been vertical jigging, deep running crankbaits and plastics.

Be sure to use caution around the landings as the runoff from the boats can cause some slippery conditions. Carry some sand in your vehicle in case you run into difficulty pulling out of a slippery landing.

Anglers should be looking at early ice fishing now. I am sure there are some anxious anglers ready to hit the early ice period. In past years we have had anglers on the ice as early as Thanksgiving and with the forecasted temperature over the next week that could be a possibility. Use extreme caution when approaching early ice, safety ropes, life preservers and a spud bar are all essential equipment until the ice develops to a solid six inches or more for foot traffic. The best thing about early ice is that the fishing is usually quite good close to the shore. Walleye will move into the shallows in the early mornings and then again at sundown. If you can get out early enough set some tipups for northern pike in the weed areas.

Other anglers have now put their rods away and have their sights set on the gun deer opener which starts this Saturday. They are approaching this season with guarded optimism as reports from the bow season has not been all the good. From what bow hunters are telling me the deer are just not moving and that the rut has really not started yet. Maybe the change in the weather will spark some interest. It would be a good thing to have the rut still going on during the gun season.

Whatever your plans for the coming weeks ahead, I wish you good luck and be well. Take some time to enjoy your family and have a great Thanksgiving. I will try to keep you advised on the changing conditions as we progress through the season.