Fishing Forum

[cool][#0000ff]I have received several weekend reports of lakes with deteriorating ice around the edges. The combination of rain and warmer weather are working to melt the edges and to raise the lake levels through runoff. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Most of the lakes we like to ice fish still have thick ice over most of the lake, but the edges can be open or very soft for a ways out to the ice. Take a plank and choose the best place to bridge the unsafe gap. Also, take the plank with you out on the ice. Shifting ice or lightfingered idiots can leave you without a means of getting back on shore without swimming.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]It is best to go early and not stay past the time when daytime temps get very warm...especially if your spot to get on and off the ice is on a north side, facing south. The radiant heat of the sun quickly thaws whatever freezing took place during the night. And, be prepared to have to search for a better spot to get off the ice if there has been a lot of melting or if the ice has shifted a bit. As soon as there are soft edges and gaps, even a small amount of wind can move the ice a few feet.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]It is also a good idea to carry a length of stout rope and a life preserver. If you or someone else takes a swim, you will be prepared to pull them out. In a worse case scenario...if you go alone...you may have to rope a big rock or stump on shore and pull yourself across several feet of open water.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]So, if you cannot be patient and wait for open water...and you just gotta get in some more ice fishin'...at least use your noggin and don't take any unnecessary risks. [/#0000ff]
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Wish I would have open this before I left out this morning at 5:30!!!

Just so everyone know, even thought it looks to be solid a foot or two up on main ice its Thining out and soft.
Makes for a quick cold B---![] Take care out there..

4boats
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where were you fishing at ??
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I went swimming east of the ramp, Painted Rock. Be careful if you give it a try. Take a long bridge.
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bump
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[cool][#0000ff]Hey...I don't know you well enough to let you bump me.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Thanks. This is definitely a "hot" topic during the current warm spell.[/#0000ff]
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It was more on the lines of a little tap. And yes it is a very important topic right now.
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