Steinaker/Red Fleet

[Cessna150]

Does anyone have any information regarding ice and fishing conditions? I would really like some bluegill and perch.
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[fishnate]

We had 10 degree temps last night in Vernal and that may have capped the remaining open water on those lakes. That being said, the newest ice will only be an inch thick.

Red Fleet had lots of open water areas mixed with ice last week. Don't expect too many big perch, mostly 5" to 7". But there are crappie, wiper and trout big enough to make things fun. Maybe a walleye or two up around 12".

Steinaker had open water mainly along the Eastern shore and on the North end last week that may now be capped (see photo from Jan. 8). West side from the dam North to the bay by the ramp was said to be safe (7"+) last week. I'd be taking spud bar along if it were me just for extra insurance against thin spots.
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[Cessna150]

Thanks. Do you think both reservoirs will be fishable be next weekend? Are the perch easy to find? How about the crappie?
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[fishnate]

Forecast looks good for ice this week. I fished RF in summer and caught several perch, a couple wiper and a walleye. Look on Google Earth, I would look at the two bays just south of and east of the boat ramp for perch and crappie. I'd guess 20' - 30'.
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[Cessna150]

Thank you Fish Nate. Do you have to pay any fees to fish there in the winter? How is parking? Am I safe driving my car, or should I drive my truck? I saw the big parking lot on Google Earth, but is it open in the winter and is it plowed? If not, I suppose I may need the truck.
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[fishnate]

$8.00 park fee. Plenty of parking at both State Parks. We haven't got too much snow so I would think car access should be fine. Steinaker access is no problem, but Red Fleet has some shady spots in steeper sections of the road that could potentially pose a problem if there is snow/ice on the road. You can call the State Park and see if anyone answers and they can give you better info on access and ice at both lakes. 435-789-4432.
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