Jim McDonnell
01-05-2004, 10:16 AM
The cold conditions forcast should do alot for making more ice on area lakes. Lack of snow will let the ice depth increase each day. Fishing has remained fair on most of our area lakes. Fisherman that move around are catching some fish. It is usually not a great bite but patience and hole drilling keep you warm.
West Okoboji: There is bluegill action on Little Emerson and Little Millers Bay. These rascals are really spooky on some days, so use small baits and keep the noise down. A few perch and crappies are showing up as well. Smith Bay and Fort Dodge Point is producing some walleyes and nice northern pike.
East Okoboji: The Stoney Point and Jingles Point areas are producing some walleye and perch activity and there are many undersize fish.
Big Spirit: It is fair on perch. Northlands Buckshot Rattle Spoons tipped with a sliver of Gulp Panfish Grubs, or Minnowhead is a good choice of baits. Perch can be found almost anywhere as the schools are always on the move. Don't waste time when they move in, keeping a bait in their face will help keep them in your area longer.
Check out your local farm ponds for active bluegills. Some nice catches are being reported.
Keep a tight line and may your aim be straight. Jim McDonnell is a professional fishing guide, avid hunter and trapper and outdoor writer in the Iowa Great Lakes and southern Minnesota area. 712 933-5532.
West Okoboji: There is bluegill action on Little Emerson and Little Millers Bay. These rascals are really spooky on some days, so use small baits and keep the noise down. A few perch and crappies are showing up as well. Smith Bay and Fort Dodge Point is producing some walleyes and nice northern pike.
East Okoboji: The Stoney Point and Jingles Point areas are producing some walleye and perch activity and there are many undersize fish.
Big Spirit: It is fair on perch. Northlands Buckshot Rattle Spoons tipped with a sliver of Gulp Panfish Grubs, or Minnowhead is a good choice of baits. Perch can be found almost anywhere as the schools are always on the move. Don't waste time when they move in, keeping a bait in their face will help keep them in your area longer.
Check out your local farm ponds for active bluegills. Some nice catches are being reported.
Keep a tight line and may your aim be straight. Jim McDonnell is a professional fishing guide, avid hunter and trapper and outdoor writer in the Iowa Great Lakes and southern Minnesota area. 712 933-5532.