Big Thunder Lake, Longville , Minn. ??

[stevefellegy]

I'm planning an ice fishing venture to Big Thunder, having fished it in the open water, and am wondering if anyone could tell me, before I get wet, if the channel that runs from the main bigger part of the lake, on the south side, into the big bay, is safe for ATV/snowmobile travel.?? I realize some of these types of channels have current passing through and can be dangerous, even in sub-zero weather. Thanks in advance to anyone from that area or anyone who has snowmobiled in that neck of the woods for your input..

[ChuckD]

I don't know if I am the best of help, but I can give you some info.

I have snowmobiled this area for many years as my family have residence's near Outing, and I have never seen/heard of any thin ice issues on Thunder. I have seen a lot of vehicle traffic on the lake in year's past, but I haven't paid much attention to the southern areas as you inquired about. If there were any iffy spots, I wouldn't doubt it if it would be marked with signs and/or fencing. Good luck.

[Tom/MN]

Hi Steve, I fish this lake nearly every weekend as my mom lives on the lake. I fished the 25th-28th of last month and found 12-15 inches nearly everywhere. Quite a few cars and small trucks were driving out to the reef on the north end. With respect to the channel you reference, there were sleds and four wheelers going through all day when I was last there. Some folks also had portables set up at the north end of the channel where it goes into the big bay.

As you've fished the lake in the summer I would advise you to stick to the main channel as it is usually marked with buoys in the summer. In other words avoid the very north part of the narrow part of the channel where the reeds grow. A local put his car into the water there last January on the way home from Deer Haven Supper Club. As far as a fishing report, the Walleyes have been biting well. Unfortunately the size has been quite small thus far. I have a permanent shack on the reef directly out of Deer Haven Bay. Feel free to email me at tomwicht@yahoo.com if you have any other questions. Good Luck!

[stevefellegy]

Many thanks for your info and advice!

Happy New Year!