Good advice Pete.

I was out on a vilas county lake last weekend. It was a small shallow lake and had 3" of solid ice out about 100 yards. With the below zero forecast, I expect a little bit more ice tommorow. This time of year always use a spud bar on every step to test the ice. This might sound like a pain, but beats falling in. After you determine the area you are fishing is safe, it is much more fun. Last week I even had a life jacket on and spikes in my pockets. Safety first. I caught a lot of Walleyes on medium shinners on the tip ups and jigging with a spoon with a minnow head. Always think safety first and do not fish alone. I refuse to stay home and wait for thick ice. Rather I learned how to cope with first ice conditions. This time of year is not the time to run and gun. Determine a safe area and stay put. You'll still catch Walleyes. On tip is to fish the same shore related stucture you fished last fall. Good luck fishing everyone and be safe.

Walleyemaxx