Fishing report for 1-11-2014

Hi everyone,

Finally crawled out of hibernation after the big freeze we just experienced. Gaining access to the Chippewa Flowage from Deerfoot I met up with friends Josh and Jamie to do some crappie fishing. We spent the better part of the day fishing morning till dark and working over 4 good spots, we wound up with 6 keepers with that many put backs. We were marking fish most of the time and trying everything we could think of to get them to eat having many hits that we missed. It is enjoyable and rewarding when you finally convince them to play along. We were using an assortment of jigs tipped with waxxies.

Most areas we measured 16" of ice. One spot only had 12" of ice so still have to be cautious out there. The water level has been brought down 5 1/2 feet so far according to the xcell energy website. Still a ways to go. You have to remember when you fish a spot that is normally 25 feet deep, now it will be under 20 feet. A good reason to hire a guide for a Big Chip outing.

Saw lots of snowmobiles enjoying the beautiful trails and this gorgeous weather. High 20's with a misty frost that clung to the trees to make a Norman Rockwell painting type of scenery. You owe it to yourself to come up and witness the beauty this lake and area has to offer. I don't guide for ice fishing, but there are a couple who do. Give them a call and book a trip. Chsing crappies and bluegills through the ice is a fun way to spend a winter day. Good luck fishing everyone.

Walleyemaxx