Double digit lows and single digit high temperatures in the extended forecast means making a lot of ice. We haven’t experienced a cold streak like this since 2019. Over the last five years we’ve lacked a good stretch of sub zero temperatures lasting longer than a day or two maybe a week, Expanding the ice field south takes some pressure off the upper part of the Bay leaving plenty of vacant ice up on center reef. If you’re considering truck travel, the Kipling public launch or the Red Gate Ice Access are your best bet. The yellow gate has a pesky pressure crack obstructing the ability to get trucks out on the Bay without issues. Based on the redundancy of questions we get at the shop, I thought it would be better to highlight such sought after knowledge of the Bay.
- Should I bring my wheeler or my snowmobile? Answer: Whichever has more gas.
- Is anyone driving trucks on the ice? Answer: Yes
- Can I drive my 3/4 or 1 ton truck and trailer out on the Bay? Answer: Of course you can but may not want to. Verify towing and recovery insurance on all motorized vehicles or machines used on the ice. Your call.
- How much ice is out der? Answer: 15 inches of ice or more above the narrows of Gladstone.
- How’s the bite? Answer: Unbelievable! That could go either way. But, there’s more fish under the ice than imaginable.
I’ve been informed some openings have become available last minute at the resorts due to anglers not understanding when the best time to ice fish is. It’s a season called WINTER! To cold? Unheard of! It’s just a great reason to be more prepared. I personally know someone that spent time in the Antarctic. -40° for a high in the summer. Protect yourself from the cold and have a backup plan for everything. This time of year it’s all hands-on deck. Thanks for all your help Red!
Increasing your odds,
-Blade