By Louie Stout
A random check of area bait shops shows that ice fishing remains pretty much on hold throughout the region.
Of course, that could change by next week given the brutal cold temperature forecast over the next few days.
Although it’s been cold, a lot of the lakes remained open due to the wind. Once they did freeze up, snow piled on top which insulates the ice and inhibits thickness growth.
We contacted Clear H2o in Edwardsburg, Tackle Shack in Middlebury, D&R Sports in Kalamazoo and Chief’s Bait Shop in Michigan City.
All of our sources said lake ice remains unsafe, but some anglers are getting out on channels, but most are not accessible via public access sites. They have permission to park on private property.
“This is the first day I’ve heard reports of guys getting on newly formed channel ice, but even that is 3 inches or less,” said Brian Hensley of Clear H2o Tackle. “I’ve heard that lakes farther east of here had 6 inches, but I can’t confirm it.”
If you’re crazy enough to try fishing this weekend, be extremely cautious. It may look safe, but that can be deceiving.