Ice Bar On The Lake A Popular Watering Hole

PELICAN RAPIDS (AP) - There are plenty of waterfront bars and restaurants in a state known for more than 10,000 lakes.

But this time of year, the local 'watering hole' is open for business on the frozen waters of Lake Lida in Otter Tail County. Hillbillies Ice Hole offers camaraderie, a fully-stocked bar and a few holes in the floor of the bar for ice fishing. No extra charge for the fish.

Richard Milbeck says he's caught walleye, northern, sunfish and crappies while enjoying himself at the bar. Owner Josie Norgren says Hillbillies Ice Hole is open only on Friday and Saturdays in January and February. Everything is hauled out onto the ice and hauled back to land when the bar closes.