Ice Fishing

Warmer than normal temperatures over the past month has caused a major setback for the ice fishing season in Minnesota. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON. He says ice locally is either not there or not safe.

The promise of winter has many itching to get out and enjoy time on the lakes, but the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources warns that ice conditions around the state are becoming increasingly poor.

This is the 2nd straight season that the weather has adversely impacted the ice fishing season. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON. He says the freeze, thaw, heavy snow and slush were the problems last year.

The new "Keep It Clean" law in Minnesota will impact many ice anglers this winter. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON. Schmitt says the law went into effect throughout the state in July but was already in place in extreme northern Minnesota last winter.

During the winter, complaints about litter left on the ice are among the most common that DNR conservation officers receive.

The ice fishing season has been dealt a setback this week with high temperatures in the 40s and 50s. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON. He explained last year at this time we has high temperatures in the teens, there was measurable snow on the ground and ice covering Central Minnesota lakes.

Remember that it’s not just dangerous for you - you’re putting at risk every first responder who has to come out and attempt to save you if you fall through thin ice.

A warmer than normal November is preventing ice fishing from happening as early as some would like. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON. He says despite highs above freezing locally recently many of the lakes capped Monday.

This winter's ice fishing season may have been one of the toughest for Central Minnesota anglers. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News joined me on WJON this week. He says once the wheel houses had to be off the lake that puts an end to the ice fishing season for many people.

Don't be surprised if you run into former Minnesota Twin, Justin Morneau, this weekend in Central Minnesota.