After that final burst of late-winter chill, the temperature is on its way back up this week — we’re looking at a warming trend that climbs through the low 40s by midweek and holds there. That’s good news for comfort on the ice, but it does mean mornings are your window. Get out early while things are still firm underfoot, and plan to be off before the afternoon sun starts doing its work. Ice remains thick across the area — most lakes are still running 22 to 30 inches — but late-season warming will create unpredictable conditions soon.
The gamefish season closed at midnight on March 1st, and it went out on a solid note. Walleye were cooperating right to the end, …
After that stretch of Spring-like sunshine and warmth, we were reminded quickly last week that winter still has a firm grip up here. Recent snowfall freshened things up across the Eagle River and greater Vilas County area, and out on the ice we’re seeing a mix of firm travel lanes and softer, snow-covered stretches off the beaten path. There are some challenges with drifting and access now. With all the snow we’ve gotten and considering the time of the year, that’s to be expected. It’s still generally fantastic out there, but be prepared for surprises.
Ice thickness reports are running 22 up to 30” on most area lakes. Looking ahead to the coming week, we’re expecting more typical late-February conditions with cooler temperatures settling back in after that brief warm-up. …
*Edit for the day of this posting, 2/18 – we are currently getting heavy, wet snow in copious amounts. Just this morning it has snowed 3 inches in the last 2 hours and it’s still coming down, with more to come over the course of the next 3 days. This will massively change our ability to get around easily on the ice, so be prepared. While there’s plenty out there, it’s going to be sloppy!
We’re heading deeper into late winter/early spring conditions here in the Northwoods and after a beautiful weekend full of sunshine, we’re all ready for the “spring” end of that equation to hit hard now. Wouldn’t that be nice? Alas, we know we’ve still got a long row to hoe! …
Mid-February is giving us that classic late-winter weather mix. The sun is a little higher and hanging around longer, which always helps morale, and this week’s predicted temperatures will get us thinking Spring. Don’t fall for it! We’ve got plenty of winter left, no doubt.
Overall ice conditions across the Eagle River and Vilas County area remain solid, with most lakes continuing to show generally good ice in the 18 to 24” range or better. Travel has been easy where there’s been regular foot or machine traffic, as most of the slush we saw earlier has frozen up. Don’t worry, there will be plenty more where that came from!
Walleye fishing slowed over the last week or so. Fish are being caught most consistently at weed edges in the 12-18’ range, …