Dec. 2, 2020

***Ice conditions***

Ice conditions are currently excellent on area lake, with little to no snow on the ice. Conditions still vary from 2-7 inches of ice being reported by anglers. Rule of thumb has been the smaller the lake the more ice you will find and more consistent the thickness will be.  Foot travel has been the only form of travel right now. 

***Fishing Report***

Pike - Pike anglers fishing large suckers, large shiners and large smelt have been reporting a excellent tip up bite, at the mouths of shallow bays and back in shallow bays. Key depth has been 8 feet of water, to as little as 3 feet.  

Walleye - Walleye fishing has been somewhat limited to the shallower walleye lakes in the area.  Safe ice has just now formed out over deeper walleye water on the bigger area lakes and anglers are now fishing out there.  Shiners and rainbows fished a bobber has been accounting for the majority of walleyes being caught right now.  Jigging spoons and jigging raps has been effective on aggressive fish.  Key depths have been 15-20 feet of water during the evening hours.  

Young angler beams with pride holding a trophy northern pike on the snowy ice near Ely, MN—classic BWCA winter excitement from December 2, 2020. Bundled in jacket and camo bibs, this kid's huge smile captures the pure thrill of ice fishing success in the Northwoods. Snow-dusted fish, wide-open lake, boot tracks everywhere—prime Ely MN northern pike ice fishing action that makes every trip unforgettable. Get your tip-ups, suckers, and gear at Arrowhead Outdoors for your own BWCA winter haul!