December 11th, 2024

***Ice Report***

After a busy weekend, a better picture of ice conditions is coming into focus. Ice thickness ranged from 2-6 inches on many of the area lakes. Again, shallow bays is where anglers were finding the thickest ice on lakes. 

***Fishing Report***

Walleye - Walleye reports were limited as safe ice out to walleye depths was somewhat limited. Many anglers focused at the mouths of shallow bays for walleyes and had some success. Deadsticking a good lively minnow, in 15-18 feet of water,  proved to be the best technique. Jigging spoons and lipless crankbaits also accounted for a good number of bigger walleyes, during the evening hours.

Pike - Pike anglers reported good tip up fishing this last weekend for good numbers of pike. Medium sized suckers was the most popular and effective bait of choice. Anglers focused on shallow weedy bays, in 5-12 feet of water, for the best pike fishing.

Nice limit of walleyeFirst-ice walleye excitement! These five fresh walleyes rest on clean snow from December 11th, 2024, near Ely, MN—prime early hard-water action in the BWCA area. Golden flanks glow under headlamp light, dark mottled backs, orange-tinted fins, big glassy eyes starin' up, and a couple show the jig or minnow hookup—perfect eaters laid out after a solid bite. Fresh black ice and light snow frame the haul, capturin' that crisp winter thrill as the season opens strong. Early December brought safe, thick ice for targetin' walleye on mid-depth flats and weed edges with jigs tipped minnows or glow spoons—quick limits and the rush of first hard-water keepers. This spread highlights the joy: early success, scenic ice vibes, and tasty fillets to start the winter. Rent a heated ice house from Arrowhead Outdoors to stay warm chasin' these! Grab premium fishing tackle for walleye success, plus hunting gear and camping gear for your Ely adventures. Come see us for bait and tips!s