December 26th, 2023
***Ice Report***
Ice conditions continue to deteriorate on Ely Area lakes, as temps in the 40’s and heavy rain came to the area. Reports of 4 wheelers and side by sides breaking through the ice, were reported last week. Anglers who placed permanent houses out last week, spent Christmas Eve pulling them back to shore as heavy rain came to the area. Ice thickness varies wildly from lakes opening up, to 8” of clear ice. Anglers are strongly encouraged to travel only by foot with spud bar, ice picks and check as you go.
***Fishing Report***
Walleye - Walleye bite has been consistent on a handful of popular area lakes. Best reports have been coming from 12-16 feet of water, over mud flats and weedlines, during the evening hours. Jigging spoons tipped with a minnow head has been very effective. Deadsticking larger minnows like pike suckers has been the best way to get those walleyes that are a little less aggressive and won’t hit a jigging spoon.
Pike - Pike anglers have been reporting that the pike fishing has been very good this last week. Anglers continue to find large pike active in shallow bays with green weeds. Large sucker minnows or frozen smelt have been very effective when fished under a tip up.
Lake trout rising through ice hole from Ely MN on December 26, 2023! BWCA winter laker fishing report & tips from Arrowhead Outdoors Ely MN—ice house rentals, tackle & gear stocked.Image Description (168 words): Unbelievable lake trout action! This laker pokes its head straight up through a fresh ice hole on December 26th, 2023, near Ely, MN—pure BWCA winter magic. The fish shows classic deep-water markings: mottled olive-brown body with light spots, broad head, big eye starin' up, mouth agape as if still battlin' the jig. Surrounded by jagged, snow-dusted ice edges and slushy rim, dark water below hints at the depths these trophies call home. Late December ice was thick and safe, perfect for targetin' lakers over sunken islands and structure with heavy jigs or spoons tipped dead smelt/herring. This shot captures the heart-racin' moment when the fish rises the hole—thrill of the fight, cold air, and that Northwoods rush. Rent a heated ice house from Arrowhead Outdoors to fish comfy all day! Grab premium fishing tackle for laker success, plus hunting gear and camping gear to keep your Ely winter adventures goin' strong. Come see us for gear and the latest reports!