Ice fishing on Montana Lake in Marinette County, January 6, 2025. PC: Fox 11 Online
MARINETTE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Recent colder temperatures are starting to lure some anglers out onto the ice for early-season fishing, but venturing onto the frozen surface always comes with a warning.
“Just because you got 10 inches in one spot doesn’t mean you got 10 inches all the way through the lake. So be sure to check. Fish with a buddy. Tell people where you’re at and have a good time on the ice,” said Phillip Warrichaiet, Walleyes & Whitetails owner.
Trucks filled the parking lot at the Montana Lake boat landing west of Coleman Monday morning. Just off shore, Jeff Weber and his group are testing their luck on about eight inches of ice.
“Just to try to find some bluegills, and crappies. There’s no snow on the ice. Decent ice. They seem to be more aggressive in the morning, early morning. But it kind of slowed down. So we’ll have to start moving around a little bit right now,” said Weber, from Freedom.
“A lot of guys are tip-up fishing right now. Some panfish guys are heading up north,” said Warrichaiet.
Warrichaiet says the ice fishing season in the area is off to a good start.
“Typically, the ice is, you could get on a few lakes around deer hunting season. The last few years, that’s been a struggle. but as far as right now, ice is looking pretty good,” he said.
Warrichaiet says fish are biting on a variety of lures and live bait.
“From wax worms, spikes, mousies, wigglers. An assortment of minnows for tip-up fishing, perch, crappies. I sell a lot of tungsten jigs,” he said.
Warrichaiet says safety gear is a must.
“I would definitely wear some cleats right now. It’s glare ice out there. No snow whatsoever. Float suits, life jackets, safety ropes. You definitely want to bring that stuff along. Ice picks around your neck. Definitely check the ice as you go,” he said.
Back on Montana Lake, Weber says safely fishing through the ice is tough to top.
“It’s just peaceful, and just that adrenaline rush of that little bite from a crappie or bluegill. An occasional northern swims through. So, yeah, it’s a lot of fun,” he said.
Experts remind people no ice is ever considered to be 100% safe.
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