” Good to go ” is exactly what a customer told us last night at a local grocery store. He was referring to the ice conditions at Black Bass Bay at the very north end of Grand Lake. This bay area is shallow water and freezes first and fast every year. This is the Perch bed that yields a lot of Perch, and a lot of big ones too. If you are headed this way or are already in the area, this will be your  “must go to ”  spot first. The Perch fishing is always at it’s best first ice, in all areas, and this spot is always very good.

We checked out Long Lake yesterday for ice and were greatly encouraged. We saw no open water anywhere, and our snow fall here was very low and very light in weight. A heavy wind yesterday undoubtedly blew a lot of the snow off to the shore lines on both lakes.

Okay, here comes the yearly ice advice. NEVER assume any ice is safe unless you know the area well, and have tested it with a spud or other device. Never assume the entire lake is safe.  Black Bass Bay for example is about 3 to 5 feet deep, so your safety is relatively secure. Also you will see a lot of people there already to talk to. (we sell those life saving hand ice picks )

We are looking at 6 degrees right now, with a full “Super” moon. The next several days and nights show cold or colder. Our Siberian, Arctic, Polar  plunge has blessed us with a great prelude to Christmas fishing. And also this note. The customer we mentioned wanted to know why we are waiting until Friday to sell bait. Well, that’s the day the bait truck delivers our first load of bait. If you just wanted tackle we’d open, but we know from 23 years experience, you’re going to be bringing in a bait bucket. So, just 2 more days and right on time for the weekend, we’ll be here, and we’ll even leave the lights on for you.

We’re going to have Blues, Perch and Walleye size, some Pike bait, wigglers and wax worms, and tackle galore. the Lorie Rig perch/walleye wall is full and waiting for you. Don’t go out without them.

STARTING FRIDAY: DEC. 16

OPEN 7 TO 5….. 7 DAYS A WEEK    BAIT TRUCK ARRIVES FRIDAY ABOUT 8 AM

Come on in, buy some bait and some Lorie rigs, and enter the drawing for a free Lorie Rig hat.