Obituaries

Friday Fishing Report

East Lake Okoboji: The ice thickness remains around 11 inches in most areas, though a few spots on the northernmost basin have just recently frozen over. Anglers are having good luck with Black Crappie, Bluegill, and Yellow Perch, though sorting is needed for the perch. Largemouth Bass are being caught, but the bite is fair, consistent with last week.

Ingham Lake: The ice thickness has increased to around 11.5 inches from last week’s 9.5 inches. Be cautious of a large open hole just north of the island. Walleye are biting best in the morning and afternoon, similar to last week.

Silver Lake (Dickinson): Ice thickness has increased to around 12.5 inches from last week’s 11.5 inches. The lake aerator is in operation, so be aware of that. Walleye fishing remains good, though the bite can still be hit-or-miss. When the bite is on, it’s very good.

Spirit Lake: The ice thickness has increased to up to 12 inches in some spots, compared to last week’s 11 inches. However, there are thinner areas on the main basin that froze more recently, and there’s still a large section of open water off Big Stoney Point. There’s no access on the south end due to a large heave. Anglers are finding quality-size Black Crappie up to 14 inches, along with good numbers of Bluegill, Walleye, and Yellow Perch, though sorting is necessary for the perch.

West Lake Okoboji: Most areas are now fishable, but there are still many unsafe areas or spots with open water on the main lake. Black Crappie remain fair, and Bluegill are still good.

General Warning: Many larger lakes have areas of open water or sections that have iced over very recently. Be cautious of seams that have popped up on many lakes. Most area lakes now have over 12 inches of ice, up from over 10 inches last week. The extended forecast calls for continued below-freezing temperatures, which will help increase the ice depth. As always check the thickness often when going out. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

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