12-28-2023 Fishing Report

This is going to be more of an ice report than a fishing report. We feel that it is important to let everyone know what is happening across the lake at this time. Freezing rain over Christmas along with mild temps didn’t build much ice this last week. 

We do have some fishable ice. We can travel on some of the back bays that didn’t open a few weeks ago. Side by Sides and Snobears are possible in some areas. This ice looks white with ripples on top and we are seeing it anywhere from 7-12 inches. The sections of the lake that did open have clear ice that looks great for skating. Those areas are open water to 8 inches depending on the bay. Generally speaking, the west side of Devils Lake has more ice than the East. Everyone will need to take their time getting onto the ice and establishing where it is safe to go and where it is not. 

One of the problems we see coming this winter will be ice ridges. They are across most of the lake cutting off big sections of water. Like always we encourage people to check them out thoroughly before crossing them. We have seen some be frozen solid one day and open water the next. The ice sheet is still moving.

That being said the fish are biting! Our mobility has been very limited to what thicker ice we do have. Walleyes have been aggressive morning and evenings. 1/8th and 1/4oz Spoons jigged aggressively 2-3ft off the bottom until the fish is marked. Once a fish is marked slowdown the jig and slowly work the fish up trying to trigger the fish to bite. UV and Glow colors are best at low light times. 

Perch haven’t been messed with much yet this winter. Because they spend more time in deeper water people haven’t been able to get out to that depth range yet with the ice conditions. 1/16th and 1/8th ounce spoons with minnow heads or spikes will be the go-to option when these areas have thicker ice. 

The Bait shop is fully stocked with everything needed for a day on the water! We carry Minnows, Spikes, and Wax Worms. Fill up with Gas, Diesel, and Propane. The Bar has On and Off sale available with happy hour daily! 

Bait Shop winter hours are 6 AM to 7 PM.