OPEN WATER BITE IS ON IN PRICE COUNTY
The ice is 90% gone on most area lakes in Price County. The late ice bite was short and sweet. For late ice I like using tip-downs so I can spread out a bit and cover an area, We then drill a bunch of holes around the tip-downs and hole hop looking for active fish with our electronics, the active fish will usually hit any plastic or spoon dropped down to them. Now that the ice is gone and the water temps haven't climbed too much yet we are returning to the same areas with the boat. Electronics are important to locate the fish with slip floats and minnows working well. In a heavy wind I will drift small jigs and plastics thru the area. As the water temps rise the Crappie will move shallower and stage in the warmer water until shortly after they spawn.
The other excitement in the area for fishing right now is the annual redhorse run. It's in full swing with reports of good catches. This fish is a great fighter and is a fun sport fish for us in the northern part of the state to fish while the game fish season is closed. They are easy to fish; use a 1/2 to 1 oz. sinker and a number 1 or 2 hook with a gob of crawlers, cast out sit back and wait for a fish to hit. It is great action for the whole family. Redhorse are good smoked or pickled. Some people even grind them for fish patties. Many bars and resorts have redhorse tournaments in the spring so it's also a chance to win some cool prizes.
Ross's Sport Shop Guide John Kleczewski with a couple of
Crappies that were caught in Price County on the last day
out, Saint Patrick's Day. The open water bite is on.
For information on lodging, dining, entertainment in Price County, connect with the Price Count Tourism Department at www.pricecountywi.net. Call 715-339-4505.
John Carlson-N.P.A.A. #378
Ross's Sport Shop & Guide Service
286 North Lake Ave
Phillips, WI 54555
715-339-3625
715-820-0958 mobile
rossport@pctcnet.net
www.rosssportshop.com