Maumee River and Local Ice report–Febuary 4th, 2019

Two days in a row days of ice-thawing temperatures has Ohio  officials warning ice fishermen to be extra cautious of changes in the ice conditions. Colder-than average temps last week had some anglers just getting a start to the season , shanty’s were dotting lakes and ponds all over the region.But don’t be fooled, ice fishing friends. In all likelihood, the ice looks thicker — and safer — than it actually is. Little snow and low temperatures did create a good, solid foundation for ideal ice conditions locally, but a short warmup like this one can create change very quickly. The ice can be thick in one spot and on the same lake be thin, especially if there is a current under there, which can sometimes go unseen. So I’m thinking that for the most part ice fishing in this part of Ohio may be done after today.

On a happier note those anglers that made it out on the ice over the weekend absolutely  slayed “em.  I had reports of limits of perch and crappie at just about all the local reservoirs, the farm ponds were giving up the bluegill one after another , and East Harbor up near Port Clinton was the place to be.  Even some rookie ice fishermen got out and caught a bucket of fish. So while it may be that the 2019 ice season was short lived , it was good while it lasted.

I’m going to keep all of our ice fishing gear out for another week or so , as we may salvage another day or two  and there may still be some good ice up north. We still have wax worms and minnows available.

I went out this morning and checked ,the Maumee River is still locked up and not moving- but today will be in the 50’s again so I expect it will break free real soon.

Which leads us to the next season–The Maumee River walleye run. Walleye often spawn around the country between 40 to 52 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the Maumee River walleye most often spawn between 42-46 degrees. Water temperature is not the only determining factor of the walleye run. There is also the river flow and photoperiod (hours of daylight) which are equally important.   Patience friends ….its almost time.