DEPERE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The seasons are changing and we know what that means: it’s nearing time to put the snowmobile away and take out the fishing gear.
Snowmobile trails are closing as warmer temperatures show increasing signs of spring in Kewaunee County.
“There you are, driving in mud,” said Moonriders Snowmobile Club board member, Mike Rohr.
‘Moonriders Snowmobile Club’ has seen snowmobilers from all over the area using their trails this season.
“Developing snowmobile trails is not just a two or three-month project. We’re working on this, basically, year-round. Come spring, we have to take all these signs down,” added Rohr.
He says trails have only been open about five days this year due to the weather.
A hard pill to swallow considering trail prep can start as early as October.
“We make the trails 25 feet wide, as you can see behind me,” said Rohr.
Everyone involved has between four and 10 miles of trails to prepare and upkeep during the winter.
Maintenance includes cutting brush through swamps and installing bridges.
The Moonrider trail system closes at 6 a.m. Sunday as winter heads to its end and spring begins.
Those who love to fish are already seeing the seasons change.
“There’s no ice, and it’s spring fishing,” said Michael Thomer, a fisherman from Menasha.
The docks aren’t out but that just made more room on the ramp for the dozens of boats at the Fox Point Boat Launch in De Pere.
They’re knocking the dust off and getting all boating equipment ready for the season.
“It iced up a little bit when we had that cold snap, but um, basically for like the last two-two-and-a-half weeks or so, there have been boats out here every day,” added Thomer.
Michael Thomer says the warmer temperatures have helped start the fishing season almost a month early.
“Beat’s sitting at home and sitting on the couch,” said Thomer.
Full closure of the Kewaunee County snowmobile trail system will take effect on Monday.
Kewaunee County Parks says snowmobilers should be aware they can be cited for riding trails when they are closed.
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