OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – While experts say last week’s blizzard brought wind and plenty of snow to Northeast Wisconsin, it also ushered in some bone-chilling temperatures as well.
Those who are waiting for ice to form on area lakes say they are encouraged by the conditions.
On a very frigid morning on Lake Winnebago’s Asylum Bay in Oshkosh, anglers brave the conditions.
“It’s too cold to work, but not too cold to ice fish. So we’re hoping to get out here, and catch something,” said Jason Rymer, Oshkosh.
“The thrill of ice fishing. Just trying to find those fish. It’s been a late season, so the itch is finally getting scratched a little bit to get out here,” said David Tice, Oshkosh.
On Tuesday, anglers say Asylum Bay had about six to seven inches of ice, but it’s a different story on the main part of the 132,000-acre lake.
“Guys are out quite a ways, but I’m sure the middle’s got some open spots yet,” said Cory Van Vonderen, Fish Tales Bait and Tackle owner.
Van Vonderen says the cold conditions arrived just in time. “This week, we’ve actually made a lot of ice. This weather is what we needed. We’re a month behind, but this is making ice quick.”
Van Vonderen says changes in the forecast will have an impact.
“If it gets warm next week, and cools off again. It could be beautiful out there. We could have some of the best conditions that we’ve seen in a long time. If it gets too warm, and stays too warm, then it could be horrible.”
Either way, the sturgeon spearing season begins in less than a month.
“I don’t think they’re going to be taking vehicles out. I definitely think they’re going to be able to get out on the lake. Four-wheelers, UTVs. Stuff like that,” said Tice.
“With these cold temperatures, it’s going to freeze up pretty good. Whether we’re going to get to drive on it, that’s just a guess from here. So we’re hoping. We’re hoping,” said Rymer.
Experts warn those venturing out that the ice is never considered to be 100% safe. They say it’s important to take a charged phone with you, and let others know where you are and when you plan to return.
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