by Mark Schram

Winnebago Ice Report 12.3.20

Mild temperatures, wind and lack of precipitation have hindered ice growth on the Lake Winnebago system.  Water temps range from 31.6 degrees to 34.9 degrees.

Overall, no fishable ice is currently available on the system.  The rivers (Fox and Wolf) and parts of Lake Buttes des Mortes and Lake Poygan have skim ice in some areas, including at Skipper Buds (near Highway 41).  However, the thickness of the ice is not able to support human weight.

In 2019, we were full bore into the ice fishing season.  2020 looks weak, and the short-term forecast is conducive to minimal ice growth, but not significant ice growth.  As a matter of fact, no precipitation is forecast for the next week.  Just steady temperatures, above freezing during the day, and below freezing in the evening.

The best ice has been in the refrigerator, so I guess we continue to wait for better conditions.