The ice is off the lake and the DNR boat launch docks are in the water. The canals that I have seen are also ice free. This is the time of year when the Crappie come into the canals. I haven't heard anything about the fishing since the ice started to melt but I know many trophy size Northern Pike were taken from under the ice this past winter.
We had mild temps all winter and whether this will affect the winter kill of fish or not, has yet to be determined. Personally, I believe the fishing will continue to be excellent this year.
I drove by Higgins Lake a couple of days ago and there was still some ice hanging around the shoreline. No surprise since Higgins runs much deeper than Houghton, making the water temps lower. But after today's "snow storm" the temps are to remain near 50 degrees and higher during the day. Almost warm enough for me to play hooky and go to Reedsburg Dam for a little afternoon fishing. I fish from a chair so I prefer it to be 60 degrees or higher. Otherwise the joints get a little stiff.
Hope to see you in the summer and good luck fishing.
