Tips for Ice Fishing Lake Superior

Fishing is a sport that is enjoyed all year-round on Lake Superior, including during the winter months. Ice fishing can be just as enjoyable as fishing during any other time of the year, though ice fishing on Lake Superior does present a number of unique challenges. Thankfully there are some general ice fishing tips, as well as some tips that are offered by Michigan's own Department of Natural Resources, that can help you stay safe next time you are ice fishing on Lake Superior.

First Ice

Common ice fishing spots on Lake Superior, such as Munising Bay, are usually safe enough for ice fishing by the middle of January each year.

Vehicles

Vehicles are permitted on the ice of Lake Superior, as long as the ice is thick enough. Unlike some other states and organizations, Michigan does not publish a set of safety guidelines regarding the thickness of ice. This is left up to the fishermen and his or her best judgement.

Local Sources

The Michigan state DNR recommends that all ice fishermen consult with local sources; local bait shops, convenience stores and sporting goods stores before venturing out on the ice of Lake Superior. These sources may be able to give you some tips of their own, including the safest areas for ice fishing on Lake Superior. Because these conditions are constantly changing, you may find yourself checking back with these sources on a regular basis.

Fish Bites

Remember that fish have a tendency to bite more frequently during the morning hours when they are near the surface and looking for food, so you'll have better odds at catching fish early in the day as opposed to at night. This holds true for any type of fishing, including ice fishing.

Reaction Time

Avoid any kind of alcohol or drugs when ice fishing on Lake Superior; this includes prescription medication that may slow your reaction time.

Wind

Always pay attention to the direction that the wind is blowing when ice fishing on Lake Superior, as this can help you identify which sections of ice are more likely to break off and possibly float away.

Ice Shanties

According to the Michigan state DNR, all ice shanties within Michigan's Upper Peninsula's water boundaries must be removed from the ice by midnight of March 31 on any given year; this includes ice shanties on Lake Superior. Ice shanties that are placed on a shared water boundary between Michigan and Wisconsin must be removed by midnight of March 15 on any given year.

References:

http://www.upfishing.com/
http://upicefishing.com/