As the boys up north are finishing out their ice season over the next weeks the rest of us down here on the lower end of the ice belt have some packing and prepping to do. This past weekend’s rain really took its toll on the ice down here on the Fox Chain-o-Lakes. This weekend is looking like it’ll be the last weekend we are able to get out on the hard stuff. With the Sandhills and the Redwinged Balckbirds comes spring, and a new fishing season. These next few weeks will mark a forced change in presentation and target species for most Chi-town anglers.
Chicago area fishermen are gearing up for the Coho Salmon bite on the shores of Lake Michigan. Like most other places, area anglers will be throwing spoons, shad-raps, and other traditional salmon presentations. However, in Chicago, the boys have a presentation that can be considered truely Chicagoan. The boys will be shooting 8-12oz weights out 300-400 yards with retro-fitted fire extinguishers off the shore-line at city harbors to set their Powerlines. These crafty fishermen will fill their stringers with Coho, Brown Trout, and Stealhead.
Illinois Fishermen are also prepping for the pre-spawn Largemouth bite. Over-sized plastics are key to the early season largemouths due to the decline in substantial food sources over the winter months and the need for extra engery for the spawn. Area fishermen will be targeting shallow areas where the bass will be scouting for places to nest.
As for those fishermen planning on pushing the Illinois Ice season out further. I’ve listed some suggested safety items below that would be beneficial to have.
Safety Spikes(ice picks)
Rope with Bowline knot in both ends
Partner
Whistle
Spud Bar
PFD / Floatation device
Remeber we’ve had thaw and refreeze a couple times this season, and ice on many of the area lakes has started to honey comb and saturate already. No ice is 100% safe, so always check conditions yourself before making your way out to “the spot.”
Stay Safe. Tight Lines