Ice fishing continues but caution needs to be used. Anglers are reminded that walleye, northern pike and muskie season in the Upper Peninsula inland and Great Lakes waters as well as the St. Mary’s River is now open until March 15th. The spearing season for northern pike and muskie will also be open until March 15th.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Mullett Lake – Perch are hitting on jigs with minnows or wigglers in 24 feet of water.

East Twin Lake – Angler pressure was low however those going out have reported some decent perch fishing when using a small hook or small jig. Deep snow drifts are making travel on the ice a little more difficult.

West Twin Lake – Is all about the walleye. Fishing pressure remains constant and some limit catches were reported. Anglers that know the lake have been doing well for walleye while jigging with rapala minnow jigs or a Swedish Pimple tipped with a minnow. A couple fish were also taken on tip-ups. Those targeting perch were taking fish when using a jig with perch minnows.

Thunder Bay River – Walleye and perch have been caught.

Hubbard Lake – Anglers were catching some walleye.

Higgins Lake – Anglers are reminded to keep the cars and trucks off the ice and there may be some snow drifts that could make travel difficult. The smelt action on the north end of the lake has been very good. Perch are still hitting off the islands however anglers will need to sort out the small ones. Good pike action when using tip-ups or spearing in 15 feet of water. Cold temperatures will keep the trout out in deeper waters.

Houghton Lake – Strong winds hampered fishing last weekend however anglers are getting back out and catching fish. There is snow on the lake and anglers will encounter some drifting. Walleye action was slower but fish are being caught around the East Bay and off the north shore. The bluegill bite has picked up when using tear drops with wax worms.

Van Etten Lake – Ice anglers are taking perch on minnows and pike on tip-ups. Snow drifts may hamper travel on the ice.

Au Sable River – Steelhead were hitting on spawn or wax worms.

Budd Lake – Is producing a fair to good number of bluegills.

Tawas – Small perch were caught in the harbor and a few pike off Jerry’s Marina but the walleye fishing slowed.

Au Gres – The action was not red hot but a few walleye were taken just off the mouth of the river.

Au Gres River – Look for walleye in the lower section of the river.