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.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe – Anglers have been fishing off the piers. Look for brown trout just off the bottom or steelhead about halfway down. The river is open so boat anglers have been able to access the big lake when the conditions are right. Pay close attention to wind direction and watch for ice flows which can close access to the lake.

St. Joe River – Steelhead and walleye are being caught by boat and shore anglers at the Berrien Springs Dam.

Union Lake – In Branch County, is producing some bluegills, crappie, a few perch and the occasional walleye.

Marble Lake – In Branch County, is producing some panfish. For pike, fish the drop-offs in 10 to 20 feet of water.

Kalamazoo River – Steelhead are hitting on spawn or wax worms below the dam.

Holland – Has no boat or pier fishing in the channel due to ice flows.

Grand River at Grand Rapids – Anglers are targeting steelhead and walleye.

Grand River at Lansing – Anglers are heading back out but no reports have come in. Those looking for walleye should try below the dams.

Lake Ovid – Those fishing close to shore were surprised to catch a few crappie. Minnows were the ticket.

Michigan Center Lake – Near Jackson, is producing some panfish.

Muskegon Lake – The channel has open water and when the wind is out of the south or southwest it blows the pack ice out and opens up fishing opportunities. A couple steelhead have been caught off the pier when floating spawn bags.

Muskegon Lake – Those still fishing are taking a few but the action has not been fast and furious. The key is to move around until you locate a school of fish. Perch have been caught in 42 to 48 feet of water along the ledge behind Shoreline Marine. Those fishing the weed lines off the Sand Docks have caught perch, rock bass and a couple catfish. The waters between Second Street and river were wide open last week so anglers will want to avoid the area.