Open Water Fishing just after ice out

[MikeG3Boat]

Guys,

I got an itch today thinking about open water fishing. I have never fished just after ice out and am wondering. Are the panfish very active right after ice out? Let me know your thoughts, fishing in brainerd area.

[Comit 2]

I look to large shallow bays with dark bottoms. The best of them have small openings to the main lake, maybe with a small bridge. The sun warms up the water in the shallow dark bottom bay quicker then the rest of the lake, the bugs hatch and fish food is abundant, the wind and waves can't sweep it away. If the fish want it, they have to come and get it and i'll be there waiting for them. Sun rise and sun set is the best time for Crappie. Find a few of these and make a milk run. You will know the good ones by the fisherman in the area.

[Raider4ever]

It helps if such an area is along the northern shore as that receives more sun time and less north wind. Being protected from the overall wind is also a big plus. Good luck. Looks like it's going to be awhile up here.

[delcecchi]

Guys,

I got an itch today thinking about open water fishing. I have never fished just after ice out and am wondering. Are the panfish very active right after ice out? Let me know your thoughts, fishing in brainerd area.

Be very very careful. Preferably have someone along. Water that cold is very dangerous and will kill you in a short time, even wearing a life jacket. Even quicker without one.