Lake temperatures and density currents

[basslkjohn]

Haven't had the year I anticipated...tough to find the fish. I live on the south end of Bass Lake near Cohasset. For three days prior to freeze up we had a strong northwest wind and below freezing air temperatures. As the wind driven waves piled up on the south end of this lake, I believe the super-chilled surface water mixed with and/or displaced the warmer,deeper waters of this bay in a deeper counter current moving to the northwest. I wonder if it is possible to largely displace the 39 degree water in a bay in all but the deepest holes in this manner.

We do not spend much time in this forum discussing temperature differentials as an explanation for the presence or absence of game fish in previously productive areas. Are any of you measuring temperature as a routine part of your ice fishing efforts? I would like to find an inexpensive digital temperature probe that would give us a better idea of the temp profile. Any thoughts?

[Marmot]

Check out the Deptherm by Vexilar. Costs about 8 bones.

I have taken some temp readings this winter, but not enough to conclude anything. I have been finding fish in 38*F water.

I also had some readings of 32*F and no fish. I am not confident in the 32*F reading though. Is it even possible to have 32*F water on the bottom of a lake? Readings were taken in water that varied from 22 to 29 feet.

[basslkjohn]

Thanks for the reply Mormot..I think your observation is important: you are finding fish in 38 degree water. I wonder if temperature is equally or more important than nearby structure, depth, or weeds. Maybe warmer water attracts more forage fish and more game fish...and that factor overrides other considerations this time of year.

[Marmot]

I believe I read a few articles by Genz several years ago. I believe he said water temp equates to oxygen content in the water. Too cold and not enough oxygen seems to come to mind. Maybe someone else remembers the Genz articles.