New Records

[David Kasten]

Seems to me people are complaining about way more traffic on lakes this year and decreased fish size? In all honesty i think theres a lot more lakes with fish out there then people utilize. Sometimes you have to get away from crouds and try your own spots. there is no more people ice fishing this year then last, or the year before that.

[TurnUpTheFishing]

I agree. Fishing in the metro isnt as great as it can be or is in rural areas, for obvious reasons but if you're content to just hit the big name lakes and fish with the shanty towns you shouldnt be complaining. Regardless of where you fish if you're not catching fish your happy with find a new spot or a new lake. If/when you do find a your honey hole remember loose lips sink ships and practice selective harvest if not you may find yourself with the same problem once again...

[Rippinlip]

Remember One who fills freezer needs not to go fishing again.

Bring enough home for a meal, that way you always have a reason to go fishing.

I agree with the shanty town thing though, if you fish with the crowds understand the fish are heavily pressured and the bigger aggressive ones are probably harvested.

Mant times I am out all by my self away from the crowds and have enough fish for a meal before my friends in the shanty towns even have a bite, take a chance on some new water even if it is the same lake and you may be happily surprised.

[jwhjr]

In the metro I try to go out during the week vs. the weekend whenever I can to try and stay away from the crowds. Many times there are still quite a few people on the lake, but nowhere near the numbers on the weekends. I also try and stay away from the shanty towns whenever possible, and I tend to fish smaller, less popular lakes. This winter I've been out more times than any other and I've had a blast.

[tisosy11]

Shanty towns have their positives but catching fish after fish is usually not one of them. Break away from the group because its likely the fish have!