Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Early April 2026
The ice fishing season is winding down. If the current weather forecast holds, most lakes in the area should be ice-free around April 20th. This is pretty typical for this time of year. A few of the larger lakes may hold ice a bit longer, but only time will tell.
Ice Safety Warning for Small Lakes
The edges of small lakes are treacherous this time of year. Please be extremely careful if you decide to venture out on the ice.
Most small lakes currently have approximately 10–12 inches of ice, but it is not what I would call good ice. The edges of the lakes are especially weak and dangerous.
Current Ice Fishing Report – Crappies and Panfish
For anglers who have been ice fishing, good numbers of Crappies and panfish are being caught using Wax Worms, Jumbo Wax Worms, Crappie Minnows, and XL Fathead Minnows.
Crappies and panfish have been holding in the 5–8 foot range on smaller lakes. On larger lakes, they have been a bit deeper, typically in the 5–12 foot range, with some Crappies suspending in the basins in 20–25 feet of water.
Need Up-to-Date Ice Conditions? Contact Us
If you’re thinking about heading out, feel free to contact us. We’d be happy to provide the latest ice conditions and fishing reports.
Please let us know if we can be of service to you.
Save the Date: 6th Annual Musky Shop Summer Bash – July 18th
Please mark your calendars for Saturday, July 18th. We will be hosting our 6th Annual Summer Bash here at The Musky Shop.
There will be numerous vendors, our Biggest Sale of the Year, raffle prizes, food, and refreshments.
We hope you can all join us for what is always a super fun day!
Good Fishing and God Bless,
Jim Stewart