Why is it so darn hard to get a simple answer as to if any action is happening on some lakes? It's not that you want someones hot spot. Just want to get a simple answer.
Ice Fishing
fishing action
Send PMs if you're looking for specific information. You can usually tell what guys fish which body of water or area of waters most frequently. They usually aren't too keen on posting a detailed report each time they go out, but some are willing to give information if it is private. A lot of your PMs will be ignored, but every now and then you'll run into someone willing to give up or swap some info. I've had about 10 guys message me this winter looking for information, some I just ignore because they're looking for easy info. But some just want to talk fishing and that's when some good info gets tossed around.
Like others have said, fisheries have been decimated. Its too simplistic to say the meat hogs are responsible. Harvest is harvest. If 100 guys are taking limits of crappies that’s the same amount of fish being taken out of it was 250 guys showing restraint by only keeping 10 a piece. 2500 fish is 2500 fish. It’s a pressure thing.
Here’s a suggestion...do a bunch of research on lakes in an area. If you hear of a hot bite on one that you’d like to fish simply go and fish another one that has similar characteristics. The internet anglers will be following the online masses to the same lake. You’ll be taking a road less travelled but end up in a quieter but similar destination. I’ve done this for years when I’ve gone on muskie trips. Find out what a “hot” lake is. Fish one nearby that is similar. You won’t have to deal with idiots at launches who are fighting over the same piece of structure.
I know I've upset some people and I'm sorry. Lets just consider how some of us don't go out there and clobber the lake on a regular basis. I'm out there about 10 times a season. I feel bad also that there is so much greed or bragging about how they limit out several times on a given lake. Look at the bitching over on Winnebago . On small lakes the threat is overwellming.
I'just like a small hint to be able to get my Grandson on some fish. Is that to much to ask?