Temps have cooled last couple of days and slowed the ice melting. Some lakes are thawing and opening up, while others are still holding ice. Conditions change daily so use caution!
Ashley Lake
Shoreline I still holding solid. Main body is still 12”+. Salmon bite is on fire using Hali’s and maggots 5-15’ below ice. Another setup is a Swedish Pimple with Rat Finke Dropper jig.
Bitterroot Lake
Ice and shoreline still intact, but with water on top of ice due to rain. Salmon bite has slowed. Reports of Rainbows on bottom in 15’ of water.
Church Slough
Closed to all watercraft until 04/10/19. Water is very low so expect a muddy launch. Reports of winter kill.
Echo Lake
Ice is slowly melting, and a few spots are opening up. Recent rains will speed the melting process up.
Flathead Lake
More of the lake is opening up daily.
Somers Bay – Ice is going quick. Should be completely open mid/late week.
Delta – Good numbers of smaller Lake Trout using white jigs and Twister Tails.
East Bay – Still froze over, but ice is melting quickly. Maybe open by weekend.
Flathead River
Water is slowly rising and getting a little dirty. Try throwing Prince Nymphs, Red Copper Jon’s or Black Ice Cream Cone.
Lake Mary Ronan
Reports of shoreline disappearing fast. The rest should follow quickly.
Lower Stillwater
Still lots of fishable ice but use caution around the dam. Perch fishing has really picked up and will get even better after the ice is gone.
Smith Lake
Reports of ice melting off the shore. The main body still has very thick ice.
Thompson Chain
Main lakes are still holding ice. Middle has edges that are rotten in spots. Smaller lakes are starting to open up.
Use good judgement when going on the ice. A recently froze shoreline will open water later in the day. Bring ice picks, rope and fish with a friend. Be safe out there and see you again soon at Snappy’s (click here to visit website)!
