Fort Peck Fishing Guides shared a boots-on-the-ice report from Nelson, and it was one of those grind-it-out days—plenty of walleye around, just not many willing to fully commit. Ice was holding strong at 8–10 inches, enough to run a side-by-side, but they still recommend punching holes and checking conditions for yourself before driving on. Even with a tough bite, it was a good chance to put the Happy Hooker Ice Fishing auto setters to the test, and they delivered.
Here was their report from Sunday, December 14, 2025:
Well it was a tough day on Nelson. Found a bunch of walleye, but just couldn’t get them to fully commit, it happens sometimes. Ice was solid at 8-10” and I did drive my side by side on, but I recommend punching holes and determining if it’s safe for yourself before you drive on.
But I did get to try out the Happy Hooker Ice Fishing auto setters! They are super simple but yet well built. I also love how small they pack down.
If you’re looking for auto setters, or looking to expand you setline/tip-up arsenal, you can find these auto setters at the Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop in Fort Peck! Give them a look, you won’t be disappointed…

Photos via Fort Peck Fishing Guides