Hola My Fishermen,

So, I have EP70 entry date May 18th. Called Forestry Services in Grand Marais today and they said ice covers most interior lakes, however it was raining, and going to be sunny and ice could be out in nine days.

Grabbed another permit for entry date of May 25th.

So my questions is, if the ice is just out, is the fishing better than possibly a week later and slightly warmer water temps?

If it was you, which week would you go?

Thanks for your thoughts!!!!

If you're after lakers, go as early as you can. If you're after the "other" stuff either would be ok. You'll see more people on the later date

I've fished lakers right after ice out (like the day of) and I don't think they are near the surface yet. I think it take 5-20 days for the fishing to really turn on. I'm not an expert though.

Tough call...I say go in on the 18th and stay two weeks!

YetiJedi: "Tough call...I say go in on the 18th and stay two weeks!"

Yup, that is the answer, if only I could!!

Thanks, going after a little of all species. Thanks for the note

deepwater: "I've fished lakers right after ice out (like the day of) and I don't think they are near the surface yet. I think it take 5-20 days for the fishing to really turn on. I'm not an expert though. "

Thanks for the note, it is a bit of a tough call