It seems like winter has made its mark a little earlier this year , with a thanksgiving snow and a good period of sub freezing days. With my camper put up and the boats tucked away there is little available close lake fishing--- Unless --.
Unless, one feels confident to sit out on some ice covered lake.
Mattoon is one of those local lakes that I pass up during the regular season for bigger water. But , now when the fair weather fishers are hugging their heaters it's time to punch a few holes and ice fish. Several of the locals have told me that there are some big brooders released there this year. and yesterday a fella said they put a lot of Browns in also.
This morning I went to a hole I checked out yesterday, I noted that someone must of gave it a try yesterday afternoon, seems that others are catching on. it used to be that I was just about the only ice fisher in the area. Anyway, I did well, catching the allotted number of trout (Browns an' 'Bows)and some Perch. And as usual they were released.
Presently the ice is clear and about 4" , hopefully it'll get better unless we have a melt, so be sure to check it before you venture out.

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