In my experience the spawn is the only time to consistently catch them, Longpoint reef in van dyne is a great area to find them. I don’t have any comments on moon phase, I just start checking mid February unless I hear something earlier. One great resource is the local spear fisherman. You can take a ride to Wendts tavern that has a dnr weigh station and talk to many good folks who have been staring down a hole for the last two weeks and believe me they all network with oodles of different information a fisherman may find of good use. Water clarity, ice conditions, perch schools, and of course if the pout are in yet. Be careful though as the ice in this area changes very quickly and can be some of the most unpredictable ice on the lake as it is so shallow with rock below the ice. When the temps warm with full sun there is a reflection that melts the ice from both sides. As well as an insane amount of traffic with sturgeon spearing and the battle on bago.