Olmsted County

[Red Beard]

I'm from Iowa (don't hold it against me) and I had planned a three day outing with some friends down here over 1-2-07 thru 1-5-07 but considering that we are still looking at open water I think we are going to have to head north.  Another one of our buddies offered to let us stay at his place in Rochester and fish around Olmsted county which is fine by us, except that he doesn't fish and I haven't been able to find an ice report for that area.  If one of you nice Minnesota residents would be able to give us the ice conditions for that area it would be great.  If the ice outlook is bad we'll just have to plan on venturing further up into your fine state (recommendations are welcome).  Thanks a lot guys, your input is appreciated.

-Red Beard

P.S. My friends and I are Iowa State graduates so we hate the hawkeyes just as much as you do.

[Skipper]

From what I have heard the ice from the metro on south is sketchy. They are getting out on most lakes in central and northern Minnesota on foot and wheelers. Mille Lacs is safe in the bays and they are getting braver every day. Springs and current areas are starting to open up on some central MN lakes. We have not made much ice in the past weeks so use as much caution as you pride will allow.  I personally am wearing a PFD and picks around my neck, but I have been accused of worrying too much.