Out There.  Anglers are exploring an uncertain edge on Devils Lake, as warmer than average temperatures and rainy conditions have hindered ice formation. DEO Photo by Mike Peluso.

By Mike Peluso

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays have come and gone.  I hope everyone had the best holiday season ever and I want to wish everyone a blessed 2024.  

I’m going to be honest with you, this will be more of an ice conditions report instead of a fishing report. We are all seeing on the news that people are going through the ice this winter.  We just haven’t had a ton of cold weather to firm things up really good. 

So the question I get asked over and over is “how much ice is up on Devils Lake?” That’s been a difficult question to answer this season.  Right now, we are seeing anywhere from seven to 12 inches.  That doesn’t mean it’s that way all over the lake, that’s just where we have done our due diligence. 

Another huge issue up here this season has been ice heaves, cracks, pressure ridges and open spots. Yes, there are still open spots, believe it or not.  So if you are going to venture out anywhere, please be safe.

Fishing since the ice storm has been a little off on Devils Lake.  There was a decent bite happening prior to the holiday season, but now we are in search mode again. 

If you have been following my social media pages, I am having a ton of fun working with Ice Fishing Central.  If you haven’t seen some of the stuff we are working on, go to www.icefishingcentral.com. Check out our YouTube page and give us a follow as well.  We have lots of cool things coming out in the future.  The rods, float suits and hub shacks are just the tip of the iceberg. 

Mike Peluso is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and licensed ND fishing guide specializing in walleyes on the state’s premier waters.