​We have finally seen some warmer temps this past week and ice conditions can change rapidly. Always test shorelines as they are the first to go. Be safe out there!
Use caution when getting on the ice. What looks questionable is the early morning could mean trouble in the afternoon!  
 
Ashley Lake
Salmon bite is still doing well, but reports say sizes are getting smaller. Move and explore different areas and depths to find the bigger fish.  
 
Bitterroot Lake
Good reports about the salmon from North to South end and varied depths. Color combination is important and will land bigger fish. Shallow for Rainbows.   

​Ashley Lake
Salmon fishing is doing well. Fish off the boat launch on West End about 300yds out in 60’ of water. For best results, use a blue/white/pink Hali Jig tipped with maggots. Focus on 10-30’ below ice.  
 
Bitterroot Lake
Recent reports are saying Salmon are biting in various depths and areas of the lake. When fishing deep, use a #5 orange Swedish Pimple and a Rat Finke Dropper Jig. Downsize pimple when fishing shallower.   
 
Blanchard Lake
Concentrate efforts to locating thick weed bests in main body of lake for Perch. Jig slow and steady with Pete’s Sassy Stinger and a wax worm. Pike have been caught with smelt under a tip-up.

Temps are slowly rising causing snow and ice to melt. Use EXTREME CAUTION around shore lines and for methane pockets as these will open up first. Snow is predicted and will cover these openings.
 
Ashley Lake
The Salmon bite is still going well and should continue through the month. Use a white and pink Hali tipped with pink maggots for best results.  
 
Blanchard Lake
Find Crappie suspended about 6’ below the ice in 14-16’ of water. Try glow Demon jigs with wax worms early AM and late PM. Perch have been caught in 8’ of water on the bottom in thick weed beds. 

Reports are coming in from all area lakes of deep snow and slush/water mix on top of the ice. With these cold temps, its important to wear the proper clothing to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. Avoid getting wet!
 
Ashley Lake
The Salmon bite is still doing great in many areas of the lake. Schools run from just below the ice all the way to the bottom. Some decent Perch are being caught along with a Rainbow or two.  
 
Blanchard Lake
Fishing has slowed for the Crappie so be on the move. Try downsizing your presentation to get a few more bites.