Pike river hatchery, open for business.

[Ace]

Now that the Pike river is ice free, the DNR Walleye hatchery on the river, has begun to trap Walleyes on their way up the Pike river.  Water temps in the river reached the low 40's as of yesterday, so things are looking good for a good egg take at the hatchery this year.

Pike bay has also started to open up.  I was able to get my dock in yesterday and my guide boats are soon to follow.

Most of the bays in main lake is still ice covered, however it won't be long until she is also ice free and ready for the 09' Walleye opener.

"Ace"

[ironranger29]

Hey Ace, hows the water level lookin in pike bay compared to last yr? Also How would you consider this years ice retreat compared to last yrs?

[Ace]

Hey ironranger,
Water levels are up, but nothing like last year.  Pike bay is ice free west of Whiskey island.  the rest should go today with the warm temps and high winds.  The south side of Big bay by Mckinley park has some open areas near the mouth of Pike bay.  That will also open up some in the next coule days.

Could still be a May ice-out, but well before the Walleye opener, I hope!
They are taking eggs at the hatchery and there are plenty of big Walleyes running up the river.  I suspect that Pike bay will be open for angling on openng day.

"Ace"

[ironranger29]

Thanks Ace thats what i like to hear... Would you happen to know where a guy could rent a 16' boat(nothin fancy)somewhere outta pike bay or in that vicinity? 

[Ace]

Hey ranger,
Fortune bay offers boat rental but I think you may have to be a quest there to get one.  You could try Glemore resort on Pike bay, they may have a boat they would rent, especially if they aren't booked up for the opener.  1-877-753-1200 or the local # 218-753-1200.

Fortune bay, 800-555-1714

Aronson boat works on pike bay 218-753- 4190, ask for John.  I don't know if they have any rentals anymore, but it is a possiblity. Those are the closest places that might help you out. 

Birch point marine has some new owners, so I'm not sure what they have available.
218-753-4404.

Good luck with that!

"Ace"  

[ironranger29]

Thanks!

[Ace]

Hey Ironranger,
You are very welcome and I sure hope that you find what you're looking for. Vermilion is not a great place to find a good rental boat, unless you are staying at one of the resorts.

Big Bay has started to open up on the south side of the bay in the last couple of days.  Looks like we are going to have open water to fish on opener this year afterall! 

"Ace"