LAKE WINNEBAGO — Sturgeon spearing is almost here, despite continued warm weather threatening ice integrity.
Opening day is Feb. 10, and while the days leading up to it are the most crucial for determining ice conditions, the outlook isn’t very promising.
Local fishing clubs continue to advise against even small vehicles on the ice and urge caution if going out onto the ice at all — no ice is 100% safe.
Friendship Fishing Club at southwest Lake Winnebago measured about 7 inches or less on Feb. 5, about half a mile off Cemetery Road. The couple days leading up to the season will be the “real test of what we’ve got left here,” Scott Blanck said on the club’s Facebook page.
The National Weather Service predicts temperature highs at 51 degrees and 47 degrees Feb. 8 and 9, respectively, with a 60% chance of rain.
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Opening weekend forecast is sunny skies across the lakes with a high of 36 degrees, with temperatures staying in the 30s in the following days as the season gets rolling.