For many ice fishing anglers, large gamefish are the target for much of the winter, but with walleye, northern, and bass seasons coming to a close (here in MN), panfish have become the target.
Crappies, bluegills, and perch are often found roaming the deeper basins over the previous months, but now with snow melting and water running in the holes and cracks panfish tend to migrate seeking out shallower and more fertile water. Locate standing weeds during the late ice season and panfish are usually found nearby.
Small spoons like the VMC Bull Spoon tipped with wax worms or silver wigglers are a great presentation to start with, but it's good to have additional offerings such as small VMC jigs tipped with plastics or worms to seal the deal on fish that are hesitant to hit a larger offering.
Fish in these shallow areas can be skittish and may move out if too much noise is made on the ice. If using forward-facing sonar, it's best to drill as few holes as possible until you find the area they are hanging in. After finding panfish you can grid out the area with holes so you can follow them as they move around. It may take some time for them to settle down after drilling holes. You'll also want to limit dragging sleds or dropping anything on the ice, and if possible avoid wearing ice cleats to limit any extra noise.
If fish end up hanging out away from previously drilled holes, you can try walking around the school and drill holes on the other side of where they are hanging out to push them back into the area you have gridded out with holes.
Panfish, especially crappies, can be found cruising very high in the water column, so if using a traditional sonar make sure to start jigging from just below the ice down to the top of the weeds and you'll be more productive.
Get out and enjoy some of the great weather and conditions the late ice season has to offer. You'll want to make sure to check ice conditions and use a little extra precaution when venturing onto late-season ice but it can be very rewarding when you get on an active school of fish!
Good Luck Fishing and Stay Safe!
J Rev Outdoors
320-761-0685
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