Caution is the key word as ice continues to form on area lakes

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Waters in the southern half of the Lower Peninsula are freezing but anglers still need to use caution. Rivers may have flow ice coming down so use caution. Anglers are reminded to wear a life jacket, test the ice before you go, never go out alone, take a cell phone, and be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Safety should always be your top priority when heading out on the ice.
SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Ice conditions are getting better in this part of the state however anglers still need to use caution. Bluegill and pike were caught during the day. Black crappie were caught at night by those using jigs and minnows.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Steelhead are still hitting though the action did slow with the cold front. Most are using spinners, yarn rigs, wobble glows, wax worms or spawn. A few walleye can still be found throughout the river. As for panfish, try fishing near the parks.

NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Manistee River: Anglers are still catching some nice chrome steelhead. With fresh snow as a backdrop, fish were hitting on pretty much anything including bright colors.

Lake Missaukee: Anglers are ice fishing for bluegill, crappie or the occasional perch. Try the west side and look for weedbeds. Those looking to spear pike will want to try the east or northeast side of the lake.

Lake Cadillac: Is producing some bigger bluegills and crappie. Anglers are fishing in 10 to 12 feet of water with jigs and spikes or wax worms. Pike fishing is on for those using tip-ups with large minnows.

Lake Mitchell: Is producing bluegill, crappie and even some perch. Pike are hitting on tip-ups.

Pere Marquette River: Is producing steelhead and brown trout. Fish the deeper holes during the cold front.