Detroit Lakes Fishing and Ice Report (12/16/25)

Cold temperatures have caused lake ice to build fast this past week, but snow has presented anglers with challenges.  It is becoming difficult to pull sleds on some lakes, and the sheer weight of the snow is already causing slushy situations in some places.  Wheelers are still able to access many areas, but you must be very careful in areas near running water, where the ice is still dangerously thin.  Ice thickness varies widely from lake to lake, so be very careful out there!

Here are some recent ice updates:

Little Detroit - 11”-11.5”

Munson - 8”-9” on south side

Big Cormorant - 5” - 7” near north access

Leif Lake - 11”-11.5” 

You can find crappies in and along the weeds in 8’-12’, but also near break lines as deep as 20’-25’ (on bottom with ‘gills and suspended).  Look for walleye near break lines and inside turns.  Remember to stay silent when fishing shallow–both crappies and walleye spook easily!

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Let's go ice fishing!

We still have some availability left over the Holidays! From Ice Castle sleeper houses and single day rental houses to guided fishing trips, you can book your next ice fishing adventure today by clicking below: