I'm planning a BWCAW trip for the week of May 17th, and I have to admit I got a little panicked when I saw the comment about ice-out at the end of May! This will be the first time I've gone on an "early" trip and would appreciate any advice you can offer around appropriate gear (besides the obvious -- good rain gear, layers, etc.).

I'm also curious about the fishing. I'm assuming we can count on decent northern action, but what about walleye? Will they be slowing down post-spawn, or is within two weeks of ice out still prime time? Finally, I'm assuming it's too early for smallmouth, but maybe someone could confirm.

Thanks.

Posted by John Walker on March 05, 2001 at 22:38