Rice Lake

[fordjos]

I heard two guys went down on Rice Lake last week. But I also see it got cold and you have some decent cold nights coming up. Headed that way on the 17th, was hoping for a panfish day. Leave the gear at home, or is still hope?

This post has been edited by fordjos on Mar 07, 2017 - 09:28 am

[swiftdeer]

From what I have heard, it's open but, I'll be down there tomorrow so I can take a look and if I remember, I'll update. But I personally wouldn't count on it.

[fordjos]

Thank you, I appreciate it.

[Bayliner]

I looked at the satellite pics not long ago and yes, it's open.

There are also huge amounts of water going through the system currently. I'd say she's done.

[fordjos]

Got it - thanks for the info. Saves me some packing I guess. What a bummer.

[fordjos]

Although I will say, you have some brutally cold weather coming up in the coming days..,

[mairaj86]

Go to Chemong or Crowe instead

[N4X1Z0]

Was there Monday (Bewdley) and there was lots of ice. 12" at least and solid. The area the 2 guys went through was around White's Island further down. Before you head out though, check with BJ Bait and Tackle in Bewdley, they'd be able to give you an up to date report.

[swiftdeer]

Was down at Elmhirst today and gotta say, that wind was absolutely brutal. I wasn't out but had a good chance to check out that area of the lake from the safety of shore. Ice at shore is rotten and breaking up. Lots of water on top, and certainly visible pressure cracks running from the western side of Elmhirst to the islands, a number of open areas, and from the short two hours I was there, the pressure cracks opened up much further. There was also some open to the east of Elmhirst. That said, yes while we have some 'forecasted' cold weather on the way, the winds today probably played havoc on the ice that was there. Sadly I think my season was over a while back and now patiently wait for the soft water season! No fish is worth the risk.

[fordjos]

Thanks for the reports and info, really appreciate it. We are indeed at Elmhrists so that is good to know. Hoping this cold snap helps, but will be bringing a spud and life jacket on before dragging gear out, even if I decide to venture out.

[heavyhookset]

Has anyone gone out by BJ's lately?
Looking to probably venture out towmorrow.
This cold snap should have strengthend up the ice. I was out last weekend and there of 9" of black ice.

[fordjos]

Sorry heavyhookset, I haven't been that way yet. The bait shop seemed to think the ice was still good, but they said they are closed for a few days. Call ahead if you need anything. I am driving through tomorrow, headed to Elmhirst area. If anyone has been out in that area I would be appreciative of any reports of ice conditions. Thank you again!

[duo8404]

Rhino's posted a pic on face book yesterday. Open water near shore.
I'm by Elmhirst. Not safe for sure. Sorry.

Take a look here and you will see the open water

https://coastwatch.glerl.noaa.gov/modis/mod...region=g&page=1

[N4X1Z0]

Hard to tell from some of the pics. Looks like the East part of Rice has some holes. I wouldn't trust anything East of the Otonabee but I'd think Bewdley would be pretty solid. In all cases stay safe. If in doubt, don't go out.

Update: Called Rhinos Roadhouse to ask about the pic. They said yep open water. So, I went to see myself and was pretty surprised to see open water at the shore there plus a couple of large open cracks and sizeable open water toward the centre of the lake. The wind has opened it up so I'd say not worth the risk. Even if you had stable ice to get on you never know what's going to happen once you're out there.

[duo8404]

Geese playing in the water in Bewdley. Go to face book look up Rhino's roadhouse in Bewdley and take a look at yesterdays picture. Yes it's been very cold last few nights but Very windy.