Hey Sportsfans!

The 1997 Geo Tracker SUV ambled its way across Four-Mile Bay, carrying two “ice bumpkin” anglers seeking FRESH-WILD-WALLEYES. Their destination? Big Traverse Bay… Lake of the Woods.

When they reached the crossing at Pine Island there was a green-light-go posted the previous day by the fishing guides at Ballard’s Resort. Early season ice conditions were excellent (12” to 13”) and indications of a midday bite had them as jittery as a couple of grasshoppers in a jar.

Inside Ballard’s fish house #37… There were holes opened… Heat turned on… And a pleasant view of the ice-covered landscape offered through large panes of windows. Cold outside. Warm inside. But how HOT was the bite?

There was a pink UV stop sign lure attached to some 8# monofilament line wrapped around an ice fishing rod. This is a storied presentation, tipped with a fathead minnow, and supported by a pencil style foam bobber.

Three… Two… One… Down the ice fishing hole went the bait and gleaming aspirations for a successful day on the ice.

NOW it is your turn to finish this story! The ice fishing season is officially underway at Ballard’s Resort. You have options for dates, availability, and special package rates.

The time is NOW for you to come and SET THE HOOK!