I ventured up a couple weeks ago and the lake had 6 inches of ice with an inch of snow. There again with our last snow storm, there will probably be a foot or so of snow on top of the ice. Fishing was slow with only a couple fish caught on salmon eggs or worms. Best action is usually within 10 to 15 feet from shore.
Please use caution when venturing out on any ice covers waters. Conditions can change, always let someone know where you are going and when you should return. A couple safety tips to remember. Bring extra clothing, you can always layer down, bring a hat to keep the body heat in, bring extra water to keep hydrated and don't forget your sunscreen. If you get stranded and cannot call out due to cell reception. Remember the SOS code. You can use this with a light or with a horn. Three short, three long and three short. It may sound old fashion, but may save your behind. One other important rule to remember, and I would like to see every one do this every time you fill up. Keep a towel in your vehicle and wipe off your headlights. Road grime can change the distance in what you can see ahead of you. Especially on the early morning road trip to Topaz Lake on January 1st. The weather report for opening day is low of 18 with a high of 42, winds peaking at 5 mph in the afternoon. Slow down and watch out for left overs from the new years celebration trying to make it home.