Illipah Reservoir is ice covered. Ice is being measured at 3.5 to 4 inches in the areas sampled in the reservoir. There are several areas around around the perimeter of the reservoir and in the middle that are thinner than others. NDOW recommends to stay off ice measuring less than 4 inches, and anglers should always fish with caution and use safety equipment.  The water elevation has increased in the last two weeks, therefore anglers should not fish near the spillway until ice is thick enough to be safe. Fall stocking was completed with 9,862 rainbow trout averaging 9.4 inches.  Anglers should do well using nightcrawlers, PowerBait, as well as small jigs and spoons.