Early May update 2011

Just wanted to put in a quick early May update for all who are checking in periodically. It is the 2nd of May and Crystal is still totally covered with ice, however, some small pockets just started opening up today. I am guessing the ice should be out by the end of this week, or mostly out anyway. That is pretty close to a normal year, as last year was an exception with it being out by April 6 on our lake. Some of the smaller nearby lakes just went out today, or nearly out.
We do have a couple guys staying in a cabin and were on a local lake where they could cast to the edge of the ice and did manage to land a 7 lb laker, in less than 5 foot of water. Also, they landed two nice pike, one just over the slot and one in it. Not bad considering the wind was blowing about 25 mph today and it snowed a good portion of the day with highs in the low 40's! This week we are supposed to see the sun come out though, so that should dissipate the ice quickly. At least the snow has all gone away now with the exception of a few small piles where we plowed.
Water levels are looking good going into the spring season, and with good luck the walleye should bite as good as they did last year. I will put another update in toward the end of the month for all the June guests coming up, hopefully it should be filled with walleye stories!
good fishing
Jody