As December arrives, we are off to a good start for ice fishing on the Mississippi River, and anglers across Wisconsin and Minnesota are gearing up for another exciting winter season. While the Midwest transitions into colder weather, the backwaters of the Mississippi River is forming the first safe ice of the year. At River Bent Outfitters, we’ll be monitoring conditions daily, and this outlook gives anglers a clear picture of what to expect as the season gets underway.
Projected Ice Conditions for Early December
Ice formation on the Mississippi River has come quickly this season, with thickness varying widely across different backwater areas. The first places to freeze will be the protected, shallow bays with little to no current. These zones typically reach safe walking ice of 3 inches before anywhere else. Areas with even light flow will take longer to lock up and may remain unsafe well into the month.
Because the Mississippi River is a dynamic system, anglers will need to check ice constantly with a spud bar and wear flotation gear. Early ice is often the best fishing of the entire season, but it’s also the most dangerous. As temperatures continue to drop, we expect ice coverage to expand steadily throughout December.
Panfish Will Begin Grouping Up Soon
Once ice sets, bluegills, crappies, and perch will be the first species to provide fast early-season action. Bluegills are expected to school along weedlines in 6–10 feet of water, responding well to tungsten jigs dressed with spikes or wax worms. Light line will remain critical for getting bites on the clear early ice.
Crappies will likely suspend higher in the water column and push into deeper basins during the evening bite. Small spoons, micro plastics, and dead-sticked minnows will become top presentations once anglers can reach safe ice in the backwaters.
Perch will begin to show up around deeper cuts, scattered vegetation, and soft-bottom channels. They may roam more during early ice, so hole-hopping will be important for staying on top of the schools.
Walleye and Sauger Opportunities Will Improve
As the month progresses and colder nights arrive, limited areas with reduced current will begin to develop fishable ice suitable for targeting walleyes and saugers. Anglers will soon have opportunities along edges where safe ice meets open water—a classic early-season pattern on the Mississippi River.
Rattle spoons, jigging minnows, and fatheads under set-lines are expected to be strong producers. With winter water clarity improving, walleyes will likely move shallower during prime low-light windows.
Looking Ahead to the Heart of the Season
If long-range forecasts hold, December will bring a steady cooling trend that will gradually expand safe ice across more backwater locations. Guided trips will begin December 9th as conditions allow, and the action often intensifies quickly once stable ice sets in.
To follow the latest Mississippi River ice conditions, fishing updates, and guided trip availability, visit River Bent Outfitters or reach out to us directly at 608-778-4034.