Hi. This warm weather has my mind thinking that paddling is just two weeks away!

I will be taking a May trip to target lake trout while they are up in shallower water. Should I target May 16 or May 20 as a start date? I have heard earlier can run into ice. Also, we would like to catch some northerns, as well. Which of these times in May would you recommend? Thanks.

Me and my partner will be in for the opener, we go as soon as possible. In doing this for the past 11 yrs., we have always been able to go. I'm sure there have been years when the ice was still present, but the percentages say GO!. Having said this, we have caught them from surface(late ice-out) to 35-40ft.(early ice-out). Just go as early as you can, and be ready to fish from surface to 40ft.

The best lake trout fishing I have had, is when we are dodging ice flows! I would recommend the earlier date, although 4 days probably won't make a huge difference.

Thanks guys. Any other comments?

Check out the link for average ice out dates... that may help you decide. Also, the earlier you go will mean colder water and northerns are apt to be pretty sluggish. I would go with your later date.

historical ice out dates

About 10 days after ice out is prime (or as close to that you can get). Most years that is going to mean your earlier dates.

My partner and i will be in for the opener, go at earliest possible date. We've caught them on a flyrod a few times!