i dont know how thick the ice is by any of you guys, but over in eastern wisconsin, at least, most small lakes are a good 6 or 7 inches, making it very easy to drag a shanty on in the ice and start jiggin!!! i did manage to get out this weekend on saturday from 10:30 until 4:30. i didnt really catch too many, but three bluegills are worth it in my eyes. i went out with a couple of my buddies and they caught about the same. luke caught a pretty nice crappie, i would say about 10 - 12 inches. its really nice having hobbies year-round so i dont stay cooped up in the winter. no pictures this time, but tomorrow we have a half day at school and if i remember to grab the camera, i will get a couple shots for you all!! hopefully there will be many more better days coming! God Bless