The weather forecast for February 9 in Winona, MN, called for a high of 24 degrees F at 9 a.m., increasing wind gusts up to 43 miles per hour, decreasing temperatures with wind chill in the -20 F range, snow and "ground blizzards" as the day progressed. 

The fishing forecast called for 80+ youngsters to meet Service employees and local anglers and volunteers at Lake Winona at 10 a.m. to try their luck for "the big one” at the annual ice fishing day hosted by the Winona District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Thoughts of two biologists from the La Crosse National Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office who volunteered to assist at the event included, "Will it be cancelled?  Will there be a poor turn out?  Will the kids get too cold? Will we all be able to drive home safely?"  But the most pertinent thought was "I hope the fish are biting!"

Weather during the event turned out to be almost mild and beautiful.  Large snowflakes fell in the early afternoon.  A light wind pushed the snow across the gathering of young anglers, creating a magical feel.  The cold temperatures and high wind held off until after conclusion of the event, but as the front moved closer in the afternoon, the anglers’ luck improved.  More frequent cheers of success could be heard throughout the crowd as time and again another youngster pulled a fish up though an ice fishing hole. 

A great time was had by all, and the La Crosse NFWCO staff thanks the Winona District for hosting such a wonderful event.