This January has been a mild one. There has been some moderately cold weather and some snow, including a storm that dumped about a foot of snow in many areas during the second week. But overall, lakes and rivers have had large areas of open water. The tradition of going ice fishing on New Year’s Day had to be put aside for 2024 due to a lack of ice.

The last half of January has seen some colder temperatures, with lows in the low part of single digits in many areas. Time will tell if the cold temperatures get cold enough to make the lakes safe for ice fishing. In the meantime, there are lots of sights to see. 

Any place where water runs, especially where seeps run through rock outcrops, you might find frozen waterfalls. When the river starts to get covered with ice, wildlife—including eagles and waterfowl—seek the ice-free regions of the river, such as confluences; viewing opportunities for these species are enhanced.

With snow on the ground, it’s easier to see deer and other mammals in the woods. It would be a good time to take a hike or try out those cross-country skis. Have any animals passed on the trail? 

Where deer, raccoons, rabbits or bobcats have been traveling through, you will spot their witness marks in the snow.