The pallbearers are carrying a rotted black sheet of ice to its final resting place. Time to read ice fishing its last rites. But my-oh-my, did it go kicking and screaming, even rising from the dead in some instances.

Take central and northern Minnesota for example. A sudden streak of March heat shoved spring in our face. And then just as quickly arctic winds descended and refroze accesses and landings where the ice had previously pulled from shore. ATVs, even a few road vehicles were back out there. Crazy perhaps, but back out there nonetheless.

By the time we reach the conclusion of the endless month – March – fluxes in air temperature lose their influence over the ice. It’s going bad from the inside out. Longer days and straighter sun begin the cooking process below. Heat up the surface and the top begins melting away simultaneously. What used to be snow swirls down yesterday’s holes and the cumulative dynamic does the ice in. (Note, too, that the ice actually sinks to its death, doesn’t really “go out”.)

That’s where things stand. Sure, you could chase some ice along the Canadian border or extreme elevations, but aren’t you ready for a cushioned boat seat. I am. The auger needs a breather anyway. See you next fall.