Each spring, as winter loosens its icy grip on Minnesota’s waterways, Green Lake in Spicer comes alive with a surge of anticipation. The Ice Out Fishing Derby calls anglers to brave the final dance of melting ice, where chilly waters dare you to cast your line before the season turns. This isn’t just another fishing contest — it’s a hands-on encounter with nature’s restless shift from frozen stillness to living flow.

Green Lake's ice shows its changing character by early March, ranging from thick, stubborn sheets to cracking corridors that beckon the bold. The derby typically runs during this transitional window — when ice is thinning but still solid enough to support the weight of hopeful fishermen and women prowling for early-season walleye and northern pike.

Located just outside the cozy town of Spicer, the event offers easy access via maintained lakeshore roads and designated fishing spots that balance opportunity with safety. Expect to trek across a flat, hard-packed surface of ice ranging from 6 to 12 inches thick, measuring about half a mile across, with the occasional ripple of a warming breeze hinting at spring’s persistence. The surrounding sounds are crisp: ice cracking underfoot, the distant calls of waterfowl returning, and the periodic splash of a fish breaking the water’s surface.

Preparation is practical: sturdy insulated boots with good grip are a must as surfaces can be slick and uneven. Dress in layered, waterproof clothing—temperatures hover near freezing, but movement warms the body quickly. Bring portable seats or harness some patience while standing; the derby can last from early morning till mid-afternoon, so hydration and snacks keep spirits and strength up.

The derby isn’t just a community tradition but a gateway to understanding Minnesota’s aquatic ecosystems at a fragile moment. Fish actively respond to the changing light and temperature, making timing your catch a subtle game of observation. Local experts suggest sunrise as prime time — the ice and water interplay with early light, stirring fish into profitable activity.

Safety briefing is standard protocol—always check ice conditions with local authorities, and never stray too far from marked zones. This environment is fiercely itself: the ice can shift, the wind can bite, and the currents below push forward with unseen strength.

Post-derby, Spicer’s town embraces visitors with warm eateries, where you can thaw out and share stories of near-catches and icy moments. While the Ice Out Fishing Derby has a strong competitive streak, it’s ultimately an invitation to engage with nature at a threshold, where patience, preparedness, and respect for the environment bring rewards beyond the weigh-in.

For anyone drawn to seasons’ edge, this derby pairs practical challenge with a slice of Minnesota’s wild rhythm—a reason enough to mark a calendar and cast a line.