Most of the perch you'll encounter will be 8- to 10-inch "eaters," but the lake also gives up some foot-long jumbos with regularity.

For more information on bait shops and accommodations in the area, contact the Curtis Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at 1-800-652-8784, or go online to www.manistiquelakesarea.com

LAKE GOGEBIC
If you want to get a jump on the perch ice-fishing season, head to Lake Gogebic in the western U.P. Actually, you can probably head out for some ice-fishing on this lake after you finish your Thanksgiving dinner! Winter comes early to this part of Michigan.

Some of the best perch action of the year on Lake Gogebic is on first ice. The fish are relatively shallow then and actively feeding. Good places to prospect are on either end in 10 to 20 feet of water, and around the abundant fish shelters placed around the lake. As winter deepens, the perch schools concentrate in the deeper water in the center of the lake.

Wigglers are a favorite food of Lake Gogebic perch, and they have been known to follow foraging schools of suckers that stir up the bottom and expose the wigglers. But don't forget to try a good-sized minnow when wigglers aren't producing. Expect to catch plenty of yellowbellies up to a foot long, plus some bonus walleyes.

For more information on perch ice-fishing opportunities on Lake Gogebic, contact Nine Pines Resort at (906) 842-3361.

* * * I can't think of anything better than a heaping platter of golden perch filets. Make sure you get some this winter!