The Ice is Nice and the Cocoa is Hot
News! Hefty Logger (aka The Owner’s Residence) is available to rent starting mid-June this year! Check availability online or just give us a call to work out the details.
Welcome to the very first edition of the "Tim Berbay Bulletin." Whether you’re currently thawing your toes by one of our fireplaces or reading this from your office desk dreaming of the Northwoods, I’m glad you tuned in.
It is January 15, 2026, and let me tell you, winter has settled in on Birch Lake like a heavy wool blanket. It is crisp, it is white, and it is absolutely silent out there—until someone yells "Flag up!" on the ice, of course.
Here is the lowdown on what is happening in our neck of the woods this week.
On The (Hard) Water
The lake is locked up tight, and the "hard water" anglers are out in force.
Current Conditions
We’re seeing solid ice across the main bays, but please stop by the office to check the Dock Log for the latest measurements before you head out with a vehicle. Ice is never 100% safe, so let’s keep it smart out there.
"Pro & Joe" Fishing Tips
For the Pros: The Walleye are feeling a bit lethargic with this pressure system. Downsize your presentation. Try a 1/8 oz spoon tipped with a minnow head, and focus on the transition zones in 18-22 feet of water. Use your electronics to find them hugging the bottom.
For the Families: Keep it simple! Set up a tip-up (that’s the rig with the little flag) with a lively minnow about a foot off the bottom. When that flag pops up, it’s a footrace to see who gets to pull it in!
On The Trail
Conditions
The Taconite Spur and the Prospectors Loop are groomed and riding beautifully. We had fresh powder earlier this week, so the corners are soft and the straightaways are fast.
Activity
If you aren't on a sled, grab a pair of snowshoes. The treks around the resort perimeter are packed down enough for easy walking, but deep enough off-trail for a workout.
Tim’s "Secret Spot" of the Week
Location
The "Narrows" leading into Keeley Creek (check your map!).
Experience
In the summer, this is flowing water. Right now, it’s a frozen corridor of trees. It is the best spot on the lake to snowshoe at sunset. The wind usually dies down there, and if you stay quiet, you might just see a timber wolf crossing the ice.
Kidz Club Corner 🐾
Alright, junior rangers, here is your mission for the week: The Great Track Hunt. Because of the fresh snow, the animals are leaving evidence everywhere.
Challenge
Find a set of tracks that aren't made by a human or a dog. Take a picture (or draw it!) and bring it to the Trading Post.
Tim’s Hint
Look for the tiny prints of the red squirrels near the pine trees, or the long "slide" marks where otters play near the shore. First kid to identify a deer track gets a high-five and a treat from the shop!
Weekend Outlook
If you feel like popping into town (though I don't know why you'd leave the fire!), there’s plenty going on:
Ely
The International Wolf Center is running their "What's for Dinner?" program this Saturday—perfect for seeing the pack active in the winter. Link
Giants Ridge
If you need some downhill speed, the slopes are 100% open just down the road. Link
Join Us in the Snow
The Bent Paddle cabin has a fireplace that is practically begging for a pair of cold socks to warm up. We have a rare opening mid-week next week if you need to escape the grind and breathe some of this clean, cold air. Give us a call—we’ll keep the driveway plowed for ya.
Stay warm and keep your stick on the ice!
