This was one glimpse of the scene yesterday at Willow Slough. But similar scenes are repeated across the area.

ICE FISHING: The Chain continues to see the most effort and action with ice building and fishable areas spreading. I ran a list of public access points for the Chain in the online Midwest Fishing Report Wednesday. Hermann's reported still some good action at Nielsen's.

I would have expected Willow Slough to be better, but it was on the tough side Thursday, maybe the incoming weather will kick in the bite.

speaking of incoming weather, I would hope it is not enough to insulate and knock out the ice at places like the Slough.

PERCH FISHING: Size could be better, but the action continues to be very good, as faithful reader Russ among many others indicated, especially at Montrose, Belmont and Navy Pier. It could make for some interesting ice fishing when ice sets up in the Chicago harbors in a few weeks or next month.

SNOWSHOEING SPECIAL: Not sure there will be enough snow come down this weekend to make it doable, but this is a nice option for those who snowshoe and a good thing to remember, especially if you live in the western suburbs.

The Morton Arboretum offers snowshoeing during the season. Visitors may use their own snowshoes from 7 a.m. to sunset or rent some (when there is four inches or more of snow) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rental cost is $8 for up to three hours, discounts for members.

FAMILY NATURE: Volo Bog in Ingleside is one of the neater natural spots around. There will be guided tours on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. Call (815) 344-1294 or go to dnr.state.il.us/education/INTERPRT/Intro.htm.

HUNTING NOTE: Common snipe hunting ends Sunday. I have to admit I do not know a single person who hunts them.

GOOSE HUNTING: Very simply, the time is now for hunters in northeast Illinois

ARCHERY TOURNAMENT: On Saturday: there's a Round Robin 2, 600 rd, at the Lincoln Park Archery Club at Pulaski Park fieldhouse. Open practice begins at 9 a.m.. Go to lincolnparkarcheryclub.org/events.html

PERSONAL PICKS: I did some ice fishing on Thursday, but I am debating more of that somewhere this weekend or perch fishing at Navy Pier or Montrose.

With the snow and considering how worthless the Bears are, the family will probably make some outdoor trek on Sunday. Just don't know where yet. There's something in the spirit of the season to hike in the snow.

Otherwise, I suspect holiday obligations will tie up the weekend.