Perch action on lakefront hit and miss

Regulars working Chicago's lakefront aren't overly thrilled with the results they're getting in the yellow perch department.

Those in the know usually get their limits around this time of the year, especially while throwing lures and bait from Navy Pier, but the action is slow there.

Then there's the Montrose Harbor scenario, where fisherman Ted Kazlowski seems to have a magic touch. Ted and his colorful Euro-Larvae apparently tease the fish to bite, and he's been fortunate to have enough decent-sized perch for his regular Friday night eat-fests.

In the meantime, here's the latest word from the ice squads:

Fox Chain: Darrell Baker reports very good bluegill and crappie action from Channel Lake's south end. Petite Lake is giving up some very decent northern pike, and Channel's north end in deeper water is providing walleye action.

Pistakee Lake bluegills are on a tear, with 7- to 9-inch fish coming in. Now is the time to hit Nielsen's Channels, both the back area at Herman's Landing and the main channel on the front side for bluegills and crappies.

Forest preserves: For both Cook and DuPage County ponds and lakes, the word for the day is caution. If you are that eager to try ice fishing, you had better guard against soft ice and open areas. The official word has not come down from either county headquarters about safe conditions.

Close call: Be thankful living where you do right now. All Marlene Todd, a Deadwood, S.D., resident wanted to do was relax in her hot tub. As she started to enjoy the soothing effects of the tub, she heard noises behind her. She turned and was astonished when she saw a mountain lion less than a foot from her. She jumped at the same time the lion jumped over the tub and headed for parts unknown.

A police investigator, according to a news report, speculated the mountain lion had been stalking deer in the neighborhood.