It's getting closer to open water fishing season and I've began to look through the anglers guide for some year round ponds to go to so I can start my year early. Crystal lake in stafford caught my eye when it said "Season: Open 6 am 3rd saturday in April-March 31." I already knew of the amount of trout they stock in there, and I assumed before stumbling upon this article that it was the usual 3rd saturday in april to last day in february deal. But I'm really interested to find out if you can actually fish the lake until the end of march because I'd like to try for trout and prespawn bass(catch and release both of course). But I am also wondering how well the lake ices out in march because lots of ice in the middle of the lake could be something to consider. Any info would be appreciated 
Of course its all dependent on weather.I know they were still icefishin yesterday.My daughter lives on the lake so if you would like periodic updates I could do that.Yes, you can fish til end of March there.Lots and lots of slot trout so it gets kinda stupid after a while.
I have fished Crystal Lake the past 10 years on opening day no mater the the weather. I have caught my limit about 90 percent of the time. The main thin is get here early if you are using a boat the ramp only hold about 12 trailers an 50 to 100 boat will show up depending on the weather. I you need info on how the catch the trout or salmon stop by crystal lake outfitters on RT 140.