THE BIG CHILL. Cold conditions continue today as we emerge from a post-Christmas-dinner coma.  No matter if it was turkey, ham or venison, it’s back to chilly reality as ice conditions improve and sub-zero highs keep us all inside.  Get those rods and tip-ups ready, however, as a warm up a week out looks to get us back into the thick of it and on thicker ice. We talk about that and more in today’s Three Things.

(Featured Photo:  A whitetail doe bristles against the winter cold. Simonson Photo)

DAILY CONDITIONS:

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today:  Tue 12/26 – Continued Cold. Hi -5, Lo -17. Winds NW@10.
Tomorrow: Wed 12/27 – “Warm” Up. Hi 5, Lo -17 Winds SE@7.

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):
Sunrise: 8:27AM Sunset: 5:01PM
Moonrise: 1:05PM Moonset 12:31 AM
Overhead: 7:17PM Underfoot: 6:53AM
Moon Phase: First Quarter @ 3:20AM

EDGE HOUR:   1:00-2:00PM. – Stretch your Christmas break out and catch the warmest part of the day on ice in today’s Edge Hour along with a bump in the bite from moon overhead.

DAY RATING:

THREE THINGS.

BUILDING UP.  With temperatures dropping well below zero over a 60-hour span, strong ice is building.  In fact, it is estimated that as much as half an inch per day can be added when the temps stay below the doughnut. Expect stronger, safer ice by the time we get back above zero on Wednesday, but take into account moving water, wind and other factors when calculating the build on your favorite lake.

FOR THE BIRDS. While Christmas day might have been cold for you, imagine how it felt for area wildlife.  As part of the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count, surveyors across the U.S. tallied up their sightings on the holiday.  Learn more about this growing tradition from the Audubon Society.

SMOKE ‘EM. Did you get a smoker for Christmas?  Check out all the great recipes for wild game, and other meats in the smoking meat forums.  A great way to learn from experienced meat masters, this group helps everyone from any background – electric, wood, or propane – when it comes to smoking.

Stay Sharp!