First Ice Jamboree a success

O’Leary’s Lake Recreation Area was busier Saturday than on many a summer weekend. Some visitors walked out onto the frozen lake for ice fishing, while others  stayed on shore, eating, drinking and playing games. The first Ice Jamboree, hosted by Eagle Point Fishing BARge, was largely put on for fun, according to organizers, but also served in part as a fundraiser and means of raising awareness for the recreation area, which is located on the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi River near Lock and Dam No. 11. Organizer Ash Lawrence said any proceeds from the event would go to future improvements at O’Leary’s Lake. Lawrence said another event would take place during Wisconsin’s Free Fishing Weekend, June 7 and 8, and that his team would look for sponsorships to make future events even more successful.