ESCANABA — Delta County has become a hub of activity this winter, as Little Bay de Noc is buzzing with ice anglers from near and far. After several years of inconsistent ice conditions, we finally have the perfect season for ice fishing, sparking renewed excitement among avid anglers.

The interest in Delta County as an ice fishing destination has always been strong, but recent years of poor ice limited participation. With this year’s optimal conditions, anglers are making the most of it, and the community is responding in stride.

Visit Escanaba has worked diligently to promote our area’s world-class fishing opportunities across the Midwest. Recognizing a surge in website traffic related to ice fishing and a promising early-season weather forecast, we strategically invested in targeted advertising and content campaigns to raise awareness. This initiative included a November blog that highlighted the promising winter forecast and encouraged anglers to start planning their trips to Delta County, alongside several other targeted strategies.

But this success isn’t ours alone. Local businesses, fishing guides, and passionate community members have been instrumental in showcasing Delta County through stunning social media content, spreading the word about the unforgettable ice fishing experiences available here. Their contributions, paired with Visit Escanaba’s efforts, have created a wave of attention.

Recently, Visit Escanaba hosted recognized ice fishing influencer Krysten Potega, whose visit included stunning videos and posts highlighting Little Bay de Noc. Her content has already reached millions of viewers, introducing countless potential visitors to the beauty and bounty of our region. Her collaboration has not only showcased our fisheries but also amplified the work being done by locals who continue to champion our area’s assets.

The surge in activity on the ice isn’t just a win for anglers, it’s a boost for our local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses are benefiting from the influx of visitors. This collective effort, blending targeted promotions with authentic community-driven content, underscores the power of collaboration in positioning Delta County as a premier destination for outdoor recreation.

As the season continues, we’re optimistic about the ripple effects of this momentum, both for this winter and for the years ahead. Together, we’re strengthening Delta County’s reputation and ensuring that the area remains a vibrant and thriving destination for locals and visitors alike.

— Robert Micheau is CEO of Visit Escanaba