PERFECT DINNER AFTER A DAY ON ICE,

Pro Team Memeber Brenton Zitka

knew the family would need a good meal after a day of ice fishing, Fish fillets batter dipped and fried is the standard, but Brenton knew they would want something more substantial- how about a hardy chowder? A good Chowder is the perfect meal to restore energy and get you ready for another day on the ice. Here's a great recipe to try next time you have a "mess of panfish":

PANFISH CHOWDER Ingredients:

• 6 bacon strips, cut to 1-inch pieces

• 2/3 cup chopped onion and 1/2 cup chopped celery

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 2 cups water

• 1/2 cup chopped carrots

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon dill weed

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

• 1 pound crappie, perch, or bluegill fillets cut into 1-inch chunks

• 1 cup half-and-half cream

Directions:

- In a 3-qt. saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towels; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings.

- Sautee onion and celery in reserved drippings until tender.

- Add the potatoes, water, carrots, parsley, lemon juice and seasonings.

- Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.

- Add fish and bacon; simmer for 5 minutes or just until fish flakes with a fork. Add cream and heat through.

Serve with or without your favorite oyster crackers.