I had the same issue with perch most of last winter. Tried less traveled lakes with same result. Lots and lots of lookers but few takers. I haven't been out this year yet to I can't comment on that, but last winter was frustrating for me!!
I was wondering this as well. Aren't anglers charged if their vehicle goes through the ice for the recovery effort? I would think there would be a fee for getting stranded but maybe not. If it was me I sure hope there wouldn't be...haha
Yeah I've been thinking this exact thing for a couple years now. Then they went and remodeled the whole store!! Drive by Gander on a Saturday and they'll be some cars, drive by Scheel's on the other hand you can barely find a parking spot.....it's crayz they're still open