Fishing Report: Bite is still good

NORTHERN WISCONSIN – While the ice fishing season is hanging on, the winter storm over the weekend and the several inches of fresh snow have made conditions a little trickier.

Travel on the lakes will be messy, especially in the afternoons, but thanks to consistently cold nighttime temps, mornings will still offer firmer footing – just plan accordingly.

As always, caution is key this time of year! The shorelines are really changing quickly, especially on those sunny and windy days.

We’re still seeing good ice thickness across most lakes, ranging from 15 to 25 inches, but warm days ahead and heavy wet snow mean runoff and slush are increasing fast. Be especially careful near inlets, outlets and anywhere current flows through – like the channels on the Chain – where ice can thin quickly.

The upside? The bite is still good!

Crappies are staying active along shallow weed edges in shallow water of about five to eight feet. Mornings and evenings continue to produce best. Small, bright and flashy vertical jigs tipped with waxies or crappie minnows remain the top choice.

Bluegills are being found a bit deeper, but we’re also hearing of good shallow action as the fish move up to those shorelines for the increased oxygen from melting snow. Use light tackle and a small jig tipped with waxies or red spikes for best results.

Perch fishing is solid, and we’re seeing more movement into the shallows. Larger rosy reds are still the bait of choice if you’re targeting size over quantity. Deeper mud flats are still productive, but shallower water is heating up – literally and figuratively.

This week’s snow cover may actually prolong the ice season just a bit by insulating the surface and slowing melt-off. Still, it’s officially ice transition season, so check conditions often and avoid solo ventures.

Now’s also a great time to prep for open water. Start going through your rods and reels, change out old line and repair any gear that took a hit last year. With any luck, we’ll be on the water not long after we’re off the ice. If you’re going out to grab those last-of-the-season panfish, be careful!

Good luck and good fishin’!