Fishing Reports

Walleye, northern, crappies and bluegills all putting on aggressive bites, and super savvy deer hunters starting to do some early pre-season scouting, in and amidst the lakes and the Wisconsin River of Wisconsin's Marathon and Lincoln Counties (near Mosinee and Wausau).

Near perfect conditions for ice anglers in Central Wisconsin, as great fishing continues on lakes, impoundments, local backwaters, and the mighty Wisconsin River.

Follow up:

Regardless of apparent ice conditions, ice anglers must remember that CAUTION is always the watchword!

Walleyes in the Central Wisconsin area are showing up in shallow back water areas, and are aggressively taking shiners under tip ups in 2 to 4 feet of water during low light conditions. The same set ups are working very well for northerns during daylight hours. Anglers must be prepared to lose a few northerns if they don't switch up to a heavy leader when the northern bite is on.

Crappies and bluegills continue to hit hard in the Central Wisconsin area. Look for both species to be hanging in and around submergent weed beds in 4 to 8 feet of water. Find the weed edge, or any open pocket in the weeds and you will find fish. Marmooska jigs tipped with waxies or rocker style jigs tipped with small minnows or spikes will catch fish all day long.

The most savvy and successful deer hunters in the Central Wisconsin area know that now is the time to "take a walk in the woods." With near perfect conditions for trekking the woods, area hunters can move into deer bedding areas to locate shed antlers, and rub lines from last season. They can also locate hot trails that are currently being used without worrying about spooking deer for next season. Pre-season scouting at this time of year can possibly lead you into the biggest buck of your life.

(This report based on interview with licensed guide and trapper Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Service, Mosinee. Wisconsin).