Just need the weather to stabilize a bit. Stay Tuned.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Flows and Temperatures are increasing:
Rock River fishing is set to get started:
Just need the weather to stabilize a bit. Stay Tuned.
Just need the weather to stabilize a bit. Stay Tuned.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
Fishing Report 2-20-12
Ice fishing continues in our area, but be careful, more people went through on Beaver Dam this weekend. I imagine ice conditions to be getting worse each day, especially with daytime temps into the mid-to-high 40s.
Fortunately, open water fishing is starting. The Wisconsin River in the Dells is giving up keeper walleyes already. John Gillespie's TV show was there this weekend, and anglers are heading out. The water is still very cold, and still fishing with live bait appears to be the best way to catch fish.
Closer to home, reports on Lake-Link are indicating sections of the Rock River are opening up. Unless winter decides to drop back in for a visit, the river should be open for fishing soon. Obviously it is very early, but that's no reason not to check out my post on Rock River Information Resources. If the weather holds, I hope to be out next week for an initial scouting. The graphs show low water, light flows and very cold temperatures. A good solid rain will get the Rock pumping, and the fish will start biting shortly thereafter.
If you're heading out on the ice, its time to start moving toward marshy areas in search of monster pike. It is still a bit early, but with ice conditions what they are, your opportunities will be limited this season. Big Bait in shallow marshy areas is a winning combo for big pre-spawn pike. Golden Lake, The Crane's Nest, Whitigers Bay or Tierney on Okauchee, all of School Section, the western flat of Lower Genessee, outside of the channels on Nag and the northwest corner of Lower Nehmabin are tradtionally the best spots to ice a trophy.
Good Luck,
CT
Fortunately, open water fishing is starting. The Wisconsin River in the Dells is giving up keeper walleyes already. John Gillespie's TV show was there this weekend, and anglers are heading out. The water is still very cold, and still fishing with live bait appears to be the best way to catch fish.
Closer to home, reports on Lake-Link are indicating sections of the Rock River are opening up. Unless winter decides to drop back in for a visit, the river should be open for fishing soon. Obviously it is very early, but that's no reason not to check out my post on Rock River Information Resources. If the weather holds, I hope to be out next week for an initial scouting. The graphs show low water, light flows and very cold temperatures. A good solid rain will get the Rock pumping, and the fish will start biting shortly thereafter.
If you're heading out on the ice, its time to start moving toward marshy areas in search of monster pike. It is still a bit early, but with ice conditions what they are, your opportunities will be limited this season. Big Bait in shallow marshy areas is a winning combo for big pre-spawn pike. Golden Lake, The Crane's Nest, Whitigers Bay or Tierney on Okauchee, all of School Section, the western flat of Lower Genessee, outside of the channels on Nag and the northwest corner of Lower Nehmabin are tradtionally the best spots to ice a trophy.
Good Luck,
CT
Rock River Resources: Spring 2012
Each spring, I make a post that sums up your Rock-River resources.
Fishing Report Links:
Links to JSOnline Articles about Fishing the Rock River in Springtime:
Fishing Report Links:
Water Resources Links:
Public Boat Launches:
Water Street
There's also a new boat launch by the dam in Jefferson:
There's also a new boat launch by the dam in Jefferson:
 |
| (Thanks to Lake-Link's Backwoods43 for the map image) |
Links to JSOnline Articles about Fishing the Rock River in Springtime:
Link to the fish passage camera:
Friday, February 10, 2012
What's happening....
My son Shannon had a half day of school today, so we did what a father and son should do on a snowy day, we went to State Fair Park to the 20th Annual Milwaukee Muskie Expo.
Met and talked with lots of people. Saw a really innovative piece of boat hardware in the MACCCCS Inc Net Holder. It's not available yet, but the display and demo were impressive.
Lots of interesting tackle. Rollie and Hellen's have a huge booth again this year. Also got a chance to chat with Beaver from Jerry's Sport Service about a new boat. I'm considering upgrading to a Lund Impact, to expand my guiding options.
One of my favorite musky lure outfits, Thuja Lures wasn't at the show, but Charlie did send over some a picture of his new topwaters today. He's been working closely with the folks over at Smokey's to refine his process and colors. Check these out.....
I've had good success with Thuja topwaters on our local lakes, especially on Okauchee, Garvin and Oconomowoc Lakes. They are handcrafted wood designs, so they have some mass, but I like the size profile and the action on the ones I have, especially my Bog-Hog globe.
Stay warm and safe....open water is just around the corner.
Cheers,
CT
Met and talked with lots of people. Saw a really innovative piece of boat hardware in the MACCCCS Inc Net Holder. It's not available yet, but the display and demo were impressive.
Lots of interesting tackle. Rollie and Hellen's have a huge booth again this year. Also got a chance to chat with Beaver from Jerry's Sport Service about a new boat. I'm considering upgrading to a Lund Impact, to expand my guiding options.
One of my favorite musky lure outfits, Thuja Lures wasn't at the show, but Charlie did send over some a picture of his new topwaters today. He's been working closely with the folks over at Smokey's to refine his process and colors. Check these out.....
I've had good success with Thuja topwaters on our local lakes, especially on Okauchee, Garvin and Oconomowoc Lakes. They are handcrafted wood designs, so they have some mass, but I like the size profile and the action on the ones I have, especially my Bog-Hog globe.
Stay warm and safe....open water is just around the corner.
Cheers,
CT
Friday, February 3, 2012
Ice Fishing this weekend (Fishing Report 2-3-12)
Everyone,
Lots of jamborees this weekend, and ice conditions are getting pretty sketchy. Just be careful if you're heading out.
Panfish are biting a couple times a day in green weeds in 4-8 feet of water. Smaller seems to be the operative word for presentations this season.
Pike are still biting aggresively, especially the smaller fish. This is classic pre-spawn behavior. Look for them on the edges of weeds or adjacent to drop offs. Medium shiners or suckers will do the job for the aggressive fish, but dead bait is catching the larger fish. I recommend a 2-1 Livebait-deadbait spread on your tip ups.
I have heard the best reports from people on Okauchee, Moose (be super careful), Golden, Silver, Pretty and Forest. Nag has also been pretty active, as have the Nashotah and Genessee Lakes.
Open water fishing continues to be hot in the Milwaukee Harbor. Browns and Lakers are being caught by boat and shore anglers.
The Rock River is still iced in, but if you want to give the Wisconsin River a try, people heading out below the dam have been catching some quality fish. Last reports indicated the river was open from the dam to the cables, and that some nice pre-spawn fish were being caught out of slack water.
If you're heading out this weekend, feel free to call or email me for up to date info.
Good Luck. Be Safe and Cheers.
CT
Lots of jamborees this weekend, and ice conditions are getting pretty sketchy. Just be careful if you're heading out.
Panfish are biting a couple times a day in green weeds in 4-8 feet of water. Smaller seems to be the operative word for presentations this season.
Pike are still biting aggresively, especially the smaller fish. This is classic pre-spawn behavior. Look for them on the edges of weeds or adjacent to drop offs. Medium shiners or suckers will do the job for the aggressive fish, but dead bait is catching the larger fish. I recommend a 2-1 Livebait-deadbait spread on your tip ups.
I have heard the best reports from people on Okauchee, Moose (be super careful), Golden, Silver, Pretty and Forest. Nag has also been pretty active, as have the Nashotah and Genessee Lakes.
Open water fishing continues to be hot in the Milwaukee Harbor. Browns and Lakers are being caught by boat and shore anglers.
The Rock River is still iced in, but if you want to give the Wisconsin River a try, people heading out below the dam have been catching some quality fish. Last reports indicated the river was open from the dam to the cables, and that some nice pre-spawn fish were being caught out of slack water.
If you're heading out this weekend, feel free to call or email me for up to date info.
Good Luck. Be Safe and Cheers.
CT
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Public Service Message---The Update
Update (2-1-12): The folks at Lake-Link.Com are now rethinking the event on Delevan a bit.
New Details are available here.
I'd be real careful if heading out to any of the Jamborees scheduled for this weekend.
New Details are available here.
I'd be real careful if heading out to any of the Jamborees scheduled for this weekend.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Public Service Message
Lake Link.com's Jamboree is this weekend. With the weather being as unseasonal as it has been, lots of anglers are asking about ice conditions on Delevan.
Here's a post they put up this morning.
Cheers,
CT
PS. Dave Duwe knows his stuff, but after a couple of days in the 50 degree range, there's no way I'd be heading out there. Be safe.
Here's a post they put up this morning.
Cheers,
CT
PS. Dave Duwe knows his stuff, but after a couple of days in the 50 degree range, there's no way I'd be heading out there. Be safe.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Shaky Ice Conditions
It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially when ice fishing. Lots of people are pressing their luck right now and men and gear are going through.
Madison area lakes are being declared unsafe by the DNR, and UW-Madison has warned students about fishing in the area in front of the student union.
Closer to home, atv riders went through on Okauchee last night. Temperatures this week are projected to be in the mid 40's at times, so there's going to be movement in the ice that's there.
Stay safe if you're heading out.
Cheers,
CT
Madison area lakes are being declared unsafe by the DNR, and UW-Madison has warned students about fishing in the area in front of the student union.
Closer to home, atv riders went through on Okauchee last night. Temperatures this week are projected to be in the mid 40's at times, so there's going to be movement in the ice that's there.
Stay safe if you're heading out.
Cheers,
CT
Friday, January 20, 2012
Fishing Report 1-20-12
Here's some info from Greg at Musky Mikes. Looks like most people are hitting the smaller lakes. Becky Smith's report at her shop's page from earlier this week (dated 1-18-12) says pretty much the same thing.
My info isn't much different. Because of ice conditions before the freeze this week, most people have been out in the protected areas/shallow bays/small lakes. Now that we've had a solid deep freeze, expect to see some movement to bigger water.
Stay safe. The snow is covering up some sketchy ice. Standard rules apply: PFD, Buddy System and spud bar use.
Here's what I got in over the last two-three days. Getting a little more specific info this week.
Okauchee: Icehouse has between 3-8 inches. Pike have been very good along the south shore cut, just past the drop off. A few larger pike have come off the deeper water around the sandbar-roadbed area at the mouth. A few crappies are in the deeper hole just inside the bay. Bluegill action has been spotty.
Okauchee: Bay Five Ice goes from solid to sketchy, especially in areas where the current is directly flowing in and off of the main channel. Pike have been very active, but smaller. Bluegills are biting a couple times a day, and stacked up over the larger brushpiles/wood laydowns. No word on crappies.
Golden: Pike are active on the south end. Ice on North end was shifting some, and a little thin in spots. Panfish would bit if you could find them, but the larger schools of keepers are suspending off the deep weed edge areas in 15 FOW.
Silver: Lots of people have been out, but reports have been a little thin in terms of action. Smaller gills and a few undersize pike. One guy I talked with, who is a pretty reliable source said he couldn't keep the bass off his tip-up minnows the other day, but he never caught one over 12 inches.
Kessus: Other than reports of a monster pike (it gets a little bigger each time I hear a different person talk about it now-it went from a 36" to a 41" in a matter of minutes) that have been making the rounds, bluegills seem to be the hot action on Kessus. Shallow ends of the bays and the marshy area have been productive.
Nagawicka: Kettle...I know its been busy, but none of the people I have talked with have been out there. Becky's people at Dick Smiths or Greg at Musky Mikes will have better information.
Ashippun: Always a winter sleeper, Ashippun has been providing some decent action for pike. Ice reports are that it goes from solid to thin in a matter of feet, so be careful, but look for pike in the reedy area near the launch. Gills and crappies have been out deep and on the bottom.
Good Luck...and be safe...
CT
PS...scroll down for a special offer for this year's open water season.
My info isn't much different. Because of ice conditions before the freeze this week, most people have been out in the protected areas/shallow bays/small lakes. Now that we've had a solid deep freeze, expect to see some movement to bigger water.
Stay safe. The snow is covering up some sketchy ice. Standard rules apply: PFD, Buddy System and spud bar use.
Here's what I got in over the last two-three days. Getting a little more specific info this week.
Okauchee: Icehouse has between 3-8 inches. Pike have been very good along the south shore cut, just past the drop off. A few larger pike have come off the deeper water around the sandbar-roadbed area at the mouth. A few crappies are in the deeper hole just inside the bay. Bluegill action has been spotty.
Okauchee: Bay Five Ice goes from solid to sketchy, especially in areas where the current is directly flowing in and off of the main channel. Pike have been very active, but smaller. Bluegills are biting a couple times a day, and stacked up over the larger brushpiles/wood laydowns. No word on crappies.
Golden: Pike are active on the south end. Ice on North end was shifting some, and a little thin in spots. Panfish would bit if you could find them, but the larger schools of keepers are suspending off the deep weed edge areas in 15 FOW.
Silver: Lots of people have been out, but reports have been a little thin in terms of action. Smaller gills and a few undersize pike. One guy I talked with, who is a pretty reliable source said he couldn't keep the bass off his tip-up minnows the other day, but he never caught one over 12 inches.
Kessus: Other than reports of a monster pike (it gets a little bigger each time I hear a different person talk about it now-it went from a 36" to a 41" in a matter of minutes) that have been making the rounds, bluegills seem to be the hot action on Kessus. Shallow ends of the bays and the marshy area have been productive.
Nagawicka: Kettle...I know its been busy, but none of the people I have talked with have been out there. Becky's people at Dick Smiths or Greg at Musky Mikes will have better information.
Ashippun: Always a winter sleeper, Ashippun has been providing some decent action for pike. Ice reports are that it goes from solid to thin in a matter of feet, so be careful, but look for pike in the reedy area near the launch. Gills and crappies have been out deep and on the bottom.
Good Luck...and be safe...
CT
PS...scroll down for a special offer for this year's open water season.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
2012 Bookings -Special Pre-Season Pricing
I like to use this blog to share information with local fisherman, but part of that process is the guiding that I do.
I'm currently looking ahead to this open water season, and while I have several trips booked with my year to year regulars, I'd like to take this opportunity to extend a special deal to anyone interested in a fishing trip with me during the open water season.
If you book a date with me for this season before March 15th, I'll take you on a half day trip in April-September (5-6 hours) for just $200. The trip will be a multispecies outing on a body of water we agree on, and you have to send me a check or paypal me a deposit to hold your day.
I'll entertain specific requests for individually, but I'd like to think of these trips as a "fishing lesson" as much as a guided outing. Don't mistake my intentions, we'll catch fish when we go, just like anytime you fish with me.
Other guides in our area specialize in taking you out to catch fish their way, (typically slow trolling with live bait) but I recognize that the real service I can provide you with is to teach you how to catch fish on our local lakes. That's a little different than what most guides do when you are out with them. But the best service I have provided to clients in the past, whether on the water or in the baitshop has been to share my knowledge with people in order to help them improve their own skill sets.
If you're interested in booking one of these trips at the special price (about 20% off last years rate), email me or give me a call.
Cheers,
CT
I'm currently looking ahead to this open water season, and while I have several trips booked with my year to year regulars, I'd like to take this opportunity to extend a special deal to anyone interested in a fishing trip with me during the open water season.
If you book a date with me for this season before March 15th, I'll take you on a half day trip in April-September (5-6 hours) for just $200. The trip will be a multispecies outing on a body of water we agree on, and you have to send me a check or paypal me a deposit to hold your day.
I'll entertain specific requests for individually, but I'd like to think of these trips as a "fishing lesson" as much as a guided outing. Don't mistake my intentions, we'll catch fish when we go, just like anytime you fish with me.
Other guides in our area specialize in taking you out to catch fish their way, (typically slow trolling with live bait) but I recognize that the real service I can provide you with is to teach you how to catch fish on our local lakes. That's a little different than what most guides do when you are out with them. But the best service I have provided to clients in the past, whether on the water or in the baitshop has been to share my knowledge with people in order to help them improve their own skill sets.
If you're interested in booking one of these trips at the special price (about 20% off last years rate), email me or give me a call.
Cheers,
CT
Friday, January 13, 2012
Fishing and Ice Update 1-13-12
Not much new to report, but before I get to it, just a word of caution about the ice. Last nights snow is going to cover up some questionable ice. It will be colder now (no more 60 degree days in January) so the ice will firm up, especially during the cold overnights, but until we've had a little more of this seasonal weather, continue to be careful.
One of the most common places people go through is near the shore where people are entering or leaving the ice. These places get alot of foot traffic, and can be soft even with surrounding ice being plenty safe. I went through one year as the last guy in line after a group walking off all used the same spot to exit. Take it from me, going through is not only scary and dangerous, but a cold and wet walk back sucks big time.
In terms of fishing, I'd stick to the smaller bodies of water. Bluegills seem to be moving a bit, so be ready to be portable, but shallow bays with green weeds will have active fish. Bay Five and just off the sandbar in Ice House have been giving up some keepers, as well as Forest, the west cut on Moose, Silver, Golden (South Flat), Middle Geneesee and School Section. Lots of people have been talking about the Kettle on Nag, but it's been hit or miss by the sound of it. Gills love teardrop jigs with waxies or spikes, but wigglers on a tiny hook can really grab some short biters. I'd try to fish just above the weeds, but consider using a spring bobber for light biters.
Crappie are moving into areas adjacent to current. This is a seasonal pattern for winter crappies here. Look for shallow depressions or holes just off the main current area. Green weeds or shallow sand grass will pull them in, but fish attractors, stumps or laydowns will likely have some active fish. I heard some good words about crappie on Golden and Okauchee, but it sounded like the hotspots the last week were Lower Nehmabin and Upper Nashotah.
As for pike, tipups with medium sized live bait (shiners or suckers) will generate the most action. Deeper areas of weed flats will be holding some fish, as well as the first break line into deep water. You might also find some yellow perch in the same areas. Be careful as you head over deeper water, but that's where the big girls are hiding right now. Smelt works awesome this time of year, but when you put your spread out, try both live and dead bait as some days the fish prefer one over the other. I usally try to go 2-1 favoring live bait per three tipups and then adjust as the fish tell me what they want.
Walleye were biting great in the Dells, but you'll need the boat if you're heading up that way. A few fish are also being caught off the walls along the open water areas of the Rock River in Jefferson and Ft Atkinson. Closer to home, the nearshore areas of Lac Labelle and the shallow flats off the park on
Fowler both gave up some fish according to my sources.
Speaking of the boat, Ben Kueng is still guiding in the Milwaukee Harbor area. It sounds like the fishing has been pretty good, although I don't know how long it will be that way. If you're interested in heading out with him, there's a link to his website on the right hand column. That's fun fishing out there for sure, but I don't guide out there. He's a great guy, and make sure you tell him I sent you his way.
If the cold sticks around, expect things to get very good over the next week to 10 days. More people will be out, and better info comes in then.
.
Good Luck and Be Safe,
CT
Update: Looks like Becky Smith just did an update at her report as well. You can check it out here.
One of the most common places people go through is near the shore where people are entering or leaving the ice. These places get alot of foot traffic, and can be soft even with surrounding ice being plenty safe. I went through one year as the last guy in line after a group walking off all used the same spot to exit. Take it from me, going through is not only scary and dangerous, but a cold and wet walk back sucks big time.
In terms of fishing, I'd stick to the smaller bodies of water. Bluegills seem to be moving a bit, so be ready to be portable, but shallow bays with green weeds will have active fish. Bay Five and just off the sandbar in Ice House have been giving up some keepers, as well as Forest, the west cut on Moose, Silver, Golden (South Flat), Middle Geneesee and School Section. Lots of people have been talking about the Kettle on Nag, but it's been hit or miss by the sound of it. Gills love teardrop jigs with waxies or spikes, but wigglers on a tiny hook can really grab some short biters. I'd try to fish just above the weeds, but consider using a spring bobber for light biters.
Crappie are moving into areas adjacent to current. This is a seasonal pattern for winter crappies here. Look for shallow depressions or holes just off the main current area. Green weeds or shallow sand grass will pull them in, but fish attractors, stumps or laydowns will likely have some active fish. I heard some good words about crappie on Golden and Okauchee, but it sounded like the hotspots the last week were Lower Nehmabin and Upper Nashotah.
As for pike, tipups with medium sized live bait (shiners or suckers) will generate the most action. Deeper areas of weed flats will be holding some fish, as well as the first break line into deep water. You might also find some yellow perch in the same areas. Be careful as you head over deeper water, but that's where the big girls are hiding right now. Smelt works awesome this time of year, but when you put your spread out, try both live and dead bait as some days the fish prefer one over the other. I usally try to go 2-1 favoring live bait per three tipups and then adjust as the fish tell me what they want.
Walleye were biting great in the Dells, but you'll need the boat if you're heading up that way. A few fish are also being caught off the walls along the open water areas of the Rock River in Jefferson and Ft Atkinson. Closer to home, the nearshore areas of Lac Labelle and the shallow flats off the park on
Fowler both gave up some fish according to my sources.
Speaking of the boat, Ben Kueng is still guiding in the Milwaukee Harbor area. It sounds like the fishing has been pretty good, although I don't know how long it will be that way. If you're interested in heading out with him, there's a link to his website on the right hand column. That's fun fishing out there for sure, but I don't guide out there. He's a great guy, and make sure you tell him I sent you his way.
If the cold sticks around, expect things to get very good over the next week to 10 days. More people will be out, and better info comes in then.
.
Good Luck and Be Safe,
CT
Update: Looks like Becky Smith just did an update at her report as well. You can check it out here.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Fishing Report 1-7-2012 (Yes I'm Back)
Sorry I have been away. I'm back, and thanks for sticking with me.
Well its pretty nice outside, and that has put a little damper on the fishing. Don't get me wrong, the fish are biting just fine, its just that the ice conditions have been very spotty on area lakes.
Several lakes have people out, but I would still exercise some extra caution if you're ice fishing locally. PFD, the buddy system and a spud bar are all excellent tools you should be using. Stay away from deep water, and especially from moving water/current areas that look a little sketchy.
Fox, Nagawicka and the Genesse Lakes have been pretty active.
Panfish are biting a couple times a day. On high pressure days, the fish are suspending over bottom structure or fish attractors. You'll need electronics to fish these effectively. On the low pressure days, the fish have been tight to the bottom. Smaller jig, bigger bait presentation is always good for early ice, and it seems to be working right now. Watch for light bites, and vary your jigging stroke till you find the right move to trigger the bite. Then repeat.
Pike are biting, but it seems like the most active fish have been smaller, more aggressive fish. This is typical of this time of year, as smaller buck male pike go on an early pre-spawn feeding binge. If you're using a tip up and consistently catching smaller pike, move out just a little bit deeper and set back up. Shallow water and green weeds will get you some action, but the larger pike are probably still using the first deep break and the sandgrass. The closer we get to spring, the closer you should move to shallow marshy areas.
Walleye have been biting, but in a feeding window in the evening. I'm not sure about a morning feeding window, but everyone I have spoken with (ie the other guides and the network of old fisherman I stay in contact with) has been talking about an evening bite. According to information I'm hearing, 8-12 and 12-15 feet (where there is safe ice) has been on fire. Go big with your bait though, it seems like the larger shiners have been better than suckers or smaller shiners.
More as it comes in. I suggest checking with the local shops for ice conditions on a daily basis until our weather decides to catch up with the season.
Cheers
CT
Well its pretty nice outside, and that has put a little damper on the fishing. Don't get me wrong, the fish are biting just fine, its just that the ice conditions have been very spotty on area lakes.
Several lakes have people out, but I would still exercise some extra caution if you're ice fishing locally. PFD, the buddy system and a spud bar are all excellent tools you should be using. Stay away from deep water, and especially from moving water/current areas that look a little sketchy.
Fox, Nagawicka and the Genesse Lakes have been pretty active.
Panfish are biting a couple times a day. On high pressure days, the fish are suspending over bottom structure or fish attractors. You'll need electronics to fish these effectively. On the low pressure days, the fish have been tight to the bottom. Smaller jig, bigger bait presentation is always good for early ice, and it seems to be working right now. Watch for light bites, and vary your jigging stroke till you find the right move to trigger the bite. Then repeat.
Pike are biting, but it seems like the most active fish have been smaller, more aggressive fish. This is typical of this time of year, as smaller buck male pike go on an early pre-spawn feeding binge. If you're using a tip up and consistently catching smaller pike, move out just a little bit deeper and set back up. Shallow water and green weeds will get you some action, but the larger pike are probably still using the first deep break and the sandgrass. The closer we get to spring, the closer you should move to shallow marshy areas.
Walleye have been biting, but in a feeding window in the evening. I'm not sure about a morning feeding window, but everyone I have spoken with (ie the other guides and the network of old fisherman I stay in contact with) has been talking about an evening bite. According to information I'm hearing, 8-12 and 12-15 feet (where there is safe ice) has been on fire. Go big with your bait though, it seems like the larger shiners have been better than suckers or smaller shiners.
More as it comes in. I suggest checking with the local shops for ice conditions on a daily basis until our weather decides to catch up with the season.
Cheers
CT
Friday, December 16, 2011
Success
I successfully defended my dissertation yesterday.
Fishing reports will resume next week.
Cheers
Dr. Christopher Terry, PhD
Fishing reports will resume next week.
Cheers
Dr. Christopher Terry, PhD
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Gone Fishin'....
Well, not really.
As many of you know, I'm a candidate for a PhD at UW-Madison. I've been doing graduate work in Communication Law and Policy for several years, and I'm nearly done. In fact, one week from today, I will defend my dissertation, and assuming everything goes as planned, I will be Dr. Christopher Terry by this time next week.
I apologize for the lack of reports, I've just been crazy busy with everything involved with this major, no epic life event. I'll get back on the horse in a week or two, until then...stay safe.
Cheers,
CT
As many of you know, I'm a candidate for a PhD at UW-Madison. I've been doing graduate work in Communication Law and Policy for several years, and I'm nearly done. In fact, one week from today, I will defend my dissertation, and assuming everything goes as planned, I will be Dr. Christopher Terry by this time next week.
I apologize for the lack of reports, I've just been crazy busy with everything involved with this major, no epic life event. I'll get back on the horse in a week or two, until then...stay safe.
Cheers,
CT
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Big Fish Time: Fishing Report 11-12-11
It is, as they say, on.
Lots of big muskies are being caught. Look for them in weeds in 6-15 feet.You can catch them throwing big cranks, jerkbaits, bulldogs or bucktails, but the biggest suckers are cathing the most fish. Okauchee has been red hot. Pewaukee has been touch and go, but on when its on. Garvin and Oconomowoc are giving up steady action. Lac Labelle and Fowler have been slower, but a few fish are still being caught.
Smallmouth fishing has been exceptional this fall. Long lining with live bait on slip sinker or split shot rigs has been the most effective, but a few nice smallies are coming in on big white-deep-diving crankbaits at the end of mainlake points.
River Walleye fishing has been great on the Wisconsin, Fox, Wolf and Rock Rivers. Close to home, Jefferson and Ft Atkinson are giving up a mixed bag of walleyes and whitebass, but the river is very low, so watch your lower unit.
Good Luck,
CT
Lots of big muskies are being caught. Look for them in weeds in 6-15 feet.You can catch them throwing big cranks, jerkbaits, bulldogs or bucktails, but the biggest suckers are cathing the most fish. Okauchee has been red hot. Pewaukee has been touch and go, but on when its on. Garvin and Oconomowoc are giving up steady action. Lac Labelle and Fowler have been slower, but a few fish are still being caught.
Smallmouth fishing has been exceptional this fall. Long lining with live bait on slip sinker or split shot rigs has been the most effective, but a few nice smallies are coming in on big white-deep-diving crankbaits at the end of mainlake points.
River Walleye fishing has been great on the Wisconsin, Fox, Wolf and Rock Rivers. Close to home, Jefferson and Ft Atkinson are giving up a mixed bag of walleyes and whitebass, but the river is very low, so watch your lower unit.
Good Luck,
CT
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Fishing Report 10-26-11
Halloween is near, time to trick a musky with a huge sucker on a quick strike rig.
A few of the lakes are showing turnover signs, but the water is starting to clear up a bit. Cooler nights ahead will finish the process.
Musky Fishing continues to be good. White continues to be a hot color, with perch patterns close behind. Some of the guides are reporting consistent action, with the majority of fish being taken while floating suckers on quick strike rigs. Pewaukee is going steady, but the bigger fish haven't turned on as of yet. Slower action on Okauchee, Fowler, Lac Labelle, on Oconomowoc. Garvin has given up a few fish since the cooler weather set in, and they have all come on the south weed-flat drop-off.
Fall Smallmouth fishing is in full gear. Drifting with live bait on a split shot rig is producing, as is cranking open water structure with white or chartreuse crankbaits or spinners. Oconomowoc, Pine and Nag are all happening right now, as are the lakes in the Madison chain. Deep, but still green weeds is the pattern. Fish are coming as deep as 30 feet on live bait.
Pike fishing is about average for this time of year. Spinners, crankbaits, stickbaits and live bait rigs are all producing at different times. The better fish are coming from the rivers or smaller lakes, like Ashippun, School Section, Pretty and Lower Genessee. Golden is usually pretty good about this time of year, but I haven't heard anything specific.
Walleye are biting on the Rock, Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, but the action has been inconsistent. Low water is hampering the bite, although a decent number of larger walleyes are being reported. Slow drifts with live bait, especially larger fatheads or small suckers have been the most productive. Slow and steady wins the race.
Good Luck, and continue to check in with your local bait shop for changes to day to day conditions.
Cheers,
CT
A few of the lakes are showing turnover signs, but the water is starting to clear up a bit. Cooler nights ahead will finish the process.
Musky Fishing continues to be good. White continues to be a hot color, with perch patterns close behind. Some of the guides are reporting consistent action, with the majority of fish being taken while floating suckers on quick strike rigs. Pewaukee is going steady, but the bigger fish haven't turned on as of yet. Slower action on Okauchee, Fowler, Lac Labelle, on Oconomowoc. Garvin has given up a few fish since the cooler weather set in, and they have all come on the south weed-flat drop-off.
Fall Smallmouth fishing is in full gear. Drifting with live bait on a split shot rig is producing, as is cranking open water structure with white or chartreuse crankbaits or spinners. Oconomowoc, Pine and Nag are all happening right now, as are the lakes in the Madison chain. Deep, but still green weeds is the pattern. Fish are coming as deep as 30 feet on live bait.
Pike fishing is about average for this time of year. Spinners, crankbaits, stickbaits and live bait rigs are all producing at different times. The better fish are coming from the rivers or smaller lakes, like Ashippun, School Section, Pretty and Lower Genessee. Golden is usually pretty good about this time of year, but I haven't heard anything specific.
Walleye are biting on the Rock, Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, but the action has been inconsistent. Low water is hampering the bite, although a decent number of larger walleyes are being reported. Slow drifts with live bait, especially larger fatheads or small suckers have been the most productive. Slow and steady wins the race.
Good Luck, and continue to check in with your local bait shop for changes to day to day conditions.
Cheers,
CT
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Now...its time (Fishing Report 10-20-11)
Well gang,
I was really enjoying our fall weather, but it was making fishing a little complicated. With the dramatic shift in the weather over the last couple of days, things get simpler.
First off, live bait. If you're fishing for bass, pike or walleye, plastics, cranks and spinners will work, but now is really the time to make the switch to using oversized live bait. Big shiners(if you can get them) or small suckers. I like both lindy and split shot rigs as a presentation. Catching a drift while long lining live bait is a surefire tactic. Look for deep water adjacent to shallow structure. If the fish aren't on top of the bars, look for them in deep water just off the shallow stuff. The downwind side of points, where deeper water touches the long edge of a point will really concentrate fish.
The other advice I have this time of year to focus your attention on the bigger lakes. I much prefer to fish Okauchee, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Nag and Lac Labelle this time of year. One there's no boat traffic, but two there's also more big fish to chase. My fall sleeper lakes are Pretty and Lower Genessee, both of which have huge pike.
Musky fishing has been slow and steady, but the cooler weather will turn things on quick. The water has been hovering in the low 60 degree range, but expect that to change quickly as the nights get cool. Now is the time to bust out the preposterously large jerkbaits, "pounder" bulldogs and the huge cowgirls you keep in your box. And if you're going out, never leave the dock without a sucker on a quick strike or lift-off rig. Now is when the sucker bite will really pick up. Don't be afraid to ask for the biggest ones in the tank at Mikes, Dick Smiths or Smokey's when you drop in.
Look for musky in what's left of the weeds. If you see ciscos popping up, you're in the money zone, but look for weeds along rock bars and drops for some action. On sunny days, you will find a few musky patrolling the rock or sand shallows to feed on yellow perch.
Pewaukee has been slow, Okauchee even slower, Oconomowoc and Lac Labelle have been Okay. I heard of two high 40 inchers out of North Lake and a solid 46 out of Fowler. I'm sure all the lakes will turn on with the rain and cooler temps.
Good Luck, and be safe.
CT
I was really enjoying our fall weather, but it was making fishing a little complicated. With the dramatic shift in the weather over the last couple of days, things get simpler.
First off, live bait. If you're fishing for bass, pike or walleye, plastics, cranks and spinners will work, but now is really the time to make the switch to using oversized live bait. Big shiners(if you can get them) or small suckers. I like both lindy and split shot rigs as a presentation. Catching a drift while long lining live bait is a surefire tactic. Look for deep water adjacent to shallow structure. If the fish aren't on top of the bars, look for them in deep water just off the shallow stuff. The downwind side of points, where deeper water touches the long edge of a point will really concentrate fish.
The other advice I have this time of year to focus your attention on the bigger lakes. I much prefer to fish Okauchee, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Nag and Lac Labelle this time of year. One there's no boat traffic, but two there's also more big fish to chase. My fall sleeper lakes are Pretty and Lower Genessee, both of which have huge pike.
Musky fishing has been slow and steady, but the cooler weather will turn things on quick. The water has been hovering in the low 60 degree range, but expect that to change quickly as the nights get cool. Now is the time to bust out the preposterously large jerkbaits, "pounder" bulldogs and the huge cowgirls you keep in your box. And if you're going out, never leave the dock without a sucker on a quick strike or lift-off rig. Now is when the sucker bite will really pick up. Don't be afraid to ask for the biggest ones in the tank at Mikes, Dick Smiths or Smokey's when you drop in.
Look for musky in what's left of the weeds. If you see ciscos popping up, you're in the money zone, but look for weeds along rock bars and drops for some action. On sunny days, you will find a few musky patrolling the rock or sand shallows to feed on yellow perch.
Pewaukee has been slow, Okauchee even slower, Oconomowoc and Lac Labelle have been Okay. I heard of two high 40 inchers out of North Lake and a solid 46 out of Fowler. I'm sure all the lakes will turn on with the rain and cooler temps.
Good Luck, and be safe.
CT
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Fishing Report 10-12-11
Just a quikie today, conditions are about to change and I'll have a full report up for the weekend.
Musky are moving, but many fish are still holding in 12-18 FOW. Fish are coming a bit shallower on Pewaukee by most reports, and deeper on Fowler, Lac Labelle and Oconomowoc.
Okauchee has been the most consistent according to the information I am getting, and lots of fish are being moved off the rocky areas near the Party and the North East Island. A couple of people seeing reported a large fish (50 inch class) moving around on the flats in Stumpy Bay on the warmer, but cloudy afternoons the last week.
Walleye fishing is still slow on the Rock River between Jefferson and Blackhawk Island, but a few whitebass and catfish are being caught. The Wisconsin River in the Dells has seen activity pick up, but the warm temperatures are holding up the usual fall fishing. Local lakes have been giving up a few walleyes, but reports from Labelle, Nagawicka, Pine and Oconomowoc all report spotty fishing.
Pike have been slow, but the smaller lakes like School Section, Pretty, Lower Genessee and Ashippun have been producing.
Crappies are on the fall bite. Look for them along green weed edges in 8-15 FOW.
Water is in the low 60's on all area lakes. I'll check in after the weather with updated conditions.
Musky are moving, but many fish are still holding in 12-18 FOW. Fish are coming a bit shallower on Pewaukee by most reports, and deeper on Fowler, Lac Labelle and Oconomowoc.
Okauchee has been the most consistent according to the information I am getting, and lots of fish are being moved off the rocky areas near the Party and the North East Island. A couple of people seeing reported a large fish (50 inch class) moving around on the flats in Stumpy Bay on the warmer, but cloudy afternoons the last week.
Walleye fishing is still slow on the Rock River between Jefferson and Blackhawk Island, but a few whitebass and catfish are being caught. The Wisconsin River in the Dells has seen activity pick up, but the warm temperatures are holding up the usual fall fishing. Local lakes have been giving up a few walleyes, but reports from Labelle, Nagawicka, Pine and Oconomowoc all report spotty fishing.
Pike have been slow, but the smaller lakes like School Section, Pretty, Lower Genessee and Ashippun have been producing.
Crappies are on the fall bite. Look for them along green weed edges in 8-15 FOW.
Water is in the low 60's on all area lakes. I'll check in after the weather with updated conditions.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Fishing Report 10-3-11
If you're thinking about heading out for a last go of it, this looks like the week to do it. The weatherman is calling for a period of stable weather, with decent afternoon daytime temperatures. The fish will be feeding, of that, you can be sure.
Concentrate on shallow structure that is adjacent to deep water. Rocks, gravel and sand that are shallow, but close to deeper drops will really pull in fish right now. Baitfish will be moving to the rocks, and the perch and juvenile bluegills will follow them in. Bass, Pike and Walleye will be right behind.
Here's what I would do. In the morning, fish tight to weed clumps, flipping or pitching, or using one of my favorite fall baits for fishing tight to cover, a buzzbait. You'll be able to grab a mixed bag of gamefish doing this. As the sun comes up, start moving off the sand/weed areas and looking for fish in rock/sand transition areas. Swimbaits, grubs and tubes are awesome for picking fish off the rocks, but if the action is a little faster go with a spinnerbait or a lipless crankbait.
If you're musky fishing, look for fish starting on the deep weed edges in 10-12 FOW. Casting with gliders, bucktails, cowgirls or jerkbaits can really produce, but we're really getting into sucker fishing season now, and you should always have one out. As the day goes on, start looking for fish to move into weed pockets to forage, and don't be afraid to look for fish in shallow water.
Around the area, Okauchee and Pewaukee have been outproducing Oconomowoc and Lac Labelle, but everything should be rolling this week.
Bass fishing has been good on Pine, Nag, Okauchee, Forest (yes Forest) The Genessee Lakes, Pretty, Golden and Silver.
Pike have been biting on Kessus, Nag, Ashippun and Pretty.
Walleye Fishing has been steady on Pine, slow on Lac Labelle, and about average on Oconomowoc. A few fish are being caught in the Dells, as well as the Rock River, but reports have been sketchy as more people are in their duck blinds or tree stands than fishing right now. No word yet on Fall whitebass, but stay tuned.
I apologize for the late post. I filed a report at the regular time, and I didn't notice that Blogger had spit it out. If you're ever looking for up to date info, just shoot me an email or give me a call, and I'll tell you what I can.
Cheers,
CT
PS. Congrats to the Badger Fishing Team who took second in the Big Ten Tournament over the weekend.
Concentrate on shallow structure that is adjacent to deep water. Rocks, gravel and sand that are shallow, but close to deeper drops will really pull in fish right now. Baitfish will be moving to the rocks, and the perch and juvenile bluegills will follow them in. Bass, Pike and Walleye will be right behind.
Here's what I would do. In the morning, fish tight to weed clumps, flipping or pitching, or using one of my favorite fall baits for fishing tight to cover, a buzzbait. You'll be able to grab a mixed bag of gamefish doing this. As the sun comes up, start moving off the sand/weed areas and looking for fish in rock/sand transition areas. Swimbaits, grubs and tubes are awesome for picking fish off the rocks, but if the action is a little faster go with a spinnerbait or a lipless crankbait.
If you're musky fishing, look for fish starting on the deep weed edges in 10-12 FOW. Casting with gliders, bucktails, cowgirls or jerkbaits can really produce, but we're really getting into sucker fishing season now, and you should always have one out. As the day goes on, start looking for fish to move into weed pockets to forage, and don't be afraid to look for fish in shallow water.
Around the area, Okauchee and Pewaukee have been outproducing Oconomowoc and Lac Labelle, but everything should be rolling this week.
Bass fishing has been good on Pine, Nag, Okauchee, Forest (yes Forest) The Genessee Lakes, Pretty, Golden and Silver.
Pike have been biting on Kessus, Nag, Ashippun and Pretty.
Walleye Fishing has been steady on Pine, slow on Lac Labelle, and about average on Oconomowoc. A few fish are being caught in the Dells, as well as the Rock River, but reports have been sketchy as more people are in their duck blinds or tree stands than fishing right now. No word yet on Fall whitebass, but stay tuned.
I apologize for the late post. I filed a report at the regular time, and I didn't notice that Blogger had spit it out. If you're ever looking for up to date info, just shoot me an email or give me a call, and I'll tell you what I can.
Cheers,
CT
PS. Congrats to the Badger Fishing Team who took second in the Big Ten Tournament over the weekend.
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