Richland County Fishing Report Sept 15, 2015
31 inch northern on the backwaters of the Wisconsin River
By Wayne Morgenthaler
The Fall season is starting with the fog in the mornings and cooler temperature but the fish are in a good biting mood on the Wisconsin River. Sturgeon season is now under way and make sure to read the rules and regulations. The sturgeon are on the move and if you are on the river you will see them jump. A good rule to follow is to mark the spot where you saw them jump and then anchor a few yards above them. Best bait is about 3 night crawlers on a hook with two feet of braided line and then attach a heavy egg sinker. Patience is the name of the game but you never know what you are going to catch. The other day we brought in 3 nice channel cats and released one sturgeon. Walleyes are an additional bonus but must be at least 18 inches.
The backwaters are active with the bluegills, bass, and northern pike hitting. Best bait for bluegills are small ice fishing jigs tipped with wax worm. Bass are hitting surface baits and just before dark try a pink and white 1/16 ounce jig for crappies.
Trout fishing has been slow but the rains should help.
A great place to stop for all your sporting needs is Norm’s Small Engines & Sports. He is located at 900 Hwy 14 West, Richland Center. The business is right across from the Mobile gas station. Norms has all types of fishing supplies you need plus if you are in to hunting he offers a nice selection. You can also check out his turkey contests and wall of photos from his fishing and hunting experiences.
5 to 8 pound channel cats on Wisconsin River
45 inch sturgeon caught and released on the Wisconsin River