Richland County Fishing Report 8-21-12
By Wayne Morgenthaler
Colder Mornings Bringing Water Temperature down
Now that we are getting cooler temperatures in the morning, the backwater fishing action is much better in the evening. I usually like about two hours before sunset. The other night I had a nice bluegill on when a northern hit it. The pike would let it go then hit it again when I started reeling. I did manage to see the fish and estimated it around 6 to 8 pounds. We came back to the same spot about an hour later and he hit my friend’s small plastic jig. The fight didn’t last too long before the fish straightened out the hook.
We did manage to catch some nice crappies and one legal largemouth bass. I did notice that the crappies were schooled up and bit the best just before dark.
Trout fishing is slowing down because of the weeds in the water and hanging over the edges of the stream. Your casts on the smaller streams have to be short and accurate. The best bait is a Panther Martin in yellow or green. Water levels still remain very low in all parts of the county.
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| Neil Morgenthaler, the writer’s son with a 20-inch backwater bass. | Nice Richland County trout like this fish continue to cooperate. |
A good place to get information for outdoor activities for Richland County is to stop in at the Visitor Center located in Richland Center at the railroad station which is currently open from 8 to 4, Monday through Friday. They have some outstanding maps to help you navigate. They can also line you up with local guides. They are located on Hwy 14 in the middle of town and just look for the railroad car and station. There is a stop light at the intersection that you will need to turn on.
You can call 608-647-6205 or email chamber@richlandalliance.com