Central Wisconsin Outdoor Report
Well conditions have changed in a big hurry over the past few weeks and guys are now able to fish open water in several different locations as well as a few brave souls still venturing out on the ice in northern parts of our area. Water temperatures are holding steady in the mid 30 degree range but with the forecast showing warmer weather and rain for this upcoming weekend that is going to change in a hurry.
Ice conditions are going to deteriorate very quickly if we get this rain and I would not advise anyone to head out onto the ice after that. As far as open water fishing we could use a little rain. The river system is flowing at a reduced rate right now and we need some ran to get the water levels up and the fish moving towards traditional spawning grounds.
With that said the fishing has been phenomenal with limit catches of walleyes along with a few northern pike and surprisingly quite a few sturgeon. Most of our action has been in 14 to 18 FOW with us casting ¼ ounce lead head jigs that have been tipped with either a fathead minnow or some sort of plastic, be it a split tail minnow or a twister tail, they have both been working.
With spring right around the corner I wanted to take a second and mention that anyone interested in looking at or purchasing a new boat or pontoon that they should stop in and see Jason or Jerry at Amherst Marine. Known mostly for selling Crestliner and StarCraft boats along with Mercury motors, Amherst Marine has quite a selection of both new and used Sylvan pontoons as well. Stop in or visit them on-line at: https://www.amherstmarine.com and see what they have to offer. You will not be disappointed.
If you get a chance stop in at your local Kwik Trip and check out my column in the recent issue of On Wisconsin Outdoors on Early Season Walleyes with tips and techniques for catching pre-spawn walleyes.
Have a great week,
Phil Schweik
Hooksetters Guide Service
Web: www.hooksetters.biz
Phone: 715-693-5843