• Ice Fishing Outlook on Lake Winnebago - February 2025

  • Feb 8 2025
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

Ice Fishing Outlook on Lake Winnebago - February 2025

  • Summary

  • Hey there, fellow anglers, this is Artificial Lure here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake Winnebago as of today, February 8, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. We're right in the midst of winter, and the ice on Lake Winnebago is holding up well, with reports of 5 to 6 inches of ice in areas like Colum Bay and Asylum Bay. Always exercise caution when venturing out, especially if you're not familiar with the lake. Use your spud bars and keep an eye on the ice conditions.

    The weather today is overcast with a bit of wind, which can actually work in our favor for ice fishing. Sunrise was at around 7:00 AM, and sunset will be at about 5:00 PM, giving us a good window to get out there.

    Today marks the opening of the sturgeon spearing season, so be aware of the spearing activities if you're out on the ice. However, for those of us focusing on other species, the fishing has been quite active. For perch, the tip-down method with Rosy Reds has been on fire, especially in the channels. Make sure to keep your lure a couple of inches off the bottom, as perch have better vision upwards. Bluegill and crappie are also biting well, particularly around the weed beds in bays like Millers Bay and the North and South Asylum Bays.

    If you're targeting walleye, trolling the shorelines with small crankbaits like Flicker Shad #5 or Salmo Hornets in metallic clown, purple, and pink colors has been effective. The slip bobber/leech combo is also working well, especially in the evening hours. For northern pike, the channels have been producing good results, with spoons and jigs, especially those with a bit of flash like hammered copper or hot chartreuse, doing the trick.

    For hot spots, High Cliff State Park is a great place to start, especially for beginners. You can fish from the marina or the nearby rocks, and there's even a disability-accessible fishing pond. For walleye, head to Kelly’s Point and Reef, about 5 miles north of Fond du Lac on the western shoreline. This area is known for its weeds and attracts a lot of walleye.

    In terms of lures and bait, for perch and panfish, those Rosy Reds and small jigs tipped with spikes are doing the trick. For walleye, stick with those small crankbaits and leeches. Northern pike are biting on spoons and jigs, especially those with a bit of flash.

    Recently, anglers have reported good catches of walleye around the reef near Fond du Lac, with several 15-inch fish caught in a short span. Perch action has been strong in transition areas, 14 to 16 feet deep, using a sinker and a hook tipped with a "Butter Worm."

    Stay safe, and tight lines The ice fishing on Lake Winnebago is looking good, so get out there and enjoy it. And remember, with the sturgeon spearing season now open, it's a great time to experience the rich tradition and culture that comes with it, even if you're not participating directly. Happy fishing
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