• Lake Winnebago Fishing Update: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Panfish Hotspots in February 2025

  • Feb 14 2025
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

Lake Winnebago Fishing Update: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Panfish Hotspots in February 2025

  • Summary

  • Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin, as of February 14, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the current conditions. The sturgeon spearing season is in full swing, having started on February 8 and set to run until February 23, or until the harvest caps are reached. As of the latest updates, the water clarity on Lake Winnebago and the Upriver Lakes has been a bit of a challenge, with clear areas turning murky even with sunny conditions[1][2].

    For those interested in sturgeon spearing, the past few days have seen some impressive catches. On February 9, a total of 121 lake sturgeon were speared across the system, with 74 of those coming from Lake Winnebago. This included 30 males, 30 adult females, and 14 juvenile females[1]. More recently, on February 11, 26 sturgeon were harvested from Lake Winnebago, with 2 juvenile females, 13 adult females, and 11 males[2].

    If you're not into spearing but still want to catch some fish, Lake Winnebago has plenty to offer. For panfish, crappie, and walleye, you can't go wrong with the areas around High Cliff State Park, Kelly’s Point and Reef, and the Neenah Dam at the Fox River. These spots are known for their productive fishing, especially for those targeting walleye and panfish[3].

    As for the best lures and bait, given the current conditions, artificial lures might be your best bet. However, traditionalists will still find success with live bait. For walleye, using jigs tipped with minnows or worms can be very effective. If you prefer artificial lures, crankbaits and jigging spoons can work wonders, especially in the clearer pockets of water[3].

    Here are a couple of hot spots to consider:

    - **High Cliff State Park**: This is a great spot for beginners and experienced anglers alike. You can fish from the marina, the nearby rocks, or even wade into the waters. It's a good place to catch perch, crappie, and walleye.
    - **Kelly’s Point and Reef**: Located about 5 miles north of Fond du Lac on the western shoreline of Lake Winnebago, this area is known for its abundant walleye. The weeds around this structure attract walleye, making it a prime spot for those fishing from a boat.

    Weather-wise, February in Wisconsin is typically cold, so make sure to bundle up. Sunrise today is around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM. There's no tidal report to worry about since Lake Winnebago is a freshwater lake.

    In summary, while the sturgeon spearing season is the main event right now, there are plenty of other fishing opportunities around Lake Winnebago. Be prepared for variable water clarity, and don't hesitate to switch between live bait and artificial lures to see what works best for you. Stay safe, and good luck out there
    Show more Show less

What listeners say about Lake Winnebago Fishing Update: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Panfish Hotspots in February 2025

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.