Episodes

  • Fishing Report for Lake Winnebago: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Pike Action on the Ice

    Fishing Report for Lake Winnebago: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Pike Action on the Ice
    Feb 15 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers It's Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share the latest fishing report for Lake Winnebago and its surrounding waters as of February 15, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. We're in the midst of the sturgeon spearing season, and the weather has been quite unpredictable. Recent updates indicate that the area is experiencing shifting ice conditions and varying water clarity, which can significantly impact your fishing success. On February 9, for instance, the water clarity shifted dramatically, with clear areas becoming murkier even under sunny conditions[1].

    For sturgeon spearing, the key is finding those clear pockets of water. Lake Winnebago has been the hotspot, with 74 sturgeon harvested on the lake recently, including 30 males, 30 adult females, and 14 juvenile females. The Upriver Lakes, however, have seen lower-than-normal harvests due to access issues, but there are still successes to be noted, such as Kurt Davidson's 110-pound male sturgeon from the Upriver Lakes on February 12[1][4].

    If you're not into sturgeon spearing, there's still plenty of action for other species. Lake Winnebago is renowned for its Walleye, and this time of year is perfect for ice fishing. Focus on the western shore, particularly around areas like Kelly’s Point and Reef, where weeds attract Walleye in droves. Trolling the shorelines and targeting pockets of water about 6 feet deep with hard bottoms and weeds can also yield great results[3].

    For Pike enthusiasts, the western shore of Lake Winnebago and smaller bodies of water in the Winnebago Chain are your best bets. Ice fishing near weed beds in areas like North and South Asylum Bays can be very productive[3].

    As for the best lures and bait, for Walleye, local anglers recommend using HT Big game tip-ups with fluorocarbon leaders and #16 treble hooks. Live bait such as minnows or jigs tipped with worms are also highly effective. For Pike, using larger lures like spoons or tip-ups with sucker minnows can attract those big predators[5].

    Hot spots to consider include the area off the west central portion of Lake Winnebago near Oshkosh, where most of the shanties are concentrated. High Cliff State Park is another excellent spot, offering access to the lake from the marina or nearby rocks. Neenah Bay, with its humps near weeds in 8-10 feet of water, is also a prime location for ice fishing[1][3].

    In terms of weather, be prepared for variable conditions. A winter weather advisory was in place recently, which affected the number of spearers on the ice. Make sure to check the latest ice conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.

    Sunrise today is at around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:00 PM. There are no tidal reports to consider here, as Lake Winnebago is a freshwater lake.

    In summary, despite the challenging conditions, Lake Winnebago and its surrounding waters continue to offer exciting fishing opportunities. Keep an eye on water clarity, use the right lures and bait, and head to those proven hot spots for a successful day on the ice. Tight lines, everyone
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    4 mins
  • Lake Winnebago Fishing Update: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Panfish Hotspots in February 2025

    Lake Winnebago Fishing Update: Sturgeon Spearing, Walleye, and Panfish Hotspots in February 2025
    Feb 14 2025
    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
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    3 mins
  • Sturgeon Spearing and Winter Fishing on Lake Winnebago and Upriver Lakes

    Sturgeon Spearing and Winter Fishing on Lake Winnebago and Upriver Lakes
    Feb 12 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers It's Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share the latest fishing report for Lake Winnebago and the Upriver Lakes in Wisconsin as of February 12, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the 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. The weather has been quite variable, with reports of calm winds and sunshine on some days, but also shifts in water clarity due to changing ice conditions.

    For today, February 12, the sunrise was at around 6:45 AM, and the sunset will be at about 5:15 PM. There's no tidal report to consider here since we're dealing with freshwater lakes, but water clarity is a crucial factor. Recently, spearers have noted that areas with clear water one day can become murkier the next, even with sunny conditions.

    Despite these challenges, the sturgeon harvest has been impressive. On Lake Winnebago, the latest reports indicate that 74 sturgeon were harvested on February 9, including 30 males, 30 adult females, and 14 juvenile females. The Upriver Lakes also saw a steady harvest, with 47 sturgeon speared on the same day, comprising 32 males, 4 adult females, and 11 juvenile females[1][5].

    For those targeting sturgeon, finding clear pockets of water is key. The west central portion of Lake Winnebago near Oshkosh has been particularly productive, with many shanties set up in this area. The Downtown Oshkosh and Neenah registration stations have seen the highest number of harvests, and the Southwest Winnebago registration station has recorded the most fish weighing over 100 pounds[1].

    If you're looking for other species, Lake Winnebago is renowned for its walleye, perch, and crappie. For walleye, head to areas like Kelly’s Point and Reef, about 5 miles north of Fond du Lac on the western shoreline. This structure is surrounded by weeds, making it a hotspot for walleye. Trolling the shorelines and focusing on areas with hard bottoms and weeds can also be very effective[3].

    For bait, traditional sturgeon spearers rely on the visibility of the water to spot their prey, but for other species, live bait such as worms and minnows work well. For artificial lures, consider using slow-moving presentations, especially in colder waters. Lures that mimic the natural movement of baitfish or crustaceans can be very effective.

    Hot spots to consider include High Cliff State Park, where you can fish from the marina or the nearby rocks, and the Neenah Dam at the Fox River, which is great for panfish and walleye. Oshkosh is another prime location, offering access to both Lake Winnebago and Lake Butte des Morts[3].

    In summary, Lake Winnebago and the Upriver Lakes are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities right now, despite the variable water conditions. Keep an eye on those clear pockets of water, and don't hesitate to try out some traditional and artificial baits. Good luck out there, and I hope you land some monsters
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    4 mins
  • Ice Fishing Report for Lake Winnebago: Sturgeon Spearers Thrive, Walleye and Perch Abound (140 characters)

    Ice Fishing Report for Lake Winnebago: Sturgeon Spearers Thrive, Walleye and Perch Abound (140 characters)
    Feb 10 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers It's Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share the latest fishing report for Lake Winnebago and its surrounding waters as of February 10, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the current conditions. The 2025 sturgeon spearing season kicked off on February 8, and despite the poor water clarity, spearers have been finding success. The average water clarity around Lake Winnebago is currently at about 5.35 feet, which is quite challenging but not unheard of for this time of year[5].

    Weather-wise, we're seeing a mix of snow and cloudy skies, which is typical for this time of year. Sunrise today is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset is expected at about 5:15 PM. The temperatures are cold, as you'd expect, but that's perfect for ice fishing.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. The sturgeon spearing season has been off to a strong start. On the opening day, a total of 169 lake sturgeon were harvested across the Winnebago System. On Lake Winnebago itself, 82 sturgeon were caught, including 28 males, 44 adult females, and 10 juvenile females. The Upriver Lakes also saw significant action, with 87 sturgeon harvested, comprising 65 males, 13 adult females, and 9 juvenile females[1].

    For those targeting other species, Lake Winnebago is renowned for its walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, perch, and bluegill. While the sturgeon spearing is the main event right now, ice fishing for walleye and perch is also popular. Prime ice fishing areas include the primary break along the east shore, reefs, and rock humps. For walleye, focus on the flat bottom of the main lake basin during periods of mild temperatures, as extreme cold tends to shut down the bite[4].

    When it comes to lures and bait, for walleye, trolling crank baits, casting jigs, and using slip bobber rigs are highly effective. For perch, an egg sinker and hook tipped with a hellgrammite, wax worm, or piece of nightcrawler works well. Slip-bobber rigs with live bait are also successful for bluegill and perch[4].

    Here are a couple of hot spots to consider:

    - The Wolf River areas such as Winneconne, Fremont, New London, Hortonville, and Shioctin are great for walleye, especially during their spawning run in the spring. However, for now, these areas are more relevant for sturgeon spearers accessing the Upriver Lakes[2].
    - The primary break along the east shore of Lake Winnebago is a hotspot for ice fishing, particularly for walleye and perch. The reefs and rock humps in this area are also worth exploring[4].

    In summary, while the water clarity is a challenge, the enthusiasm and success of the sturgeon spearers are undeniable. For those looking to catch other species, the traditional ice fishing spots and techniques are still yielding good results. Stay warm, stay safe, and good luck on the ice
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    3 mins
  • Lake Winnebago Ice Fishing Report: Perch, Walleye, and More Biting Well

    Lake Winnebago Ice Fishing Report: Perch, Walleye, and More Biting Well
    Feb 9 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers, this is Artificial Lure here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake Winnebago as of February 9, 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. However, 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.

    Recently, the fishing on Lake Winnebago 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.

    In terms of specific 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.

    It's also worth noting that the sturgeon spearing season is currently underway, having started on February 8. While this doesn't directly affect ice fishing, it's good to be aware of the spearing activities if you're out on the ice.

    For perch and panfish, small jigs tipped with spikes or waxies are doing well. For walleye, stick with those small crankbaits and leeches. Northern pike are biting on spoons and jigs with some flash.

    Water clarity, which is crucial for sturgeon spearing, is also a factor for other fish. According to recent reports, water clarity around Lake Winnebago is influenced by ice conditions, and this can affect where fish are suspended in the water column.

    Stay safe, and tight lines The ice fishing on Lake Winnebago is looking good, so get out there and enjoy it.
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    3 mins
  • Ice Fishing Outlook on Lake Winnebago - February 2025

    Ice Fishing Outlook on Lake Winnebago - February 2025
    Feb 8 2025
    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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    3 mins
  • "Sturgeon Spearing and Winter Fishing on Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin"

    "Sturgeon Spearing and Winter Fishing on Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin"
    Feb 7 2025
    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, just a day before the highly anticipated sturgeon spearing season kicks off.

    First off, let's talk about the weather. As of today, February 7th, the forecast is looking chilly but perfect for ice fishing. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-teens to low twenties Fahrenheit, with clear skies and light winds. This kind of weather is ideal for getting out on the ice and setting up those shanties.

    Sunrise today is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at about 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get your gear ready and hit the ice.

    Now, let's dive into the water conditions. The 2025 Winnebago Water Clarity Report indicates that water clarity around Lake Winnebago is less than 10 feet, which typically suggests a full 16-day harvest season for sturgeon spearing. However, it's crucial to note that ice conditions play a significant role in water clarity, and this year's ice is looking stable but not exceptionally clear[4].

    For sturgeon spearing, which begins tomorrow, February 8th, the best spots are usually where the water is shallow and the ice is solid. Areas like the north shore of Lake Winnebago, particularly around Quinney, are popular due to their historical success rates. The Upriver Lakes, including Butte des Morts, Winneconne, and Poygan, are also hot spots, but these require a special permit and have limited licenses available[1].

    If you're not into sturgeon spearing or prefer other species, Lake Winnebago and its surrounding waters are renowned for their walleye, whitebass, crappie, and perch. For walleyes, trolling crank baits or pitching jigs near structures like weeds, shorelines, reefs, and rocky points can be very effective. This time of year, walleyes might be a bit sluggish due to the cold, but they can still be caught using slow and steady presentations[3].

    For bait, live bait such as fatheads or golden shiners work well for walleyes and panfish. For sturgeon, the traditional method involves using decoys suspended at the right depth to attract these ancient fish.

    In terms of recent catches, the sturgeon spearing season hasn't started yet, but last year's reports indicate that the harvest was lower due to poor ice conditions. This year, with better ice, we're expecting a more active season[1].

    To sum it up, if you're heading out to Lake Winnebago or the Upriver Lakes, make sure to check the ice conditions with local fishing clubs, dress warmly, and be prepared for a day of ice fishing. For sturgeon spearing, register your fish promptly at one of the DNR-operated registration stations, and enjoy the rich tradition that comes with this unique sport.

    Good luck out there, and tight lines
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    3 mins
  • "Ice Fishing on Lake Winnebago: Perch, Walleye, and Pike Bites Heating Up"

    "Ice Fishing on Lake Winnebago: Perch, Walleye, and Pike Bites Heating Up"
    Feb 5 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers, this is Artificial Lure here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin, as of February 5, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. We're 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. However, 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. The 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.

    Recently, the fishing on Lake Winnebago 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.

    For 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. If you're targeting 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.

    In terms of specific catches, there have been some really good reports for perch fishing in the channels, with many anglers pulling in decent numbers using the tip-down method. Walleye have been more selective but are still biting, especially around areas like 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. Northern pike have also been active in the channels, making for some exciting catches.

    For those looking 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. Another spot worth checking out is the area around the Wolf River, particularly around Winneconne and Fremont, where the walleyes tend to congregate during their spawning runs, although this is more relevant in the spring.

    Remember, the sturgeon spearing season is just around the corner, opening on February 8, so be aware of the spearing activities if you're out on the ice.

    Stay safe, and tight lines The ice fishing on Lake Winnebago is looking good, so get out there and enjoy it.
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    3 mins