Fishing report 12-09-22

FISHING REPORT

Ice conditions are slowly improving, but the 6-8 inches of snow received one week ago is inhibiting the ability of current cold temperatures to build more ice. As always, use extreme caution when on the ice and check ice thickness every step of the way. Fortunately, most fish are in accessible shallow, weedy areas that also hold the “best” ice (such as it might be at the time!) Most of the season remains, so do not take unnecessary risks.

Walleye:

Walleye action is good to very good, with best fishing in very early morning or late afternoon into dark. Target weeds, weedlines, and weed edges in 4-12 feet ‑ and a stealth approach can pay great dividends. Preferred baits and presentations include walleye suckers, medium shiners, and large fatheads under tip-ups and on jigs, and jigging spoons jigged “enthusiastically” are also working well.

Northern Pike:

Northern pike are providing a very good to excellent daytime bite on most lakes. The pike are in and around shallow weeds and the panfish and baitfish hiding in those weeds. Northern suckers, large shiners, and other minnow all tempt pike at this time. For trophy pike, suspend a smelt about one foot above the bottom.

Crappie:

Crappie fishing is good to very good. Look for fish in weedline pockets in 4-12 feet. Crappie minnows, waxies, and plastics on small jigs and plain hooks, as well as small jigging spoons, are all productive baits.

Bluegill and Perch

Bluegill and perch fishing is good to very good for anglers fishing accessible shallow, weedy areas. Waxies, spikes, minnows, and plastics on small jigs, teardrops, and plain hooks, and small jigging spoons, are all effective offerings.