Fishing report March 23, 2023

Ice thickness remains good on most lakes, though anglers have to deal with “layers,” and snowmobiles and ATVs/UTVS are the preferred choice of travel (mostly out of necessity). Watch for open water!
Panfish anglers and trout anglers fishing the early catch and release season should note licenses expire March 31 and licenses for the 2023-24 season are now available and in effect upon purchase.

Crappie:
Crappie fishing is good to very good, with fish beginning to transition from deep areas toward shallower spring spawning sites. Look for them in basins, on deep weeds and weed edges, and other structure and check the entire water column! Baits of choice include crappie minnows, waxies, and plastics on small jigs, teardrops, and plain hooks.

Bluegill:
Bluegill fishing is good for the few anglers hitting the ice. Fish are scattered from shallow to deep on weeds, basins, and flats, and slowly starting the move toward shallow spring spawning areas. Waxies, spikes, plastics that mimic any hatches, and Gulp! baits on small jigs and teardrops are all productive. Downsizing is often the answer for reluctant fish.

Perch:
Perch fishing is good and improving on flats and areas disturbed by moving water (use caution!) Locating the fish can be a challenge, but action is good if you do. Fish are taking a wide range of baits at any given time, so take an assortment. Jigs with live bait and plastics, spoons tipped with minnow heads or waxies, and tip-down presentations are all working.