How to Fish Chippewa Flowage: Best Patterns & Techniques

Chippewa Flowage

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 14, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Chippewa Flowage

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Staging in pre-spawn areas near shallow flats, moving from winter depths to spawning grounds Actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased aggression during warming trends Relating heavily to emerging vegetation and wood cover as water warms	Secondary points adjacent to spawning flats with emerging vegetation Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) in 2-6 foot depth range Protected coves with early-growing vegetation	Lipless Crankbaits worked through emerging vegetation Spinnerbaits parallel to shoreline cover Bladed Jigs around wood structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting isolated cover	Yellow Perch staging in similar areas Shad schools in pre-spawn migration Emerging crawfish becoming active in warming water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-55	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding on crawfish near sand-rock transitions and stumps in 8-12 foot depths Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures around 50°F, showing increased feeding activity particularly around structure	Sand-rock transition areas with stumps in 8-12 foot depths Shallow flats adjacent to deeper wintering areas Protected shoreline areas with rock and wood combinations	Finesse Hair Jigs slowly dragged across transitions and flats Ned Rigs worked around stumps and rocky structure Finesse Jigs targeted precisely at visible stumps	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish in transitional areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	55-65	Bluegills are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to shallow pre-spawn staging areas, becoming more active with warming water temperatures Fish are beginning to feed more aggressively as they prepare for spawning, targeting insects and small invertebrates near emerging vegetation	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation, especially near stumps and woody cover Secondary points leading into spawning bays, particularly those with gradual slopes Protected areas between docks where early vegetation growth occurs	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around emerging vegetation Finesse Hair Jigs worked methodically near structure Live Bait Rigs with small worms or insects presented at varying depths	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water Tiny crustaceans and zooplankton in vegetation Small worms and bottom-dwelling invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Crappie are actively transitioning to shallow pre-spawn areas, suspending at specific depths near vegetation and woody cover Fish are showing preference for suspended presentations in 2-6 foot zones, likely due to water clarity limitations and warming trends	Submerged vegetation in 2-6 foot depth range, especially in protected coves and bays Brush piles and stumps adjacent to spawning flats in similar depth ranges Complex shoreline areas with multiple cover types present	Bobbers with small jigs and plastics for precise depth control Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') when fish are spotted or marked Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) along weed edges	Small baitfish suspended in vegetation Aquatic insects emerging in warming waters	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-52	Pre-spawn pike are actively feeding and moving into shallow bays and backwater areas with emerging vegetation Fish are aggressive and territorial, responding well to larger profile baits that create flash and vibration in the stained water	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Points and channel edges leading into spawning bays Areas with remaining patches of previous year's vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked slowly with occasional pauses near structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily through shallow areas Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses between twitches	Panfish (crappie and bluegill) moving shallow Minnow species congregating in warming bays Young of year fish from previous season	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-48	Pre-spawn walleyes staging near spawning areas, making short feeding movements to adjacent structure during warming trends Actively feeding during low-light periods, with extended daylight activity due to stained water conditions (1.5m secchi)	Transitional areas between shallow spawning flats and deeper water, especially near coontail weed edges in 8-10 feet Rock piles and stump fields adjacent to spawning areas Protected bays with firm bottom composition	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy Yellow Perch schools in transitional areas Small baitfish relating to emerging weed growth	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Pre-spawn muskies are beginning to move from winter locations to warmer, shallow spawning areas, especially focusing on north-facing bays that warm first Fish are becoming more active but still relatively lethargic, preferring slower-moving presentations	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially those with dark bottoms that warm quickly Transition areas between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning bays Areas where emerging weed growth meets deeper water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along transitions Trolling Shallow (0-9') along emerging weed edges Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) with slow, methodical retrieves	Suckers moving into spawning areas Northern Pike congregating in shallow bays Panfish schools beginning to move shallow	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Largemouth bass moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly in protected bays and coves with firm bottom and cover Males preparing and guarding nests while females stage nearby, making multiple trips between deeper staging areas and shallow spawning zones Aggressive territorial behavior around nests, with fish more likely to strike out of defense than feeding	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation and stumps Grassy shorelines in 2-4 feet of water with adjacent deeper water Areas with laydowns and stumps near spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow cover and visible beds Swim Jigs through spawning areas and along grass edges Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly for pre-spawn staging fish	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters Bluegill moving shallow with spawning bass Young of year shad beginning to appear	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	50-65	Smallmouth bass transitioning into spawning behavior with aggressive territorial defense near nesting areas, particularly around rock-sand transitions Fish actively feeding in pre-spawn pattern, using rock piles and stumps as staging areas before moving to spawning flats	Rock-sand transitions in 8-12 foot depth range Rock piles near spawning flats Stump fields in shallow water, especially near rocky areas	Hard Jerkbaits with aggressive stop-and-go retrieve Drop Shot with finesse presentations around rock piles Tubes worked slowly along rock-sand transitions	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish congregating near spawning areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegills are actively spawning and defending nests in shallow water, particularly around stumps and weeds as indicated by recent reports Males are highly aggressive and territorial during spawning, making them more likely to strike at various baits	Shallow shoreline areas with stumps and weeds where spawning beds are located Protected bays and coves with firm bottom composition Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Live Bait Rigs with small jigs and live bait, as proven successful in recent reports Bobbers with suspended jigs for precise presentation over beds Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with light jigs for longer casts to spooky fish	Small insects and larvae around spawning areas Small crustaceans in weed beds Zooplankton in shallow water column	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are moving into shallow spawning areas (2-6 feet) and staging near cover such as submerged vegetation, stumps, and brush piles Fish are suspended at specific depths in the water column, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise Males are establishing and guarding nesting areas while females stage slightly deeper until ready to spawn	Shallow coves and bays with submerged vegetation in 2-6 foot depth range Stumps and brush piles near spawning flats Protected areas between points where vegetation meets deeper water	Bobbers with suspended jigs over spawning areas and near cover Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around identified structure Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) for actively feeding fish	Small baitfish congregating in spawning areas Aquatic insects emerging in warming water Small crustaceans in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-54	Pike are moving into shallow, warmer bays and areas with emerging vegetation for spawning, actively feeding in preparation for and after spawn Most active during daylight hours, particularly on sunny days when water temperatures rise in the shallows Aggressive feeding behavior as fish recover from spawn and target abundant prey in shallow areas	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Protected areas near points and irregular shoreline features Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas with vegetation or wood cover	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near vegetation Inline Spinners cast parallel to emerging weed edges	Small pike and panfish gathering in spawning areas Minnows and small baitfish moving shallow Juvenile bluegill and crappie in vegetated areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-55	Post-spawn walleye moving from spawning areas to early-season feeding locations, particularly around emerging weed growth and rocky transitions Fish becoming more active during daylight hours due to stained water conditions (1.5m Secchi), with peak feeding during low-light periods	8-10 foot weedlines with coontail growth, especially near points and transitions Rocky points and shallow rock piles adjacent to spawning areas Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and stable water temperatures	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along weedline edges and transitions Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with methodical presentations around structure Lipless Crankbaits worked parallel to emerging weed growth	Young of year perch gathering around emerging weed growth Shallow water baitfish schools Crawfish becoming active in rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	52-65	Post-spawn muskies are recovering in shallow, warmer bays with abundant vegetation, particularly focusing on morning and evening periods Fish are establishing early season feeding patterns along weed edges and points, becoming more active as water temperatures rise	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially those with southern exposure Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning areas Weedline edges in 4-8 feet of water where vegetation is beginning to grow	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along emerging weed edges Spinnerbaits retrieved just fast enough to turn blades in shallow zones Inline Spinners worked parallel to developing weed edges	Shallow-water suckers congregating near spawning areas Perch utilizing early-season weed growth Small pike in shallow bays	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	68-79	Post-spawn largemouth are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing grass edges and shoreline cover as ambush points Fish are showing a strong reaction bite pattern in shallow water, particularly along grassy shorelines Movement patterns suggest fish are transitioning between spawning areas and early summer locations	Grassy shorelines with submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet Submerged wood cover near vegetation edges Protected coves with emerging weed growth	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through grass Hard Jerkbaits along weed edges Spinnerbaits parallel to shoreline vegetation	Yellow Perch around vegetation Shad/Minnows in shallow water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing mid-depth transitions between spawning flats and summer haunts Fish are schooling and targeting crawfish and baitfish in 8-15 foot zones near rock-sand transitions	Rock-sand transition areas in 8-12 foot depth range Stump fields adjacent to spawning flats Secondary points with boulder structure	Drop Shot with soft plastics worked slowly along transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through target zones Tubes dragged and hopped along rocky structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools in transition areas Juvenile perch around stump fields	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish moving between shallow cover and slightly deeper adjacent areas, particularly active during morning and evening periods	Weed edges and pockets near spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water Stumps and submerged vegetation adjacent to spawning areas Protected bays with emerging vegetation	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around cover Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near structure Live Bait Rigs with small leeches or worms	Small insects and larvae Zooplankton Tiny crustaceans	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappies are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy while gradually moving to deeper structure Fish are suspending near abundant vegetation edges and brush piles, showing preference for specific depth zones based on comfort and forage availability	Outer edges of vegetation in 8-12 feet of water, especially near points and channel swings Brush piles and stumps adjacent to spawning bays in 6-10 feet Secondary points with submerged vegetation leading to deeper water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along weed edges to cover water and find active fish Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') when fish are found concentrated on specific structure Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) for precise presentations to visible cover	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge in the shallows Aquatic insects around vegetation Small crawfish in transition areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike actively feeding in shallow vegetation, particularly during morning and evening hours Fish staging along weed edges and lily pad fields, using these areas as ambush points for prey Aggressive feeding behavior, especially on bright, windy days when visibility allows for active hunting	Lily pad fields and emerging weed beds in 3-6 feet of water Grass edges and points adjacent to deeper water Protected bays with developing vegetation	Spinnerbaits with large double silver blades on sunny days Inline Spinners worked through gaps in vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges	Young-of-year panfish gathering in emerging vegetation Shallow-running baitfish schools Small pike and yellow perch	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-62	Post-spawn walleye transitioning to active feeding patterns, utilizing weed edges and sunken islands as primary feeding zones Fish are holding along vegetation edges during daylight hours due to stained water conditions (1.5m Secchi), allowing for extended feeding periods	Weed lines in 8-10 foot range with coontail present Sunken islands with adjacent deep water access Complex shoreline points and bays with emerging vegetation	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around weed edges and sunken island breaks Live Bait Rigs along weed edges and transition areas Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') for covering water and finding active fish	Young of year perch beginning to congregate near weed edges Minnows and small baitfish relating to emerging vegetation	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	52-65	Post-spawn muskies are recovering and beginning to actively feed, primarily during warmer parts of the day in shallow zones Fish are utilizing weed edges and emerging vegetation as primary ambush points, especially in areas adjacent to spawning bays Due to stained water conditions (1.5m Secchi), fish are most active during daylight hours and staying relatively shallow	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to spawning bays Points and inside turns with emerging vegetation Shallow rock/gravel areas near deeper water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along weed edges Inline Spinners retrieved at moderate speeds parallel to emerging vegetation Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges and point transitions	Shallow-oriented suckers recovering from their own spawn Northern Pike Various panfish species congregating in warming bays	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-85	Bass actively feeding around vegetation edges and stumps, using these structures as ambush points for prey Fish showing preference for both aggressive reaction strikes and methodical feeding patterns, suggesting multiple viable approaches	Submerged vegetation edges and weed flats Stump fields, especially those adjacent to vegetation Complex shoreline areas with multiple cover types	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along weed edges Football Jigs worked around stumps and hard cover Spinnerbaits with paddle tail trailers for reaction strikes	Yellow Perch relating to vegetation edges Shad/minnows in open water adjacent to structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-78	Active feeding in shallow to mid-depth zones, particularly around rocky structure and current breaks Aggressive topwater feeding during early morning and evening periods Utilizing boulder fields and dock areas as primary feeding zones	Boulder fields and rip rap areas with direct sun exposure Current breaks and eddies near rocky structure Docks with deep water access and rocky bottom composition	Hard Topwater (Popping) worked aggressively around rocky banks Drop Shot rigged with finesse baits near current breaks Tubes worked along boulder fields	Crawfish in rocky areas Minnows in upper water column Small sunfish around dock structures	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	75-82	Holding on deep man-made structure (cribs) in 18' during warm summer conditions, actively feeding during cooler parts of day Seeking thermal refuge in deeper, cooler water while maintaining access to feeding zones	Cribs and artificial structure in 15-20 foot depth range Deep weedlines adjacent to submerged vegetation Deep points and transitions near shoreline structure	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling Live Bait Rigs	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton in deeper water columns	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Crappie	68-78	Crappies are transitioning to deeper, cooler water, primarily relating to man-made cribs at 18' and deeper weed edges Active feeding occurs during dawn and dusk periods, with fish suspending near structure during midday	Man-made fish cribs in 18-foot depth range Deep weed edges adjacent to points and coves Brush piles near deeper water access	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging Hover/Mid-Strolling	Young-of-year baitfish Small invertebrates around weed edges Juvenile sunfish	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	65-78	Northern Pike are actively patrolling weed edges in 8-10 foot zones during summer, using vegetation as ambush points for prey During hot midday periods, pike move slightly deeper into weed edges, becoming more active during morning and evening hours	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot depths, especially where they meet points or rock piles Submerged vegetation adjacent to bays and irregular shoreline features Grass and lily pad edges in shallower water during morning/evening periods	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges with varied retrieve speeds Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) burned through openings in vegetation Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges during prime feeding periods	Bluegill and other panfish concentrating around weed edges Crappie schools relating to deeper vegetation Various minnow species using weed cover	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-75	Walleye transitioning to deeper, cooler water during daylight hours, concentrating along the 12-18' depth range near the thermocline More active feeding during low light periods (dawn/dusk) in shallower waters, moving up to weedlines and structure to ambush prey Utilizing complex shoreline features and abundant structure (stumps, rock piles) as ambush points	Deep weedline edges in 8-10 feet, especially near coontail beds Rock piles and stumps in 12-18 foot depth range Complex points and bays with access to both shallow and deep water	Live Bait Rigs worked along deep weedlines and structure breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over rock piles and deep structure Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along contour breaks and weedlines	Yellow Perch relating to weed edges Crappies suspended near structure Young-of-year baitfish schools	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	68-82	Muskies are establishing summer patterns along weed edges and points, making shorter feeding movements during early morning and evening hours Fish are suspending near deep weed edges during midday heat, moving shallow during low light periods to ambush prey	Deeper weed edges adjacent to main lake points Shallow grass flats with scattered vegetation in 4-8 feet Complex shoreline areas where multiple cover types intersect	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weedlines during morning and evening Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges Hard Body Swimbaits worked through scattered vegetation	Northern Pike in the 12-16 inch range Large Suckers relating to weed edges Schools of Panfish in scattered vegetation	Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Chippewa Flowage

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-68	Fish are transitioning to dying vegetation edges, following baitfish movements and feeding more actively to prepare for winter Largemouth are targeting minnows in and around submerged vegetation, with reports showing consistent 1-2 pound fish catches	Edges of dying submerged vegetation, particularly in areas with good ambush points Stumps and laydowns near vegetation edges Protected bays and coves with remaining green vegetation	Wacky Rigs worked slowly through vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Worming) for working through thicker vegetation Spinnerbaits along vegetation edges during cloudy conditions or low light	Minnows concentrating around vegetation edges Yellow Perch relating to vegetation and wood structure	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and targeting crawfish in rocky areas Fish are transitioning from summer patterns to deeper structure, particularly during cold fronts, but will still utilize mid-depth ranges on warm days	Deep rock-to-sand transition areas in 15-25 foot range Main lake points with boulder structure Steep shoreline breaks near complex structure	Drop Shot with soft plastics worked slowly along deep structure Blade Baits worked vertically through baitfish schools Tubes dragged along rock-to-sand transitions	Schooling baitfish moving through deeper water Crawfish still active in rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	48-62	Bluegills are transitioning to winter staging areas, moving from shallower feeding zones to deeper, more stable environments Feeding activity becomes more concentrated during warmer parts of the day, with fish showing preference for areas near deep water access	Deep edges of submerged vegetation where it meets deeper winterizing areas Man-made cribs near drop-offs that provide transitional staging areas Protected bays with remaining green vegetation	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Bobbers	Small aquatic insects Zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-65	Crappie are transitioning to deeper water, actively feeding to build reserves for winter. They tend to suspend near structure in larger schools during fall. Fish become more aggressive during peak feeding periods, especially during low-light conditions and weather changes.	Deep weed edges near the cribs in 15-20 foot range Brush piles and stumps adjacent to deeper water Deeper coves and bays with remaining vegetation	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging Hover/Mid-Strolling	Young-of-year baitfish Small invertebrates near remaining vegetation Smaller sunfish and juvenile perch	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	52-65	Pike are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, targeting larger prey items along weed edges and points Fish are following baitfish schools and becoming more aggressive as water temperatures cool Movement patterns shift between shallow feeding areas and deeper staging zones based on daily temperature fluctuations	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range, especially near points or irregular shoreline features Shallow bays with remaining vegetation, particularly during warmer parts of the day Rock piles and stumps adjacent to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges with occasional pauses Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) pulled through and over vegetation Trolling Shallow (0-9') parallel to weed edges during prime feeding periods	Crappie schools congregating in deeper areas Bluegill remaining in vegetation Minnow schools moving along weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Walleye	45-58	Walleye are staging for winter, moving from shallow feeding areas to deeper main basin locations, often following baitfish schools Increased feeding activity during low-light periods, with fish moving shallower during dawn/dusk to feed in stained water conditions	Deep water breaks and points near main basin areas (12-20 feet) where fish are staging for winter Remaining weed edges and coontail beds in 8-12 feet that still hold baitfish Rock piles and stump fields adjacent to deeper water that provide ambush points	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits	Yellow Perch schooling near remaining vegetation Crappies concentrating in deeper water Small baitfish schools transitioning to winter locations	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Muskie	42-55	Muskies are staging in ultra-shallow water along shorelines and inside weed edges, actively feeding to build up energy reserves before winter Fish are most active during low-light conditions due to the stained water, with movement patterns closely tied to forage location	Inside weed edges and shoreline transitions in 2-8 feet of water Shallow bays with remaining vegetation Points and inside turns where shallow water meets deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with large suckers under floats, pulled at 0.3-0.5 mph Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to weed edges Trolling Shallow (0-9') along remaining vegetation edges	Large Suckers Shallow water baitfish Panfish near remaining vegetation	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	38-42	Schooling in deep basins near drop-offs, typically suspending above structure in 18-25 foot range Active feeding during prime daylight hours, especially mid-morning to early afternoon when water temperatures peak	Deep basin areas adjacent to drop-offs, particularly near winter staging areas Man-made cribs in 18-22 foot range that provide shelter and feeding opportunities Deep channels near shallow flats where fish can move up to feed during warming trends	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with small tungsten jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly and methodically through the water column Damiki Rig presented vertically when fish are suspended and less aggressive	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton concentrations in deeper water Tiny crustaceans around structure	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie are schooling tightly in deeper water, typically suspended near structure or in basins Feeding activity is more pronounced during early morning and late afternoon periods, with fish becoming more selective	Deep water cribs and brush piles in 15-20 foot range Basin areas adjacent to submerged vegetation edges Deep coves and channels near primary points	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling Ice Fishing Jigs	Small minnows and shad Micro invertebrates Young of the year panfish	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Northern Pike	45-55	Pike become more concentrated in remaining areas of green weeds, using these zones as primary hunting grounds Feeding periods are shorter but more intense, with pike most active during mid-morning to early afternoon	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range that still maintain green vegetation Points and inside turns near deeper water that intersect with remaining weed growth Protected bays with remaining vegetation, especially near deeper water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Spinnerbaits Lipless Crankbaits	Concentrated schools of panfish (crappie and bluegill) in remaining vegetation Baitfish schools seeking warmer water in deeper weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	38-45	Walleye are staging in deeper basins and actively feeding on concentrated schools of baitfish before ice-up Fish are typically most active during lower light conditions (dawn/dusk) but will feed throughout day in stained water conditions	Deep main lake basins near structural elements like rock piles and stumps Sharp breaks and edges where deep water meets structural elements in 12-18' range Deep weed edges where coontail meets basin areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Damiki Rig	Crappies schooling in deeper water Yellow Perch relating to deep structure Suspended baitfish schools in main basin areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-48	Muskies are concentrated in their last major feeding period before ice-up, actively hunting larger prey in shallower zones during low-light periods Fish are relating closely to remaining green weeds and structural elements that concentrate baitfish, especially during weather changes	Remaining green weed edges adjacent to deeper water access Points and inside turns with healthy vegetation near deep water breaks Shallow bays with concentrated baitfish schools	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Trolling Shallow (0-9') Large Hair Jigs (Preacher)	Suckers Northern Pike Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills will be schooled tightly in deep basin areas near drop-offs, typically suspended slightly off bottom Feeding activity peaks during early morning and late afternoon, with fish becoming more selective during midday	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer fishing cribs in 18-22 feet of water Transition areas between shallow flats and deep water where winter staging occurs Deep weed edges that remain green through winter	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements just above the school Ice Fishing Spoons with erratic action to trigger reaction strikes Live Bait Rigs suspended motionless for finicky fish	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton in the water column Tiny crustaceans near remaining vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Crappie	34-39	Crappie will typically suspend in the water column near structure, often relating to submerged vegetation edges and brush piles in 12-18 foot depth range during ice season Most active feeding periods occur during dawn and dusk, with a secondary bite window during stable weather periods mid-day Given the stained water conditions (1.5m Secchi), fish will likely stay higher in the water column than in clearer lakes	Deep weed edges adjacent to basins, especially near the reported summer fishing cribs in 18' of water Brush piles and stumps in 12-15 foot range, particularly those near deeper water access Protected coves and bays with consistent depths between 8-15 feet	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements to trigger strikes in the stained water Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive action to create flash and vibration Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to pattern suspended fish	Small minnows and young-of-year fish suspended in the water column Zooplankton concentrations in and around remaining green vegetation Small aquatic invertebrates relating to bottom structure	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Northern Pike become more lethargic but still feed actively during prime periods, typically concentrating in areas near abundant forage Fish tend to school more during winter, often relating to the same general areas as their prey	Weed edges in 8-10 foot range where vegetation remains green Areas adjacent to deeper basins where winter forage concentrates Shallow bays with remaining vegetation, particularly near deeper water access	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at various depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for a more subtle presentation	Crappies and Bluegills concentrated in winter schools Minnows relating to remaining weed growth Small perch schools roaming near bottom structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Ice	Walleye	34-39	Walleye concentrate in deep basins and along steep breaks during ice season, following primary forage Most active feeding periods occur during dawn and dusk, with a secondary bite window during overcast midday periods	Main lake basin areas near deep structure in 18-25 feet Steep breaks adjacent to shallow flats with remnant vegetation in 12-18 feet Rock piles and stump fields near deeper water transitions	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements near bottom Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive jigging during prime periods Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along depth transitions	Yellow Perch schooling near bottom structure Crappies suspended in deeper basins Small baitfish relating to remnant weed edges	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Chippewa Flowage

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points adjacent to spawning flats with emerging vegetation	Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) in 2-6 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Sand-rock transition areas with stumps in 8-12 foot depths	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper wintering areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation, especially near stumps and woody cover	Secondary points leading into spawning bays, particularly those with gradual slopes
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Submerged vegetation in 2-6 foot depth range, especially in protected coves and bays	Brush piles and stumps adjacent to spawning flats in similar depth ranges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Points and channel edges leading into spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Transitional areas between shallow spawning flats and deeper water, especially near coontail weed edges in 8-10 feet	Rock piles and stump fields adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially those with dark bottoms that warm quickly	Transition areas between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation and stumps	Grassy shorelines in 2-4 feet of water with adjacent deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock-sand transitions in 8-12 foot depth range	Rock piles near spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow shoreline areas with stumps and weeds where spawning beds are located	Protected bays and coves with firm bottom composition
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shallow coves and bays with submerged vegetation in 2-6 foot depth range	Stumps and brush piles near spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Protected areas near points and irregular shoreline features
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	8-10 foot weedlines with coontail growth, especially near points and transitions	Rocky points and shallow rock piles adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially those with southern exposure	Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Grassy shorelines with submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet	Submerged wood cover near vegetation edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock-sand transition areas in 8-12 foot depth range	Stump fields adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and pockets near spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water	Stumps and submerged vegetation adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Outer edges of vegetation in 8-12 feet of water, especially near points and channel swings	Brush piles and stumps adjacent to spawning bays in 6-10 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Lily pad fields and emerging weed beds in 3-6 feet of water	Grass edges and points adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Weed lines in 8-10 foot range with coontail present	Sunken islands with adjacent deep water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Emerging weed edges in 4-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to spawning bays	Points and inside turns with emerging vegetation
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges and weed flats	Stump fields, especially those adjacent to vegetation
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields and rip rap areas with direct sun exposure	Current breaks and eddies near rocky structure
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Cribs and artificial structure in 15-20 foot depth range	Deep weedlines adjacent to submerged vegetation
Summer	Crappie	Man-made fish cribs in 18-foot depth range	Deep weed edges adjacent to points and coves
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot depths, especially where they meet points or rock piles	Submerged vegetation adjacent to bays and irregular shoreline features
Summer	Walleye	Deep weedline edges in 8-10 feet, especially near coontail beds	Rock piles and stumps in 12-18 foot depth range
Summer	Muskie	Deeper weed edges adjacent to main lake points	Shallow grass flats with scattered vegetation in 4-8 feet
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Edges of dying submerged vegetation, particularly in areas with good ambush points	Stumps and laydowns near vegetation edges
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Deep rock-to-sand transition areas in 15-25 foot range	Main lake points with boulder structure
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep edges of submerged vegetation where it meets deeper winterizing areas	Man-made cribs near drop-offs that provide transitional staging areas
Fall	Crappie	Deep weed edges near the cribs in 15-20 foot range	Brush piles and stumps adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range, especially near points or irregular shoreline features	Shallow bays with remaining vegetation, particularly during warmer parts of the day
Fall	Walleye	Deep water breaks and points near main basin areas (12-20 feet) where fish are staging for winter	Remaining weed edges and coontail beds in 8-12 feet that still hold baitfish
Fall	Muskie	Inside weed edges and shoreline transitions in 2-8 feet of water	Shallow bays with remaining vegetation
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep basin areas adjacent to drop-offs, particularly near winter staging areas	Man-made cribs in 18-22 foot range that provide shelter and feeding opportunities
Winter	Crappie	Deep water cribs and brush piles in 15-20 foot range	Basin areas adjacent to submerged vegetation edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 8-10 foot range that still maintain green vegetation	Points and inside turns near deeper water that intersect with remaining weed growth
Winter	Walleye	Deep main lake basins near structural elements like rock piles and stumps	Sharp breaks and edges where deep water meets structural elements in 12-18' range
Winter	Muskie	Remaining green weed edges adjacent to deeper water access	Points and inside turns with healthy vegetation near deep water breaks
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep basin areas adjacent to summer fishing cribs in 18-22 feet of water	Transition areas between shallow flats and deep water where winter staging occurs
Ice	Crappie	Deep weed edges adjacent to basins, especially near the reported summer fishing cribs in 18' of water	Brush piles and stumps in 12-15 foot range, particularly those near deeper water access
Ice	Northern Pike	Weed edges in 8-10 foot range where vegetation remains green	Areas adjacent to deeper basins where winter forage concentrates
Ice	Walleye	Main lake basin areas near deep structure in 18-25 feet	Steep breaks adjacent to shallow flats with remnant vegetation in 12-18 feet

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Yellow Perch staging in similar areas	Shad schools in pre-spawn migration
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water	Tiny crustaceans and zooplankton in vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small baitfish suspended in vegetation	Aquatic insects emerging in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Panfish (crappie and bluegill) moving shallow	Minnow species congregating in warming bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Yellow Perch schools in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Suckers moving into spawning areas	Northern Pike congregating in shallow bays
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Bluegill moving shallow with spawning bass
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish congregating near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around spawning areas	Small crustaceans in weed beds
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small baitfish congregating in spawning areas	Aquatic insects emerging in warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Small pike and panfish gathering in spawning areas	Minnows and small baitfish moving shallow
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Young of year perch gathering around emerging weed growth	Shallow water baitfish schools
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow-water suckers congregating near spawning areas	Perch utilizing early-season weed growth
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Yellow Perch around vegetation	Shad/Minnows in shallow water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge in the shallows	Aquatic insects around vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Young-of-year panfish gathering in emerging vegetation	Shallow-running baitfish schools
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Young of year perch beginning to congregate near weed edges	Minnows and small baitfish relating to emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow-oriented suckers recovering from their own spawn	Northern Pike
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Yellow Perch relating to vegetation edges	Shad/minnows in open water adjacent to structure
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish in rocky areas	Minnows in upper water column
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton in deeper water columns
Summer	Crappie	Young-of-year baitfish	Small invertebrates around weed edges
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill and other panfish concentrating around weed edges	Crappie schools relating to deeper vegetation
Summer	Walleye	Yellow Perch relating to weed edges	Crappies suspended near structure
Summer	Muskie	Northern Pike in the 12-16 inch range	Large Suckers relating to weed edges
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Minnows concentrating around vegetation edges	Yellow Perch relating to vegetation and wood structure
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Schooling baitfish moving through deeper water	Crawfish still active in rocky areas
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects	Zooplankton
Fall	Crappie	Young-of-year baitfish	Small invertebrates near remaining vegetation
Fall	Northern Pike	Crappie schools congregating in deeper areas	Bluegill remaining in vegetation
Fall	Walleye	Yellow Perch schooling near remaining vegetation	Crappies concentrating in deeper water
Fall	Muskie	Large Suckers	Shallow water baitfish
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton concentrations in deeper water
Winter	Crappie	Small minnows and shad	Micro invertebrates
Winter	Northern Pike	Concentrated schools of panfish (crappie and bluegill) in remaining vegetation	Baitfish schools seeking warmer water in deeper weed edges
Winter	Walleye	Crappies schooling in deeper water	Yellow Perch relating to deep structure
Winter	Muskie	Suckers	Northern Pike
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton in the water column
Ice	Crappie	Small minnows and young-of-year fish suspended in the water column	Zooplankton concentrations in and around remaining green vegetation
Ice	Northern Pike	Crappies and Bluegills concentrated in winter schools	Minnows relating to remaining weed growth
Ice	Walleye	Yellow Perch schooling near bottom structure	Crappies suspended in deeper basins

Bait Colors by Season for Chippewa Flowage

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Ice	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Ice	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors