How to Fish Delavan Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Delavan Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 24, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Delavan Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-58	Staging in pre-spawn areas near spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves Moving between deeper staging areas and shallow feeding zones as temperatures fluctuate	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 foot depth range Secondary points with access to spawning flats Protected coves with emerging vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through vegetation Lipless Crankbaits along weed edges Bladed Jigs near emerging vegetation	Perch Bluegill	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Pre-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding on perch while transitioning from winter to spawning areas, following warming trends Fish are relating to submerged vegetation edges at moderate depths, suggesting a staging pattern typical of pre-spawn	Deep weed edges in 10-15 foot range where smallmouth stage during pre-spawn Hard bottom areas near shell beds as fish transition toward spawning locations Docks and break walls that provide cover during transitional periods	Damiki Rig - proven effective in recent reports for suspended fish near structure Drop Shot - effective in clear enough water for sight-feeding Tubes - classic pre-spawn presentation around hard bottom areas	Perch - primary forage confirmed by multiple fishing reports Smaller baitfish relating to weed edges	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Pre-spawn pike are actively feeding and moving from winter depths to spawning areas, particularly utilizing points and shallow bays Fish are aggressive and territorial during this period, with increased feeding activity due to spawning preparation	Points adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with remaining winter vegetation in 12-15 feet Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-7 feet of water Transitional areas between deep winter haunts and spawning locations	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along points and emerging weed edges Lipless Crankbaits with stop-and-go retrieves in pre-spawn staging areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through transitional depths	Bluegills concentrating near remaining winter vegetation Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawn Emerging crayfish becoming more active with warming water	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-62	Gradually moving from winter deep water locations to staging areas near spawning flats, becoming more active with warming water Beginning to feed more aggressively as metabolism increases, targeting emerging insects and small crustaceans near vegetation	Protected coves and bays with emerging vegetation in 6-10 foot depths Points adjacent to spawning flats in 8-12 foot depths North side weedlines where early vegetation growth occurs	Bobbers with light jigs suspended 4-6 feet deep near emerging vegetation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small finesse presentations Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms near staging areas	Small aquatic insects emerging with warming water Tiny crustaceans near developing weed growth Small baitfish concentrated in warming shallows	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye are transitioning from winter patterns to spawning areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawn Fish are moving from deeper wintering areas to staging areas near spawning sites, particularly active during dawn and dusk periods	Rocky points and gravel areas near spawning sites in 8-15 foot depth range Transitional areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats Weed edges in 12-15 foot range serving as travel corridors	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Shad schools suspending near transition areas Yellow Perch along weed edges and bottom structure Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	60-70	Bass actively spawning and guarding beds in shallow areas, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass observed on beds simultaneously Post-spawn fish transitioning to fry-guarding behavior, actively pursuing bluegill around shallow cover Fish showing aggressive territorial behavior around spawning areas, particularly under matted vegetation	Shallow spawning flats with mixed vegetation Matted grass areas along shorelines Early-forming lily pad fields Secondary points in 10-17 foot range for transitioning fish	Frogs/Toads worked over matted vegetation and spawning areas Bladed Jigs around sparse vegetation and transition areas Buzzbaits through emerging pad fields Soft Jerkbaits for sight fishing spawning bass	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas Small baitfish in shallow vegetation	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-69	Smallmouth bass transitioning between pre-spawn and spawn phases, actively feeding while preparing for and engaging in spawning activities Fish showing mixed depth patterns - feeding in slightly deeper water early, then moving shallow as temperatures warm and pleasure boat traffic increases	Docks and break walls, especially during transitional periods and when seeking shelter from boat traffic Submerged vegetation edges in 10-15 foot range Hard bottom areas and shell beds for spawning	Drop Shot with finesse baits - proven effective in recent reports and matches water clarity conditions Bladed Jigs - successful when wind creates chop and in stained water conditions Tubes worked around hard bottom areas and shell beds	Perch - confirmed primary forage in spring from multiple reports Smaller baitfish relating to dock areas and weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-58	Northern Pike are in shallow spawning areas and post-spawn recovery zones, actively feeding to regain energy after spawning Fish are particularly aggressive during this period, with females moving to feeding areas while males linger in spawning zones	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Points adjacent to spawning bays serving as transitional feeding areas Shallow weed edges forming near shoreline areas	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along emerging weed edges and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves through spawning bays Inline Spinners cast to visible pike in shallow water	Shallow-oriented Bluegills moving into spawning areas Young-of-year baitfish congregating in warming shallows Small pike and panfish in spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegills are actively moving into shallow, protected areas for spawning, with males establishing and guarding nests in colonies Fish are more aggressive during daylight hours, defending territories and feeding opportunistically around spawning areas	Protected bays and coves with firm bottom, especially around docks and emergent vegetation Shallow flats adjacent to weedlines in 12-15 foot depths North side shallow areas where weed growth is more extensive	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding under docks near spawning areas Live Bait Rigs with small offerings presented directly to visible beds	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation Zooplankton in shallow water columns Small crustaceans in shoreline areas	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye transitioning from winter deep water areas to shallow spawning locations, particularly around hard bottom areas and tributary inflows Pre and post-spawn fish staging in adjacent deeper water, making feeding forays into shallower areas during low light periods Males arrive first and stay longer in spawning areas, while females move in quickly to spawn and retreat to recovery areas	Rocky points and gravel areas in 2-8 foot depth range for active spawning Adjacent drop-offs in 12-15 foot range near weed edges for staging areas Tributary mouths and current areas with hard bottom composition	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow, subtle presentations during dawn and dusk periods Blade Baits worked through staging areas for actively feeding fish	Shad schools suspended in pre-spawn staging areas Perch relating to bottom structure and transitional areas Small baitfish congregating near tributary inflows	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	68-72	Post-spawn bass are transitioning between spawning areas and summer patterns, with some fish still shallow near bluegill beds while others are moving to deeper weedlines Fish are actively feeding on bluegill, with some following schools of bluegill visible on electronics	Weed lines in 10-15 feet of water Shallow areas near remaining bluegill spawning beds Offshore areas where schools of bluegill are present	Drop Shot with finesse presentations Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges Damiki Rig for suspended fish near bait schools	Bluegill - primary forage with active spawning Other panfish transitioning to summer patterns	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding and recovering energy, relating strongly to deep weed edges in 10-15 foot range Fish are showing consistent patterns along weedlines, likely due to abundant forage and optimal water temperature	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet of water Docks and break walls near deep water access Hard bottom areas adjacent to spawning flats	Drop Shot with finesse baits worked along weed edges Texas Rigs worked through sparse vegetation Hover/Mid-Strolling with soft plastics	Perch Small baitfish relating to weed edges	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Actively feeding and patrolling shallow to mid-depth points and weed edges in post-spawn recovery phase Utilizing ambush points near complex shoreline features in turbid conditions Aggressive feeding behavior during cooler parts of the day, targeting bluegill in shallow areas	Points with emerging weed growth Shallow to mid-depth weed edges in 7-15 feet Complex shoreline areas with multiple ambush points	Spinnerbaits worked along points and weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Inline Spinners near shallow cover	Bluegill Young of the year baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to nearby feeding zones Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between shallow cover and deeper weedlines throughout the day	Protected areas between docks where spawning recently occurred, especially on the north side Emerging weedlines in 12-15 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats Secondary points with developing vegetation near spawning bays	Bobbers with small jigs suspended near emerging weed edges Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structures Hover/Mid-Strolling along weedlines with light presentations	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation Tiny crustaceans in and around weed edges Small minnows gathering around dock structures	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye are actively recovering and beginning to feed aggressively, particularly during early morning and evening periods Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding locations, following baitfish schools and utilizing weed edges	Weed edges in 12-15 foot depth range where vegetation is establishing Points and structure adjacent to spawning areas Shallow flats near deep water access where baitfish are congregating	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transitions Trolling Shallow (0-9') with shallow diving crankbaits during low light Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during active feeding periods	Shad schools in transition areas Yellow Perch along emerging weed edges Small baitfish relating to warming shallows	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	67-82	Bass are establishing summer patterns along deep weedlines and vegetation edges, actively feeding during early morning and evening hours Fish are suspending near vegetation edges in 12-15 foot depths during midday, moving shallower to feed during lower light conditions	Deep weedlines in 12-15 feet of water, particularly where they intersect with points or drops Matted grass and lily pad fields in shallow water Submerged vegetation edges, especially where they create distinct edges	Bladed Jigs worked along weed edges and through scattered vegetation Drop Shot rigs worked slowly on deep weed edges Frogs/Toads over matted vegetation and lily pads Carolina Rigs dragged along deep weed edges	Bluegill - primary forage based on multiple reports Shad - mentioned in several reports as secondary forage	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-82	Actively feeding on shell beds and hard-bottom areas during summer, taking advantage of bluegill forage Positioning on structure-rich areas that provide both feeding opportunities and access to deeper water for temperature regulation	Shell beds on the south side of the lake, particularly those in 10-15 foot depth range Deep weed edges adjacent to hard bottom areas Rocky points and break walls with access to deeper water	Finesse Jigs worked slowly along shell beds and hard bottom areas Drop Shot with finesse presentations in deeper water during midday heat Football Jigs dragged across shell beds and rocky transitions	Bluegill concentrated around shell beds and hard structure Crawfish on hard bottom areas and shell beds	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	75-82	Pike are actively feeding along weed edges in 7-9 feet of water, with increased activity during cooler parts of the day Fish are retreating to deeper weed edges during peak heat, showing preference for ambush points near vegetation	Submerged vegetation edges in 7-9 feet of water Deeper weed edges (10-15 feet) during peak heat periods Points with vegetation where current or wind creates active feeding zones	Bladed Jigs worked over and through vegetation with pauses Spinnerbaits along weed edges with varied retrieve speeds Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) burned over weed tops	Bluegill concentrated in and around vegetation Other panfish species utilizing weed cover	Vibrant Assorted Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Bluegills are actively feeding in and around heavy vegetation, utilizing weed edges and openings as primary feeding zones Fish are most active during early morning and evening hours, moving slightly deeper during bright midday periods Mature bluegills establishing territories in thick cover, particularly in areas with multiple depth options	Weedlines at 12-15 foot depths, especially areas with gaps or points in the vegetation Protected bays with established weed growth North side weed beds where vegetation is reported to be more extensive	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly through weed openings Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') along weed edges Live Bait Rigs with small leeches or worms	Aquatic insects emerging from vegetation Small crustaceans in weed beds Zooplankton concentrated in upper water column	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-82	During summer, walleye will follow a distinct daily pattern - moving deeper during bright midday periods and becoming more active in shallower water during low light conditions With the turbid water (1.5m Secchi), walleye will extend their feeding periods and may remain active in shallower zones even during daylight hours Fish are likely to alternate between suspended feeding on shad schools and bottom-oriented feeding on perch, depending on time of day and weather conditions	Weed edges in 12-15 foot depth range, especially where they intersect with points or other structure Deeper points and breaks adjacent to weed edges for midday holding areas Suspended over open water areas where shad schools are present	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and break lines Live Bait Rigs near bottom structure and along deeper edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are actively feeding on suspended bait Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') during low light periods near structure	Shad schools suspending in open water Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and bottom structure Young-of-year baitfish in and around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Delavan Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-71	Actively feeding on bluegill in and around submerged vegetation, with increased feeding activity as they bulk up for winter Moving between deep weed edges and shallow vegetation, following baitfish movements throughout the day	Deep weed edges at 12-15 feet where vegetation meets open water Submerged vegetation patches in transition areas Points and coves with remaining vegetation	Ned Rigs worked slowly along weed edges and through vegetation gaps Spinnerbaits burned through and over vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) mimicking bluegill	Bluegill concentrated in remaining vegetation Small baitfish schools relating to weed edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Smallmouth bass actively feeding on baitfish schools in preparation for winter, following perch and other forage to deeper structure Fish relating heavily to wind-blown points and breaks during prime feeding periods, becoming more structure-oriented as temperatures cool	Deep weed edges in 10-15 foot range, especially near points or break walls Shell beds and hard bottom areas adjacent to deeper water Wind-blown rocky points and dock areas with good depth transitions	Drop Shot with small profile baits worked slowly along deep weed edges and structure Blade Baits worked with aggressive hops in deeper water, especially when targeting actively feeding fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to break lines to target feeding fish	Perch schooling near deep weed edges and structure Small baitfish congregating in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Northern Pike	52-65	Pike actively feeding on bluegill and other forage fish around remaining weed edges as they prepare for winter Fish are transitioning from summer deep weed edges to shallower feeding areas during cooler periods	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water adjacent to points Shallow bays with remaining vegetation in 7-10 feet Points and inside turns where weeds meet harder bottom	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges with slow rolling retrieves Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves parallel to weed edges Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges and points during midday	Bluegill congregating near remaining weed growth Young-of-year baitfish schooling in deeper sections of weed edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, congregating around remaining weed edges and deeper structure Fish are transitioning from shallow summer patterns to deeper fall locations, often schooling more tightly	Deep weedlines at 12-15 foot depths, particularly on the north side of the lake Main lake points with access to deeper water Deeper wooden structure like dock pilings with remaining vegetation	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Finesse Hair Jigs	Small aquatic insects and larvae Dying/decaying vegetation-related microscopic organisms Small crustaceans	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-62	Following suspended shad schools in open water, particularly during low-light periods given the turbid conditions (1.5m Secchi) Transitioning between deep water haunts and feeding zones along weed edges in 12-15 foot range Exhibiting both suspended and bottom-oriented feeding patterns, targeting both shad and perch	Mid-depth (10-19 foot) open water areas with concentrations of shad Weed edges at 12-15 foot depth contours, especially near points Complex shoreline areas with multiple points and bays where baitfish school	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits	Shad Perch	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	42-52	Pike are actively feeding in the pre-spawning period, showing increased aggression and opportunistic hunting behavior near structures and weed edges Fish are engaging in daily movements between deeper wintering areas (12-15 feet) and shallower feeding zones, particularly during peak daylight hours	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water where winter pike relate to forage Points and transitions areas where pike stage during pre-spawn movements Protected bays and coves that warm first and attract baitfish	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with aggressive lift-drop action near weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along depth transitions Lipless Crankbaits retrieved with sporadic bursts near structure	Bluegill concentrated in deeper weed edges Yellow Perch schooling near points and transitions Small Pike and other winter-stressed baitfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	33-39	Suspending in deeper water columns near main lake points and weed edges, typically schooling in tight groups Feeding patterns are most active during low-light periods, with brief windows of opportunity during stable weather	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with remnant weed growth Deep weedlines on the north side of the lake in 12-15 foot range Protected coves with structure that offer wind protection	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Ice Fishing Jigs Drop Shot	Small aquatic insects and larvae Micro invertebrates Zooplankton	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Winter	Walleye	52-58	Walleye are actively feeding on shad and perch schools in open water, following baitfish movements Fish are suspending at mid-depth ranges, typically 10-19 feet, relating to temperature comfort zones	Deep weed edges in 12-15 foot range where vegetation meets open water Main lake points and structure adjacent to deeper water Open water areas where shad schools are present	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits	Shad schools suspending in open water Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and bottom structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Ice	Northern Pike	33-38	Pike are actively feeding on bluegills near deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water on the north side of the lake Fish are holding in predictable winter locations near primary forage areas, showing consistent feeding patterns during daylight hours	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water on the north side of the lake Submerged vegetation near primary bluegill winter holding areas Transition areas between weedy flats and deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with large shiners Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths along weed edges Ice Fishing Spoons worked actively to trigger reaction strikes	Bluegill Various winter-stressed baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills are congregating along established weedlines, particularly on the north side of the lake, with fish relating to the edges of vegetation for feeding opportunities Fish are keying on small prey, specifically juvenile panfish, suggesting a preference for subtle, compact presentations	Weedlines on the north side of the lake, particularly in 12-15 foot depths Main lake points with access to deeper water Protected bays with remaining vegetation	Ice Fishing Jigs - particularly 1/32oz tungsten jigs worked with subtle movements Ice Fishing Spoons - small sized presentations for mimicking juvenile panfish	Juvenile panfish - reports indicate fish are keying on baby-sized panfish Aquatic invertebrates in and around remaining weed growth	Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Walleye	33-39	Walleye concentrate near bottom in areas adjacent to structural elements, particularly during low-light periods Fish exhibit more active feeding during dawn and dusk, with a focus on schools of shad and perch Movement patterns are reduced but deliberate, following forage concentrations near structure	Deep weed edge transitions in 12-15 foot range where vegetation meets clean bottom Points and structural elements adjacent to deeper water Mid-depth flats where baitfish schools concentrate	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements near bottom Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive flash to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to pattern fish	Shad schools concentrated in mid-depth ranges Yellow Perch relating to bottom structure Small panfish near weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Delavan Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 foot depth range	Secondary points with access to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges in 10-15 foot range where smallmouth stage during pre-spawn	Hard bottom areas near shell beds as fish transition toward spawning locations
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Points adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with remaining winter vegetation in 12-15 feet	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-7 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves and bays with emerging vegetation in 6-10 foot depths	Points adjacent to spawning flats in 8-12 foot depths
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and gravel areas near spawning sites in 8-15 foot depth range	Transitional areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow spawning flats with mixed vegetation	Matted grass areas along shorelines
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Docks and break walls, especially during transitional periods and when seeking shelter from boat traffic	Submerged vegetation edges in 10-15 foot range
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Points adjacent to spawning bays serving as transitional feeding areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected bays and coves with firm bottom, especially around docks and emergent vegetation	Shallow flats adjacent to weedlines in 12-15 foot depths
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and gravel areas in 2-8 foot depth range for active spawning	Adjacent drop-offs in 12-15 foot range near weed edges for staging areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Weed lines in 10-15 feet of water	Shallow areas near remaining bluegill spawning beds
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet of water	Docks and break walls near deep water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Points with emerging weed growth	Shallow to mid-depth weed edges in 7-15 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected areas between docks where spawning recently occurred, especially on the north side	Emerging weedlines in 12-15 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Weed edges in 12-15 foot depth range where vegetation is establishing	Points and structure adjacent to spawning areas
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Deep weedlines in 12-15 feet of water, particularly where they intersect with points or drops	Matted grass and lily pad fields in shallow water
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shell beds on the south side of the lake, particularly those in 10-15 foot depth range	Deep weed edges adjacent to hard bottom areas
Summer	Northern Pike	Submerged vegetation edges in 7-9 feet of water	Deeper weed edges (10-15 feet) during peak heat periods
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Weedlines at 12-15 foot depths, especially areas with gaps or points in the vegetation	Protected bays with established weed growth
Summer	Walleye	Weed edges in 12-15 foot depth range, especially where they intersect with points or other structure	Deeper points and breaks adjacent to weed edges for midday holding areas
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Deep weed edges at 12-15 feet where vegetation meets open water	Submerged vegetation patches in transition areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges in 10-15 foot range, especially near points or break walls	Shell beds and hard bottom areas adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water adjacent to points	Shallow bays with remaining vegetation in 7-10 feet
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weedlines at 12-15 foot depths, particularly on the north side of the lake	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Fall	Walleye	Mid-depth (10-19 foot) open water areas with concentrations of shad	Weed edges at 12-15 foot depth contours, especially near points
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water where winter pike relate to forage	Points and transitions areas where pike stage during pre-spawn movements
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with remnant weed growth	Deep weedlines on the north side of the lake in 12-15 foot range
Winter	Walleye	Deep weed edges in 12-15 foot range where vegetation meets open water	Main lake points and structure adjacent to deeper water
Ice	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet of water on the north side of the lake	Submerged vegetation near primary bluegill winter holding areas
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Weedlines on the north side of the lake, particularly in 12-15 foot depths	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Ice	Walleye	Deep weed edge transitions in 12-15 foot range where vegetation meets clean bottom	Points and structural elements adjacent to deeper water

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Perch	Bluegill
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Perch - primary forage confirmed by multiple fishing reports	Smaller baitfish relating to weed edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrating near remaining winter vegetation	Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawn
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects emerging with warming water	Tiny crustaceans near developing weed growth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools suspending near transition areas	Yellow Perch along weed edges and bottom structure
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas	Small baitfish in shallow vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Perch - confirmed primary forage in spring from multiple reports	Smaller baitfish relating to dock areas and weed edges
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow-oriented Bluegills moving into spawning areas	Young-of-year baitfish congregating in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation	Zooplankton in shallow water columns
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools suspended in pre-spawn staging areas	Perch relating to bottom structure and transitional areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - primary forage with active spawning	Other panfish transitioning to summer patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Perch	Small baitfish relating to weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill	Young of the year baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation	Tiny crustaceans in and around weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools in transition areas	Yellow Perch along emerging weed edges
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - primary forage based on multiple reports	Shad - mentioned in several reports as secondary forage
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated around shell beds and hard structure	Crawfish on hard bottom areas and shell beds
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrated in and around vegetation	Other panfish species utilizing weed cover
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects emerging from vegetation	Small crustaceans in weed beds
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools suspending in open water	Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and bottom structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated in remaining vegetation	Small baitfish schools relating to weed edges
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Perch schooling near deep weed edges and structure	Small baitfish congregating in deeper water
Fall	Northern Pike	Bluegill congregating near remaining weed growth	Young-of-year baitfish schooling in deeper sections of weed edges
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Dying/decaying vegetation-related microscopic organisms
Fall	Walleye	Shad	Perch
Winter	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrated in deeper weed edges	Yellow Perch schooling near points and transitions
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Micro invertebrates
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools suspending in open water	Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and bottom structure
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegill	Various winter-stressed baitfish
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Juvenile panfish - reports indicate fish are keying on baby-sized panfish	Aquatic invertebrates in and around remaining weed growth
Ice	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in mid-depth ranges	Yellow Perch relating to bottom structure

Bait Colors by Season for Delavan Lake

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