How to Fish Lake Kegonsa: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Kegonsa

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 31, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Kegonsa

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-58	Bass are transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding but weather dependent. Reports show fish cruising ledges in schools and relating to shallow structure in 3-4 feet of water Activity level varies with daily conditions - most active during stable weather and wind, becoming sluggish during cold fronts or no-wind conditions as evidenced by tough tournament reports	River channel areas and associated structure, particularly near the Yahara River connection where reports show consistent catches Shallow ledges and transition areas in 3-4 feet of water where fish are staging Sparse weed growth areas where swim jigs have produced catches	Texas Rigs (Worming) - multiple reports confirm success with this technique Swim Jigs - effective when worked through sparse vegetation Structure Jigs - successful around laydowns and wood cover Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') - effective for covering water and triggering reactive strikes	Bluegill - confirmed primary forage based on reports and lake profile Crawfish - becoming active in spring warming trends	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass actively moving from winter depths to shallow spawning areas, staging on transition areas and actively feeding during warming trends Fish are becoming more aggressive but still selective, requiring stealth and precise presentations as noted in recent reports	Rocky flats adjacent to deeper water, particularly those with southern exposure that warm faster Rock piles near pre-spawn staging areas in 8-15 feet of water Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel leading into spawning bays	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses, making bomb casts to avoid spooking fish as noted in recent reports Drop Shot with finesse presentations when fish are less aggressive Ned Rigs worked slowly along rocky transitions	Bluegill, as confirmed by recent fishing reports Small baitfish moving shallow with warming trends	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are transitioning from deeper winter areas to shallower pre-spawn staging locations, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are beginning to feed more aggressively, particularly during warmer afternoons, focusing on small invertebrates and emerging aquatic insects	Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas near the state park, especially those with emerging vegetation Dock areas in 6-12 feet of water that provide staging areas before the spawn Deeper fish cribs and structure in 12-15 feet that hold pre-spawn fish during cold fronts	Drop Shot with small plastics worked slowly near bottom structure Live Bait Rigs with small jigs tipped with worms around emerging vegetation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with ice fishing jigs around docks and cribs	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water Bottom-dwelling invertebrates in gravel/sand areas Small crustaceans in and around developing weed growth	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	38-48	Walleye are transitioning from winter depths to spawning areas, actively feeding along migration routes to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are staging near hard-bottom areas and rock piles, becoming more active during low-light periods Movement patterns are strongly influenced by wind-generated current, with fish positioning along structure edges for feeding opportunities	Rock piles and reefs in 12-20 foot range that provide pre-spawn staging areas Wind-blown points and breaks adjacent to spawning habitat Transition areas between deep winter holes and shallow spawning grounds	Blade Baits worked vertically along breaks and structure edges Live Bait Rigs with minnows slow-dragged near bottom Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with aggressive jigging cadence	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in deeper transitional areas Minnows gathering near spawning areas Small perch along weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Northern Pike are moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning zones, actively feeding to prepare for spawn Fish are staging near emerging weed growth and channel edges, making aggressive movements to ambush prey	Shallow flats adjacent to river channel edges where early vegetation is emerging Protected bays and coves that warm up first Transition areas between deep wintering holes and spawning flats	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along emerging weed edges and channel breaks Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near staging areas Inline Spinners in shallow warming bays	Yellow Perch congregating in pre-spawn areas Bluegills moving to shallower water Minnows in warming shoreline areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	59-69	Largemouth bass are in spawning mode, actively making beds and defending territories around hard cover and protected areas Fish are aggressive when found, striking reaction baits and soft plastics near spawning areas Movement patterns show fish transitioning between pre-spawn staging areas and shallow spawning flats	Docks in protected areas, especially those providing shelter from wind Flooded brush and matted grass in shallow water Rock piles and hard bottom areas in spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Worming) with Senkos worked slowly around cover Drop Shot with finesse presentations for finicky spawning fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for aggressive pre-spawn fish Wacky Rigs worked around visible beds and dock areas	Bluegill - primary forage based on multiple reports Minnows - particularly around brush areas Shad - mentioned in reports near brush piles	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-65	Fish are in various spawn stages - some actively spawning on beds, others staging nearby, and some still in pre-spawn movement patterns Actively feeding during movement periods between spawning activities, particularly targeting perch and minnows around rocky areas	Rocky flats in spawning areas Rock piles adjacent to spawning flats Shallow reefs with good hard bottom	Drop Shot with small plastics for precise presentations to both bedding and staging fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked around staging areas Tubes dragged along rocky areas	Perch - primary forage during pre-spawn period Minnows - actively targeted by staging fish Bluegill - becoming more active in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegills are actively spawning in shallow protected flats, particularly around the state park area. Males are guarding nests while females move in and out of spawning areas Fish are feeding opportunistically between spawning activities, targeting small insects and invertebrates near bottom	Shallow protected flats near state park where spawning activity is occurring Areas with sand/gravel bottom composition ideal for nest building Weed flat edges adjacent to spawning areas where non-spawning fish stage	Bobbers with live bait or small plastics suspended just off bottom Drop Shot with finesse plastics for more active fish Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small jigs around spawning beds	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans and invertebrates Small worms and leeches	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye concentrating on rock piles and reefs for spawning activity Post-spawn fish transitioning to weed edges at 14-foot depth zones for recovery and feeding Fish responding to wind-driven current along structure edges during feeding periods	Hard bottom areas and rock piles in spawning depths (4-12 feet) Transition areas where rock meets emerging weed growth Wind-blown points and reef edges	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with methodical lifts and drops Blade Baits worked through suspended fish	Cisco/Whitefish schools in deeper transitions Minnows relating to emerging weed growth Small perch along rock-to-weed transitions	Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Northern Pike are in spawning mode, moving into shallow, weedy bays and backwater areas with emerging vegetation. Fish are aggressive but focused on spawning activities, with post-spawn fish being particularly active feeders. Pike will be most active during warming trends, especially during mid-morning to early afternoon when water temperatures rise slightly	Shallow, weedy bays and backwater areas with emerging vegetation, especially near the Yahara River inlet Shallow flats adjacent to river channel edges where warmer water first appears Protected coves with remaining vegetation from previous season	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow vegetation and emerging weed growth Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily near surface in spawning areas Live Bait Rigs with large minnows suspended under bobbers near spawning areas	Large Spawning Minnows Young Perch Bluegills moving shallow	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn largemouth bass are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily utilizing dock areas as ambush points and seeking shade during sunny periods Fish are establishing predictable daily feeding patterns in the shallow to mid-depth ranges, especially around structure	Docks with adjacent vegetation, especially those in 3-5 foot depth range Weed edges near residential areas River connection areas with current breaks	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around docks and vegetation Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting dock posts and shadows Soft Jerkbaits worked along weed edges	Bluegill concentrating around dock areas Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	72-82	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding and seeking shade near shallow to mid-depth transition areas, recovering from the spawn while maintaining proximity to spawning flats Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior during cooler parts of the day, particularly around shaded areas near docks and hard-bottom transitions	Shaded dock areas adjacent to spawning flats Rocky points and transitions in 6-12 foot range Hard bottom areas near deep water access	Wacky Rigs worked slowly through shaded areas Drop Shot with finesse presentations around docks Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) along transition areas	Bluegill around dock areas and shallow structure Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge Crayfish active on hard bottom areas	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting insects and small invertebrates near vegetation and structure Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper rest areas throughout the day	Weed edges adjacent to spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water Docks and fish cribs near drop-offs Submerged vegetation patches in 6-12 feet of water	Drop Shot with small finesse presentations Bobbers with suspended baits near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around cover	Aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans Tiny baitfish fry	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-58	Post-spawn walleye actively feeding along weed edges and transitions, particularly on wind-blown sides of the lake Fish showing preference for shallow to mid-depth zones (8-14 feet) during feeding periods Utilizing current created by wind to ambush prey along structure edges	Weed edges in 8-14 foot depth range on wind-swept sides Rocky points and reefs near spawning areas Transition areas where vegetation meets harder bottom	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges with crankbaits Live Bait Rigs with minnows near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') on wind-blown structure	Minnows Young-of-year perch Small ciscoes	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily relating to newly emerging weed growth and shallow structure Fish are making transitional movements between spawning areas and early summer haunts, often following baitfish schools	Emerging weed edges in 5-12 feet of water, particularly near river channel Shallow flats with new vegetation growth Protected bays and coves where baitfish congregate	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to emerging weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near vegetation Inline Spinners in shallow flats with emerging vegetation Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges and channel breaks	Young-of-year perch schooling in emerging vegetation Bluegill moving into shallow warming waters Minnow schools in transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	74-81	Bass are actively feeding in and around shallow vegetation, particularly during lower light periods, using weed pockets as ambush points Fish are seeking thermal refuge in shaded areas during peak heat, but remain aggressive when properly targeted	Submerged vegetation in 3-5 foot depth range, especially weed pockets and edges Docks providing shade and ambush points, particularly those adjacent to weed growth Main lake weed flats with mixed vegetation	Soft Jerkbaits worked aggressively through vegetation Swim Jigs worked through weed flats and pockets Wacky Rigs worked around docks and vegetation edges	Bluegill concentrating around vegetation and dock areas Shad relating to main lake structure and weed edges	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-80	Actively feeding near weed edges and rock piles in the early morning and late evening, transitioning between shallow and deep water based on temperature Establishing summer patterns around submerged structure, particularly near transitions between weeds and deeper water, with increased activity around baitfish schools	Weed edges in 6-8 feet of water Fish cribs and rock piles in 16-20 feet Points with mixed vegetation and hard bottom	Bladed Jigs worked over and through weed edges Ned Rigs worked slowly around rock piles and cribs Buzzbaits during low light periods near shallow vegetation	Bluegill around weed edges Minnows schooling near structure Perch relating to rock piles	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-81	Actively feeding in and around weed flats and man-made structures, with peak activity during early morning and evening hours Establishing loose schools in relation to structure, moving between depths of 5-15 feet based on sunlight and temperature Seeking shelter in deeper water near docks and fish cribs during bright midday periods	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, especially near docks Fish cribs in 12-15 foot depth range Submerged vegetation in 5-10 foot depth range	Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly near structure Bobbers with live bait suspended at specific depths Micro Crankbaits worked through weed edges	Small aquatic insects and larvae Young-of-year baitfish Aquatic invertebrates	Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-75	Actively feeding along weed edges and matted grass areas, especially during lower light periods Suspending near deep weed edges during midday heat, moving shallower during morning/evening Following cisco/whitefish schools while opportunistically feeding along vegetation edges	Matted grass edges in 12-16 foot range Wind-blown weedlines where current concentrates baitfish Deeper weed edges near rock piles in 16-20 foot range	Wacky Rigs worked slowly along weed edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for suspended fish	Cisco/Whitefish in open water and along structure edges Various minnow species relating to weed edges	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	68-75	Northern Pike are relating heavily to weed edges and ledges, utilizing these areas as ambush points for feeding Fish are showing adaptability to warmer water (73°F), moving between shallow and deeper areas while staying active	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water or ledges Submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depth range River channel edges with current breaks	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges Texas Rigs (Worming) through vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for covering water	Bluegill in weed areas Yellow Perch along deeper edges Various Minnow species	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Kegonsa

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	65-78	Actively feeding on bluegills near docks and shade structures as temperatures begin to cool but remain warm at 76°F Beginning transition toward shallower feeding zones, following baitfish movements while utilizing shade during sunny periods	Shaded dock areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water Weed edges near residential shorelines Current-influenced areas near the Yahara River connection	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through dock shadows and gaps Swim Jigs paralleling dock edges and weed lines Spinnerbaits around current-influenced areas	Bluegill Young of the year baitfish	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-68	Moving from late summer deep water locations to shallower feeding zones, following baitfish schools Actively feeding to build reserves for winter, with aggressive chase-down behavior of prey Schooling more heavily than summer patterns, working together to corral baitfish	Rock piles and reefs in 8-16 foot depth range adjacent to deeper water Weed edges where they intersect with hard bottom areas Main lake points with access to both shallow and deep water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along depth transitions Drop Shot with finesse presentations near structure Spybaits worked through suspended fish Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses between twitches	Yellow Perch schooling in transitional areas Bluegill relating to remaining weed edges Minnow schools suspending near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are schooling around deep water structure, particularly fish cribs, following and feeding on bait balls Fish are transitioning to deeper water staging areas, using protected bays as transition zones	Fish cribs in protected bays where baitfish are present Deep water structure near weed edges Protected bay areas with stable temperatures	Drop Shot with small finesse baits Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs near structure	Small baitfish in schools Aquatic insects near structure	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Walleye	48-62	Walleye are transitioning to deeper water, actively feeding on pelagic baitfish (cisco/whitefish) in preparation for winter Fish show increased activity during low-light periods, moving shallower to feed along weed edges and structural elements	Deep weed edges and vegetation transitions in 14-20 foot range Rock piles and reefs near deep water access Wind-blown points and breaks where current concentrates baitfish	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and breaks with consistent speed Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are concentrated on structure Blade Baits worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes	Ciscoes and whitefish schooling in deeper water Smaller baitfish relating to weed edges Young-of-year perch in remaining vegetation	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	45-65	Northern Pike actively feeding and moving shallow to capitalize on baitfish migrations to warmer, shallower waters Aggressive feeding behavior increases as pike prepare for winter, targeting larger prey items	Weed edges adjacent to river channel, particularly where vegetation is starting to die off Shallow flats with remaining green vegetation, especially near deeper water access Current areas where the Yahara River enters the lake, creating ambush points	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges with occasional pauses Large Soft Body Swimbaits retrieved steadily through transitional areas Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges and channel breaks	Bluegill congregating in remaining weed growth Yellow Perch schooling in slightly deeper transitions Minnows in current areas and shallow flats	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	52-58	Bluegill concentrating around deep water structure (fish cribs) seeking warmer, stable temperatures and actively feeding on small aquatic invertebrates and micro-baitfish Movement patterns are minimal, with fish staying close to prime structure and only moving short distances to feed	Deep water fish cribs in 15-25 foot range providing stable winter habitat Transition areas between deep weed edges and fish cribs Protected bays with deep water access	Drop Shot with small plastic baits worked slowly near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with micro presentations Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or waxworms	Small aquatic invertebrates like bloodworms and insect larvae Micro baitfish concentrating around deep structure	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Walleye	38-45	Walleye actively feeding on suspended cisco and whitefish schools in open water basins, following forage movements Fish tend to suspend 2-6 feet off bottom near deep structure and transition areas	Deep basins near structural elements in 16-20 foot range where baitfish schools concentrate Rock piles and reefs adjacent to deeper water Wind-blown points and breaks where current concentrates baitfish	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Trolling Mid Depth (10-19')	Ciscoes and whitefish suspended in open water Minnows relating to structure edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	38-45	Pike are actively feeding but conserving energy, typically holding near structure and ambush points adjacent to deeper water Fish tend to move less during winter, focusing on high-percentage feeding areas with concentrated baitfish schools	River channel edges where current creates food-holding areas Deeper weed edges adjacent to flats where vegetation is still present Submerged structure near depth changes, particularly near baitfish concentrations	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with slow, deliberate movements Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along channel edges Live Bait Rigs positioned near structure	Concentrated schools of perch Slower-moving bluegills near remaining vegetation Suspended baitfish in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Schooling in deeper water near fish cribs and structured areas, with reduced but consistent feeding patterns Most active during early morning and late afternoon, especially on sunny days Suspending near bottom in 15-25 foot zones where oxygen levels remain stable	Deep water fish cribs in 15-25 foot range Deep weed edges adjacent to flats Protected bays with consistent depth and structure	Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly with subtle movements Ice Fishing Spoons with erratic action for reaction strikes Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or waxworms	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows and baitfish	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors
Ice	Walleye	34-39	Walleye concentrate in deeper basins (16-20 feet) near baitfish schools and fish cribs during ice season Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with moderate activity on overcast days Suspending and feeding on pelagic baitfish (cisco/whitefish) while also targeting bottom-oriented forage	Deep basins near fish cribs in 16-20 foot range Transition areas where rock piles meet deeper water Edges of weed lines that remain green under the ice	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements near bottom or suspended at baitfish level Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive jigging to attract fish from distance Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to target suspended fish	Ciscoes and whitefish schools in deeper water Bottom-oriented minnows near structure Small perch relating to remaining vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Northern Pike become less active but maintain feeding periods, typically during mid-morning and late afternoon when light penetration is optimal through ice Fish tend to concentrate near remaining green weeds (if present) and channel edges, moving between shallow and mid-depth ranges based on oxygen levels	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly near the river channel Shallow flats (4-8 feet) with remaining green vegetation Channel edges and breaks where current provides oxygen-rich water	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large minnows suspended 1-2 feet off bottom Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging followed by pauses Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnow heads near weed edges	Bluegills congregating in remaining weed beds Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges Smaller pike and various minnow species in shallow flats	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Kegonsa

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	River channel areas and associated structure, particularly near the Yahara River connection where reports show consistent catches	Shallow ledges and transition areas in 3-4 feet of water where fish are staging
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats adjacent to deeper water, particularly those with southern exposure that warm faster	Rock piles near pre-spawn staging areas in 8-15 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas near the state park, especially those with emerging vegetation	Dock areas in 6-12 feet of water that provide staging areas before the spawn
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rock piles and reefs in 12-20 foot range that provide pre-spawn staging areas	Wind-blown points and breaks adjacent to spawning habitat
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow flats adjacent to river channel edges where early vegetation is emerging	Protected bays and coves that warm up first
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks in protected areas, especially those providing shelter from wind	Flooded brush and matted grass in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats in spawning areas	Rock piles adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow protected flats near state park where spawning activity is occurring	Areas with sand/gravel bottom composition ideal for nest building
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Hard bottom areas and rock piles in spawning depths (4-12 feet)	Transition areas where rock meets emerging weed growth
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow, weedy bays and backwater areas with emerging vegetation, especially near the Yahara River inlet	Shallow flats adjacent to river channel edges where warmer water first appears
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks with adjacent vegetation, especially those in 3-5 foot depth range	Weed edges near residential areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shaded dock areas adjacent to spawning flats	Rocky points and transitions in 6-12 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges adjacent to spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water	Docks and fish cribs near drop-offs
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Weed edges in 8-14 foot depth range on wind-swept sides	Rocky points and reefs near spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Emerging weed edges in 5-12 feet of water, particularly near river channel	Shallow flats with new vegetation growth
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation in 3-5 foot depth range, especially weed pockets and edges	Docks providing shade and ambush points, particularly those adjacent to weed growth
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Weed edges in 6-8 feet of water	Fish cribs and rock piles in 16-20 feet
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, especially near docks	Fish cribs in 12-15 foot depth range
Summer	Walleye	Matted grass edges in 12-16 foot range	Wind-blown weedlines where current concentrates baitfish
Summer	Northern Pike	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water or ledges	Submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depth range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shaded dock areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water	Weed edges near residential shorelines
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and reefs in 8-16 foot depth range adjacent to deeper water	Weed edges where they intersect with hard bottom areas
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Fish cribs in protected bays where baitfish are present	Deep water structure near weed edges
Fall	Walleye	Deep weed edges and vegetation transitions in 14-20 foot range	Rock piles and reefs near deep water access
Fall	Northern Pike	Weed edges adjacent to river channel, particularly where vegetation is starting to die off	Shallow flats with remaining green vegetation, especially near deeper water access
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep water fish cribs in 15-25 foot range providing stable winter habitat	Transition areas between deep weed edges and fish cribs
Winter	Walleye	Deep basins near structural elements in 16-20 foot range where baitfish schools concentrate	Rock piles and reefs adjacent to deeper water
Winter	Northern Pike	River channel edges where current creates food-holding areas	Deeper weed edges adjacent to flats where vegetation is still present
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep water fish cribs in 15-25 foot range	Deep weed edges adjacent to flats
Ice	Walleye	Deep basins near fish cribs in 16-20 foot range	Transition areas where rock piles meet deeper water
Ice	Northern Pike	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly near the river channel	Shallow flats (4-8 feet) with remaining green vegetation

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - confirmed primary forage based on reports and lake profile	Crawfish - becoming active in spring warming trends
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill, as confirmed by recent fishing reports	Small baitfish moving shallow with warming trends
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates in gravel/sand areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Cisco/Whitefish concentrations in deeper transitional areas	Minnows gathering near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Yellow Perch congregating in pre-spawn areas	Bluegills moving to shallower water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - primary forage based on multiple reports	Minnows - particularly around brush areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Perch - primary forage during pre-spawn period	Minnows - actively targeted by staging fish
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans and invertebrates
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Cisco/Whitefish schools in deeper transitions	Minnows relating to emerging weed growth
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Large Spawning Minnows	Young Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating around dock areas	Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill around dock areas and shallow structure	Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows	Young-of-year perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Young-of-year perch schooling in emerging vegetation	Bluegill moving into shallow warming waters
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating around vegetation and dock areas	Shad relating to main lake structure and weed edges
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill around weed edges	Minnows schooling near structure
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Young-of-year baitfish
Summer	Walleye	Cisco/Whitefish in open water and along structure edges	Various minnow species relating to weed edges
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill in weed areas	Yellow Perch along deeper edges
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill	Young of the year baitfish
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch schooling in transitional areas	Bluegill relating to remaining weed edges
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small baitfish in schools	Aquatic insects near structure
Fall	Walleye	Ciscoes and whitefish schooling in deeper water	Smaller baitfish relating to weed edges
Fall	Northern Pike	Bluegill congregating in remaining weed growth	Yellow Perch schooling in slightly deeper transitions
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic invertebrates like bloodworms and insect larvae	Micro baitfish concentrating around deep structure
Winter	Walleye	Ciscoes and whitefish suspended in open water	Minnows relating to structure edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Concentrated schools of perch	Slower-moving bluegills near remaining vegetation
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Ice	Walleye	Ciscoes and whitefish schools in deeper water	Bottom-oriented minnows near structure
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegills congregating in remaining weed beds	Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Kegonsa

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