How to Fish Lake Koshkonong: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Koshkonong

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Koshkonong

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-60	Pre-spawn largemouth bass are transitioning from winter areas to staging areas near spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are responding well to slow-rolled moving baits around cover, showing selective but aggressive feeding behavior	Laydowns and wood cover adjacent to spawning flats Rip rap banks that warm quickly and hold baitfish Reed beds in protected coves and bays	Spinnerbaits slow-rolled near cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to transition areas Bladed Jigs worked through sparse vegetation	Minnows congregating near warming areas Bluegill in and around shallow cover	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	45-58	Transitioning from winter deep water areas to warming shallow flats and staging areas near spawning grounds Actively feeding but in shorter windows, typically during warmer parts of the day when water temperatures rise Holding tight to rock structure that retains heat and provides ambush opportunities	Rock and rip rap shorelines that warm quickly in afternoon sun Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats Secondary points with mixed rock and wood structure	Blade Baits worked slowly along depth transitions Ned Rigs worked methodically around rock structure Tubes dragged and hopped on rocky bottom	Crayfish emerging from winter shelter Small baitfish in transitional areas Juvenile shad schools	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	38-48	Pre-spawn walleye are staging near spawning areas and beginning to move shallow, particularly active during low-light periods Fish are transitioning from winter deep holes to shallow rocky areas and tributary mouths, showing increased feeding activity	Rocky points and shallow reefs near deeper wintering areas Tributary mouths and river channel connections Transition areas between deep holes and shallow spawning grounds	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow, deliberate presentations	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas Small minnows in shallow transitional areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-48	Pre-spawn pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, making them aggressive and willing to chase larger prey items Fish are moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning bays and transitional areas, following temperature changes	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation near spawning areas Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow flats Areas around docks and laydowns in 3-8 feet of water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through shallow areas Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily near structure Lipless Crankbaits worked through transitional areas	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Various minnow species moving shallow	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	38-48	Lake Trout becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving from deep winter holding areas to transitional structure in preparation for spawning Actively feeding during early morning and late evening, following baitfish schools along structural elements	Deep rock piles and river channels transitioning to shallower water (15-30 feet) Points and underwater structure adjacent to deep water basins Hard-bottom areas with good current flow from wind action	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with suspended presentations Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near structure Spoons worked methodically through transitional areas	Suspended baitfish schools (shad) Bottom-oriented forage fish near structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	42-52	Pre-spawn sauger are actively feeding while transitioning from winter areas to spawning locations, following primary forage (minnows and shad) Fish are moving along channel edges and staging near spawning areas, particularly active during low-light periods	Main lake channel edges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning flats Bridge pilings and dock areas that create current breaks Deep holes transitioning to shallow flats	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with minnow-tipped jigs Blade Baits worked along channel edges Live Bait Rigs with minnows near structure	Minnows congregating near spawning areas Shad schools in slightly deeper water	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Largemouth bass are moving into shallow spawning areas, focusing on protected bays and coves with firm bottom composition Males are establishing and guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning waves Fish are more territorial and aggressive, defending nesting areas against threats rather than actively feeding	Protected shallow bays and coves with firm bottom, especially near reed beds Laydowns and wooden structure in 2-4 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked slowly around shallow cover Swim Jigs cast parallel to shoreline structure Bladed Jigs worked through slightly deeper staging areas	Bluegill moving shallow Minnows in spawning areas Crawfish becoming more active in warming water	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass are moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly focusing on rock and rip rap areas in 2-8 feet of water Males are establishing and guarding nests, while females stage slightly deeper on nearby structural transitions Feeding activity is sporadic, with defensive strikes being common around nest sites	Rocky points and rip rap areas in 2-8 feet of water with nearby deeper water access Protected coves with hard bottom composition Transition areas where rock meets wood structure in spawning depth	Tubes worked slowly around potential nest sites Ned Rigs dragged through spawning flats Soft Jerkbaits worked with long pauses for staging fish	Smaller crayfish emerging in shallow rocky areas Small minnows in spawning areas Juvenile shad starting to appear in warmer areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Staging in pre-spawn areas near tributary mouths and shallow rocky zones, with increased activity during warming trends Moving between staging and spawning areas, with peak activity during dawn and dusk periods	River channel mouths and incoming tributaries where spawning may occur Shallow rocky areas and gravel beds in 3-8 feet of water Adjacent deeper holes serving as staging areas	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom transitions Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') targeting pre-spawn staging areas Blade Baits worked through deeper staging zones	Shad concentrating in spawning areas Spawning seasonal crawfish Small minnows in shallow feeding zones	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Northern Pike are moving into shallow, weedy bays and backwater areas for spawning, typically staging near entrance points to spawning areas Fish are exhibiting aggressive territorial behavior and feeding opportunistically pre and post-spawn	Shallow, weedy bays with emerging vegetation Transition areas between spawning bays and main lake points Protected areas near docks and laydowns in spawning bays	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow spawning areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) near staging areas Inline Spinners around emerging vegetation	Shallow-water baitfish schools (shad) Young-of-year panfish Spawning suckers	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	42-52	Lake Trout becoming more active in shallower water as temperatures warm, particularly around spawning structure like rock piles and river channels Fish are transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to more aggressive feeding behavior in preparation for summer Most active during early morning and late evening, using rocky structures as staging areas	Rock piles and rip rap areas in 15-30 foot depth range River channel edges where they meet structural elements Points and shoals with good access to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs	Shad congregating in transitional areas Minnows moving into warming shallows Small fish utilizing rock structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	42-52	Pre-spawn sauger staging in deeper channels near spawning areas, making daily movements to shallower staging areas as water warms Actively feeding during low-light periods, especially around current breaks and structure that provide ambush points	Channel edges and transition areas adjacent to spawning flats Bridge pilings and dock areas that create current breaks Deep holes near tributary mouths or main lake points	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with minnows during prime feeding periods Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along channel edges Blade Baits worked through transitional areas	Small Minnows concentrating near spawning areas Young-of-year Shad in slightly deeper water	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn largemouth bass are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns Fish are utilizing the diverse cover (laydowns, rip rap, reeds) as ambush points, particularly during prime feeding periods	Secondary points and flats adjacent to spawning bays Riprap banks and wood cover in 4-8 foot depth range Reed lines and emergent vegetation edges	Swim Jigs worked parallel to reed lines and through scattered vegetation Spinnerbaits worked along riprap and wood cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around laydowns and dense cover	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas Minnows/shad schools in transition areas Young of year baitfish becoming more active	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding in shallower zones post-spawn, with increased aggression as water temperatures rise Fish are showing chase-oriented behavior, willing to pursue moving baits like paddle-tail swimbaits Bass are relating strongly to hard structure and transitional areas, using rip rap as primary feeding zones	Rip rap banks with adjacent deeper water Rocky points and transitions near spawning flats Complex structure combinations of wood and rock in shallow to mid-depth zones	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to shoreline structure Swim Jigs with trailing paddle-tail worked around transition areas Shakey Heads worked along rock and wood combinations	Minnows concentrating around rocky structure Small baitfish groups in transition areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-58	Post-spawn walleye are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding patterns, actively feeding around structure and deeper holes The turbid water conditions (1.5m Secchi) allow for feeding throughout daylight hours, with fish relating strongly to bottom structure	Deep holes with adjacent structure, particularly near post-spawn migration routes Areas around pilings and other man-made structure as reported Rocky points and hard-bottom areas in transition depths	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along bottom structure, as validated by recent success Live Bait Rigs near structure and deep holes Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around pilings and structure	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports Shad, particularly around structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting shad and minnows in shallow to mid-depth zones Fish are utilizing ambush points near emerging weed growth and structure, particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Shallow bays and flats adjacent to spawning areas with emerging vegetation Dock areas and laydowns in 4-8 feet of water Points and depth transitions leading to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to dock edges and through emerging vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves near structure Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') bumped along bottom contours	Shad schools beginning to move shallow Various minnow species around structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	45-52	Post-spawn Lake Trout are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer holding areas Fish are following baitfish schools in mid-depth ranges, particularly around structure transitions	Deep rock piles and river channel edges in 15-30 foot depth range Points and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas Hard bottom structure transitions where baitfish congregate	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with varied speeds to trigger reaction strikes Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around marked baitfish schools Spoons worked through suspended fish marked on electronics	Suspended schools of shad in mid-depth ranges Minnows gathering around structure transitions Small baitfish relating to rock piles and channel edges	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	52-65	Post-spawn sauger are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing current breaks and structure edges as ambush points Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding locations, following baitfish schools	Bridge pilings and dock areas with current breaks in 8-15 feet of water Channel edges and deep holes adjacent to spawning flats Points and irregular shoreline areas with access to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with minnow or soft plastic trailers Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to structure	Minnows congregating around structure Shad schools in transition areas Small bottom-dwelling prey near structure	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-85	Bass are actively feeding but becoming more selective in the summer heat, utilizing shaded areas and structure during peak daylight hours Fish are showing preference for moving baits in the stained water conditions, particularly reacting to flash and vibration	Laydowns and woody structure in 4-8 feet of water, especially those providing shade Rock and riprap areas that hold baitfish Reed edges and grass beds adjacent to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to structure in the stained water Swim Jigs around cover with steady retrieves Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for targeting specific pieces of cover	Minnows/Shad as primary forage Bluegill in and around cover Crawfish near rocky structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-85	Actively feeding but seeking thermal refuge during peak heat, with most aggressive feeding during early morning and evening Relating heavily to grass edges and hard structure, showing preference for slower presentations in warm water conditions	Grass edges adjacent to rip rap Rock-wood combinations in slightly deeper water Main lake points with good current flow	Bladed Jigs worked slowly through grass Drop Shot near deeper structure Tubes worked along rock transitions	Shad Crawfish	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Walleye	65-78	During summer, walleye become more structure-oriented and light-sensitive, utilizing docks and deeper areas for shade during bright conditions With the turbid water conditions (1.5m Secchi), walleye remain active during daylight hours, particularly around structure and depth changes	Deep holes adjacent to structural elements like rock piles and river channels Dock areas and pilings providing shade and ambush points Hard-bottom areas with significant depth variations	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - effective for targeting suspended fish near structure Live Bait Rigs - particularly effective in deeper holes and along depth transitions Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') - productive when worked along structure edges	Shad schools suspending near structure Minnows relating to dock areas and rock piles	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	68-75	During summer, pike will seek cooler, more oxygenated water while maintaining proximity to forage. With the lake's 1.5m secchi depth, they'll be most active during early morning and evening hours Pike will position near edges of structure (docks, laydowns) that provide shade and ambush opportunities, especially where these features intersect with depth changes	Deeper dock areas with nearby depth transitions, especially those providing shade Weed edges and laydowns near depth changes where baitfish congregate Points and irregular shoreline features that create current breaks and feeding zones	Spinnerbaits worked along dock edges and through shadows Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure Trolling Shallow (0-9') early and late in the day along weed edges	Shad schools concentrating around structure Various minnow species utilizing shade and cover	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	48-53	Lake Trout retreating to deep, cooler water (typically 45-55 feet) due to warm surface temperatures, with limited movement patterns focused around deep structure Feeding primarily during early morning and late evening when light penetration is optimal in deeper water, focusing on suspended baitfish schools	Deep holes and river channels with depths exceeding 45 feet, especially near structure Rock piles and hard bottom areas in deep water that provide cover and concentrate baitfish Steep drop-offs adjacent to main lake points where cool water access is maintained	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to maintain precise depth control in the thermocline Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) around marked fish and structure during prime feeding periods Live Bait Rigs with large minnows suspended at specific depths where fish are marking	Suspended schools of shad in deeper water Deep-water minnow species congregating around structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sauger	68-78	Actively feeding around current breaks and dock shadows during summer, utilizing man-made structures as ambush points Holding tight to bottom structure with brief movements to attack prey, particularly during low light conditions	Docks with current breaks and shadow lines Bridge pilings with adjacent bottom depressions Deep holes near channel edges	Live Bait Rigs with bottom contact and small hops Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around structure Structure Jigs worked along bottom contours	Minnows - primary forage base confirmed by reports Shad - secondary forage option noted in lake profile	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Koshkonong

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Actively feeding on minnows and baitfish in shallow areas, particularly around rock and wood structure Transitioning to aggressive chase-feeding patterns as they bulk up for winter	Shallow rock and rip rap areas with nearby deep water access Laydowns and woody structure in shallow water Secondary points with mixed rock and wood cover	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to shoreline structure Spinnerbaits around shallow cover and through baitfish schools Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along rip rap and rocky banks	Minnows/Shad schools in shallow water Bluegill relating to shallow cover	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-62	Actively feeding on shad and minnows in shallow areas, particularly around wood and rock combinations Aggressive chase behavior in 56°F water, optimal feeding temperature for fall pattern Using shoreline structure as ambush points for migrating baitfish	Rock shorelines with adjacent wood cover and brushpiles Points with rip-rap or rock structure Shallow flats near deep water access	Swim Jigs worked parallel to shoreline structure Spinnerbaits around wood and rock transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) mimicking shad movement	Shad schools in shallow migration patterns Small minnows around shoreline structure	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Walleye	42-58	Actively feeding and transitioning to deeper water, with increased activity around river channels and rock piles as they follow baitfish movements Showing preference for slower presentations in colder temperatures, especially during morning and evening periods	Deep holes and river channels with rocky transitions Rock piles and hard-bottom areas in 15-25 foot depth range Shoreline drop-offs near main lake structure	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with jig-and-plastic combinations worked slowly Trolling Shallow (0-9') with crankbaits like Flicker Shads and Shad Raps Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along depth transitions	Shad schools concentrating in river channels Minnows relating to rock structure and transitions	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Northern Pike	52-65	Northern Pike are exhibiting aggressive feeding patterns around structure, particularly docks and boat lifts, as they bulk up for winter. They're actively ambushing prey from these locations, responding well to reaction strikes. Fish are showing a preference for shallow to mid-depth zones, utilizing man-made structures as primary ambush points with frequent pauses in their pursuit behavior.	Docks and boat lifts, especially corner posts and depth transitions near these structures Points and irregular shoreline features with quick access to deeper water Shallow bays with baitfish concentrations	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked with bottom contact and strategic pauses near structure Spinnerbaits parallel to dock lines and around structure edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves through baitfish schools	Shad concentrating around structure and in bays Various minnow species gathering in schools	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	45-55	Lake Trout moving into shallower rocky areas for spawning, becoming more aggressive and territorial Fish actively feeding to build up energy reserves before and after spawn, particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Rock piles and rip rap areas in 15-30 foot depth range River channel edges adjacent to spawning structures Deep holes near spawning areas serving as staging locations	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Spoons	Shad schools congregating in mid-depth areas Minnows around rock structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sauger	48-62	Actively feeding and schooling in preparation for winter, targeting baitfish near current breaks and structure Moving between deep holding areas and shallower feeding zones, particularly during low light periods	Bridge pilings and dock areas with current breaks Deep holes adjacent to channel edges Points and irregular shoreline features with access to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with bottom contact focus Live Bait Rigs near structure Blade Baits worked along bottom contours	Minnows schooling near structure Shad in deeper water columns	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	34-42	Fish are concentrated in deeper holes and basin areas, typically schooling near or just off bottom structure Feeding periods are shorter but more intense, with fish moving vertically in the water column to follow baitfish	Deep holes and basins with hard bottom structure (20-35 feet) Deep river channel edges adjacent to structural elements Transitions between rock piles and soft bottom in deep water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Suspended shad schools in deep basins Bottom-oriented baitfish near structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	42-52	Pike are actively feeding in late fall/early winter, taking advantage of baitfish schools before ice formation. They are more likely to chase fast-moving baits during warmer parts of the day. Fish are transitioning between shallow feeding areas and deeper winter holding areas, often using points and depth breaks as migration routes.	Main lake points and breaks adjacent to shallow bays where baitfish congregate Boat docks and pilings, especially those near deeper water access Shallow flats with remaining vegetation near deep water transitions	Spinnerbaits worked along dock lines and through baitfish schools Lipless Crankbaits burned through transitional areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked at varying depths around structure	Shad schools transitioning to winter patterns Shallow water minnows	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	34-39	Lake Trout are concentrating in deep water structures and holes, actively feeding during daylight hours due to cold water temperatures Fish are showing preference for slower, methodical presentations due to cold water metabolism	Deep holes and river channels with depths over 20 feet Rock piles and hard bottom structure in 15-30 foot range Transition areas between deep structure and adjacent flats	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Spoons Live Bait Rigs	Deep water baitfish schools (shad) Bottom-oriented forage near structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Sauger	34-42	Sauger concentrate in deep wintering holes, typically near channel edges and current-influenced areas, maintaining close bottom contact Feeding activity peaks during low-light periods, with fish actively pursuing baitfish schools in turbid conditions	Deep holes and channel edges, especially near structural transitions Bridge pilings and deep dock areas that create current breaks Deep basin areas adjacent to primary structural elements	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+), maintaining bottom contact with sharp lifts and drops Blade Baits worked vertically with aggressive snap-and-pause cadence Ice Fishing Spoons with minnows for added attraction	Shad schools concentrated in deeper basins Various minnow species holding near structure	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	33-39	Walleye concentrate in deep holes and hard-bottom areas, typically moving less but feeding opportunistically during prime low-light periods Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often relating to specific depth breaks and bottom transitions	Deep holes with hard bottom structure, particularly those near channel edges Rocky humps and transitions between 20-35 feet deep River channel bends and associated structure	Ice Fishing Jigs worked subtly with live bait Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive jigging during prime periods Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along depth transitions	Shad concentrated in deep water Small minnows near bottom structure Juvenile perch around rocky structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Northern Pike	34-39	Pike will be most active during early morning and late afternoon, congregating near structure in 8-15 foot zones where baitfish school Given the turbid conditions (1.5m Secchi), pike will hunt in relatively shallow zones even during mid-day periods	Shallow bays with structure (4-8 feet) near deeper water access Points and channel edges where baitfish concentrate Areas around dock clusters in 8-12 feet of water	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at varying depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for finesse presentation	Shad schools concentrated in winter locations Large minnows utilizing structure edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	33-39	Lake Trout are concentrated in deep holes and river channels, typically suspending near bottom structure in 20-40 foot depths Feeding activity is most consistent during dawn and dusk periods, with fish becoming more aggressive during stable weather patterns	Deep holes and river channel intersections with hard bottom structure Rock piles and deep points adjacent to spawning areas Transition areas where deep water meets structural elements like underwater ridges	Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging followed by pause periods Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows or minnow heads Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths with live bait	Suspended schools of shad and minnows in deep water Bottom-oriented forage near structure Small groups of whitefish or ciscoes in transitional areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Koshkonong

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and wood cover adjacent to spawning flats	Rip rap banks that warm quickly and hold baitfish
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock and rip rap shorelines that warm quickly in afternoon sun	Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and shallow reefs near deeper wintering areas	Tributary mouths and river channel connections
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation near spawning areas	Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Deep rock piles and river channels transitioning to shallower water (15-30 feet)	Points and underwater structure adjacent to deep water basins
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Main lake channel edges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning flats	Bridge pilings and dock areas that create current breaks
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays and coves with firm bottom, especially near reed beds	Laydowns and wooden structure in 2-4 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and rip rap areas in 2-8 feet of water with nearby deeper water access	Protected coves with hard bottom composition
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	River channel mouths and incoming tributaries where spawning may occur	Shallow rocky areas and gravel beds in 3-8 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow, weedy bays with emerging vegetation	Transition areas between spawning bays and main lake points
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rock piles and rip rap areas in 15-30 foot depth range	River channel edges where they meet structural elements
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Channel edges and transition areas adjacent to spawning flats	Bridge pilings and dock areas that create current breaks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points and flats adjacent to spawning bays	Riprap banks and wood cover in 4-8 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rip rap banks with adjacent deeper water	Rocky points and transitions near spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Deep holes with adjacent structure, particularly near post-spawn migration routes	Areas around pilings and other man-made structure as reported
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays and flats adjacent to spawning areas with emerging vegetation	Dock areas and laydowns in 4-8 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Deep rock piles and river channel edges in 15-30 foot depth range	Points and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Bridge pilings and dock areas with current breaks in 8-15 feet of water	Channel edges and deep holes adjacent to spawning flats
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and woody structure in 4-8 feet of water, especially those providing shade	Rock and riprap areas that hold baitfish
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Grass edges adjacent to rip rap	Rock-wood combinations in slightly deeper water
Summer	Walleye	Deep holes adjacent to structural elements like rock piles and river channels	Dock areas and pilings providing shade and ambush points
Summer	Northern Pike	Deeper dock areas with nearby depth transitions, especially those providing shade	Weed edges and laydowns near depth changes where baitfish congregate
Summer	Lake Trout	Deep holes and river channels with depths exceeding 45 feet, especially near structure	Rock piles and hard bottom areas in deep water that provide cover and concentrate baitfish
Summer	Sauger	Docks with current breaks and shadow lines	Bridge pilings with adjacent bottom depressions
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shallow rock and rip rap areas with nearby deep water access	Laydowns and woody structure in shallow water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Rock shorelines with adjacent wood cover and brushpiles	Points with rip-rap or rock structure
Fall	Walleye	Deep holes and river channels with rocky transitions	Rock piles and hard-bottom areas in 15-25 foot depth range
Fall	Northern Pike	Docks and boat lifts, especially corner posts and depth transitions near these structures	Points and irregular shoreline features with quick access to deeper water
Fall	Lake Trout	Rock piles and rip rap areas in 15-30 foot depth range	River channel edges adjacent to spawning structures
Fall	Sauger	Bridge pilings and dock areas with current breaks	Deep holes adjacent to channel edges
Winter	Walleye	Deep holes and basins with hard bottom structure (20-35 feet)	Deep river channel edges adjacent to structural elements
Winter	Northern Pike	Main lake points and breaks adjacent to shallow bays where baitfish congregate	Boat docks and pilings, especially those near deeper water access
Winter	Lake Trout	Deep holes and river channels with depths over 20 feet	Rock piles and hard bottom structure in 15-30 foot range
Winter	Sauger	Deep holes and channel edges, especially near structural transitions	Bridge pilings and deep dock areas that create current breaks
Ice	Walleye	Deep holes with hard bottom structure, particularly those near channel edges	Rocky humps and transitions between 20-35 feet deep
Ice	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with structure (4-8 feet) near deeper water access	Points and channel edges where baitfish concentrate
Ice	Lake Trout	Deep holes and river channel intersections with hard bottom structure	Rock piles and deep points adjacent to spawning areas

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Minnows congregating near warming areas	Bluegill in and around shallow cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crayfish emerging from winter shelter	Small baitfish in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas	Small minnows in shallow transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Various minnow species moving shallow
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Suspended baitfish schools (shad)	Bottom-oriented forage fish near structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Minnows congregating near spawning areas	Shad schools in slightly deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill moving shallow	Minnows in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Smaller crayfish emerging in shallow rocky areas	Small minnows in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad concentrating in spawning areas	Spawning seasonal crawfish
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow-water baitfish schools (shad)	Young-of-year panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Shad congregating in transitional areas	Minnows moving into warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Small Minnows concentrating near spawning areas	Young-of-year Shad in slightly deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas	Minnows/shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows concentrating around rocky structure	Small baitfish groups in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports	Shad, particularly around structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools beginning to move shallow	Various minnow species around structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Suspended schools of shad in mid-depth ranges	Minnows gathering around structure transitions
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Minnows congregating around structure	Shad schools in transition areas
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Minnows/Shad as primary forage	Bluegill in and around cover
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad	Crawfish
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools suspending near structure	Minnows relating to dock areas and rock piles
Summer	Northern Pike	Shad schools concentrating around structure	Various minnow species utilizing shade and cover
Summer	Lake Trout	Suspended schools of shad in deeper water	Deep-water minnow species congregating around structure
Summer	Sauger	Minnows - primary forage base confirmed by reports	Shad - secondary forage option noted in lake profile
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Minnows/Shad schools in shallow water	Bluegill relating to shallow cover
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools in shallow migration patterns	Small minnows around shoreline structure
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools concentrating in river channels	Minnows relating to rock structure and transitions
Fall	Northern Pike	Shad concentrating around structure and in bays	Various minnow species gathering in schools
Fall	Lake Trout	Shad schools congregating in mid-depth areas	Minnows around rock structure
Fall	Sauger	Minnows schooling near structure	Shad in deeper water columns
Winter	Walleye	Suspended shad schools in deep basins	Bottom-oriented baitfish near structure
Winter	Northern Pike	Shad schools transitioning to winter patterns	Shallow water minnows
Winter	Lake Trout	Deep water baitfish schools (shad)	Bottom-oriented forage near structure
Winter	Sauger	Shad schools concentrated in deeper basins	Various minnow species holding near structure
Ice	Walleye	Shad concentrated in deep water	Small minnows near bottom structure
Ice	Northern Pike	Shad schools concentrated in winter locations	Large minnows utilizing structure edges
Ice	Lake Trout	Suspended schools of shad and minnows in deep water	Bottom-oriented forage near structure

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Koshkonong

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Dark Neutrals