How to Fish Lake Mendota: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Mendota

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 23, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Mendota

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-64	Bass are transitioning to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are relating heavily to docks and other protected structures, especially during windy conditions Bass showing increased activity in warmer water pockets, particularly around creeks and protected areas	Docks in protected areas, particularly marina areas that offer wind protection Creek channel entrances and river inflows Rock piles and bridge pilings in transitional areas	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around dock posts and pilings Lipless Crankbaits around hard structure and channel edges Bladed Jigs in creek mouths and along transition areas Ned Rigs worked slowly around rock piles	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters Bluegill in shallow protected areas Various minnow species around dock areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	44-52	Smallmouth bass are in pre-spawn phase, staging near spawning areas but holding in slightly deeper water due to cold temperatures (44-50°F). Fish are less aggressive due to the cold front conditions. Fish are primarily relating to transition areas between deeper water and potential spawning flats, moving shallower during brief warming trends	Deep rock piles adjacent to shallow spawning flats in 8-12 feet of water Protected areas near boulder fields that warm up quicker Transitions between submerged vegetation and rock structure in 8-15 feet	Hard Jerkbaits worked slowly with long pauses Blade Baits worked slowly near bottom Drop Shot with small profile baits Tubes dragged slowly across rock transitions	Bluegill holding in protected areas Perch relating to rock/weed transitions Small baitfish schools in slightly deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegill are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are beginning to move from deeper winter weed edges toward shallower areas with emerging vegetation Feeding activity increases with warming trends, focusing on insects and small invertebrates	Shallow weed flats in 3-6 feet of water with emerging vegetation Protected coves and bays that warm faster than main lake areas Transition areas between winter weed edges and spawning flats	Live Bait Rigs with small worms or insects under light bobbers Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through emerging vegetation Finesse Hair Jigs tipped with soft plastics	Aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water Small crustaceans in vegetation Tiny baitfish fry beginning to appear	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	45-68	Pre-spawn pike are actively feeding and moving into shallow warming bays and near-shore areas to prepare for spawning Fish are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior, particularly during warmer parts of the day when shallows heat up Pike are utilizing weed edges and dock areas as ambush points, especially where these features are close to spawning areas	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially on the north side of the lake where water warms first Areas around docks in 3-6 feet of water, particularly those near spawning areas Weed edges adjacent to slightly deeper water that provide quick access to both shallow and deep zones	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along weed edges and through shallow bays Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves parallel to structure Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses to imitate struggling baitfish	Bluegill concentrated in shallow areas Young-of-year baitfish beginning to become active in warming shallows Various panfish species gathering near emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	48-56	Pre-spawn walleye are transitioning from winter patterns to spawning areas, actively feeding but affected by debris in water as noted in recent reports Fish are showing interest in shallow diving crankbaits, indicating movement into shallower staging areas with 52°F water temperature	Scattered rock near weed edges in 10-15 foot transitions Points and shallow flats leading to spawning areas Open water/basin areas where recent catches occurred	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked slowly through transition areas Live Bait Rigs with minnows near bottom in staging areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with cleaning between casts due to debris	Crawfish, as indicated in recent fishing report Perch, noted in lake profile as primary forage Minnows, mentioned in lake profile as available forage	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	52-65	Catfish becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving from deep winter holdover areas to transitional structures Beginning to feed more aggressively, especially during warmer afternoons, targeting concentrated baitfish in pre-spawn staging areas	Deep water transitions near rock piles in 15-25 feet Creek channels and ditches leading to spawning flats Rocky points adjacent to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or large minnows Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Carolina Rigs worked slowly along transitional areas	Bluegill concentrations in pre-spawn areas Yellow Perch schools in deeper water Smaller baitfish gathering near warming shallows	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-72	Largemouth bass are actively moving into spawning areas and staging on hard bottom areas near spawning flats Fish are exhibiting both pre-spawn feeding and spawning behavior, with some already on beds while others are staging	Rock piles and boulders adjacent to spawning flats Docks providing shade and ambush points near spawning areas Shallow protected bays with firm bottom	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around visible beds and staging areas Drop Shot for staging fish near deeper structure Finesse Jigs worked around rock piles and dock posts	Bluegill in shallow areas around docks and vegetation Cisco/Whitefish transitioning through staging areas	Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-68	Smallmouth bass are in spawning mode, with males guarding nests in shallow rocky areas and females moving between spawning flats and adjacent deeper water Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures, showing aggressive responses to bottom-contact baits as seen in recent catch reports	Rocky flats and pockets near submerged vegetation in 3-8 feet of water, particularly where recent catches have been reported Transition areas between rocks and weed edges, utilizing the lake's distinct deep weed edge structure Secondary points with mixed rock and vegetation leading to spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through spawning areas, proven effective by recent catch reports Tubes worked around rocky areas and vegetation transitions Ned Rigs for pressured fish in clear water conditions	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports Perch, particularly around weed edges as indicated by lake profile	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegill are actively moving into shallow spawning areas, primarily in protected coves and bays with firm bottom composition Males are establishing and guarding nests in colonies, becoming increasingly aggressive and territorial Feeding activity increases in pre-spawn, with fish targeting insects and small invertebrates near vegetation	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and sparse to moderate vegetation Areas adjacent to weed lines in 2-4 feet of water Shallow areas near docks providing overhead cover	Bobbers with light jigs suspended 1-2 feet below surface Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around visible beds Live Bait Rigs with small worms or insects	Aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans Zooplankton	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-68	Pike are moving into shallow, weedy bays and flats for spawning, becoming aggressive and territorial Post-spawn fish remain shallow, actively feeding to recover energy near spawning areas	Shallow weedy bays and flats (1-4 feet) with emerging vegetation Areas near docks in warming shallows Weed edges adjacent to spawning areas (3-6 feet)	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Live Bait Rigs under bobbers near spawning areas	Bluegill concentrating in shallow areas Young-of-year panfish in emerging weed growth Small pike (cannibalistic feeding)	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-65	Fish are staging in shallow to mid-depth areas (6-15 feet) near spawning sites, with males becoming increasingly territorial as water temperatures approach optimal spawning range Post-spawn females begin transitioning to deeper structure, particularly weed edges and rock transitions, while remaining males guard nests in shallower water Feeding becomes aggressive during pre-spawn, followed by a brief slowdown during peak spawn, then resumes as fish recover post-spawn	Rocky points and shorelines in 4-8 feet of water near spawning areas Weed edges in 10-15 feet of water, especially those adjacent to spawning areas Scattered rock near weed edge transitions in 8-12 feet	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom near spawning areas Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during pre-spawn when fish are actively feeding Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with minnows or soft plastics	Perch concentrating near weed edges Minnows schooling in shallow spawning areas Small baitfish relating to emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	55-70	Catfish are becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving into shallower spawning areas near rock piles and protected coves Pre-spawn feeding increases, with fish actively searching for food during dawn and dusk periods Males begin preparing and guarding nest sites in areas with good structure and protection	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-12 feet of water Protected coves with firm bottom near deep water access Areas where deep water transitions meet shallow flats	Live Bait Rigs with bottom bouncing presentation Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near spawning areas	Bluegill concentrating in spawning areas Yellow Perch schools in transition areas Various bottom-dwelling creatures (crayfish, etc.)	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	64-76	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, with males still guarding fry in shallows while females begin moving to deeper structure Fish are actively feeding throughout the day, particularly aggressive during early morning on topwater and around dock structures Bass showing preference for slow, dead-sticked presentations around vegetation, but will chase moving baits in certain conditions	Docks in 1-3 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats Outside weed edges in 12-15 feet of water Inside weed edges, particularly during low light conditions	Wacky Rigs worked slowly with dead-stick presentation Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around dock structures Hard Jerkbaits along grass lines Bladed Jigs for aggressive fish	Bluegill, especially around dock structures and vegetation Perch in slightly deeper water Minnows along weed edges	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	60-68	Fish actively feeding along deep weed edges and rock-weed transition zones in 10-15 feet of water Post-spawn smallmouth showing mixed depth patterns, with some fish shallow and others moving deeper Multiple species sharing similar areas indicates active feeding behavior on abundant forage	Deep weedlines in 10-15 feet of water, especially where they meet rocky structure Rocky points adjacent to deeper water Mixed rock and vegetation transition zones in 12-15 foot depth range	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow rolled along structure Drop Shot with finesse presentations Texas Rigs (Worming) worked along bottom structure	Minnows Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegill actively moving to shallow flats and transitioning to more aggressive feeding patterns post-spawn Fish relating heavily to newly emerging weed growth and utilizing dock areas for shade and cover	Shallow weed flats with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Dock areas adjacent to spawning flats Grass edges near deeper water access	Live Bait Rigs Bobbers Inline Spinners	Small insects and larvae Small crustaceans Emerging aquatic invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	58-72	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing ambush points near shallow cover and docks Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior in warmer shallows, particularly around bluegill concentrations	Docks with adjacent weed growth in shallow water Weed edges near shoreline points and bays Shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked along dock edges and through gaps Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve	Bluegill concentrating around docks and shallow cover Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge in the shallows	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning between shallow spawning areas and deeper seasonal haunts Fish are utilizing weed edges and scattered rock areas as primary feeding zones, with most active periods during lower light conditions	Weed edges in 10-15 feet of water with scattered rock Points and transition areas where spawning areas meet deeper water Rocky structures adjacent to deeper basin areas	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along weed edges and rock transitions Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during active feeding periods Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during neutral periods	Perch concentrating along weed edges Minnows schooling in post-spawn recovery areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between deep resting areas and shallower feeding zones Fish are establishing regular feeding patterns, particularly active during dawn and dusk periods Catfish are utilizing rock-to-weed transitions as primary hunting grounds	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet adjacent to rock piles Rocky points with access to deeper water Dock areas with nearby deep water access	Live Bait Rigs presented along weed edges and rock transitions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near structure during daylight Bottom bouncing with Texas Rigs (Worming) near dock areas	Bluegill concentrating near weed edges Perch schools around rock piles Small baitfish gathering near docks	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	74-77	Actively feeding in and around weed beds, particularly in pockets and edges, with increased activity during lower light conditions Holding in 10-15 foot depth range near weed edges during daytime, moving shallower to feed in weed mats and lily pads	Weed edges and pockets in 10-15 foot depth range Surface vegetation including lily pads and grass mats Deep weed bed holes and clearings	Frogs/Toads worked slowly over surface vegetation Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along weed edges with ripping action Football Jigs worked slowly in weed pockets Bladed Jigs through sparse vegetation	Bluegill Crawfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-76	Smallmouth actively feeding during early morning hours near weed edges, then transitioning to adjacent rock piles as sun rises Fish holding on transitional areas between weeds and rocks, responding well to slow presentations with long pauses	Rock piles adjacent to weed edges in 13-15 foot depth range Weedlines with clear transitions to hard bottom Main lake points with mixed rock and weed composition	Drop Shot with slow presentations and long pauses Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning hours over weed edges Wacky Rigs worked slowly along weed edges with 10-second pauses	Perch relating to weed edges Minnows around rock/weed transition areas	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Bluegills are actively feeding in and around vegetation edges and dock areas, with peak activity during early morning and evening hours Fish are relating heavily to shade during midday, seeking cover under docks and thick vegetation mats Establishing spawning beds in protected shallow areas during early summer, then transitioning to deeper weed edges post-spawn	Shaded dock areas with adjacent vegetation Thick milfoil and grass flat edges in 5-12 feet of water Protected shallow bays with firm bottom for spawning	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around vegetation edges and dock posts Live Bait Rigs with small leeches or worms near weed edges Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight under docks during midday	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Young-of-year baitfish in weed edges Aquatic invertebrates in grass beds	Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	68-78	Northern Pike are actively feeding but seeking cooler water, primarily relating to weed edges and deeper structure during midday heat Early morning and evening periods show increased shallow water activity, with pike moving into bays and weed flats to ambush prey	Deep weed edges (8-12 feet) adjacent to shallow flats Points and inside turns of weed beds Dock areas with nearby vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through gaps Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure Trolling Shallow (0-9') early and late in the day	Bluegills concentrated around weed beds Young-of-year baitfish schools	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Walleye	68-78	Walleye transitioning to deeper water during daytime (15-25 feet), moving shallower during low light periods to feed along weed edges Fish utilizing both structure-related and open water feeding patterns, with increased suspended activity during summer	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet with scattered rock Main lake points and transition areas between weeds and open water Offshore basin areas where suspended fish follow baitfish schools	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and points during early morning and evening Live Bait Rigs with leeches or nightcrawlers near bottom structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') for suspended fish in basin areas	Perch along weed edges and rock transitions Suspended baitfish schools in open water Crayfish in rocky areas near weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Catfish	68-82	Catfish become highly active in summer, feeding aggressively during dawn, dusk, and night hours in both shallow and deep zones Fish move between deep water refuges (15-25 feet) during bright days and shallow feeding areas (3-12 feet) during low light periods	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet near rock piles and boulders Steep drop-offs adjacent to shallow feeding flats Dock areas with access to deep water transitions	Live Bait Rigs with slip sinkers for bottom presentations Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along steep breaks and structure Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through rocky areas and weed edges	Bluegill and perch concentrated around weed edges and structure Small bottom-dwelling creatures (crayfish, insects) among rocks and boulders	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Mendota

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Bass are actively feeding on shallow to mid-depth structure, following baitfish movements in preparation for winter Fish showing preference for ambush points around docks and deeper structure, with increased activity during warmer parts of the day	Boat docks, especially those with deep water access Deep humps with proximity to feeding flats Weed edges in 12-15 foot depth range	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around dock pilings Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) along deep structure Spinnerbaits and Bladed Jigs in shallow areas on windy days	Bluegill concentrated around dock areas Minnows schooling in mid-depth zones	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Actively feeding on deep structure and weed edges as they transition to winter locations, with increased activity during stable weather patterns Relating strongly to transitions between rock and weed edges, following baitfish movements to deeper water	Deep weed edges adjacent to rock piles in 15-18 feet Isolated boulders in 20-25 feet of water Steep transitions with mixed rock and vegetation in 8-12 feet	Drop Shot with finesse presentations Hard Jerkbaits with twitch-twitch-pause cadence Ned Rigs worked slowly near bottom structure	Perch Small Baitfish	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegill are actively feeding to build energy reserves before winter, primarily focusing on remaining insect life and small invertebrates near vegetation Fish are transitioning from shallow summer patterns to slightly deeper water, especially around dying vegetation edges and remaining green weeds	Deep weed edges where green vegetation meets sparse or dying vegetation (4-8 feet) Protected coves with remaining green vegetation Deeper dock areas adjacent to vegetation	Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly through vegetation Live Bait Rigs with small worms or insects near structure Bobbers with suspended baits just above vegetation	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates Emerging winter insects	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	52-65	Northern Pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and targeting concentrations of prey near weed edges Fish are making seasonal movements from shallow summer areas to deeper edges, using weeds as transition zones	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats where vegetation is still green Points and inside turns of weed beds where baitfish schools concentrate Shallow bays with remaining vegetation, especially during overcast conditions	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges, varying retrieve speed to trigger reaction strikes Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled through transitional areas between weeds and open water Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges during low-light conditions	Bluegill schools congregating near remaining weed growth Various baitfish species schooling in deeper water near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	48-62	Walleye are actively feeding to build up fat reserves for winter, often following baitfish schools and relating to structure during low light periods Fish are transitioning to deeper water as surface temperatures cool, but make feeding movements to shallower areas during dawn/dusk	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they intersect with scattered rock Main lake points with access to deeper water Open water basin areas where baitfish schools congregate	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and points with crankbaits Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Blade Baits worked aggressively through baitfish schools	Yellow Perch schooling near deep weed edges Baitfish schools suspending in open water Minnows relating to rocky structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	52-68	Catfish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, focusing on high-protein forage in deeper water during daylight Fish are making shorter movements between deep holding areas and feeding zones, becoming more concentrated around prime structure	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 feet of water Deep weed edges where they intersect with sharp breaks Deep dock areas near channel bends or drop-offs	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near rock piles and steep breaks Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged through transitional areas	Perch congregating near deep structure Bluegill moving to deeper weed edges Smaller baitfish schools in deep water	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	38-45	Winter bluegill are suspending near remaining green vegetation and transitioning between deeper wintering areas and shallow feeding zones Feeding activity peaks during early morning and late afternoon, with fish becoming more selective during bright conditions	Remaining green milfoil edges in 2.5-5 feet of water Deep grass flat transitions where vegetation meets harder bottom Protected shallow bays with surviving vegetation	Small micro jigs worked slowly through vegetation edges Drop Shot with small soft plastics positioned just above weed tops Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light line and sensitive rod	Small aquatic insects and larvae in vegetation Tiny crustaceans around weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	38-45	Pike actively hunting in shallow water (2-6 feet) around standing weeds where bluegill schools congregate Fish become more active during warmer parts of the day, particularly near remaining green vegetation	Shallow weed flats with remaining green vegetation in 3-6 feet of water Dock areas adjacent to deeper water that provide ambush points Shallow bays with submerged vegetation where baitfish concentrate	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Spoons	Bluegill concentrating in shallow weeds Small perch in weed edges Juvenile panfish schools	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Walleye	45-52	Walleye are primarily structure-oriented during late fall/early winter, gathering around deep weed edges and rock transitions Fish are actively feeding during low-light periods, moving up to shallower structure to hunt perch and minnows	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they meet scattered rock Basin areas adjacent to structural elements, particularly in 15-25 foot depths Points and transitions where weeds meet deeper water	Blade Baits worked vertically along deep weed edges and rock transitions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with minnows near structure Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges during low light periods	Yellow Perch concentrating near deep weed edges Minnows schooling in and around weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Catfish	45-55	Catfish become less active but still feed during warmer parts of day, concentrating in deeper water areas with minimal current Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often gathering in deep holes or near structure that provides shelter from cold water	Deep holes near channel edges in 15-25 feet of water Deep rock piles and boulder fields that retain heat Deep water transitions near weed edge die-offs	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Slower-moving baitfish concentrated in deep water Winter-killed or struggling baitfish Small bluegills and perch near deep structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills are holding tight to shallow weed lines, actively feeding on small insects and invertebrates Fish are showing preference for finesse presentations, responding better to plastics than live bait	Shallow weed edges in 2.5-5 feet of water with green vegetation Thick clumps of milfoil where vegetation remains green Protected bays with submerged vegetation	Ice Fishing Jigs with small plastics, worked with subtle movements Ice Fishing Tip-Ups rigged with small plastics near weed edges	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans in the weed beds	Vibrant Assorted Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Northern Pike	32-34	Actively hunting bluegill schools in shallow water (3 feet) near submerged vegetation Utilizing shallow weed areas where prey concentrates during winter	Shallow flats with submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Edges of weed beds where bluegill schools congregate Protected bays with healthy vegetation	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set halfway down the water column Ice Fishing Spoons worked near bluegill schools Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with live bait	Bluegill Other panfish concentrated in winter locations	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Ice	Walleye	33-39	Walleye are moving between shallow feeding shelves and adjacent deep basins, with most active feeding during low-light periods Fish are typically suspended 1-3 feet off bottom over key structure, becoming more active during dawn and dusk periods	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they meet scattered rock Basin areas adjacent to structural elements in 20-30 feet Transition areas between rock and mud bottom compositions	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements just off bottom Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive jigging during prime periods Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along depth transitions	Perch in 8-15 foot range near structure Minnows suspended over deeper water Small invertebrates near bottom	Natural Perch Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Mendota

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks in protected areas, particularly marina areas that offer wind protection	Creek channel entrances and river inflows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep rock piles adjacent to shallow spawning flats in 8-12 feet of water	Protected areas near boulder fields that warm up quicker
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow weed flats in 3-6 feet of water with emerging vegetation	Protected coves and bays that warm faster than main lake areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially on the north side of the lake where water warms first	Areas around docks in 3-6 feet of water, particularly those near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Scattered rock near weed edges in 10-15 foot transitions	Points and shallow flats leading to spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep water transitions near rock piles in 15-25 feet	Creek channels and ditches leading to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Rock piles and boulders adjacent to spawning flats	Docks providing shade and ambush points near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats and pockets near submerged vegetation in 3-8 feet of water, particularly where recent catches have been reported	Transition areas between rocks and weed edges, utilizing the lake's distinct deep weed edge structure
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and sparse to moderate vegetation	Areas adjacent to weed lines in 2-4 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow weedy bays and flats (1-4 feet) with emerging vegetation	Areas near docks in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and shorelines in 4-8 feet of water near spawning areas	Weed edges in 10-15 feet of water, especially those adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-12 feet of water	Protected coves with firm bottom near deep water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks in 1-3 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats	Outside weed edges in 12-15 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weedlines in 10-15 feet of water, especially where they meet rocky structure	Rocky points adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow weed flats with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Dock areas adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Docks with adjacent weed growth in shallow water	Weed edges near shoreline points and bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Weed edges in 10-15 feet of water with scattered rock	Points and transition areas where spawning areas meet deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet adjacent to rock piles	Rocky points with access to deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Weed edges and pockets in 10-15 foot depth range	Surface vegetation including lily pads and grass mats
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles adjacent to weed edges in 13-15 foot depth range	Weedlines with clear transitions to hard bottom
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Shaded dock areas with adjacent vegetation	Thick milfoil and grass flat edges in 5-12 feet of water
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges (8-12 feet) adjacent to shallow flats	Points and inside turns of weed beds
Summer	Walleye	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet with scattered rock	Main lake points and transition areas between weeds and open water
Summer	Catfish	Deep weed edges in 12-15 feet near rock piles and boulders	Steep drop-offs adjacent to shallow feeding flats
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Boat docks, especially those with deep water access	Deep humps with proximity to feeding flats
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Deep weed edges adjacent to rock piles in 15-18 feet	Isolated boulders in 20-25 feet of water
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges where green vegetation meets sparse or dying vegetation (4-8 feet)	Protected coves with remaining green vegetation
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats where vegetation is still green	Points and inside turns of weed beds where baitfish schools concentrate
Fall	Walleye	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they intersect with scattered rock	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Fall	Catfish	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 feet of water	Deep weed edges where they intersect with sharp breaks
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Remaining green milfoil edges in 2.5-5 feet of water	Deep grass flat transitions where vegetation meets harder bottom
Winter	Northern Pike	Shallow weed flats with remaining green vegetation in 3-6 feet of water	Dock areas adjacent to deeper water that provide ambush points
Winter	Walleye	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they meet scattered rock	Basin areas adjacent to structural elements, particularly in 15-25 foot depths
Winter	Catfish	Deep holes near channel edges in 15-25 feet of water	Deep rock piles and boulder fields that retain heat
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow weed edges in 2.5-5 feet of water with green vegetation	Thick clumps of milfoil where vegetation remains green
Ice	Northern Pike	Shallow flats with submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water	Edges of weed beds where bluegill schools congregate
Ice	Walleye	Deep weed edges in 10-15 feet where they meet scattered rock	Basin areas adjacent to structural elements in 20-30 feet

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Bluegill in shallow protected areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill holding in protected areas	Perch relating to rock/weed transitions
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming water	Small crustaceans in vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrated in shallow areas	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to become active in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Crawfish, as indicated in recent fishing report	Perch, noted in lake profile as primary forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill concentrations in pre-spawn areas	Yellow Perch schools in deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow areas around docks and vegetation	Cisco/Whitefish transitioning through staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports	Perch, particularly around weed edges as indicated by lake profile
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating in shallow areas	Young-of-year panfish in emerging weed growth
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Perch concentrating near weed edges	Minnows schooling in shallow spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill concentrating in spawning areas	Yellow Perch schools in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill, especially around dock structures and vegetation	Perch in slightly deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows	Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Small crustaceans
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating around docks and shallow cover	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge in the shallows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Perch concentrating along weed edges	Minnows schooling in post-spawn recovery areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill concentrating near weed edges	Perch schools around rock piles
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill	Crawfish
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Perch relating to weed edges	Minnows around rock/weed transition areas
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Young-of-year baitfish in weed edges
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrated around weed beds	Young-of-year baitfish schools
Summer	Walleye	Perch along weed edges and rock transitions	Suspended baitfish schools in open water
Summer	Catfish	Bluegill and perch concentrated around weed edges and structure	Small bottom-dwelling creatures (crayfish, insects) among rocks and boulders
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated around dock areas	Minnows schooling in mid-depth zones
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Perch	Small Baitfish
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates
Fall	Northern Pike	Bluegill schools congregating near remaining weed growth	Various baitfish species schooling in deeper water near structure
Fall	Walleye	Yellow Perch schooling near deep weed edges	Baitfish schools suspending in open water
Fall	Catfish	Perch congregating near deep structure	Bluegill moving to deeper weed edges
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae in vegetation	Tiny crustaceans around weed edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating in shallow weeds	Small perch in weed edges
Winter	Walleye	Yellow Perch concentrating near deep weed edges	Minnows schooling in and around weed edges
Winter	Catfish	Slower-moving baitfish concentrated in deep water	Winter-killed or struggling baitfish
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans in the weed beds
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegill	Other panfish concentrated in winter locations
Ice	Walleye	Perch in 8-15 foot range near structure	Minnows suspended over deeper water

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Mendota

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