Portage Lake
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Portage Lake Fishing Reports
Stay up to date with the latest fishing reports from Portage Lake . Reports are submitted by local anglers, fishing guides, and our team of fishing experts.
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Species
WalleyeTechniqueShallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6')SeasonSummerStructureHumpsSeveral factors are contributing to a tougher shallow water daytime bite than normal for this time of year. Pike in the 20" to 24" range are abundant along the weedline in 10' to 12' of water. Water temps have been mid-70's but dropping recently. Baitfish numbers are high so the walleyes have been sluggish. Some walleyes are suspended in open water so consider larger blades (#6) on harnesses with crawlers for a chance at a trophy class fish. Night time casting has been more effective (and fun!) of late with both shallow diving cranks and larger swimbaits working well. Look for windblown shoreline areas near deep water, casting into 8' of water or less. Work the cranks and swimmers slow and steady, thoroughly covering the area. Patience and persistence is the key to some quality fish.
- Species
Northern PikeTechniqueHard Topwater (Prop)SeasonSummerStructureRiver ChannelsDecent pike fishing the portage canal
- SpeciesWalleyeTechniqueLive Bait RigsSeasonSummerStructureSubmerged Vegetation
We had success on quality walleyes trolling crawler harnesses with #4 and #5 blades in various shades of purple, green and chartreuse. Trolling at about 1.2 mph along the defined 10-12 ft weedline was the most consistent for walleyes from 14-22 inches but fish were schooled up by size. Best areas with bigger sized fish had good wind and wave action. Don't be surprised to tangle with a scrappy smallmouth or toothy critter. Fun way to get kids involved with fishing as well.
- SpeciesNorthern PikeTechniqueDrop ShotSeasonSummerStructureDocks
Dropshotting a flatworm for smallmouth along deep dock pilings on the portage canal. The most notable catch was a 30” northern
- SpeciesWalleyeTechniqueTrolling Shallow (0-9')SeasonSummerStructureSubmerged Vegetation
Late summer fishing is good to excellent for walleyes ranging from legal eater size to mid-20" heavyweights. Target windswept shorelines and target weed edges in 8'-12' of water, trolling up to 1.3 MPH. A variety of colors of blades on crawler harnesses will be effective. Besides good quality walleyes, expect bonus pike, smallies and an occasional jumbo perch. Also try some open water trolling with crankbaits in 20' to 40' for a trophy walleye.
- Species
Largemouth BassTechniqueNed RigsSeasonSummerStructureSubmerged VegetationWorking a Ned rig around submerged vegetation and around drop offs will get you on a good bite. Slowly dragging or bouncing a Ned rig through the vegetation at 6-10 feet of water will land you some good bites.
- Species
Smallmouth BassTechniqueSoft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)SeasonSummerStructureSubmerged VegetationSmallies are underappreciated on this great waterbody. Smimbaits are a great presentation for mixed bag success, fan casting submerged weeds in 7-10 ft of water. Finding concentrations of perch amongst the vast weed flats is key to connecting with the sporty smallmouths.
- SpeciesWalleyeTechniqueDrop ShotSeasonFallStructureLedges
Dropshot live minnows along wind blown ledges produces quality walleyes and smallmouth. Portage lake, torch bay and torch lake all fantastic fisheries with little angling pressure. Looking for an adventure heading up here is a great option!
