How to Fish Wisconsin River Flowage: Best Patterns & Techniques

Wisconsin River Flowage

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Wisconsin River Flowage

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	38-58	Smallmouth bass are actively moving shallow and staging for spawn, utilizing current breaks and protected areas as reported in multiple spring fishing reports Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior in backwater eddies and near laydowns, with water temperatures ranging from 38-58°F	Laydowns and rotted trees in protected areas, especially those providing current breaks Back eddies and flooded brush areas offering calm water Rock pilings near banks with current breaks	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked slowly around laydowns and current breaks Ned Rigs with 1/2 oz heads for maintaining bottom contact in current Hard Topwater (Popping) in calmer back eddies when fish are active	Crawfish - multiple reports indicate this is primary forage Perch - mentioned in early spring backwater areas Baitfish in current breaks	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	41-50	Pre-spawn walleyes staging near spawning areas, actively feeding during low-light periods with increased daytime activity due to stained water conditions Fish moving through current breaks and channel areas, showing preference for slower current sections due to reported low water conditions	River channels and current breaks, especially areas with reduced flow Brush piles and wood structure in backwater areas Bridge pilings and other man-made structures near deeper water	Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly along bottom in current areas Hard Jerkbaits worked in backwater areas, especially during evening hours Live Bait Rigs near brush piles and structure	Minnows concentrated in current breaks and backwater areas Crappie in brush pile areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Silver
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are transitioning from deeper winter areas to warming shallows, staging in pre-spawn locations near future nesting areas Fish are actively feeding but may suspend in the water column, following food sources in 2-7 foot depths Schools are size-segregated, with larger fish typically leading the migration to spawning areas	Protected backwater channels and river flats where water warms first Submerged vegetation edges in 2-7 foot depths Secondary points and shallow bays near deeper winter holding areas	Live Bait Rigs suspended under bobbers at varying depths Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small ice jigs worked slowly Hover/Mid-Strolling with light jigs near emerging vegetation	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging in warming waters Zooplankton concentrating in areas of better light penetration Bloodworms and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	47-55	Pre-spawn females actively staging near spawning areas, relating heavily to wood cover in flooded backwaters Fish transitioning from winter areas to warmer, shallower pre-spawn staging zones, particularly around brush piles and laydowns	Flooded backwater areas with wood cover (laydowns and brush piles) Secondary points leading into spawning bays Transition areas between deeper winter haunts and shallow spawning flats	Finesse Jigs worked slowly around wood cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for precise presentations to laydowns Swim Jigs for covering water between likely holding spots	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters Resident baitfish in backwater areas	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-65	Pre-spawn muskies are beginning to move from wintering areas to shallow staging areas, particularly near current breaks and river channels Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during warming trends Muskies are utilizing wood cover and hard structure as ambush points to target concentrated pre-spawn baitfish	Current breaks and river channel edges where warmer water concentrates Dam areas and rip rap with good sun exposure Shallow bays with emerging vegetation near deeper wintering areas	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along channel edges and near structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly near cover Spinnerbaits burned through shallow warming areas	Pre-spawn bluegills gathering in shallow warming areas Yellow perch schooling near hard structure Baitfish concentrating around current breaks	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	48-58	Crappie are transitioning from deeper winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding as they prepare for spawning Fish are becoming more aggressive and schooling in larger groups near staging areas, particularly around structure in 8-15 feet of water	Brush piles and submerged vegetation near spawning flats in 8-15 feet Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to spawning bays Grass flats with deeper water access	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill Emerging aquatic insects Small crustaceans	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	45-58	Pike are actively feeding in pre-spawn mode, targeting bluegill in shallow cover around wood and vegetation Fish are positioning near ambush points in stained water, utilizing the extensive shoreline structure	Shallow wood and grass areas in 3-8 feet of water Complex shoreline areas with mixed vegetation and timber Protected coves and bays with emerging vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked through cover Spinnerbaits along weed edges Lipless Crankbaits over emerging vegetation	Bluegill in shallow cover Various panfish species around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	48-65	Carp becoming more active as water warms, moving from winter depths to shallower feeding areas (2-7 feet) near emerging vegetation Fish congregating in areas with current breaks and river channels where food sources are becoming more abundant	Protected shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation in 2-7 foot depth range Current breaks near river channel influences where water is slightly warmer Brush piles and laydowns in shallow water that provide cover and collect organic matter	Live Bait Rigs with corn, nightcrawlers, or dough baits fished near bottom structure Texas Rigs (Worming) with scented soft plastics dragged slowly through vegetation Bobbers suspended baits just above emerging vegetation	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae in warming shallows Small crawfish becoming active near structure Decaying plant matter and organic debris in current areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-55	Pre-spawn sturgeon are actively moving towards spawning areas near dams and current breaks, becoming more aggressive in feeding behavior Fish are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to shallower staging areas, following current seams and channel edges	Areas near dams and significant current breaks where spawning will occur Deep river channel edges adjacent to spawning flats Rocky substrate areas with boulders that create current breaks	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along channel edges Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly along bottom structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bottom-dwelling baitfish Aquatic invertebrates	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-65	Smallmouth bass actively moving shallow to spawn, with females staging on adjacent deeper structure until ready to move up Fish becoming more active with warming temperatures, especially during sunny periods as noted in reports Transition between pre-spawn feeding and spawning behavior, with fish relating heavily to rocky structure	Shallow rock piles and boulder fields (2-6 feet) for actively spawning fish Adjacent deeper rock structure (8-12 feet) for staging females Protected coves with hard bottom and boulders	Neko Rigs worked slowly around shallow rock structure Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along deeper rocky edges Drop Shot for staging fish in slightly deeper water	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas Minnows in shallow water Small panfish in warming shallows	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	40-48	Pre-spawn to spawning walleyes are staging near current areas and traditional spawning locations, with fish actively moving in high-flow conditions Feeding activity is moderate but opportunistic, with fish holding in current breaks and deeper holes during daylight hours	Current breaks and eddies near river channel edges where fish can rest out of heavy flow Tributary mouths and incoming feeder streams with moderate current Rocky points and gravel flats adjacent to deeper water staging areas	Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly along bottom in current breaks Live Bait Rigs with increased weight to maintain bottom contact in current Blade Baits worked vertically in deeper holes and current seams	Small baitfish concentrating in current breaks Juvenile crawfish becoming active with warming water	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively spawning in shallow bays and backwater areas, with males guarding nests and females moving in and out of spawning zones Fish are highly aggressive and territorial during spawning, defending nests against intruders Movement patterns concentrated in areas with submerged vegetation and lily pad stems where nesting occurs	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Backwater channels with slower current and stable bottom composition Areas adjacent to lily pad stems where pre-spawn staging occurs	Bobbers with small jigs worked slowly through spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near visible beds Live Bait Rigs with small presentation for finicky fish	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas Zooplankton in shallow water columns Small crustaceans among vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Largemouth bass are in spawning mode, moving from pre-spawn staging areas to shallow nesting sites. Males will be aggressively guarding nests while females move between spawning flats and slightly deeper recovery areas Fish are highly territorial and defensive during this period, responding aggressively to threats near their nesting sites	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near laydowns and brush piles Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water access	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover and bedding areas Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly near spawning flats Swim Jigs through transition areas between deeper water and spawning flats	Crayfish becoming more active in warming waters Bluegill moving into similar spawning areas Small baitfish transitioning to shallow water	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	48-65	Muskies transitioning to shallow spawning areas near shoreline structure and current breaks, with increased activity during warming trends Post-spawn females staging near spawning areas, utilizing adjacent deeper water as recovery zones	Shallow bays with hard bottom near river channels and current breaks Rip rap areas and dams with nearby deep water access Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to spawning flats	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along spawning flat edges and current breaks Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves near structure	Bluegill congregating in shallow spawning areas Yellow Perch relating to woody cover and vegetation edges	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie moving into shallow spawning areas (2-8 feet) as water temperatures rise, particularly in protected bays and coves Males arriving first to prepare nests, becoming aggressive and territorial Females staging slightly deeper, moving in waves to spawning areas when temperatures stabilize	Protected backwater channels and coves with stable temperatures Shallow grass flats adjacent to deeper water Brush piles and woody cover in 4-8 feet of water	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Bobbers Crappie Dock Shooting	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish Aquatic insects emerging in spring Small minnows in shallow areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-55	Actively spawning in shallow bays and backwaters with vegetation, typically in 3-8 feet of water Post-spawn fish remain shallow but move to adjacent ambush points near spawning areas Aggressive feeding periods during pre and post-spawn phases, especially during warming trends	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and wood cover in 2-8 feet Protected coves with stable temperatures Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas with wood and grass	Spinnerbaits worked slowly around shallow cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near spawning areas Inline Spinners for aggressive post-spawn fish	Bluegills in shallow grass and wood Small pike and suckers during spawn Various panfish species in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	58-65	Carp are moving into shallow, warm bays and vegetated areas (2-7 foot range) for spawning activities Fish actively feeding on insects and plant matter in pre-spawn pattern Groups of carp visible in turbid shallows, especially during warmer parts of the day	Shallow vegetated bays with 2-7 foot depths Protected coves with soft bottom and emerging vegetation Current breaks near river channel influences	Live Bait Rigs with corn or nightcrawlers near vegetation Bobbers suspended baits over feeding areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) with scented soft plastics	Insects and larvae in shallow areas Emerging vegetation and roots Small crawfish in warmer shallows	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-58	Sturgeon are congregating in current areas near dams and river channels for spawning activity Fish are moving between pre-spawn staging areas and spawning grounds, often in groups Actively feeding during pre and post-spawn periods, particularly on benthic prey	Current breaks and areas below dams where spawning activity occurs Rocky substrate areas with boulders in river channels Deep holes adjacent to spawning areas for staging	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with large profile baits Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly along bottom structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bottom-dwelling baitfish Aquatic insects and larvae	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-68	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding in shallow water post-spawn, particularly targeting crawfish around hard structure Fish are showing aggressive reaction strikes, utilizing rip rap areas as primary feeding zones	Shallow rip rap areas in 0-6 feet of water Current breaks near rocky points Hard structure areas like laydowns and boulder fields in shallow water	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to rip rap Swim Jigs targeting rock transitions Bladed Jigs worked through shallow rocky areas	Crawfish Small baitfish transitioning to shallow water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-55	Post-spawn walleye actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting perch in current areas and along structure Fish are relating to current breaks near the dam and utilizing transitional depths as water temperatures stabilize Daytime feeding activity is heightened due to stained water conditions (3.6ft visibility)	Current breaks and eddies near dam structures Submerged vegetation edges in transitional depths Points and irregular shoreline features with current influence	Live Bait Rigs with minnows, particularly near current breaks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with hair jigs in areas with current Blade Baits worked along transition areas	Perch (13-14 inch size class observed in recent catches) Fathead Minnows (proven effective as live bait) Mixed panfish species noted in lake profile	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Bluegills are actively feeding in shallower post-spawn locations, particularly around submerged vegetation edges in 3-6 feet of water Fish are becoming more structure-oriented, forming loose schools around cover and transitioning between spawning areas and summer locations	Weed edges adjacent to spawning bays in 3-6 feet of water Shallow bays with emerging lily pads in 2-4 feet Backwater channels with submerged vegetation in 4-7 feet	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly through vegetation edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around weed clumps Live Bait Rigs with small leeches or worms	Small aquatic insects emerging in shallow zones Zooplankton concentrating in weed edges Small crustaceans in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn largemouth bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are moving between shallow and medium depths, utilizing both cover and open water to feed opportunistically	Shallow brush piles and laydowns adjacent to spawning flats Secondary points with access to deeper water Emergent vegetation edges in 3-6 feet of water	Swim Jigs worked parallel to vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around brush and laydowns Spinnerbaits in stained water areas	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas Young of year baitfish schools Crawfish active in warmer water	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	55-65	Post-spawn muskies are actively feeding in shallow zones, particularly around hard structure areas like rip rap and dams Fish are showing aggressive surface-oriented behavior with willingness to hit topwater presentations in 60°F water	Rip rap areas and dam structures where baitfish concentrate Shallow areas with woody cover and laydowns Current breaks and river channel edges	Hard Topwater (Prop) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Spinnerbaits	Perch Minnows Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Crappie transitioning to post-spawn patterns, moving from shallow spawning areas to nearby deeper structure Fish becoming more active and aggressive in feeding as they recover from spawning efforts Schools beginning to form and concentrate around primary structural elements	Brush piles adjacent to spawning bays in 8-15 feet of water Weed edges near deeper water access Submerged vegetation in backwater channels	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along weed edges and channel breaks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles Crappie Spider Rigging near vegetation edges	Small bluegill fry Emerging insects Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	48-65	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing shallow vegetation and woody cover as ambush points Fish are most active during early morning and late evening, moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper adjacent zones In the stained water conditions, pike are staying primarily in the upper water column (0-8 feet) where visibility is best for hunting	Shallow weed flats and emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Woody cover (laydowns and brush piles) adjacent to spawning bays Points and inside turns with mixed vegetation and wood structure	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges and through scattered wood Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through open pockets in vegetation Bladed Jigs worked through emerging grass and around wood cover	Bluegills concentrating in shallow vegetation Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge Smaller pike and other opportunistic prey	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	55-68	Actively feeding in warm, shallow flats and vegetated areas post-spawn, particularly during morning and evening hours Moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper transition zones as temperatures fluctuate Utilizing current breaks and river channels for feeding on drifting food items	Shallow vegetated flats in 2-7 foot range with emerging vegetation Current breaks and river channel edges Brush piles and laydowns in protected coves	Live Bait Rigs with corn, dough balls, or nightcrawlers Bottom fishing with Texas Rigs (Worming) near vegetation Bobbers in shallow feeding zones	Insects and invertebrates in shallow vegetation Crawfish in brush piles and rocky areas Emerging aquatic vegetation	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	52-65	Post-spawn sturgeon are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on current breaks and boulder fields for benthic prey Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to summer feeding grounds, following river channels and current seams	Deep river channel edges with current breaks and boulder fields Areas below dams with current seams and deep holes Transition zones between spawning areas and summer feeding grounds with complex structure	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers dragged slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near current breaks Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly through boulder fields	Crawfish emerging in warming waters Bottom-dwelling invertebrates Small baitfish concentrated in current breaks	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	60-72	Actively feeding in current breaks and around hard structure, particularly during morning and evening periods Utilizing shallow water zones (0-6 feet) despite stained conditions, especially around current-swept areas Moving between feeding stations along rock-to-wood transition areas as water temperatures fluctuate	Boulder fields and rock piles near current breaks Laydowns and standing timber adjacent to river channels Main lake points with current influence	Ned Rigs dragged and hopped along bottom structure Shallow diving crankbaits worked parallel to current breaks Hard Topwater (Prop) during low-light periods Tubes worked through boulder fields	Crawfish - primary forage based on multiple reports Bluegill - active in shallow zones Minnows - present around current breaks	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	65-78	Walleye will be transitioning to deeper water during daylight hours due to summer temperatures, but the stained water (1.1m Secchi) allows for extended feeding periods Fish are actively utilizing current breaks and weed edges as primary feeding zones, especially during dawn and dusk periods	Deep current breaks near submerged vegetation Main river channel edges adjacent to weedy flats Points and irregular shoreline features with access to deeper water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and current breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in current seams Live Bait Rigs near structure transitions	Perch relating to weed edges Young-of-year baitfish in current breaks Crappies suspended near deep structure	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Bluegills are actively feeding in and around shallow vegetation, particularly lily pads, taking advantage of insect life and shade during summer Fish are forming size-segregated schools and may suspend to follow food sources rather than staying strictly structure-oriented	Lily pad fields in shallow bays providing shade and insect life Edges of submerged vegetation adjacent to slightly deeper water Backwater channels with reduced current and good cover	Bobbers with small jigs worked slowly through pads and vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily just above vegetation Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to weed edges	Aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton Small crustaceans	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Largemouth Bass	68-82	Actively feeding in shallow, vegetated areas and backwaters during early morning and evening Utilizing laydowns and lily pads as ambush points throughout the day Moving to slightly deeper adjacent areas during bright midday periods	Lily pad fields in backwater areas Shallow laydowns near deeper water access Shaded docks and brush piles adjacent to vegetation	Swim Jigs worked through vegetation and around cover Frogs/Toads worked over lily pads and dense vegetation Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around laydowns and thick cover	Minnows Bluegill Young-of-year fish in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Muskie	58-75	Muskies are actively feeding in shallow zones, particularly around hard structure and current areas, taking advantage of concentrated baitfish populations Fish are showing aggressive surface-oriented behavior, willing to hit topwater presentations even in relatively cool water (60°F) Utilizing ambush points near structural elements, especially around dams and rip-rap where current breaks concentrate forage	Dam areas and adjacent rip-rap, especially where current creates feeding stations Shallow weed edges near hard structure elements Points and bays with woody cover that hold concentrations of panfish	Hard Topwater (Prop) - especially effective given recent success and surface-oriented feeding behavior Spinnerbaits - excellent for covering water in stained conditions Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) - effective for mimicking the predominant bluegill forage	Bluegill - primary forage based on recent catches Perch - noted as secondary forage in lake profile	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Crappie	72-82	Crappie are suspending near deep weed edges and brush piles during the heat of summer, moving shallower during morning and evening to feed Schools are concentrated around structure in 8-15 foot depth range, pursuing small baitfish and insects	Deep weed edges adjacent to grass flats Brush piles in backwater channels Shaded areas under docks with adequate depth	Crappie Dock Shooting Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling	Small bluegill fry Aquatic insects Young-of-year baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	65-75	Pike will seek cooler, deeper water during midday but remain near weeds and structure Most active feeding during early morning and evening in shallower zones Opportunistic ambush predation from weed edges and woody cover	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats Submerged timber and brush piles in 8-15 feet Points and coves with vegetation near deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through timber Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure Trolling Shallow (0-9') early and late in the day	Bluegill in weed beds Young-of-year fish near shallow cover Various panfish species around structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Common Carp	65-72	Common Carp are actively feeding in shallow, vegetated flats (2-7 feet) during summer, with increased activity during dawn and dusk Fish are using current breaks near river channels as feeding stations, intercepting drifting food items	Shallow vegetated flats in 2-7 foot depth range with submerged vegetation Current breaks near river channel intersections Backwater coves with brush piles and laydowns	Live Bait Rigs with corn, dough balls, or nightcrawlers near vegetation Texas Rigs (Worming) with scented soft plastics dragged through vegetation Bobbers suspended baits over vegetation edges	Insects and invertebrates in vegetated areas Crawfish in brush pile areas Aquatic vegetation and algae	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sturgeon	65-72	Actively feeding in deeper channels and current breaks during daylight hours, focusing on benthic prey Moving between rocky structure and boulder fields, utilizing current breaks for efficient feeding Showing increased activity during low-light periods, especially near river channel edges	Deep river channels with current breaks and boulder fields Areas near dams with consistent water flow Rocky substrate zones with brush piles in 15-25 foot depths	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near current breaks Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) dragged through boulder fields	Crawfish in rocky areas Bottom-dwelling baitfish Aquatic invertebrates	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Wisconsin River Flowage

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	48-69	Actively feeding and schooling near woody cover, particularly around current breaks and laydowns Moving between shallow feeding zones and deeper staging areas as water temperatures fluctuate Aggressively targeting crawfish and baitfish around hard cover structures	Laydowns and brush piles with good depth adjacent Current breaks near woody cover Shallow wood structure in protected areas	Finesse Jigs worked slowly around wood cover Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along laydowns Ned Rigs in brush piles during colder conditions	Crawfish around wood and hard cover Minnows in current breaks and near structure Bluegill around laydowns and brush	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	45-55	Walleye are actively feeding to build energy reserves before winter, concentrating near current breaks and river channels Fish are more active during daylight hours due to the stained water conditions (3.6ft visibility), taking advantage of their natural low-light feeding advantage	Current breaks along river channels with boulder structure Deep holes adjacent to current seams Points and irregular shoreline features near deeper water	Lipless Crankbaits worked through current breaks Blade Baits worked vertically in deeper holes Live Bait Rigs near boulder structure	Minnows concentrating in current breaks Small perch in boulder areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	45-65	Bluegills begin transitioning to deeper water, forming tight schools near the edges of weed beds and channel breaks Feeding activity increases as fish build energy reserves for winter, with most active periods during warmer afternoon hours	Deep weed edges in 8-12 feet adjacent to backwater channels Secondary break lines with remaining green vegetation Protected bays with submerged vegetation near deeper water access	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Micro Crankbaits	Small aquatic insects and larvae Zooplankton concentrations Blood worms in deeper mud flats	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Largemouth bass are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following baitfish schools into coves and along points Fish are transitioning from shallow summer patterns to deeper staging areas, particularly around channel swings and drop-offs	Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to shallow feeding flats Deeper brush piles and laydowns near creek channels Remaining vegetation edges near deeper water access	Spinnerbaits worked along vegetation edges and through baitfish schools Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along channel edges and points Swim Jigs around remaining vegetation and wood cover	Shad schools moving into creeks and coves Bluegill still active in remaining vegetation Perch relating to deeper wood structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	45-65	Muskies are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, following large forage concentrations Fish are utilizing current breaks and river channels as migration routes and feeding stations Aggressive behavior near hard structure areas like dams and rip rap where baitfish congregate	Dam areas and rip rap zones with current breaks Deep woody cover adjacent to shallow feeding flats River channel edges with current breaks	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along breaklines and structure edges Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked around current breaks Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) near wood cover and feeding flats	Bluegill congregating near woody cover Perch schools relating to hard structure Various baitfish species concentrated in current breaks	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-65	Crappie are actively schooling and feeding heavily to prepare for winter, following baitfish movements to deeper structure Fish are transitioning from shallow feeding areas to deeper winter holding areas, often suspending near structure	Deep brush piles adjacent to grass flats in 12-20 feet of water Channel edges near backwater areas where vegetation is dying off Deeper dock areas with vertical posts providing cover	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - allows precise presentation to suspended fish Crappie Spider Rigging - effective for covering water and finding schools Hover/Mid-Strolling - great for working edges of grass flats and channel breaks	Young-of-year bluegill congregating near dying vegetation Small shad schools moving into deeper water Remaining insects near vegetation edges	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	48-65	Pike are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, following baitfish movements and ambushing prey from weed edges and woody cover Fish are transitioning from deeper summer areas to shallower feeding zones, particularly during low-light periods Aggressive feeding behavior increases with cooling water temperatures, making them more likely to chase faster-moving baits	Weed edges and points adjacent to deeper water, especially near bluegill concentrations Shallow timber and laydowns in 3-8 feet of water near channel swings Protected coves and bays with remaining vegetation, particularly during windy conditions	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through timber Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure Inline Spinners retrieved at varying speeds around cover	Bluegills congregating near remaining weed beds Young-of-year baitfish schooling in protected areas Shallow water prey species moving into protected bays	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Common Carp	55-70	Carp are transitioning to deeper, more stable water temperatures while still making feeding forays into shallow flats during warmer parts of the day Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, taking advantage of remaining invertebrate activity in shallow zones	Boulder fields in 2-7 foot depth range, especially near river channel edges Shallow vegetated flats adjacent to deeper water Current breaks near river channel influences	Finesse Jigs worked slowly along bottom in boulder fields Live Bait Rigs with corn or nightcrawlers near vegetation Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged through transitional areas	Insects and invertebrates in shallow vegetation Crawfish around boulder fields Dying vegetation and seed heads	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sturgeon	45-62	Sturgeon are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, focusing on benthic prey in deeper channel areas and current breaks Fish are transitioning to winter holding areas, congregating near deep structure and river channel edges	Deep river channels with current breaks and boulder structure Areas near dams with concentrated current flow Deep holes with adjacent rocky substrate	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers bounced along bottom Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with substantial weight to maintain bottom contact Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly through deeper holes	Crawfish in rocky areas Bottom-dwelling baitfish Aquatic invertebrates	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	33-42	Actively feeding around current breaks and deep structure, with a preference for bottom-oriented presentations Concentrating near current seams where baitfish are present, showing aggressive feeding behavior when bait is properly presented	Major current breaks near deep water Deep humps with current influence River channel edges where current meets structure	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) Blade Baits	Minnows concentrated in current breaks Small baitfish schools	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	38-45	Bluegills are suspending in deeper water columns, often 6 feet down in 12-foot zones, following zooplankton and insect larvae Fish are schooling by size classes and actively feeding during stable weather periods	Deeper backwater channels with reduced current and stable temperatures River flats adjacent to deeper holes where fish can quickly adjust their depth Areas with submerged vegetation that's still green and producing oxygen	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Hover/Mid-Strolling	Zooplankton concentrations in the water column Aquatic insect larvae near remaining green vegetation Small crustaceans in and around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskies will be concentrated near deeper structure adjacent to current areas and channel swings due to late season forage movement patterns Fish become less aggressive but still feed opportunistically, especially during stable weather periods	Deep channel edges near dams and current breaks where baitfish congregate Deeper woody cover areas adjacent to river channels Riprap areas that retain heat and concentrate baitfish	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large soft body swimbaits along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with blade baits near structure Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly near bottom structure	Bluegill concentrated in deeper wintering areas Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges Baitfish schools relating to current breaks	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie are suspending in deeper water near structure, moving between brush piles and vegetation edges based on light conditions and feeding periods Fish are forming loose schools in the water column, typically in the middle depths of the water column above deeper structure	Deep brush piles adjacent to channel edges Deeper weed edges near submerged creek channels Deep water areas near the intersection of grass flats and backwater channels	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling Damiki Rig	Small bluegills and juvenile panfish Winter-hardy aquatic insects Small baitfish concentrated in deeper water	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	38-45	Pike will be actively hunting in specific temperature pockets around key structure during open water winter periods, typically feeding during low-light periods Fish will be schooling with baitfish in areas that maintain slightly warmer water temperatures, making movements based on wind and weather patterns	Wind-blown points with submerged vegetation adjacent to deeper water Shallow bays with remaining green vegetation, especially near deeper water access Timber and brush piles in 8-15 foot depth range that provide ambush points near baitfish schools	Blade Baits worked slowly through suspended baitfish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily along weed edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near timber and vegetation	Schooled Bluegill in remaining vegetation Suspended baitfish schools in slightly warmer water pockets Small Yellow Perch around timber and brush	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Common Carp	41-48	Common Carp will be congregating in deeper, warmer water areas near current breaks and river channels, moving slowly and feeding opportunistically Feeding activity is reduced but still occurs during stable weather patterns, with fish most active during mid-afternoon warming periods	Deep river channel edges with current breaks, especially near brush piles and boulders Deeper holes adjacent to shallow flats where winter forage concentrates Protected coves with deeper water that maintains more stable temperatures	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with scented baits near structure	Dormant insects and small invertebrates in muddy bottom areas Inactive or dying crawfish near brush piles and rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	34-42	Sturgeon concentrate in deeper holes and channel edges near current breaks during winter, moving less but still actively feeding Fish maintain position near bottom structure, particularly around boulder fields and river channels where current delivers food	Deep holes adjacent to river channels with current breaks Boulder fields in 20-30 foot depth range Areas downstream of dams or flow control structures	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish Small baitfish concentrating in wintering areas Mollusks and aquatic insects	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Ice	Walleye	33-39	Walleyes are showing classic ice fishing behavior with increased activity during low-light periods, particularly at night as evidenced by recent reports Fish are relating to vegetation edges during daylight hours, likely using these areas as ambush points for bluegills and other forage	Weed edges and grass lines, particularly where they intersect with deeper water Areas near the dam with current breaks Transition areas between vegetation and hard bottom	Ice Fishing Jigs with plastics, worked slowly near vegetation Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with live minnows, particularly effective during night bite Ice Fishing Spoons, especially during active feeding periods	Bluegills, particularly around vegetation Minnows, especially near current areas and the dam Small perch in weedy areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills are schooling by size in shallow weedy areas, typically 2-7 feet deep, with some fish suspending in deeper water around 6 feet over 12-foot basins Fish are actively feeding on insects and other micro-forage in and around vegetation, showing selective response to various bait presentations	Shallow weed beds in 2-7 feet of water with good vegetation Backwater channels and river flats with slower current Points where fish suspend in deeper water	Ice Fishing Jigs with tungsten heads for better sensitivity and control Ice Fishing Spoons, particularly effective when fish are more actively feeding Hover/Mid-Strolling when targeting suspended fish	Small aquatic insects and larvae in vegetation Zooplankton in suspended water column	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	33-38	Crappies are actively feeding on insects in winter, concentrating around vegetation and brush pile areas Fish are schooling in protected areas, with movement patterns between cover types (weeds to brush)	Grass flats with healthy weed growth in protected areas Brush piles in areas with safe ice Backwater channels with structure	Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly through cover Ice Fishing Spoons for active fish in open water near structure Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set along weed edges	Insects Small Bluegills	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Pike become less active but still feed regularly, typically concentrating near shallow weed edges and wood structure adjacent to deeper water Feeding windows are most pronounced during early morning and late afternoon, with increased activity on overcast days Fish tend to school more during ice season, following concentrated baitfish pods	Weed edges in 8-15 feet of water near deeper basins Shallow bays with remnant vegetation in 4-8 feet Areas with submerged timber and brush piles adjacent to deeper 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	Bluegills concentrated in remaining weed patches Small perch schools roaming between structure Suspended baitfish pods in deeper water	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns

Key Seasonal Structures in Wisconsin River Flowage

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Laydowns and rotted trees in protected areas, especially those providing current breaks	Back eddies and flooded brush areas offering calm water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	River channels and current breaks, especially areas with reduced flow	Brush piles and wood structure in backwater areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected backwater channels and river flats where water warms first	Submerged vegetation edges in 2-7 foot depths
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Flooded backwater areas with wood cover (laydowns and brush piles)	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Current breaks and river channel edges where warmer water concentrates	Dam areas and rip rap with good sun exposure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles and submerged vegetation near spawning flats in 8-15 feet	Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow wood and grass areas in 3-8 feet of water	Complex shoreline areas with mixed vegetation and timber
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Protected shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation in 2-7 foot depth range	Current breaks near river channel influences where water is slightly warmer
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Areas near dams and significant current breaks where spawning will occur	Deep river channel edges adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow rock piles and boulder fields (2-6 feet) for actively spawning fish	Adjacent deeper rock structure (8-12 feet) for staging females
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Current breaks and eddies near river channel edges where fish can rest out of heavy flow	Tributary mouths and incoming feeder streams with moderate current
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water	Backwater channels with slower current and stable bottom composition
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near laydowns and brush piles	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with hard bottom near river channels and current breaks	Rip rap areas and dams with nearby deep water access
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected backwater channels and coves with stable temperatures	Shallow grass flats adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and wood cover in 2-8 feet	Protected coves with stable temperatures
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Shallow vegetated bays with 2-7 foot depths	Protected coves with soft bottom and emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Current breaks and areas below dams where spawning activity occurs	Rocky substrate areas with boulders in river channels
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow rip rap areas in 0-6 feet of water	Current breaks near rocky points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Current breaks and eddies near dam structures	Submerged vegetation edges in transitional depths
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges adjacent to spawning bays in 3-6 feet of water	Shallow bays with emerging lily pads in 2-4 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow brush piles and laydowns adjacent to spawning flats	Secondary points with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Rip rap areas and dam structures where baitfish concentrate	Shallow areas with woody cover and laydowns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles adjacent to spawning bays in 8-15 feet of water	Weed edges near deeper water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow weed flats and emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Woody cover (laydowns and brush piles) adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Shallow vegetated flats in 2-7 foot range with emerging vegetation	Current breaks and river channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Deep river channel edges with current breaks and boulder fields	Areas below dams with current seams and deep holes
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields and rock piles near current breaks	Laydowns and standing timber adjacent to river channels
Summer	Walleye	Deep current breaks near submerged vegetation	Main river channel edges adjacent to weedy flats
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Lily pad fields in shallow bays providing shade and insect life	Edges of submerged vegetation adjacent to slightly deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Lily pad fields in backwater areas	Shallow laydowns near deeper water access
Summer	Muskie	Dam areas and adjacent rip-rap, especially where current creates feeding stations	Shallow weed edges near hard structure elements
Summer	Crappie	Deep weed edges adjacent to grass flats	Brush piles in backwater channels
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats	Submerged timber and brush piles in 8-15 feet
Summer	Common Carp	Shallow vegetated flats in 2-7 foot depth range with submerged vegetation	Current breaks near river channel intersections
Summer	Sturgeon	Deep river channels with current breaks and boulder fields	Areas near dams with consistent water flow
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Laydowns and brush piles with good depth adjacent	Current breaks near woody cover
Fall	Walleye	Current breaks along river channels with boulder structure	Deep holes adjacent to current seams
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges in 8-12 feet adjacent to backwater channels	Secondary break lines with remaining green vegetation
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Deeper brush piles and laydowns near creek channels
Fall	Muskie	Dam areas and rip rap zones with current breaks	Deep woody cover adjacent to shallow feeding flats
Fall	Crappie	Deep brush piles adjacent to grass flats in 12-20 feet of water	Channel edges near backwater areas where vegetation is dying off
Fall	Northern Pike	Weed edges and points adjacent to deeper water, especially near bluegill concentrations	Shallow timber and laydowns in 3-8 feet of water near channel swings
Fall	Common Carp	Boulder fields in 2-7 foot depth range, especially near river channel edges	Shallow vegetated flats adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Sturgeon	Deep river channels with current breaks and boulder structure	Areas near dams with concentrated current flow
Winter	Walleye	Major current breaks near deep water	Deep humps with current influence
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deeper backwater channels with reduced current and stable temperatures	River flats adjacent to deeper holes where fish can quickly adjust their depth
Winter	Muskie	Deep channel edges near dams and current breaks where baitfish congregate	Deeper woody cover areas adjacent to river channels
Winter	Crappie	Deep brush piles adjacent to channel edges	Deeper weed edges near submerged creek channels
Winter	Northern Pike	Wind-blown points with submerged vegetation adjacent to deeper water	Shallow bays with remaining green vegetation, especially near deeper water access
Winter	Common Carp	Deep river channel edges with current breaks, especially near brush piles and boulders	Deeper holes adjacent to shallow flats where winter forage concentrates
Winter	Sturgeon	Deep holes adjacent to river channels with current breaks	Boulder fields in 20-30 foot depth range
Ice	Walleye	Weed edges and grass lines, particularly where they intersect with deeper water	Areas near the dam with current breaks
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow weed beds in 2-7 feet of water with good vegetation	Backwater channels and river flats with slower current
Ice	Crappie	Grass flats with healthy weed growth in protected areas	Brush piles in areas with safe ice
Ice	Northern Pike	Weed edges in 8-15 feet of water near deeper basins	Shallow bays with remnant vegetation in 4-8 feet

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish - multiple reports indicate this is primary forage	Perch - mentioned in early spring backwater areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows concentrated in current breaks and backwater areas	Crappie in brush pile areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging in warming waters	Zooplankton concentrating in areas of better light penetration
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Resident baitfish in backwater areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Pre-spawn bluegills gathering in shallow warming areas	Yellow perch schooling near hard structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small baitfish and juvenile bluegill	Emerging aquatic insects
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill in shallow cover	Various panfish species around vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae in warming shallows	Small crawfish becoming active near structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bottom-dwelling baitfish
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas	Minnows in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Small baitfish concentrating in current breaks	Juvenile crawfish becoming active with warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas	Zooplankton in shallow water columns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crayfish becoming more active in warming waters	Bluegill moving into similar spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Bluegill congregating in shallow spawning areas	Yellow Perch relating to woody cover and vegetation edges
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish	Aquatic insects emerging in spring
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills in shallow grass and wood	Small pike and suckers during spawn
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Insects and larvae in shallow areas	Emerging vegetation and roots
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bottom-dwelling baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish	Small baitfish transitioning to shallow water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Perch (13-14 inch size class observed in recent catches)	Fathead Minnows (proven effective as live bait)
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects emerging in shallow zones	Zooplankton concentrating in weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas	Young of year baitfish schools
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Perch	Minnows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small bluegill fry	Emerging insects
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrating in shallow vegetation	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Insects and invertebrates in shallow vegetation	Crawfish in brush piles and rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crawfish emerging in warming waters	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish - primary forage based on multiple reports	Bluegill - active in shallow zones
Summer	Walleye	Perch relating to weed edges	Young-of-year baitfish in current breaks
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Minnows	Bluegill
Summer	Muskie	Bluegill - primary forage based on recent catches	Perch - noted as secondary forage in lake profile
Summer	Crappie	Small bluegill fry	Aquatic insects
Summer	Northern Pike	Bluegill in weed beds	Young-of-year fish near shallow cover
Summer	Common Carp	Insects and invertebrates in vegetated areas	Crawfish in brush pile areas
Summer	Sturgeon	Crawfish in rocky areas	Bottom-dwelling baitfish
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish around wood and hard cover	Minnows in current breaks and near structure
Fall	Walleye	Minnows concentrating in current breaks	Small perch in boulder areas
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Zooplankton concentrations
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools moving into creeks and coves	Bluegill still active in remaining vegetation
Fall	Muskie	Bluegill congregating near woody cover	Perch schools relating to hard structure
Fall	Crappie	Young-of-year bluegill congregating near dying vegetation	Small shad schools moving into deeper water
Fall	Northern Pike	Bluegills congregating near remaining weed beds	Young-of-year baitfish schooling in protected areas
Fall	Common Carp	Insects and invertebrates in shallow vegetation	Crawfish around boulder fields
Fall	Sturgeon	Crawfish in rocky areas	Bottom-dwelling baitfish
Winter	Walleye	Minnows concentrated in current breaks	Small baitfish schools
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Zooplankton concentrations in the water column	Aquatic insect larvae near remaining green vegetation
Winter	Muskie	Bluegill concentrated in deeper wintering areas	Yellow Perch schooling near channel edges
Winter	Crappie	Small bluegills and juvenile panfish	Winter-hardy aquatic insects
Winter	Northern Pike	Schooled Bluegill in remaining vegetation	Suspended baitfish schools in slightly warmer water pockets
Winter	Common Carp	Dormant insects and small invertebrates in muddy bottom areas	Inactive or dying crawfish near brush piles and rocky areas
Winter	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish	Small baitfish concentrating in wintering areas
Ice	Walleye	Bluegills, particularly around vegetation	Minnows, especially near current areas and the dam
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae in vegetation	Zooplankton in suspended water column
Ice	Crappie	Insects	Small Bluegills
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegills concentrated in remaining weed patches	Small perch schools roaming between structure

Bait Colors by Season for Wisconsin River Flowage

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Silver
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Ice	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns