FISHING REPORTS
from some of the BEST PLACES TO FISH !

18th December, 2011: FISHING REPORT:  Wausau, Central Wisconsin Area
by Joel DeBoer of Wisconsin Angling Adventures

Solid ice conditions for the most part in Marathon County have led to ample opportunities for anglers looking to sample the fine local ice-fishing. While anglers have been able to drive four-wheelers safely onto the ice in some areas, ice-fishermen should continue to pay heed as current and springs can still lead to unsafe ice.

Panfish activity has been good as of late, with numbers of bluegill, crappie, and yellow perch being accounted for. Depths of water from 3’-8’ are holding the most fish, especially when structure such as wood or weeds is present. Drilling a number of holes in a likely area before beginning fishing is a good strategy that will allow you to move with the fish, and hopefully avoid wasting time drilling additional holes or spooking fish when the bite slows down. Small jigs tipped with waxies or panfish-sized Berkley Powerbait offerings have been consistent fish catchers, with colors such as gold, orange, and chartreuse being productive of late.

Northern pike activity has been very good, and some nice specimens have already been caught and released in our area this month. The increased traffic and ever-thickening ice has slowed the ultra-shallow bite some, so begin in depths ranging from 4’-10’ as they have held the best action and largest fish as of late. Structure is again the key to consistency, with weed lines or sharp break lines good places to begin. Frabill Bigfoot Tip-ups baited with large golden shiners are an excellent presentation at this point in the season.

Anglers looking to score on walleye action will need to fish during the low light periods of morning and evening. Frabill Pro Thermal tip-ups rigged with small Mustad treble hooks and suckers or golden shiners are working well. Set up along the mouths of bays and flats or along points, especially those adjacent to deeper water. Areas containing bottom irregularities and sharp breaks have generally been more productive. It helps to have tip-ups set in a range of water depths as the fish will move as the light levels change. Make note of productive holes, as an area may remain good for several days in a row, and lend to identifying other areas holding fish at present.

Whether in pursuit of panfish, walleye, or northern pike, there are a few rules that should always follow an angler out on the ice: 1. Be smart – live to fish another day. 2. Be courteous – enjoy the outdoors and allow others to enjoy it too. 3. Be unselfish – keep only what you’re going to eat and let the big ones go!

Happy holidays from our whole family at Wisconsin Angling Adventures! I’ll see you on the water…



For more information

Contact:

Joel DeBoer
Wisconsin Angling Adventures
 
Tel: +1 715-297-7573
joelthemuskyman@charter.net
"Fishing's our business... and business is good!"