Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Late March

Greetings from Minocqua! 

We are in the time of year here in the Northwoods of Wisconsin when the ice fishing season is winding down, and we are all patiently waiting for open water. The open water part will likely be a bit as we currently have approximately 24" of ice. Currently, there is a pretty good amount of snap on top of the ice, so travel is a bit difficult. We have had some wind with the last snow thus, there is some drifting here and there across the lakes. As always, travel on the ice with all the precautions necessary to be safe. 

As you know, the game fish season is closed until early May. One can fish for Smallmouth and Largemouth bass, but you cannot keep bass. Bass is catch and release only until the bass season opens in mid-June. 

The panfish bite has been pretty good. There are still fishermen heading out for a meal or Crappies, Bluegills, and Perch. Rosy Reds, Crappie Minnows, and XL Fatheads, as well as Red Spikes, White Spikes, and Wax Worms, are all working very well. We have a good selection of Ice Fishing soft plastics and spoons that match well with our Fresh Live Bait that is always in cold running well water to ensure a long, lively life.

Weeds or wood in the 5'-15' range seems to be the best on most lakes and flowages. For the larger clear water lakes, one needs to fish slightly deeper than the darker water flowages. In both systems, still, find the weeds or wood structure, and you will likely find panfish and bass.

Tip Downs, along with jigging, are good choices. 

Please stop by the shop for your fishing needs, or feel free to contact us by phone or email. We will be happy to meet your needs and be of service to each and every one of you.

It's our honor to serve you.

God Bless and Good Fishing, Jim Stewart