Recent rainfall has made any remaining ice in the Wausau/Central
Wisconsin area unsafe for fishing. The rain has, however, opened the
majority of the boat landings along the Wisconsin River and it's
flowages including Lakes DuBay and Wausau. Anglers are finding the cure
for cabin fever by cashing in on the areas excellent walleye fishing,
both from shore and boat. The Wausau/Central Wisconsin area continues
to produce some of the finest walleye opportunities both in respect to
action and trophy potential in the state.
The majority of walleyes are being found relating to deeper holes and
current breaks both below dams and downstream. Jigs painted in brighter
colors such as orange and chartreuse have been working effectively when
tipped with a medium sized fathead minnow or 3" Berkley Gulp. With
the colder water temperatures, slower and subtler retrieves have been
producing the most action. Anglers need to be vigilant for light biting
fish as strikes will often feel like a very light tick or even a
"mushy" dead weight if it feels different, set the hook.
This early spring period is a fine time to utilize stinger hooks while
fishing jigs to aid in hooking any short striking walleyes.
In addition to jigs, live bait rigs such slip-sinker and three-way rigs
are also accounting for good numbers of fish. A diverse fishery,
anglers are also experiencing action from crappies, white bass, channel
catfish, northern pike, and other species, while pursuing walleyes on
the Wisconsin River system in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.
Tight lines,
Joel