Minocqua Area Fishing Report

Two, count’em, TWO snow storms in the last week of November (second started in November, ended in December) put a lot of heavy, wet snow on what ice had formed on the smaller lakes and bays so far! Ice is still there and fishable, but under inches of slush and snow making walking difficult.

Bluegills: Very Good – Anglers venturing out between, and after, storms doing very well in 5-7’ depths on Gills using light, lead jigs (slower drop) tipped with waxies or Beaver Tail.

Perch: Good – Shallow Perch fishing producing nice “eaters” in 4-8’ on medium fatheads.

Walleye: Good – Fewer reports than last week, yet anglers venturing out finding good fishing in 5-8’ of water just before dark on tip-ups baited with shiners, suckers or chubs.

Northern Pike: Good – Few anglers, but a couple decent reports of Pike in shallow weeds on river shiners or large shiners below tip-ups.

Crappies: Good-Fair – Few reports, but some catches on small minnows on rocker jigs.

Pre-storm, where there was ice, we were hearing reports of 5-7 inches of ice. The weight of the recent snow is bad news for the earliest ice that has formed. Slush makes travel difficult. More than ever, with snow cover present, use caution – spud your way out and take along safety spikes, rope and wear your floating ice suit (or get one!)

If there is good news its that following the high, cold winds of the storms, Monday’s calm (12/2) allowed the open water to skim over. These areas of “New ice” should build some great thickness in the following week, without the hindrance of snow cover, to open new areas of fishing.

Don’t forget this weekend’s ICE EXTRAVAGANZA at Kurt’s. Three days of PRO-STAFFERS, Company Reps, Deals, Giveaways. Lots to check out!