Minocqua Area Fishing Report

Not as fast as we would like, but after the past couple ice seasons…we’ll Take IT!

Ice coverage is building throughout the Lakeland area and anglers are heading out (by cleated foot only) to enjoy early ice fishing.

Walleye: Good-Very Good – Favorite early ice target for many, late afternoon to dusk has been very good in the shallows (2-6’) using tip-ups baited with shiners. Jigging Raps and Shiver Minnows also effective for this aggressive, early bite. Pre-dawn through mid-morning also giving up good action anywhere green cabbage can be found.

Crappies: Good-Very good – Most anglers targeting Crappies finding best bites early in AM and again mid-afternoon through dusk. Minnows producing, but jigging lures with flash such as Little Cecils also good tipped with waxies.

Northern Pike: Good-Very Good – Big minnows and even Hot Dogs on tip-ups producing. Using a tie-able wire leader and #5 Pimples dressed with minnow heads also putting fish on ice.

Yellow Perch: Good – Moving through shallows in what seems to be loose schools taking smaller minnows and striking K-Rips tipped with waxies.

Bluegill: Good – 4-8’ weeds. Tear dot jigs tipped with waxies, spikes or plastics all good.

While some large lakes still have open water (Fence, Trout) most are locked up and slowly building ice. Nearly snowless, so creepers are essential. Also, use a spud bar to check ice, have a rope and/or float suit, go out with a friend. Reports of ice thickness in 2-6”+ range, but caution always required.