Abnormally cool weather, matched with consistent winds, indicated Fall is about to arrive on the Lake Winnebago region. Anglers were sparse this week mainly due to the weather and the kickoff of the white tail deer bow season.
Water temperatures have dipped quickly with temperatures now ranging as low as the upper 50’s. Some of the bays and backwaters still show temperatures in the low 60’s. This is a drastic change from the previous weeks.
Water clarity is a major issue with the entire system. With the winds and rain runoff, the water has a chocolate milk appearance. Add the algae bloom which is present (now stirred into the water column), visibility is heavily compromised. Needless to say, this has been one of the toughest bites of the 2014 season.
We have received no positive reports this past week related to walleyes and perch. However, white bass have been active in the Fox River and near the mouth of the river in Oshkosh. Huge numbers of fish are present, and 100 fish days are common. Think what these numbers would be if there was water visibility!
There are no secrets to the white bass fishing. Find the school, and cast. Crank baits, spinners, flies or anything that moves is working. There is high entertainment value to these fish, and some say they are excellent table fare.
If you are targeting the walleyes, it will be tough. My suggestion is to use baits in hi-visibility/glow colors, and bang the heck out of those baits on the rocks. Vibration is your key, not visibility. Try slowing down your presentations to allow the walleyes to locate your baits. Jigging raps can be a solid choice in the rivers given the extra size of the bait versus a standard jig.
The National Walleye Tour is town this week with their Championship. Walleyes will be caught; but, how many is the question. The best of the best will be challenged this week. The good news is a stable weather pattern is predicted in the coming days which may provide some relief in the water clarity issue. Weights should improve each day in my estimation. Menomonie Park in Oshkosh is the venue on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. NPAA (National Professional Anglers Association) will also have a youth program for Future anglers on Saturday at 4:15. The first 100 children will receive either a t-shirt or rod and reel.
Not every fishing report can be positive, and this week’s edition is a testament to that statement. Things will improve, and the fantastic fall bite will heat up soon. Don’t put your boat in storage just yet.
Just a quick note form the Lake Michigan Harbors. The bite did slow this past week, mainly due to heavy fishing pressure and water clarity changes. Stay tuned it will heat up again.
[email protected] is my email. Please send your reports to keep us up to date on the Winnebago system and other local waters.
