The Lake Winnebago/Lake Poygan region had drastic weather extremes for January this week. Early in the week the area saw normal temperatures, followed by a January thaw with rain producing a large snow melt. The week ended with bitter cold temperatures. Overall, the ice sheet on area lakes withstood the initial changes with minimum impact; however, several open water holes and cracks have emerged on the main ice sheet of Lake Winnebago. Lake Winnebago has variable ice depths ranging from 2-8 inches currently. The annual shad die off has started.
The rain melted the snow atop of Lake Winnebago, making the lake a 137,000 acre ice rink. Conditions are very slick, and extreme caution must be exhibited. The east shore heaves have been reduced in size, but travel remains hindered. Fishing opportunities were limited this week, even for the diehard anglers. Heavy winds compounded the ever changing conditions. Many ice shelters became fast moving sleds this week.
Lake Poygan has been the gem of the system the last several weeks. White bass (mainly second year fish), have been pounding anything that moves in the water column. A five gallon pail, full of fish, is not uncommon for a day’s work on Lake Poygan. Since there is no bag limits on white bass – many anglers are taking advantage of the hot bite. 4 wheelers are accessing the lake via the Duck Inn. Mixed into the catches are an occasional walleye and crappies are plentiful.
Anglers continue to push out further onto Lake Winnebago, and are challenging the limits of safety. Attached is a photo of a Kite boarder who drove his SUV out about a mile from shore In the Fond du Lac area.
Cowling Bay (Oshkosh) has been the place to be this week on the main lake. Schools of perch and bluegills are the current resident of the area. A solid weed base is present holding many of these fish. Small jigs worked with spikes or waxies has been the best method of attracting the fish within the weed beds.
Merritt Street (Oshkosh) has seen some activity, with individuals reaching about a mile off shore, prior to the warm spell. Over all, it’s probably not worth the risk, as reports have been discouraging.
Oshkosh Channels (off of main lake): Reports are that this area has seen some minor activity, but the area is full of shad.
Black Wolf Area: Perch and white bass are present. No details as to the best method are available. Reports of some bad ice in this general area, especially near the launch.
Asylum Bay, the Harbor in Fond du Lac and the east shore. These typical powerhouse locations have been nearly vacant of fishermen. Calumet County Park has reports of open water which can be seen from shore. Asylum Bay has some open water areas just outside the bay.
Stable weather and a thicker ice sheet should be the story this upcoming week. As the ice becomes safer, fishing will pick up because more fertile fishing areas can be accessed. Eelpout will start moving into the shallow areas soon, preparing to spawn. There are many things to look forward to in the coming weeks, including sturgeon spearing.
Keep the reports coming to [email protected]. Next week’s report will be slightly delayed, as I will be in the Arizona desert all week. Can’t wait to get the Mercury back on the water, in about 60 days! Until then, stay on top of the ice!
