The Lake Winnebago region enjoyed a cornucopia of weather during the last 10 days, with heavy rain, frost, highs in the 80’s, and variable wind conditions. Water conditions have been variable, based on recent weather, but generally the clarity has been stained. Water temps are ranging in the low 70’s to mid 60’s.
Lake Winnebago has become a lonely place, as sportsmen’s attentions have turned to the various forms of hunting. In addition, some of the hard core fishermen are focusing on the Bay of Green Bay for Muskies.
Overall, fishing has been average at best.
White bass are on their fall seasonal feeding binge. The fish will eventually move into the rivers and the upper lakes, but right now the concentrations of fish remain on the main lake. Fast moving cranks, or casted inline spinner baits are filling coolers. There really is no limit as to how many of these fish you can catch in a day, if you get on one of the schools. The Oshkosh area is hosting several roaming schools. In addition, Paynes Point has a nice school near the finger of the underwater point.
Catfish remain associated with the Fox River in Oshkosh. Many of these fish are impressive in size, and can really bend a rod.
Perch fishing remains adequate, but not great. Average bags reported were in the 5-10 fish range. On some days, larger baskets can be achieved. I did not have any location reports this past week, and I did not target these fish. Concentrations of boats remain along Kalibus’s, Asylum Bay, Fisherman’s Road, and in Fond du Lac.
Walleyes are available for catching, but the bite has slowed some over the last few days. There are ample food sources available currently; especially with shad schools and young of the year game fish. I have seen a lot of boats running crank baits at higher speeds in an attempt to get reaction bites. Personally, I would stay away from the crank baits this time of year. There is too much competition for this style food source within the system. My suggestion is to revert back to the jigs and crawlers and focus on the shallow water structure.
The system is behind in the fall transitions and water temperature remain above average. I expect the waters to cool quickly when normal air temperatures arrive. Start thinking Spring, as many of the fish will pattern their activities very similar to April and May. Walleyes will move toward the river, and on to the shallow reefs. Perch, bluegill and crappie will move shallow, and will be attracted to piers, downed wood, and shallower water. Larger minnows become a viable bait choice.
That’s all Folks! Next report as conditions change. [email protected] is my email, and feel free to drop me a line (as long as it isn’t spam). Periodic updates can be found on our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Fishing-Partner/222624783318?ref=hl Good luck to the MWS Championship field fishing next weekend.
