Northwoods Report from Naomi Shapiro for 9-29-08

gengberg September 29th, 2008

As of September 29, 2008:

Fishing, Outdoor, and Event Reports for Eagle River, Wisconsin,
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area; Lake of the Woods and Rainy River out of
Sportsman's Lodge (Baudette, Minnesota).

1. THIS WEEK'S HEADLINES:

--  Limits common, as great walleye bite continues, including good numbers
of trophies going to 32.5 inches and 12.5 pounds, with northerns and slab
crappies starting to hit strongly, on the south end of Lake of the Woods,
out of Sportsman's Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

-- Excellent northern and crappie action, with good bite for walleyes and
smalles, and musky and largemouth slow, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.

--  Musky, walleye, smallies and panfish all hitting very strongly, and bow
hunters targeting trophy bucks in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

- - EDITOR'S NOTE: Information for all upcoming Wisconsin hunting and
trapping seasons is posted at the end of these reports, with gracious thanks
to guide Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Services,
Mosinee, for providing the excellent information.
-----

2. WEEKLY OUTDOOR AND FISHING REPORTS, and current calendars:

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) -- as of September 29, 2008:

(Head):  Excellent northern and crappie action, with good bite for walleyes
and smalles, and musky and largemouth slow, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin
area.: 

Northern hitting strongly in the Eagle River area.  Fish weeds in two to
eight feet of water using a spinner bait.  The northerns are mainly average
size or smaller.  

The crappie bite in the Eagle River area is excellent.  Fish are going 12 to
13 inches max.  Fish humps, or cribs in eight to ten feet of water, or the
crappies are suspending out in open water at varying depths, going as deep
as 15 to 18 feet (try varying depths on the water column, remembering that
crappie only bite up, never down).  Use a crappie minnow.

Decent action for walleyes in the Eagle River area.  The Eagle River Chain
of 28 lakes (largest freshwater chain of lakes in the world), or Kentuck
Lake have been producing.  Target weed areas, and fish 15 to 25 feet during
the day, using a jig and a minnow.  As evening comes on the walleyes will
come in anywhere from eight to twelve feet.  Use a jig and a minnow.
Evening walleyes will also hit small surface lures (three to four inch
Rapalas or X-Raps for example), being ifshed over sand bars, rock bars and
humps in eight feet of water or less.

Smallies are providing a good bite in the Eagle River area.  Fish 20 feet or
deeper (depending on the lake), targeting humps and rocks.  Use a three inch
minnow for best results.

Musky are slow in the Eagle River area.  During the day fish 15 feet of
water, around weeds or rocks.  Use a Suzy Sucker, Bulldawg or glide bait.
In the morning and evening, topwaters are picking up some fish in water as
shallow as three to five feet.  Some anglers are starting to use smaller
suckers, going 11 inches or smaller.

Largemouth action has been limited in the Eagle River area.  Fish minnows or
p;lastic worms in the weeds in eight feet of water or less.

(Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative Brilliance
interview with the staff of Guides Choice Pro Shop).

Contact info for Eagle River:
* Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; e-mail:
info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org
* Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, 715-477-2248
* George Langley, Eagle River Fishing Guides Association, 715-479-8804.
e-mail:  fishing@eaglesportscenter.com
—–

***Some outdoor activities and events coming up in Eagle River, Wisconsin:

NEW: Eagle River, The Snowmobile Capital of the World®, voted number one  as
The People’s Choice ­ “The Best Wisconsin Town for a Snowmobiling Getaway.”
Thousands from the state and nation voted in The Wonders of Wisconsin
competition.  Eagle River was also ranked number three for “Best Town for a
Fishing Getaway” and “Best Town for a Boating Getaway.”

– Sat./Sun., Oct. 4-5, 2008:  29th annual Eagle River Cranberry Fest.
Family fun festival with activities for every taste attended by over 40,000.
Fresh, locally grown cranberries, cranberry food, cranberry cook-off,
world’s largest cranberry cheesecake, antique market, flea market, marsh,
bog and winery tours, quilter show and ale, bike/walk/run fitness events,
bridge tournament, farmer’s market and much more. Eagle River Area Chamber
of Commerce & Visitors Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org;
web: www.eagleriver.org

– Fri.-Sun., Oct. 10-12, 2008:  Muskie Fishing School at Wild Eagle Lodge.
Learn how to go after the greatest freshwater gamefish — the legendary
muskie — with expert local guide, Muskie Matt.  Enjoy 3 nights of premier
lodging and meals.  Includes half day guide service with Muskie Matt, and
evening sessions featuring instruction and open discussion. Eagle River Area
Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail:
info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org

–Tues., Oct. 16, 2008:  Fall Harvest of Color.   Experience breathtaking
fall beauty with Wild Eagle Lodge’s scenic tour of the Northwoods by air or
by boat.  Two hour guided tour in an airplane or pontoon.  Package includes
two or three nights in a lakefront lodge home, two hour guided tour, Resort
Bucks and cheesecake.  Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors
Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org

GENERAL:  The fall season in Eagle River, Wisconsin means many things:
Beautiful crisp weather, pristine forest with the fall colors of vibrant
reds, golds, and yellows; 1200 lakes including the Eagle River Chain of 28
lakes (the largest freshwater chain of lakes in the world), providing
excellent fall fishing along with unmatched deer, bear, bird, and waterfowl
hunting.  Great time for hiking, biking, birding, picnicking, fall
festivals, fabulous fishing, hunting, exploring and just plain relaxing.
Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; web:
www.eagleriver.org
—–
—–

***Wausau/Central Wisconsin area (MARATHON COUNTY, including the communities
of Kronenwetter, Mosinee, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield, Wausau, and
Weston) — as of September 29, 2008:

(Head): Musky, walleye, smallies and panfish all hitting very strongly, and
bow hunters targeting trophy bucks in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

The musky bite in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin are has been fantastic.
Target thick weeds during the day and outside weed edges during low light
periods.  Run big bucktials and crankbaits thoroughly through these areas to
target active fish.

Walleye action is great in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area. Lots of good
sized eaters, along with a few slot fish are being caught on each outing.
Work weed edges in 12 feet of water with small crankbaits, for best results.

Smallies in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area are hitting very aggressively.
Large plasticfs like lizards of jigs with beaver tails are producing best
right now.  Shallow stumps are the target areas.

Crappies and blueglls are providing consistent limit action in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  Locate a submerged tree in six to 10 feet of
water, and the action can be absolutely furious.  Slip bobbers baited with
worms or minnows will take fish all day long.

Bow deer hunters entering the woods are targeting big bucks by looking for
stands of oaks, as this has been a bumper year for acorns in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  The big bucks are gorging themselves in
these areas

And remember, that unlike so many lakes further north, that have daily
walleye bag limits of two or three fish, the walleye bag limit remains at
FIVE (5) fish on most of the waters of the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

With such a wealth of opportunities, it’s important for anglers to practice
catch-and-release for everything but a few for the frying pan.  This simple
and mindful conservation will insure that the legendary fishing in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area will continue for generations to come.

(This report for the Wausau/Central Wisconsin CVB based on Creative
Brilliance interview with guide Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing &
Hunting Guide Services, Mosinee).

For more information about the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area:
*Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau: 888-948-4748, or
715-355-8788; web: www.visitwausau.com
Fishing and hunting info:
* Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Services (Phil Schweik, John Sparbel,
Craig Lemmer, Justin Gaiche); phone: 715-693-5843; e -mail:
info@hooksetters.biz; web: www.hooksetters.biz.

* Wisconsin Angling Adventures (Joel DeBoer), web:
www.wisconsinanglingadventures.com; e-mail:  joelthe muskyman@charter.net;
phone: 715-297-7573

—–

***Some outdoor activities and events coming up in the Wausau/Central
Wisconsin area in the coming weeks.

– Sat./Sun., Oct. 4-5, 2008:  Fall Color Comet Sky Ride at Granite Peak Ski
area.  Features a six seat chair lift.  Ability to walk around and resume
ride.  Explore the incredible fall beauty of Rib Mountain State Park.
Information: Granite Peak Ski Area at Rib Mountain State Park. Phone:
715-845-2846, or visit skigranitepeak.com.

–Thurs., Oct. 9, 2008:  Art and the Musky Hunter at the Woodson Art Museum
in Wausau.  Birds in Art artist and field editor for Musky Hunter Magazine,
Jim Bortz explores the correlations and conflicts of his multifaceted
career. This lighthearted look at his chosen professional path will appeal
to art lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Information:  715-845-7010.

- - Sat./Sun., Nov. 22-23, 2008:  Opening weekend at Granite Peak Ski Area,
Wausau at Rib Mountain. Hours 9am-9pm.

GENERAL:  The Wausau/Central Wisconsin’s fall season is a magnet for those
who seek the beauty and enormous breadth of nature, as well as the finest
hiking, biking, touring, sightseeing, birding,  exploring, picnicking,
relaxing, and legendary open-water fishing anywhere (remember, most waters
in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area REMAIN OPEN for walleye, northern and
bass throughout the year without any closed season).   Hunters flock to the
area’s enormous tracts of public land for some of the finest turkey, bear,
deer, bird and waterfowl hunting in Wisconsin.  Wonderful tracts of forest
with breathtaking fall colors, pristine waters, birds and wildlife surround
visitors at every turn.  The services, infrastructure, entertainment,
accommodations, restaurants, and non-stop community activities, festivals,
and events provide something for every taste. Wausau/Central Wisconsin
Convention & Visitors Bureau:  888-948-4748, or 715-355-8788; web:
www.visitwausau.com
———-

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River,
and southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of
September 29, 2008:

(Head): Limits common, as great walleye bite continues, including good
numbers of trophies going to 32.5 inches and 12.5 pounds, with northerns and
slab crappies starting to hit strongly, on the south end of Lake of the
Woods, out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

Above normal temperatures are delaying the start of the fall emerald shiner
run into the Rainy River, which means that this annual fall fishing bonanza
is put-off for a bit ­ until the weather gets cooler.  Call Sportsman’s
Lodge for updates on what’s happening.  Some shiners are just now starting
to move towards and into the Rainy River, but when the run really starts,
anglers will experience some of the greatest fishing of the year.

The fishing on Lake of the Woods, even with the higher temps is still
fantastic.  Limits of eater sized walleyes are being taken on almost every
outing, and in addition some real trophies are hitting, going from 28 to
32.5 inches in length, and ranging in weight from eight to 12.5 pounds.
Fish are hitting in 21 feet of water, by trolling with glass crayfish Shad
Raps, just off of Zippel Bay, a short boat ride from Sportsman’s Lodge.
Northerns are hitting very strongly very near Sportsman’s Lodge. One group
of guests who went out in Sportsman’s new 20 foot Lund Alaskan boat, caught
86 northerns in one day, using blue and silver Shad Raps.

Fall fishing is in full swing at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out
on Lake of the Woods - -like a remote Canadian fly-in destination with all
the amenities), the islands of the Northwest Angle and nearby Canadian
waters (remember- - Sportsman’s Lodge can make sure you’re able to fish both
American AND Canadian waters ol Lake of the Woods ­ just ask!).  The jigging
for both walleye and crappies is paying off, with the crappies edging on to
their very “hot” fall bite.  Limits of walleyes and nice slab crappies are
common. Sportsman’s guests have been very successful fishing the beautiful
rocky shorelines west of Falcon Island, Ontario.  There’s great action on
the Minnesota side of the border, as well.  Jigging in deeper water - -25 to
28 feet along rocky shorelines is producing some great walleye fishing.  The
larger walleyes are starting to really move in and the chance of catching a
wallhanger are very good.  A nice “bonus” is that anglers are getting
incidental northerns and smallmouth bass while going for the walleyes and
crappies. With the fall colors becoming “brighter” each day, gorgeous dark
blue water, and crisp fall weather, there’s no better time to get up to
Sportsman’s Lodge than right now.

(This report based on Creative Brilliance interview with Gregg Hennum,
co-owner of Sportsman’s Lodge.  phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com)
—–

Highlights at Sportsman’s Lodges:

NEW - - :  Fall Lund Alaskan fishing trips on the Rainy River.  Fabulous
fishing in spots that bigger boats cannot access.  Our brand new 18 foot
Lund Alaskan boat gets you into fishing that you’ve never experienced.
Guide, bait, tackle and fish cleaning, for up to four people, only $400 per
day.

NEW - -: Emerald shiner run on the Rainy River out of Sportsman’s Lodge.
Some of the greatest fishing of the year. Non-stop action for walleye,
northern, crappie, perch, lake sturgeon and smallmouth bass.  End of
September and beginning of October.  Anglers can bring their own boats or
take advantage of Sportsman’s 10% off regular rates.

– Sportsman’s motto is:  “Hookem’ and cookem’.”  Sportsman’s will be happy
to clean and prepare your walleye or sauger for you after a day’s fishing.
This is the best way to enjoy these super-fresh and delicious fish, and
still have some to take home with you.

– Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge property is forty miles out on Lake of the Woods
on Oak Island.  Secluded and remote, but easily accessible and served by
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge as a base camp, which has great food,
beverages, supplies, gas, liquor, tackle, maps and grocery items. Eagle
Ridge has two cabins with accommodations for up to16 and is available for
extended stays. 

– The Beltrami Island State Forest offers wilderness lovers nearly 67,000
acres of every type of natural setting to explore.  Established routes allow
visitors to comfortably enjoy this spectacular, vast wilderness, all year
round. Sportsman’s Lodge offers perfect access to this unique opportunity.

– Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods, Baudette, MN is proud to announce
that recent creel census results conducted by the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources shows that on average, the Lake of the Woods walleye catch
rate is the best of any lake in the State of Minnesota.

- - Sportsman’s guests can avail themselves of not only great fishing, but
excellent care and the finest professional guides, while relaxing in comfort
and safety on Sportsman’s fleet of 27 foot, inboard, fishing charters, which
are all equipped with heads and cuddy cabin.

– Sportsman’s Lodge is now offering air charter service to Baudette, MN
directly from the Anoka County (Twin Cities) airport on eight passenger
jet-prop aircraft from Wilderness Air Service in the Twin Cities.  About an
hour’s fast and convenient flight.

– Cross-border fishing (American and Canadian waters) on Lake of the Woods
is available out of Sportsman’s Lodges.  For information about required
permits, licenses and opportunities contact us. Fish for walleye, sauger,
northern, bass and jumbo perch from the main lodge or at Sportsman’s Oak
Island Lodge.

- -Hunting seasons of all types are starting right now in the Sportsman’s
Lodge area.  Waterfowl opens Oct. 4;  firearm deer season opens Nov. 8;
muzzleloader deer season opens Nov. 29; AND there are any number of
“specialized seasons” from now until the end of 2008.  Now is the time to
make your reservations at Sportsman’s Lodge for some of the greatest hunting
in North America.  Sportsman’s Lodge hunting guides are proven experts in
how to bag your quarry, with a great deal of excitement and the camaraderie
that only a hunt can provide.  Trophies abound.  Call us for information
about permit applications and make your reservations now. Quack Addicts, the
affiliated hunting club of Sportsman’s Lodge has access to thousands of
acres of prime waterfowl hunting land to guide you to your bag limit.

—–   

For more information on any of the above: Sportsman’s Lodge, phone:
800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
—–
—–

3.  WARNINGS AND INFO FOR A FEW WEEKS OUT

- - The fall Wisconsin musky season provides great opportunities for trophy
fish in both the Eagle River and Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  Contact
each area for information.  Contact info is contained at the end of each
area’s fishing/outdoor report.  All caring musky anglers release every fish
caught, after taking a photo. Modern day technology can produce a perfect
wall hanging or trophy from a photograph.  Please help protect this
magnificent game fish by practicing catch-and-release, exclusively.

- - All of our reporting areas offer some of the finest hunting
opportunities in North America. Contact information for each area is located
at the end of their particular report.

 GENERAL: Each reporting area has pro- and pro-am fishing tournaments of all
types throughout the year (musky, walleye, sturgeon, panfish, bass and
northern).  Upcoming tournaments are listed and featured at the end of each
weekly report for every reporting area.  Lots of fun, with prizes galore for
each tournament.As of September 29, 2008:

Fishing, Outdoor, and Event Reports for Eagle River, Wisconsin,
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area; Lake of the Woods and Rainy River out of
Sportsman’s Lodge (Baudette, Minnesota).

1. THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES:

–  Limits common, as great walleye bite continues, including good numbers
of trophies going to 32.5 inches and 12.5 pounds, with northerns and slab
crappies starting to hit strongly, on the south end of Lake of the Woods,
out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

– Excellent northern and crappie action, with good bite for walleyes and
smalles, and musky and largemouth slow, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.

–  Musky, walleye, smallies and panfish all hitting very strongly, and bow
hunters targeting trophy bucks in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

- - EDITOR’S NOTE: Information for all upcoming Wisconsin hunting and
trapping seasons is posted at the end of these reports, with gracious thanks
to guide Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Services,
Mosinee, for providing the excellent information.
—–

2. WEEKLY OUTDOOR AND FISHING REPORTS, and current calendars:

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of September 29, 2008:

(Head):  Excellent northern and crappie action, with good bite for walleyes
and smalles, and musky and largemouth slow, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin
area.: 

Northern hitting strongly in the Eagle River area.  Fish weeds in two to
eight feet of water using a spinner bait.  The northerns are mainly average
size or smaller.  

The crappie bite in the Eagle River area is excellent.  Fish are going 12 to
13 inches max.  Fish humps, or cribs in eight to ten feet of water, or the
crappies are suspending out in open water at varying depths, going as deep
as 15 to 18 feet (try varying depths on the water column, remembering that
crappie only bite up, never down).  Use a crappie minnow.

Decent action for walleyes in the Eagle River area.  The Eagle River Chain
of 28 lakes (largest freshwater chain of lakes in the world), or Kentuck
Lake have been producing.  Target weed areas, and fish 15 to 25 feet during
the day, using a jig and a minnow.  As evening comes on the walleyes will
come in anywhere from eight to twelve feet.  Use a jig and a minnow.
Evening walleyes will also hit small surface lures (three to four inch
Rapalas or X-Raps for example), being ifshed over sand bars, rock bars and
humps in eight feet of water or less.

Smallies are providing a good bite in the Eagle River area.  Fish 20 feet or
deeper (depending on the lake), targeting humps and rocks.  Use a three inch
minnow for best results.

Musky are slow in the Eagle River area.  During the day fish 15 feet of
water, around weeds or rocks.  Use a Suzy Sucker, Bulldawg or glide bait.
In the morning and evening, topwaters are picking up some fish in water as
shallow as three to five feet.  Some anglers are starting to use smaller
suckers, going 11 inches or smaller.

Largemouth action has been limited in the Eagle River area.  Fish minnows or
p;lastic worms in the weeds in eight feet of water or less.

(Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative Brilliance
interview with the staff of Guides Choice Pro Shop).

Contact info for Eagle River:
* Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; e-mail:
info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org
* Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, 715-477-2248
* George Langley, Eagle River Fishing Guides Association, 715-479-8804.
e-mail:  fishing@eaglesportscenter.com
—–

***Some outdoor activities and events coming up in Eagle River, Wisconsin:

NEW: Eagle River, The Snowmobile Capital of the World®, voted number one  as
The People’s Choice ­ “The Best Wisconsin Town for a Snowmobiling Getaway.”
Thousands from the state and nation voted in The Wonders of Wisconsin
competition.  Eagle River was also ranked number three for “Best Town for a
Fishing Getaway” and “Best Town for a Boating Getaway.”

– Sat./Sun., Oct. 4-5, 2008:  29th annual Eagle River Cranberry Fest.
Family fun festival with activities for every taste attended by over 40,000.
Fresh, locally grown cranberries, cranberry food, cranberry cook-off,
world’s largest cranberry cheesecake, antique market, flea market, marsh,
bog and winery tours, quilter show and ale, bike/walk/run fitness events,
bridge tournament, farmer’s market and much more. Eagle River Area Chamber
of Commerce & Visitors Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org;
web: www.eagleriver.org

– Fri.-Sun., Oct. 10-12, 2008:  Muskie Fishing School at Wild Eagle Lodge.
Learn how to go after the greatest freshwater gamefish — the legendary
muskie — with expert local guide, Muskie Matt.  Enjoy 3 nights of premier
lodging and meals.  Includes half day guide service with Muskie Matt, and
evening sessions featuring instruction and open discussion. Eagle River Area
Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail:
info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org

–Tues., Oct. 16, 2008:  Fall Harvest of Color.   Experience breathtaking
fall beauty with Wild Eagle Lodge’s scenic tour of the Northwoods by air or
by boat.  Two hour guided tour in an airplane or pontoon.  Package includes
two or three nights in a lakefront lodge home, two hour guided tour, Resort
Bucks and cheesecake.  Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors
Center: 800-359-6315; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org; web: www.eagleriver.org

GENERAL:  The fall season in Eagle River, Wisconsin means many things:
Beautiful crisp weather, pristine forest with the fall colors of vibrant
reds, golds, and yellows; 1200 lakes including the Eagle River Chain of 28
lakes (the largest freshwater chain of lakes in the world), providing
excellent fall fishing along with unmatched deer, bear, bird, and waterfowl
hunting.  Great time for hiking, biking, birding, picnicking, fall
festivals, fabulous fishing, hunting, exploring and just plain relaxing.
Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; web:
www.eagleriver.org
—–
—–

***Wausau/Central Wisconsin area (MARATHON COUNTY, including the communities
of Kronenwetter, Mosinee, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield, Wausau, and
Weston) — as of September 29, 2008:

(Head): Musky, walleye, smallies and panfish all hitting very strongly, and
bow hunters targeting trophy bucks in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

The musky bite in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin are has been fantastic.
Target thick weeds during the day and outside weed edges during low light
periods.  Run big bucktials and crankbaits thoroughly through these areas to
target active fish.

Walleye action is great in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area. Lots of good
sized eaters, along with a few slot fish are being caught on each outing.
Work weed edges in 12 feet of water with small crankbaits, for best results.

Smallies in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area are hitting very aggressively.
Large plasticfs like lizards of jigs with beaver tails are producing best
right now.  Shallow stumps are the target areas.

Crappies and blueglls are providing consistent limit action in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  Locate a submerged tree in six to 10 feet of
water, and the action can be absolutely furious.  Slip bobbers baited with
worms or minnows will take fish all day long.

Bow deer hunters entering the woods are targeting big bucks by looking for
stands of oaks, as this has been a bumper year for acorns in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  The big bucks are gorging themselves in
these areas

And remember, that unlike so many lakes further north, that have daily
walleye bag limits of two or three fish, the walleye bag limit remains at
FIVE (5) fish on most of the waters of the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

With such a wealth of opportunities, it’s important for anglers to practice
catch-and-release for everything but a few for the frying pan.  This simple
and mindful conservation will insure that the legendary fishing in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area will continue for generations to come.

(This report for the Wausau/Central Wisconsin CVB based on Creative
Brilliance interview with guide Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing &
Hunting Guide Services, Mosinee).

For more information about the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area:
*Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau: 888-948-4748, or
715-355-8788; web: www.visitwausau.com
Fishing and hunting info:
* Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Services (Phil Schweik, John Sparbel,
Craig Lemmer, Justin Gaiche); phone: 715-693-5843; e -mail:
info@hooksetters.biz; web: www.hooksetters.biz.

* Wisconsin Angling Adventures (Joel DeBoer), web:
www.wisconsinanglingadventures.com; e-mail:  joelthe muskyman@charter.net;
phone: 715-297-7573

—–

***Some outdoor activities and events coming up in the Wausau/Central
Wisconsin area in the coming weeks.

– Sat./Sun., Oct. 4-5, 2008:  Fall Color Comet Sky Ride at Granite Peak Ski
area.  Features a six seat chair lift.  Ability to walk around and resume
ride.  Explore the incredible fall beauty of Rib Mountain State Park.
Information: Granite Peak Ski Area at Rib Mountain State Park. Phone:
715-845-2846, or visit skigranitepeak.com.

–Thurs., Oct. 9, 2008:  Art and the Musky Hunter at the Woodson Art Museum
in Wausau.  Birds in Art artist and field editor for Musky Hunter Magazine,
Jim Bortz explores the correlations and conflicts of his multifaceted
career. This lighthearted look at his chosen professional path will appeal
to art lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Information:  715-845-7010.

- - Sat./Sun., Nov. 22-23, 2008:  Opening weekend at Granite Peak Ski Area,
Wausau at Rib Mountain. Hours 9am-9pm.

GENERAL:  The Wausau/Central Wisconsin’s fall season is a magnet for those
who seek the beauty and enormous breadth of nature, as well as the finest
hiking, biking, touring, sightseeing, birding,  exploring, picnicking,
relaxing, and legendary open-water fishing anywhere (remember, most waters
in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area REMAIN OPEN for walleye, northern and
bass throughout the year without any closed season).   Hunters flock to the
area’s enormous tracts of public land for some of the finest turkey, bear,
deer, bird and waterfowl hunting in Wisconsin.  Wonderful tracts of forest
with breathtaking fall colors, pristine waters, birds and wildlife surround
visitors at every turn.  The services, infrastructure, entertainment,
accommodations, restaurants, and non-stop community activities, festivals,
and events provide something for every taste. Wausau/Central Wisconsin
Convention & Visitors Bureau:  888-948-4748, or 715-355-8788; web:
www.visitwausau.com
———-

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River,
and southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of
September 29, 2008:

(Head): Limits common, as great walleye bite continues, including good
numbers of trophies going to 32.5 inches and 12.5 pounds, with northerns and
slab crappies starting to hit strongly, on the south end of Lake of the
Woods, out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

Above normal temperatures are delaying the start of the fall emerald shiner
run into the Rainy River, which means that this annual fall fishing bonanza
is put-off for a bit ­ until the weather gets cooler.  Call Sportsman’s
Lodge for updates on what’s happening.  Some shiners are just now starting
to move towards and into the Rainy River, but when the run really starts,
anglers will experience some of the greatest fishing of the year.

The fishing on Lake of the Woods, even with the higher temps is still
fantastic.  Limits of eater sized walleyes are being taken on almost every
outing, and in addition some real trophies are hitting, going from 28 to
32.5 inches in length, and ranging in weight from eight to 12.5 pounds.
Fish are hitting in 21 feet of water, by trolling with glass crayfish Shad
Raps, just off of Zippel Bay, a short boat ride from Sportsman’s Lodge.
Northerns are hitting very strongly very near Sportsman’s Lodge. One group
of guests who went out in Sportsman’s new 20 foot Lund Alaskan boat, caught
86 northerns in one day, using blue and silver Shad Raps.

Fall fishing is in full swing at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out
on Lake of the Woods - -like a remote Canadian fly-in destination with all
the amenities), the islands of the Northwest Angle and nearby Canadian
waters (remember- - Sportsman’s Lodge can make sure you’re able to fish both
American AND Canadian waters ol Lake of the Woods ­ just ask!).  The jigging
for both walleye and crappies is paying off, with the crappies edging on to
their very “hot” fall bite.  Limits of walleyes and nice slab crappies are
common. Sportsman’s guests have been very successful fishing the beautiful
rocky shorelines west of Falcon Island, Ontario.  There’s great action on
the Minnesota side of the border, as well.  Jigging in deeper water - -25 to
28 feet along rocky shorelines is producing some great walleye fishing.  The
larger walleyes are starting to really move in and the chance of catching a
wallhanger are very good.  A nice “bonus” is that anglers are getting
incidental northerns and smallmouth bass while going for the walleyes and
crappies. With the fall colors becoming “brighter” each day, gorgeous dark
blue water, and crisp fall weather, there’s no better time to get up to
Sportsman’s Lodge than right now.

(This report based on Creative Brilliance interview with Gregg Hennum,
co-owner of Sportsman’s Lodge.  phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com)
—–

Highlights at Sportsman’s Lodges:

NEW - - :  Fall Lund Alaskan fishing trips on the Rainy River.  Fabulous
fishing in spots that bigger boats cannot access.  Our brand new 18 foot
Lund Alaskan boat gets you into fishing that you’ve never experienced.
Guide, bait, tackle and fish cleaning, for up to four people, only $400 per
day.

NEW - -: Emerald shiner run on the Rainy River out of Sportsman’s Lodge.
Some of the greatest fishing of the year. Non-stop action for walleye,
northern, crappie, perch, lake sturgeon and smallmouth bass.  End of
September and beginning of October.  Anglers can bring their own boats or
take advantage of Sportsman’s 10% off regular rates.

– Sportsman’s motto is:  “Hookem’ and cookem’.”  Sportsman’s will be happy
to clean and prepare your walleye or sauger for you after a day’s fishing.
This is the best way to enjoy these super-fresh and delicious fish, and
still have some to take home with you.

– Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge property is forty miles out on Lake of the Woods
on Oak Island.  Secluded and remote, but easily accessible and served by
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge as a base camp, which has great food,
beverages, supplies, gas, liquor, tackle, maps and grocery items. Eagle
Ridge has two cabins with accommodations for up to16 and is available for
extended stays. 

– The Beltrami Island State Forest offers wilderness lovers nearly 67,000
acres of every type of natural setting to explore.  Established routes allow
visitors to comfortably enjoy this spectacular, vast wilderness, all year
round. Sportsman’s Lodge offers perfect access to this unique opportunity.

– Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods, Baudette, MN is proud to announce
that recent creel census results conducted by the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources shows that on average, the Lake of the Woods walleye catch
rate is the best of any lake in the State of Minnesota.

- - Sportsman’s guests can avail themselves of not only great fishing, but
excellent care and the finest professional guides, while relaxing in comfort
and safety on Sportsman’s fleet of 27 foot, inboard, fishing charters, which
are all equipped with heads and cuddy cabin.

– Sportsman’s Lodge is now offering air charter service to Baudette, MN
directly from the Anoka County (Twin Cities) airport on eight passenger
jet-prop aircraft from Wilderness Air Service in the Twin Cities.  About an
hour’s fast and convenient flight.

– Cross-border fishing (American and Canadian waters) on Lake of the Woods
is available out of Sportsman’s Lodges.  For information about required
permits, licenses and opportunities contact us. Fish for walleye, sauger,
northern, bass and jumbo perch from the main lodge or at Sportsman’s Oak
Island Lodge.

- -Hunting seasons of all types are starting right now in the Sportsman’s
Lodge area.  Waterfowl opens Oct. 4;  firearm deer season opens Nov. 8;
muzzleloader deer season opens Nov. 29; AND there are any number of
“specialized seasons” from now until the end of 2008.  Now is the time to
make your reservations at Sportsman’s Lodge for some of the greatest hunting
in North America.  Sportsman’s Lodge hunting guides are proven experts in
how to bag your quarry, with a great deal of excitement and the camaraderie
that only a hunt can provide.  Trophies abound.  Call us for information
about permit applications and make your reservations now. Quack Addicts, the
affiliated hunting club of Sportsman’s Lodge has access to thousands of
acres of prime waterfowl hunting land to guide you to your bag limit.

—–   

For more information on any of the above: Sportsman’s Lodge, phone:
800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
—–
—–

3.  WARNINGS AND INFO FOR A FEW WEEKS OUT

- - The fall Wisconsin musky season provides great opportunities for trophy
fish in both the Eagle River and Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  Contact
each area for information.  Contact info is contained at the end of each
area’s fishing/outdoor report.  All caring musky anglers release every fish
caught, after taking a photo. Modern day technology can produce a perfect
wall hanging or trophy from a photograph.  Please help protect this
magnificent game fish by practicing catch-and-release, exclusively.

- - All of our reporting areas offer some of the finest hunting
opportunities in North America. Contact information for each area is located
at the end of their particular report.

 GENERAL: Each reporting area has pro- and pro-am fishing tournaments of all
types throughout the year (musky, walleye, sturgeon, panfish, bass and
northern).  Upcoming tournaments are listed and featured at the end of each
weekly report for every reporting area.  Lots of fun, with prizes galore for
each tournament.

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