Archive for the 'Panfish' Category

Northwoods Report by Naomi Shapiro 11-17-08

gengberg November 19th, 2008

As of November 17, 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).
—–
EDITOR’S NOTE: No reports will be issued on Monday, Nov. 24, 2008. Reports
will resume on their normal schedule, on Monday, Dec. 1, 2008.
—–

THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES:

– Good action for musky, walleye, northern and crappies in the Eagle River,
Wisconsin area.

– Walleye continue to hit hard and often on the south end of Lake of the
Woods, out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette Minnesota.

– Big muskies and northerns hitting hard, with good walleye action, and the
deer rut in full swing, in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

—–

WEEKLY OUTDOOR AND FISHING REPORTS, and current calendars:

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of November 17, 2008:

(Head): Good action for musky, walleye, northern and crappies in the Eagle
River, Wisconsin area.

With the water temps in the low 40s in the Eagle River area, musky are
starting to bite aggressively and the action is consistently ramping up.
Fish over the dying/”garbage” weeds at the deep edge, OR fish over
hardbottom outside of the weed beds. The musky are slowly migrating to the
steepest edges on the deepest parts of lakes in the Eagle River area. Use
12-14 inch suckers on quick strike rigs, or cast rubber baits such as
Bulldawgs or Suzy Suckers. Deep diving crankbaits such as Depth Raiders and
Ernie’s are also working well.

Walleye action in the Eagle River area is good. Fish 15 to 30 feet of
water, over hardbottom areas. Use a jig and a minnow.

Northern are still hanging in and around the weeds in 15 feet of water or
less in the Eagle River area. Good action using medium suckers or chubs
under a slip bobber, or casting a Husky Jerk or smaller musky bait

Crappies are suspending two to six feet off the bottom in 20 to 30 feet of
water in the Eagle River area. Use a crappie minnow under a slip bobber.
Good action. Some perch are being caught while fishing for walleye in the
Eagle River area. Sizes are a mixed bag.

(Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative
Brilliance interview with licensed guides, Mat Hegy and “Ranger Rick”
Krueger 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 Continue Reading »

Gary Engberg Outdoors Fishing Report for Lake Wisconsin, the Wisconsin River, and the Madison Chain

gengberg November 10th, 2008

Dick Smith’s Ice Fishing Jamboree

gengberg November 10th, 2008

9th Annual
Ice Fishing JamboreeSaturday February 14th, 2009
All Waukesha County Lakes

$15 Entry Fee - Includes Food and entry into door, grand, cash & fish prizes

OVER 250 DOOR PRIZES!

5 Grand Prizes

Cash Prizes - $500 - $350 - $250

Fish Prizes

Over $15,000 worth in prizes!

Weigh in at The Sports Dock On Pewaukee Lake

THANK YOU to ALL of our Sponsors!

Limit of 250 People

If we have unsafe ice, we are still having a party
with great food and door prizes!

For More Information, Contact Becky at dicksbait@wi.rr.com

2005 Jamboree Photos

2006 Jamboree Photos

2007 Jamboree Photos

2008 Jamboree Photos
RULES:
· Registration at Dick Smith’s Live Bait & Tackle starting at 5:00am Saturday February 14th.
· Tickets are non refundable
· If by chance we have unsafe Ice, we are still having a party with food and door prizes
· You will receive your food ticket during registration. You must have a food ticket in order to eat.
· Must register by 12:00 pm to be eligible for largest fish prizes
· Weigh-in at The Sports Dock on Pewaukee Lake from 12:00pm - 3:30pm
· Food will be served from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
· Cash drawing begins at 4:30 pm
· Cash Prizes 1st $250, 2nd $150, 3rd $100
·
· Please try to car pool, parking is limited
· Must be present to win door prizes
· Largest fish prizes based on weight of an individual fish
· Payouts for fish prizes are
Northern: 1st $50, 2nd $25, 3rd $15
Walleye: 1st $50, 2nd $25, 3rd $15
Bluegill: 1st $20, 2nd $10, 3rd $5
Crappie: 1st $20, 2nd $10, 3rd $5
Perch: 1st $20, 2nd $10, 3rd $5
· All fish must be caught between the hours of 5:00 am - 3:30 pm on Saturday, February 14th.
· Dick Smith’s Live Bait & Tackle reserves the right to reject any fish that we feel has not been caught during the jamboree hours.

The Northwoods Report by Naomi Shapiro 11-2-08

gengberg November 3rd, 2008

As of November 3, 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:

– Walleye bite strong on both the Rainy River and Lake of the Woods, with
grouse and duck hunting excellent on the south end of Lake of the Woods, out
of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

– Excellent northern action, with a good musky, walleye and crappie bite
in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.

– Trophy muskies and northerns hitting, with excellent action for smallies,
walleyes, white bass and crappies in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

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

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of November 3, 2008:

(Head): Excellent northern action, with a good musky, walleye and crappie
bite in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.

Northern are hitting often and hard in the Eagle River area. Fish in and
around the weeds in 15 feet of water or less. Use a four to five inch
sucker or chub under a slip bobber. Husky Jerks in minnow patterns are also
producing well.

The musky bite in the Eagle River area is good and continuing to improve.
The musky are primarily locating in 25 feet of water or less over hardbottom
areas adjacent to the outside of the weeds. Suckers on quick-set rigs in the
12 to 15 inch range are working, as well as jerkbaits and crankbaits. The
muskies are going into the upper 40s in size, with some 50 inch plus fish
reported, but not verified.

The walleye action in the Eagle River area is good, but it can be sporadic.
Fish deep water mudflats in 18 to 30 feet of water, using a jig and a
fathead minnow.

Crappie are hitting in deep water over structure. Fish 18 to 30 feet of
water, targeting the crappies two to four feet off the bottom. Use a
crappie minnow under a slip bobber.

(Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative
Brilliance interview with licensed guide, Mat Hegy 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 Continue Reading »

Northwoods Report by Naomi Shapiro 10-27-08

gengberg October 27th, 2008

  Check out some of these great packages for fall and early winter fishing and hunting opportunities at some great locations. There is still some great open water fishing from now till freeze-up. Sportsman Lodge is a great place to go this time of year. These people want your business and will please you making your trip something “special.”

Northwoods Specials and Packages, as of October 27, 2008:
(Updated weekly. Several new events are marked as “NEW”):

– Sportsman’s Lodges, Baudette, Minn.;
– Wild Eagle Lodge, Eagle River, Wis.;
– Granite Peak Ski Area, Wausau, Wis.;
– Jefferson Street Inn, Wausau, Wis.;
- - Wausau/Central Wisconsin area;

***Specials at Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on Lake of
the Woods and The Rainy River, Baudette, Minnesota. Sportsman’s Lodge and
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge: 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com;
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
—–

Different special promotional packages are continuously offered throughout
the year at Sportsman’s Lodges. And Sportsman’s Lodges will happily tailor
packages to fit your exact needs, regardless of group size: Fishing,
hunting, snowmobiling, family vacations, reunions, special events, weddings,
and business meetings, etc.:

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 $325 per
day.

- -Lake of the Woods walleye on sale at Sportsman’s Lodge. No boat needed.
No fishing gear needed. We’ve got everything you need from guides to fishing
gear, bait, boat and everything in between. Plus great food, and
entertainment. All you need is clothes and a camera. Don’t have to waste a
dime paying for gas to pull your boat. Unhook, and let us do it all for
you. Affordable, fun, and great fishing! Just call and we’ll make it
happen.

– Keep a close eye on Sportsman’s “new” website (www.sportsmanslodges.com).
Many changes and great packages available.

– Discounts at Sportsman’s Lodge: Free drink or appetizer, glossy photo,
gas voucher, with Special, VIP PLUS discount package for repeat visitors to
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Your VIP status as a past guest automatically
gives you and each person in your party 5 per cent off any package. In
addition, you will receive two free drink chips or a free appetizer; one 8 x
10 glossy picture of your group; PLUS a voucher for $25 in gas at one of our
local stations. Great fishing. For details and information: Sportsman’s
Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN
56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail:
info@sportsmanslodges.com; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

– NEW at Sportsman’s Lodge: Treat your lady to a day at the spa. When you
and your lady stay at Sportsman’s, you both can fish the first day. On the
second day of your trip, treat her to a day at the spa with Reiki by Design,
a local salon, while you continue to fish. Here’s how it works: Purchase
any package with two or more days of fishing, then substitute one day for a
spa package. Sportsman’s Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com;
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

– Sportsman’s Lodge Sweetheart Special. Companion package, which includes
3 nights/2 days fishing, lodging, meals, PLUS basket filled with champagne,
chocolates and gift certificate for Sportsman’s gift shop. As low as $355.

- - Sportsman’s Oak Island Adventure Trips are available at wonderful
discounts. Contact Sportsman’s Lodge for this new and unique opportunity to
enjoy the wilderness in total Sportsman’s Lodge comfort, while taking part
in some of the best fishing available in North America.

– NEW: Go to Sportsman’s website (www.sportsmanslodges.com) or call us to
check out all the upcoming specials on the upcoming dates.

- -Fall Fishing Sale at Sportsman’s: Consider planning one of your fishing
trips for the fall on Lake of the Woods. Not only is the fishing great, but
so are the deals with 10% off all
fishing packages, September 7 - December 1.

- - Fall Fishing Blowout at Sportsman’s: Bring your own boat and chase down
the sturgeon and lunker walleyes of the Rainy River. Fall into our lodge
rooms for $35 per person/night (doubleoccupancy) or $55 per person/night
(single occupancy). Offer Valid September 7 - December 1. All deals
mentioned are for the specific dates listed only. Some
restrictions may apply. Not valid with any other offer. All rates are based
on double occupancy.

– Any one of Sportsman’s Lodges exclusive packages can be “converted” and
set up for Canadian visitors. The main lodge on the Rainy River, or
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out on the Lake of the Woods — like
a remote fly-in destination with all the amenities). Call us and we’ll work
a super package out for you. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island
Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or
218-634-1342; e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com

– 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. About an hour’s flight –
fast and convenient. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge,
3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or
218-634-1342; e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com

– Fish For Free at Sportsman’s Lodge. Plan a trip with your friends,
family, club, church group, or any affinity group and when you book for 24
or more people at Sportsman’s Lodge, organizers receive their trip FREE!
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail:
info@sportsmanslodges.com; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

– VIP Club: Stay at either Sportsman’s Lodge, or Sportsman’s Oak Island
Lodge two or more times in one calendar year, and you will receive a 5 per
cent discount off of any package on your second stay, plus a free VIP hat.

– For those who crave a true get-away with all the amenities, try
Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge property 40 miles out on Lake of the Woods. (Like a
remote Canadian fly-in destination). Secluded on Oak Island, but easily
accessible and served by Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, with 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. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244
Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342;
e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

– Sportsman’s Lodge has a variety of meeting facilities, providing a
private setting with scenic views, and all needed facilities. Groups up to
300 can be accommodated. With year-round outdoor activities, and unmatched
beauty, along with lodging, food and beverage, entertainment, and staffing
unmatched anywhere, Sportsman’s Lodge is the perfect setting for business
meetings, family reunions, special events, weddings and celebrations.
Sportsman’s can help plan and tailor a package specific to your needs.
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail:
info@sportsmanslodges.com; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

– Sportsman’s Lodge’s “traveling fish fry” takes their “show” on the road,
doing walleye feeds for all size groups. Gregg Hennum and his Sportsman’s
Lodge crew, do walleye feeds for corporate get-togethers, special events,
celebrations, promotions, meetings and “happy times” of all sorts.
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail:
info@sportsmanslodges.com; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
_____

***Entertainment and Dining Room Specials at Sportsman’s Lodge:

– Live music/entertainment in the Sandbar most every weekend.

– Friday night is Women’s Night at Sportsman’s Lodge. Limo transportation
and drink specials for all the gals.

– Sunday night Karaoke at Sportsman’s Lodge.

- - Wii games nightly at Sportsman’s Rainy River Lodge (unless band of DJ is
scheduled).

– Dining Room Specials at Sportsman’s Lodge: Fridays: stuffed pork loin;
Saturdays: prime rib; Sundays: blackened prime rib.

Call 218-634-1342 for reservations at Sportsman’s Lodge’s excellent dining
room.

—–

For more information on any of the above, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s
Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone:
800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342; e-mail: info@sportsmanslodges.com; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com
—–
—–

***Special Events and Packages at Wild Eagle Lodge, Eagle River, Wisconsin
(on the Eagle River Chain of 28 Lakes ­ Largest chain of freshwater lakes in
the world).

NEW: Now until golf course closings: Wild Eagle Lodge Northwoods Fall
Golf Getaway Package. Includes five courses within 45 minutes. Two nights
lodging in a lakeside lodge home, two rounds of golf per person, and $25 in
resort bucks, per person. Two players $618, three players $743, four
players $868. Best deal anywhere! Reserve now. Wild Eagle Lodge: phone:
877-945-3965 or 715-479-3151. E-mail: info@wildeaglelodge.com; web:
www.wildeaglelodge.com

NEW: - -Now through May, 2009: Performing Arts Packages at Wild Eagle
Lodge. Package includes one or two nights lodging in a deluxe lakeside
lodge home for up to four guests. Two tickets to selected performance.
Complimentary shuttle service to and from auditorium. Bottle of cranberry
wine. Listen, laugh and enjoy a wide variety of first-rate entertainment in
the North Woods. Wild Eagle Lodge is proud to be a sponsor of the
Headwaters Council for the Performing Arts. Contact Wild Eagle Lodge for
dates, details and information on performances. Wild Eagle Lodge: phone:
877-945-3965 or 715-479-3151. E-mail: info@wildeaglelodge.com; web:
www.wildeaglelodge.com

– Boondockers Lounge now serves delicious food. Choose from a grand variety
of special sandwiches, ranging from chicken quesadillas to a Philly cheese
steaks, fabulous Boondocker’s burgers, a traditional Reuben — and
everything in between. You can also select a classic Caesar salad or great
pizza. All kinds of delicious appetizers include hot chicken drummies,
Wisconsin cheese curds, and potato skins. A special “kids stuff” menu
includes mac and cheese, chicken strips and corn puppies.

– Sweetheart Special: 2 nights lodging in a one-bedroom deluxe whirlpool
lakeside home at Wild Eagle Lodge. Dozen red roses. Bottle of Wisconsin
Cranberry Wine, assortment of delicious, fine chocolates, $50 gift
certificate for the Riverstone Restaurant in Eagle River. Prices start at
$399 per couple. Wild Eagle Lodge: phone: 877-945-3965 or 715-479-3151.
E-mail: info@wildeaglelodge.com; web: www.wildeaglelodge.com

– NEW: Wild Eagle Lodge Honeymoon Special: Package includes 2 nights
lodging in a one bedroom deluxe whirlpool lakeside lodge home. One dozen
red roses. One bottle of Wisconsin cranberry wine. An assortment of
delicious fine chocolates. $50 gift certificate for the Riverstone
Restaurant in Eagle River.

– Mon. Dec. 1-Thurs. Dec. 26, 2008: Old Fashioned Christmas at Wild Eagle
Lodge. Lighted tree, snow-covered scenery and relaxing fire. Includes hot
chocolate and egg nog, Christmas cookies, and horse-drawn sleigh ride.
Celebrate your family holiday with us. Contact Wild Eagle Lodge: phone:
877-945-3965 or 715-479-3151. e-mail: info@wildeaglelodge.com; web;
www.wildeaglelodge.com

– May through November, 2008 (weather permitting): The Fishing Frenzy
Package at Wild Eagle Lodge in Eagle River consists of two or three nights
lodging in a Deluxe Lakeside Lodge Home. Full or half day fishing excursion
with a professional guide. $25 in Chamber Bucks per person for use at
participating restaurants, stores, and other Eagle River Chamber members.
14-foot fishing boat with motor and/or complimentary dockage for your boat.
2-hour pontoon boat rental. 20 per cent discount in gift shop, and two drink
tokens per person for Boondocker’s Lounge. Cost depends on number of guests
and lodging type. Package pricing is not available from mid-June thru
mid-August. Wild Eagle Lodge is the premier resort on Eagle River’s chain
of 28 lakes — the largest inland chain of lakes in the world. Wild Eagle
Lodge: phone: 877-945-3965 or 715-479-3151. e-mail: info@wildeaglelodge.com;
web; www.wildeaglelodge.com Continue Reading »

Clements Fishing Barge Genoa 10-23-08

gengberg October 24th, 2008

Fishing is finally picking up.  More fish have been caught in the last couple of days then all fall I think.  The water temperature is getting a lot colder, around 52 degrees and should continue to fall with the colder weather.  Walleye and sauger are hitting on hair jigs, blade baits and floating jigs.  Most people are using minnows with their jigs, the fish seem to want the live bait right now.  Still a lot of small fish, one fisherman said he caught 60 small sauger and walleye.  Northern are still around too and even some crappie have been coming in.  Looks like we are having a late fall run this year.  Weather looks good too, nice and brisk with some cloudy days.  Perfect walleye fishing weather.   Mark Clements
www.clementsfishing.com

Local Column River Currents 10-20-2008

gengberg October 24th, 2008


            Rarely do I try to talk or write about politics. But, with the country’s presidential election coming soon, the last thing that I want to do is to tell someone who to vote for this November. Voting is the great thing about this country which allows all citizens the right to pick the candidate of their choice. Personally, my politics are a little right of center, but that it not the important issue. The issue is to do some research on how both McCain and Obama stand on issues that are important to you and then make sure that you vote. If you fail to vote, you’re giving up one of great rights America gives its citizens. If you don’t vote, then you have no right to complain about what an elected official is doing.

Issues that concern me are the environment, alternative energy sources (solar, wind, bio), Second Amendment rights, and of course the economy. There is no doubt that we have to become less dependent on fossil fuels and keep developing new energy sources. While developing new energy sources, we have to be sure to maintain the environment and keep working on cleaner fuels without any further pollution. I suggest that voters check on where the candidates stand on drilling for oil in ANWR (Arctic National Wildlife Refuge) and off the country’s coasts. Another energy issue of importance is clean coal and ethanol. The point is to make up your OWN mind based upon your views and where your candidate of choice stands on issues that are important to you. Don’t let slick advertisements and television commercials divert you from picking a president based upon how they represent what is important to you. If you are a conservationist and outdoors-person as I am, see how the two candidates stack up on these issues

I registered deer Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the four-day Wisconsin Antlerless Deer Hunt. There were many hunters out during this “special season” and many were hunting to get their buck tag. But, many of the hunters were out hunting deer for food for their families. The sagging economy has hit people and individuals that never thought about going to a food pantry or second-hand shop are now being forced to seek help and change their spending habits. Venison has become a much wanted food commodity at local food pantries as the economy and job situation worsens in much of the country.

Why not let the surplus deer help those who have fallen upon tough times during this downturn in the economy? People are finding that venison is a great meat and low in fat. There has yet to be anyone get sick from a properly cleaned and dressed deer that they have eaten. We have an abundance of deer in Wisconsin, so why not lower herd numbers and help the needy at the same time? Continue Reading »

Fishing Report from Clements Fishing Barge at Genoa, Wisconsin for October 13, 2008

gengberg October 14th, 2008

Karen’s Birthday today…she turned 32(ha)….fishing was pretty good for a lot of fish, but not for the keepers.  Meaning, lots of smaller sauger and walleye being caught, but until today no real keepers.  Today we started to see the old stringers going home with some fish on them.  Walleye are hitting on hair jigs dressed with a minnow.  Blue, chartreuse, purple were the basic colors being used but some people were using just river rigs with a minnow too.  Many, many northern still around biting off peoples lures and several being caught.  It has been a long time since we have seen this many northern hanging around this long.  Has to be the warm water and low water conditions.  The water has finally started to come up a little and if we ever get some cold weather that will help a lot.  We should see some good fishing by this weekend.  Some crappie coming in on small minnows and on jigs, that too is nice to see them coming in.     Check out Genoa’s new website for information on the Genoa area at www.genoawis.com     Mark Clements
www.clementsfishing.com

Local Column River Currents 10-13-08

gengberg October 13th, 2008

  This past weekend was the statewide Wisconsin Youth Deer Hunt on October 11 and 12th. Though the weather was hardly what one would expect for deer hunting, there were many parents, grandparents, and mentors out with their children and brothers and sisters trying to bag a deer. Many of the youth were out hunting for the first time after completing their Hunter Safety class. I was lucky enough to be registering deer over the weekend and had the opportunity of seeing many of these young hunters with their FIRST deer! The smiles and sense of accomplishment could be seen in their young faces. Last week, I had the chance to see many second-graders after they caught their first fish and that was also a great sight to see.      Events like these are one of the things that I constantly give my time to because you can’t say that children are the future fishers, hunters, and outdoors people in the future too many times. Children have to be introduced to the outdoors at an early age or they rarely will become involved in the outdoors and its many activities. We must continue to educate the young in conservation related outdoor activities if the many things we cherish as outdoorsmen and women are to continue in the future. Children don’t have to be hunters or anglers because some children just aren’t going to like everything that you as parents do. But, there are other activities in the outdoors that can involve the youth of today in preserving the conservation ethic that many of us have made our mantra. There are many other activities like outdoor photography, painting, bird watching, searching for arrowheads, wildlife watching, and hiking to name a few “other” outdoor activities besides hunting and fishing. Continue Reading »

The Northwoods Report 10-12-08

gengberg October 13th, 2008

As of October 13 , 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:


-- Walleye in a feeding frenzy as the fall emerald shiner run begins on the

Rainy River, with jumbo perch, slab crappies and some monster muskies being

caught as well, on the south end of Lake of the Woods, out of Sportsman's

Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.


-- Strong musky bite, with good action for northern, and walleye, smallies

and panfish providing average success in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.


--  Strong musky, walleye, crappie and bluegill bite, with white bass action

explosive, and some nice sized smallies being taken, in the Wausau/Central

Wisconsin area.


- - EDITOR'S NOTES: 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.


- -See a detailed explanation of "turnover" at the close of the reports

under "Item 3" - - "WARNINGS AND INFO FOR A FEW WEEKS OUT" - -important that

all anglers understand and know how to deal with this yearly phenomenon.

-----


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


***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) -- as of October 13, 2008:


(Head): Strong musky bite, with good action for northern, and walleye,

smallies and panfish providing average success in the Eagle River, Wisconsin

area.


Musky in the Eagle River area are chomping down hard on 12-14 inch suckers

along weedline edges, which range from 6 to 14 feet deep, depending on the

lake.  Musky hunters also having success throwing minnow baits, or twitch

baits like a Crane, Grandma or Jake.  Any bait that has an erratic, darting

action, such as a Suick are also doing well.  Best sizes for all the lures

is about six inches.


Northern are still in the weeds in the Eagle River area, hitting in 10 feet

of water or less. Action is best on sunny days, using a lipless minnow bait,

or a "flash bait."   Good bite.


Walleye in the Eagle River area are putting on a slightly better than

average bite.  Best action comes fish hardbottom at the rims of deeper

holes, depths going from 16 to 20 feet.  There are also a few walleye still

around the healthier weeds. Best bait is a jig and fathead minnows, with

some anglers using a jig and half a crawler.


Smallies are slipping deeper in the Eagle River area.  Fish deep, greener

weed edges, over hardbottom areas in water 8 to 15 feet deep.  Live bait is

the key. Use a jig and a minnow, or jig and half a crawler for best results,

with some anglers getting hits on diving crankbaits.  Average bite.


Bluegills and perch in the Eagle River area hav moved, generally to the

deeper weed edges.  Fish bluegills and perch in 8 to 15 feet of water.

Crappies will be found over cribs and wood, suspending at different depths

in 10 to 20 feet of water.  Use a crawler or crappie minnow under a jig or a

slip bobber.  Decent bite.


 (Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative

Brilliance interview with "Ranger Rick" Krueger, owner 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:


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.-Tues., Oct. 18-21, 2008:  Ranger Rick’s Fall Musky School.  To be

held at various lakes in the Eagle River area. Hands-on expert tutelage from

one of  Eagle River’s legendary guides.  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 October 13, 2008:


(Head): Strong musky, walleye, crappie and bluegill bite, with white bass

action explosive, and some nice sized smallies being taken, in the

Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.


Lots of rain in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area has the local waters

swelling, but in-turn, it has fish on the move.


The musky bite in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area has been outstanding.

Lots of fish on being taken on suckers, with jerkbaits and bucktails gaining

their share of muskies as well.  Overcast days have been producing fish in

shallow bays, but when the sun is shining look for the muskies to be off the

deep weed edges.


The walleye bite in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area is very strong.  Look

for the walleyes to be holding in 12 to 16 feet of water.  Work these areas

thoroughly, with jig and minnow combinations.


Lots of slab crappies and bull bluegills are being taken in the

Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  These fish are holding in about 10 feet of

water in the backwater areas. Drift fishing minnows or worms with slip

bobbers over these areas will take fish all day long.


White bass are making their annual fall run up the Wisconsin River system in

the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  The action can be furious.  Look for

shorelines with overhanging grasses and toss Mepps’ spinners right up to and

along those grassy areas on the banks.  Slowly retrieve the lures, and the

white bass will strike with a real fury.


Smallies have been a very pleasant addition to daily bag limits in the

Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.  Quite a few nice sized lunkers are being

caught.  Look for downed timber and big boulders.  Target the smallies with

a Rapala Husky Jerk in firetiger for best results.


Wausau/Central Wisconsin duck hunters have taken advantage of the rainy

weather and are loading up on some nice mallards and wood ducks.


Trappers looking to head to area streams and fields in the Wausau/Central

Wisconsin area should make sure they have all their gear in order as the

season opens soon.


 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

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