gengberg November 19th, 2008
Madduck’s new posting looks at swan hunting, the similarities between the economic collapse and looming duck crisis, and the flawed effort to recruit new hunters into the duck-hunting fraternity. You won’t find these insightful analyses anywhere else. Go now to www.Madduck.org
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 »
gengberg November 16th, 2008
Dear FLOW members,Once again OUR river needs YOU to get involved in a Riverway issue. I am asking you to respond immediately to this latest threat by writing back with an email sharing your thoughts; whether you agree or disagree with me. Please contact Riverway property owners and anyone else you know who may be able to chime in on this matter. I will print out the letters and take them to the meeting described below on Monday. It will be great if you can attend the meeting in person also but if not, your words in print are very important. Please read the details from the experts, Dave and Jean, in the attached document and give me a call with questions and if you would like to car pool to the meeting.
Timm Zumm Co-chair: Friends of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway (FLOW) 608-575-0325
My thoughts concerning the Crystal, Fish, Mud Lake District pumping into the beautiful Lower Wisconsin River:
This Lake District has had ample opportunity for years to try to get something to work and at this point in time should accept that some things are just not meant to be.
I have a great deal of sympathy for them and will offer the service of FLOW volunteers to help them relocate their structures or whatever else it takes to stop pumping polluted water into the river. It’s sad, but my understanding is they could have already relocated, using FEMA assistance, for less money than what they have spent on trying to pump groundwater. They may not have to relocate if they eliminate basements and put in holding tanks and grey water recycling systems.
I would not be allowed to put my boat into their lakes if I did not have the hull cleaned of contaminates first. They can NOT be allowed to continuing pumping anything but clean/clear/safe water into OUR River! The picture below shows the area near the Prairie du Sac dam where they are discharging green yuk. This is where my kids and dogs and I used to recreate. If these lake district people insist that there is nothing wrong with the water they’re discharging… then I would like to see them commit in writing that they will bring their children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and dogs swimming here on a weekly basis.
_____________________________________________
From: Sen.Miller [mailto:Sen.Miller@legis.wisconsin.gov]
Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2008 2:15 PM
Subject: 11.17.08, Sen. Miller Public Information Meeting on Fish Lake
For Immediate Release Contact: Mark Miller
October 28, 2008 608-266-9170
Sen. Miller Announces Public Information/Listening Session on Fish, Mud & Crystal Lake
Senator Miller will host a public information meeting and listening session on Fish, Mud and Crystal Lake on November 17, 2008. The listening session will give residents the opportunity to express their concerns with the continued flooding and provide information about the action currently being taken.
Representatives from the Department of Natural Resources, Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board, Dane County and the Lake District will also be present to answer questions. All members of the public are welcome to attend.
November 17, 2008
5:30pm
Town of West Point
N2114 Rausch Road
Lodi, WI 53555
Senator Miller represents the 16th Senate District which includes Eastern Dane County, Southern Columbia County and a portion of Sauk County.
gengberg November 10th, 2008
Fishing and hunting tips and reports from pro anglers and guides Wally Banfi, Tony Puccio, and Gary Engberg. Tune in here, on line, or live Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WTDY 1670 AM.
gengberg November 10th, 2008
As of November 10, 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:
– The emerald shiner run on the Rainy River and an aggressive bite on Lake
of the Woods, both providing top-flight walleye action, out of Sportsman’s
Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.
– Musky picking up, crappies and bluegills hitting well, with walleye and
northern average, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.
– Great walleye, crappie and bluegill action, with a very good musky bite,
and big bucks abound for bow hunters as the rut is in full swing, in the
Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.
2. WEEKLY OUTDOOR AND FISHING REPORTS, and current calendars:
***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of November 10, 2008:
(Head): Musky picking up, crappies and bluegills hitting well, with walleye
and northern average, in the Eagle River, Wisconsin area.
With the unusually warm temperatures, the musky bite slowed down markedly,
but cooler weather is starting to bring the musky bite back up in the Eagle
River area. Concentrate on deep weed edges over hardbottom areas. Fish 10
to 15 feet on clearwater lakes, and 6 to 10 feet on darkwater lakes. Run
suckers in the 14 inch range, or cast cramkbaits, Suzy Suckers, Bulldawgs or
glide baits.
Crappies are active in the Eagle River area. Fish either weeds in 15 feet
of water or less, or over deep water cribs or brushpiles in 25 feet of
water, where the crappies will suspend two to four feet off the bottom. Use
a crappie minnow under a slip bobber.
Bluegills are in the weeds in the Eagle River area. Fish 15 feet of water
or less. Use a crappie minnow or a chunk of crawler.
The walleye action in the Eagle River area is average. Fish deep weed edges
in 8 to 20 fee of water, depending on the lake. Use a jig and a minnow.
Northern are hitting in and around the weeds in 15 feet of water or less.
Use a walleye sucker or northern sucker minnow under a slip bobber, or cast
a Husky Jerk in a minnow or perch pattern.
(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 »
gengberg November 10th, 2008
***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
November 10, 2008:
(Head): The emerald shiner run on the Rainy River and an aggressive bite on
Lake of the Woods, are both providing top-flight walleye action, out of
Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.
Sportsman’s Lodge guests are limiting out on great walleye eaters in two to
four hours. Half ounce gold or green and white jigs are the presentations
of choice, jigging just four miles from Sportsman’s Lodge in the Lighthouse
Gap. The fish are hitting in 18 feet of water. On the Rainy River, right
in front of Sportsman’s Lodge by the “windsock,” a jig tipped with a shiner
has brought in many nice one to two pound eaters, lots of smaller fish, and
decent numbers of walleyes in the 20 to 25 inch range.
As soon as there’s a cold snap, some real good ice will be forming, so now
is the time to get ready for the best ice fishing of the year. Early ice
means a bonanza for walleye anglers. Make your reservations now for this
unique fishing opportunity at Sportsman’s Lodge.
(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.
– 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. Continue Reading »
gengberg November 6th, 2008
Fish Rivers for Fall Walleye and Sauger Action
Living on the Wisconsin River allows me the luxury of being able to fish for my favorite fish species, the walleye and sauger all year long. That’s the great thing about living where I do since the walleye and sauger seasons never close on most rivers in Wisconsin. Locations and techniques change from season to season, but there is always a tactic that let’s you catch fish. A vast majority of the walleyes and saugers that I catch are released, but I love to eat fish and keeping a few legal fish doesn’t hurt the river’s population.
This time of the year, many anglers have put their boats away till next spring. But, the months of November and even December can provide some great river fishing for both walleyes and saugers and the best thing about fishing this time of the year is that you often have the Wisconsin River and most others to yourself. Many other anglers have switched gears and are now hunting deer, pheasants, ducks, and geese so this is why you’ll find so few anglers on the water. Most of my river fishing is done on the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers in Wisconsin and the Missouri River in the Dakotas. But, a vast majority of what I’m going to tell you will apply to rivers throughout the Upper Midwest.
Walleye and sauger fishing can be excellent in the fall and even throughout the winter if you can launch your boat and keep the guides on your rod open. The fish stay active all winter and don’t shut-down like some most other species that rarely feed actively in the cold water months. This also is a great time of the year to catch big trophy fish! Big walleyes and saugers feed actively even in winter.
Some years, I have been able to fish well into December and there also are the sunny days in January and February when you can get out on many rivers in the state. Sometimes, you might need a shovel and some ice melting-salt to clear a boat landing. I always make sure that I have these things with me this time of the year. But, fishing is possible and often very good. The Mississippi and Wisconsin River usually stay open all winter, so the only problem that you’ll find is access to the rivers.
Walleye professional and guide, Tony Puccio, and I have made it our “fall ritual” to fish during the Wisconsin deer gun season which falls on the third week of November. Some years, we may be fishing in cold and snow while other years the weather can be very bearable. The important thing though is that the walleyes and saugers are usually biting and active when you find them. The obvious key is to find the fish! Continue Reading »
gengberg November 4th, 2008
Madduck calls to your attention our latest feature — a daily updating of news related to ducks and duck hunting. Go now to www.Madduck.org and click on “Items of Interest” in the left hand column. We have been updating it on a trial basis for the past month. It is now a permanent feature. We are certain you will find many items that will keep you abreast of the latest developments and pique your curiosity.
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 »
gengberg October 27th, 2008
This past Saturday, I finally got out fishing for muskies on Madison’s Lake Monona with friend and muskie hunter, Pat Westberg of Cottage Grove. Fellow Four Lakes Guide Association member and friend Wally Banfi was also fishing Monona with clients. Recently, both Pat and Wally had both started fishing for muskies and had had good success with a couple of nice 45 inch fish, some smaller fish, and numerous follow-ups.
I met Pat at Olin Park across from the Alliant Energy Center at 8:00 AM Saturday with my videographer, Daniel Robinson. We hoped to get a muskie or two on film for a future outdoor project. Wally and his group were already on the water. Today, we were fishing in Pat’s Ranger and he had already been fishing for a few minutes when we met him at the landing. Pat had made a few casts while waiting for us and had a nice follow which was a good sign for the day. A couple casts and a follow-up already made the day’s prospects look good.
We slowly motored out on Lake Monona and started fishing just outside the dying weed edge. If you can find green weeds this time of year be sure to fish them. The water temperature was 56 degrees which was still a little warm for turnover to start. For those of you who don’t know what turnover is I’ll give you a little description. ‘Turnover” is one of the most misunderstood concepts in fishing and can definitely affect your fall fishing tactics and techniques. Continue Reading »
Gary at a live remote hosting his weekly radio show Outdoor Horizons on 1670 WTDY Madison. You can listen every Saturday from 8:00 am - 8:30 am.
Also, make sure to listen in to Gary's weekly tips.
