The Winnebago system remains weeks ahead of its “normal” cycles for spring spawning. The walleyes and perch have completed spawning in most cases, and have entered into their post spawn cycle. The sturgeons are the only active spawners currently, and many have already concluded their annual appointment. Water temperatures on the lake and rivers pushed into the low 60 degree ranges late last week; however, when the near normal air temperatures returned to the area, the water temps dove back into the mid to low 50’s.
Water levels on Lake Winnebago remain low. The Wolf and Fox Rivers have adequate water levels, with low to medium flow levels for Springtime. Water clarity is above average given that is March.
The system continues to make drastic changes every few days. We were not even at ice out yet last year on Lake Winnebago, yet in 2012 we are already post spawn for walleyes (which normally occurs in Mid to late April). The quick changing water environment has created very inconsistent fishing conditions. The fish are transitioning quickly, and their movements are currently unpredictable. I suggest coming prepared with multiple presentations on every trip until consistent trends start to appear. You may be jigging one day, trolling the next, and slip bobbering a couple of days later.
Here are some reports from various locations:
Eureka Dam: The majority of walleyes have left the area and are held up in the Fox River or have been flushing out thru Lake Buttes des Mortes and out to Lake Winnebago.
Mouth of the Fox River at Lake Buttes des Mortes: I had expected this area to be loaded with walleyes coming out of the river. To my surprise, this area was nearly vacant according to the Lowrance. I did pull crankbaits thru the area, and that confirmed what the electronics had already told me.
Mouth of the Fox River at Lake Winnebago (Pioneer Inn): This area is hosting large numbers of fish. Many of these fish are bait fish and small white bass. With the large amount of feed in the area, walleyes are commonly found also. The first influx of sheephead has also been seen in this area. Catfish are also roaming in the deeper water.
Fox River (Oshkosh): The perch have completed their spawning and have moved out. A few walleyes have been taken near Fratellos, and in other common post spawn locations. White bass are present in moderate numbers. The shore fishermen have been doing well near the amphitheater.
Oakwood and Sunset Points: Walleyes are resting on the points. Pitch and retrieved jigs or slip bobbers have been producing the majority of the midsized walleyes.
Deadwood Point – Lake Winnebago: We found some jumbo perch in this area last weekend. The bad news is they were very scattered, and had limited numbers.
Fisherman’s Road – Lake Winnebago: Very vacant of any fish activity currently.
Lake Poygan and Lake Winneconne: The walleye trolling bite has started to show signs of life. Shad style baits and Salmo hornets are producing nice sized walleyes currently.
The Wolf River: The Shiocton area has a mix of male and female walleyes still spawning. The Fremont area has post spawn fish moving back down river. White bass started to spawn, but then the weather turned cold, slowing the run.
Traditionally, the walleyes will hang in the upper lakes for about 15-25 days, (including the Wolf River throughout Winneconne) as long as there is a food supply. The post spawn recovery period usually occurs first, followed by a feeding frenzy. It is difficult to project how quickly these events will occur in 2012 due to the abnormal weather.
