Summer is definitely here and, right on cue, summertime patterns are beginning to take shape for most species in Northern Wisconsin. Panfish are really starting to school up on offshore structure such as brush piles, isolated weed clumps and cribs. Numbers of crappies and bluegills typically suspend near the tops of these structures but some of the largest specimens relate to bottom nearby. A well-placed slip float with a small leech, crawler or fathead suspended above the fish is sure to work wonders but a small jig and plastic vertically jigged works well too.
Walleyes can be found on mid-depth structure (sometimes on the same ones as the panfish) as well as roaming deeper flats in 20 to 30 feet of water. Electronics are key in picking these fish out but once you find them a “power corked” leech or crawler seldom gets ignored. A drop shot rig often works just as well. Snap jigging plastics and jigging-rap style baits is another way to trigger those deeper walleyes if they refuse slower offerings.
Bass fishing has been tough during the spring transition but now fish are starting to group up on mid-depth weedlines, rocks and brush. Ned rigs have been smoking them and the topwater bite has been decent as well. A strategically placed drop shot near a deep brush pile or crib is another deadly summertime technique. Get out there, have fun and enjoy the summer!
Caleb Wistad – Hookedupwi
calebwistad@gmail.com
715-338-0545
