Wisconsin fishing report 2026

Fishing is a great way to have fun with family and friends, but sometimes it's difficult to know where to fish. 

No problem. The Wisconsin Fishing Report provides fishing forecasts for a number of fish species for the upcoming fishing season. From fishing walleye to urban ponds, you can use the information to plan your next fishing trip. 

Grab your license and a friend and hit the water; it's open to all – the fish will be waiting.

The following fishing forecasts are arranged in alphabetical order by county within each species group.

If you have questions about the provided information or want additional information, feel free to contact the local fisheries biologist. 

Species fishing forecasts for 2026-2027

Walleye

Muskellunge

Largemouth bass

Smallmouth bass

Northern pike

Panfish

Catfish

Lake sturgeon

Inland trout

Lake whitefish

Great Lakes salmon and trout

Urban and community fishing

WALLEYE

Chetek Chain of Lakes

Barron County

Lake size: The Chetek Chain of Lakes is 3,763 acres and consists of Prairie, Chetek, Tenmile, Pokegama and Ojaski lakes. 

Species population information: A 2025 fisheries survey found a healthy walleye population in the Chetek Chain of Lakes. The adult density of walleye in Prairie Lake was 4.5 fish/acre and Pokegama Lake was 4.1 fish/acre. This is representative of a moderate/high density population for a stocking-dependent system. In Prairie Lake, walleye lengths ranged from 7.2–28.7 inches with an average length of 16.9 inches. 

Current regulation: The walleye population is managed with a 15-inch minimum length limit, 20 to 24-inch protected slot, and only one walleye longer than 24 inches may be harvested. There is a daily bag limit of three walleye. 

Access information: There are 11 public boat landings throughout the Chetek Chain. There are also two public fishing piers on the Chetek Chain, one is at Brown’s Landing on Prairie Lake and the other is on the south end of Pokegama Lake off CTH D.

Mississippi River Pools 6, 7 and 8

Buffalo, Trempealeau, La Crosse and Vernon Counties

Water size: ~40,900 acres and 46 river miles

Species population information: In early October 2025, DNR crews collected 309 adult walleye and 147 adult sauger via electrofishing at night in the near-shore areas around wing dams in Mississippi River Pool 8, near La Crosse. In our sample, walleye length ranged from 5 to 27 inches, average length was 19 inches, and the largest walleye measured was 27.1 inches. Catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) for adult walleye was 31 fish per hour. Sauger length ranged from 5 to 19 inches, averaged 8 inches and the largest sauger measured 19.8 inches. Adult sauger CPUE was 15 per hour. Concurrent with the adult walleye and sauger survey, DNR crews estimated walleye and sauger young-of-year (YOY) abundance. Results from this work predict spring 2025 spawning success. During this survey, 155 YOY walleye and 38 YOY sauger were captured for each hour of electrofishing. YOY walleye reproduction in 2025 was much higher than 2024 (155/hour vs. 14/hour). The 2025-year class will help maintain the walleye fishery for years to come. An interesting sidenote, saugeye (an uncommon natural cross between walleye and sauger) were captured on six separate occasions during this survey. The largest specimen was 20.9 inches.

Current regulation in Pools 3-8: The Mississippi River is open year-round for walleye and sauger. Walleye has a minimum length limit of 15 inches, only one walleye or sauger over 20 inches is allowed. The bag limit is four fish combined walleye and sauger and there is no minimum length limit on sauger. 

Access information: There are many boat landings and shore fishing access locations along the Mississippi River. Checkout the following website for more details.

Boat and shore fishing access.

Something of interest: The waters of Pools 6-8 are part of the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Pools 6-8 cover parts of two of the four USFWS Refuge Districts: Winona and La Crosse. The Refuge is located in four states along the Mississippi River: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois. It was established in 1924 as a refuge for fish, wildlife and plants. The refuge contains one of the largest blocks of floodplain habitat in the lower 48 states. It covers just over 240,000 acres and extends 261 river miles from the Chippewa River in Wisconsin to near Rock Island, Illinois.

 - Kristina Pechacek, Senior Fisheries Biologist, La Crosse

Winnebago System

Calumet, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Outagamie, Shawano, Waushara, Waupaca and Winnebago counties

Lake size: The Winnebago system contains approximately 167,000 acres of open water.

Species population information: The bottom trawl survey is a great tool for evaluating the success of the walleye spawn on the Winnebago System. Survey results from 2016 to 2025 show an increase in walleye production relative to the history of the survey. The average young-of-year catch for the entire 40-year-old data set is 5.3 fish/trawl and the average for the last 10 years of the survey is 8.3 fish/trawl. Young-of-year catch rates were 16.0 fish/trawl in 2025, ranking it as the 4th highest on record. Catch rates for yearling walleye were elevated in 2025, showing good recruitment of the 2024-year class. The consistent production over the last decade has resulted in a robust fishery with solid angling opportunity and the significant year class of 2025 is a great sign for future years.

- Jason Kohls, Fisheries Biologist, Oshkosh 

Lower Wisconsin River Tailwater

Dane, Columbia and Sauk counties

Water size: The 6-mile upstream stretch of the Lower Wisconsin River, which is below the Prairie Du Sac Dam.

Species population information: From 2017-2024, strong numbers of age-0 or young of the year (>30 fish/mile; long term median) walleye occurred five of these eight years, indicating strong consistent signs of natural reproduction. Strong recruitment of age-1 walleyes occurred also in five of these eight years. Number of adult walleye (age-3 and older fish) have shown a strong increase since the early 2000s.  Annual fall electrofishing relative abundance ranged from 3-16 fish/mile during 2017-2024, which six of these eight years exhibited signs of moderate to high levels of adult abundance based on long-term trends. On average, at least 48% (27-66%) of adult walleye are of legal, harvestable length (≥18”).

Current regulation: Three walleye over 18 inches may be kept per day.

Access information: Many different shoreline access sites are available near the dam and through public riparian land in city parks and a state riverway downstream of the Prairie Du Sac Dam. Several boat launches can be used, including the Sauk City Launch, the VFW Park Launch and the Mazomanie Landing.

Something of interest: The Lower Wisconsin River walleye population is sustained entirely through natural reproduction and no stocking is required.  We have been annually monitoring the productivity of this walleye population and other gamefish species (sauger, smallmouth bass, etc.) at Prairie Du Sac Tailwater since 1986.  We have learned that the changes in productivity of walleye in the river (especially juvenile production) are complex and sometimes difficult to understand, but we see seasonal changes in water temperature, spring river flow changes, springtime precipitation and fish community dynamics can have a lot to do with the wellbeing of this population. Overall, this is a pretty strong walleye population in the state. Although it was still very naturally productive in the past, it has become more desirable over time since the implementation of stricter minimum length and bag limits in 2002. Over time, immature walleye became less vulnerable to angler harvest, and improvements in size structure and adult walleye abundance became more noticeable. Many anglers often opt to fish just downstream of the dam where they frequently see smaller fish. To see larger walleye, anglers should consider fishing downstream of the dam and try a variety of different rocky river habitats (wing dams, scour holes below islands, and channel cuts).

- Tim Parks, Fisheries Biologist, Dodgeville

Green Bay System (Green Bay, Fox River, Oconto River, Peshtigo River, Menominee River and all other connected bays).

Door, Brown, Oconto and Marinette counties

Species population information: In the spring of 2024, the DNR conducted electrofishing surveys on the four major walleye spawning rivers as well as in non-tributary locations around the Green Bay system to collect data on the adult walleye population. A total of 48 hours of electrofishing effort was expended to capture 4,949 walleye for a catch rate of 103.1 walleye per hour of electrofishing across all spawning locations. Captured walleye ranged in length from 14.1 – 31.7 inches (358 – 806 mm) with an average length of 21.7 inches (551 mm). A total of 2,645 male walleye were captured ranging in length from 14.6 – 27.9 inches (372 – 709 mm) with an average length of 20.1 inches (511 mm). A total of 2,282 female walleye were captured ranging in length from 17.4 – 31.7 inches (443 – 806 mm) with an average length of 23.6 inches (599 mm). A total of 22 walleye of an unknown sex were captured ranging in length from 14.1 – 19.1 inches (358 – 485 mm) with an average length of 17.7 inches (450 mm). All walleye that were captured during these surveys were floy tagged (see additional information below). Results from spring electrofishing surveys throughout the Green Bay system have shown that anglers have the opportunity to catch both large numbers of walleye as well as trophy walleye in this system. 

Current regulation: Regulations vary by season and location. Please check the Wisconsin-Michigan Boundary Waters section, Major Tributary Streams to Green Bay and Lake Michigan section, and the Lake Michigan section of the fishing regulations for the regulations for the specific waterbody you are interested in fishing. 

Access information: Many great shore fishing locations and boat accesses can be found throughout Green Bay and its tributaries. Shore fishing locations are available on all four of the major tributaries that support spring walleye spawning runs. Maps for both boat launches and shore fishing locations can be found at: Lake Michigan Tributary Access.

Something of interest. Starting in 2024, the DNR began floy tagging walleye as part of a large walleye reward tag study on Green Bay and its tributaries. The goal of the reward tag study is to get an annual estimate of angler exploitation of the adult walleye population (Exploitation is the percentage of the adult population that is harvested by anglers each year).  As part of this project, the DNR will floy tag up to 5,000 walleye across major spawning areas each spring. The majority of the floy tags will be yellow and anglers will receive the tagging history of that fish when they report a yellow tag to the DNR. Four hundred of the floy tags will be red reward tags and anglers will receive a $100 reward from Walleyes for Tomorrow along with the tagging history of that fish when they report a valid reward tag to the DNR with proper verification. Red reward tags will say “Reward $100” and will have a date that the reward is valid until, which will be approximately 1 year after tagging. Anglers must also provide proper verification they caught a red reward tagged walleye which can be close up pictures of the tag including the three-digit tag number or presenting the physical tag to the DNR. Anglers can report tags to 920-662-5411 or DNRFHGBFISH@wisconsin.gov. Angler tag returns from the first full year of the reward tag study (i.e., March 2024 – March 2025) resulted in an estimated exploitation rate of the adult walleye population of just under 5%.  This means that anglers harvested about 5% of the adult walleye population from March 2024 – March 2025. The reward tag study will continue for the next 3 to 4 years. 

– Jason Breeggemann, Fisheries Biologist, Green Bay

Lower St. Louis River

Douglas County

Water size: 12,000 acres from Fond du Lac dam to Superior Entry of Lake Superior; Total River length: 23 miles

Species population information: The Minnesota and Wisconsin DNR captured and released 15,984 individual walleye during a Spring 2025 adult spawning mark and recapture population survey. Males ranged from 13 to 28 inches consisting of 85 percent of the sampled population (N=13,662). Females ranged from 8 to 32 inches (N=2,284). Average lengths were 18.9 and 23.5 inches between males and females, respectively. Over 31 days of sampling, more than 98% of males encountered were ripe or ready to spawn where females consisted of 32% green (mature but have not released eggs), 42% ripe (mature with eggs flowing) and 26% spent (have already released eggs).

Current regulation: Open May 10 through March 1; 15-inch minimum length with a daily bag limit of two fish.

Access information: Arrowhead Landing and Fishing Pier:  Located in the City of Superior where Belknap Street joins the river. Features paved parking, an ADA accessible picnic area, and portable restrooms. Oliver Landing: Located in the Village of Oliver, just south of Superior, at end of East Detroit Street, features restrooms and paved parking. Barker’s Island Landing: Located in the City of Superior at the end of Marina Drive, features restrooms and paved parking. Loon’s Foot Landing: Located in the City of Superior just west of the Nemadji River, features restrooms and paved parking. 

Something of interest: The Wisconsin and Minnesota DNR tagged over 12,000 adult walleye from April 14 to May 15 during the spring 2025 spawning migration. Each fish was tagged with a unique identification number and attached near the second dorsal fin. Yellow and purple tag colors had starting letters “V” and “P”, respectively, while two variations of white tags began with either the number “0” or letter “H”. Tagging data throughout the survey will be used to estimate the number of fish in the population. Walleye population surveys in the St. Louis River are typically carried out on a five-year rotation. Tags can be voluntarily reported to Wisconsin DNR – Superior Office via phone call (715-919-1648) or email (Samuel.Peterson@wisconsin.gov); reporting is not required. Anglers who release fish are asked to keep the tag in the fish so that additional information can be recorded if the fish is caught again in the future.

- Sam Peterson, Fisheries Biologist, Superior

Twin Valley Lake

Iowa County

Lake size: 136 acres

Population information: Twin Valley Lake has a healthy and abundant walleye fishery. Preliminary population estimates projected this population at five adult walleye per acre. Walleye in Twin Valley Lake do not naturally reproduce; therefore, fish are stocked every other year to maintain this fishery. Average size of walleye captured during spring surveys in 2025 was 18.9 inches and fish ranged from 12.7 to 28.5 inches. These fish tend to be older than the average age at size given that this is a slow growing population. Although, 41% of the fish sampled were larger than the 18-inch minimum length limit. Anglers can expect good action with plenty of fish available to harvest if anglers choose to.

Current regulation: Minimum length limit of 18 inches and a daily bag limit of three fish.

Access information: Twin Valley Lake is located in Governor Dodge State Park. A state park sticker or daily pass is required, and one public boat launch is available. Only electric trolling motors are permitted on Twin Valley Lake.

Something of interest:  Governor Dodge is the third largest state park in Wisconsin. Camping, fishing, hunting, hiking and horseback riding are permitted within the state park, and a public beach and picnic area are provided.

- Justin Haglund, Fisheries Biologist, Dodgeville
 

Back to Species Forecasts

Pike Lake Chain of Lakes (Amik, Pike, Round and Turner lakes)

Price and Vilas counties

Water size: 1,905 acres

Species population information: From netting and electrofishing samples in the early spring of 2025, we estimated that Round Lake had 5,150 adult walleyes or 7.1 per acre and Pike Lake had 1,319 mature walleyes or 1.6 adults per acre. Our goal is to have a walleye population at moderate density with 4 to 6 adults per acre in Round Lake and 2 to 4 per acre in Pike Lake. Several measures of the population’s size distribution varied considerably between these two lakes. Of the 268 walleyes measured in the netting sample from Pike Lake, 48% were 15 inches or longer, compared to 13% of 1,033 measured fish reaching that size in Round Lake. The size objective is 20 to 40% at least 15 inches. Their average length in fyke net samples was 15.4 inches in Pike Lake and 13.3 inches in Round Lake. In the category of lakes with a complex fish community, a cool thermal regime and dark water, the average length of walleye in Pike Lake ranked near the median value (15.1 inches), while the average length of Round Lake’s walleye was close to the 25th percentile score (13.0 inches). At 26.6 inches, the longest walleye measured from Round Lake ranked between the 50th and 75th percentile values in the complex-cool-dark lake class. The 27.3-inch walleye from Pike Lake placed between the 75th and 90th percentile values for maximum length, and the 28.4-inch female from Amik Lake ranked between the 90th and 95th percentiles. Unlike many walleye populations that are struggling to sustain themselves, natural reproduction continues to be a reliable source of new recruits to replace the adults that die to fishing and natural causes. We use the catch rate of walleye fingerlings per shoreline mile in fall electrofishing surveys as our standard measure of walleye recruitment. Round Lake’s population continues as one of the top walleye producers in our three-county management area, consistently turning out a meaningful cohort nearly every year. Though we haven’t recorded the extremes that we saw in the mid-1990s, the electrofishing catch rate in Round Lake averaged 42 walleye fingerlings per mile in 26 fall surveys completed since 2000. Walleye production was lower in Pike Lake, where our electrofishing catch rate averaged 12 fingerlings per mile in the same period. 

Current regulation: Only three walleyes from 15 to 20 inches may be kept, except one of the three may be over 24 inches. Twelve percent of the walleyes sampled by netting in Round Lake were legal-sized fish, compared to 43% in Pike Lake. 

Of interest: In 2016, the Pike Lake Chain of Lakes Association expressed its support for building a nature-like fishway at the Round Lake Dam to restore fish passage and reconnect the aquatic ecosystems of the Pike Lake Chain and the South Fork Flambeau River. A renown fish passage expert has developed a conceptual design for a full channel width rock ramp to mitigate the 4-foot vertical barrier to fish movements at this site. 

Access information: The Pike Lake Chain of Lakes spans the border of Price and Vilas counties. The U.S. Forest Service maintains the main boat landing with a concrete ramp, boarding dock, toilet and parking on the west shore of Round Lake. The DNR’s shallow-water access on the east shore of Round Lake is suitable for launching kayaks, canoes and small boats. Several resorts on Pike and Round lakes have private boat landings. Turner and Amik lakes have no dedicated public access points, but anyone can reach these waters by boat or on the ice via the connecting channels.

– Jeff Scheirer, Fisheries Biologist, Park Falls
 
 

Eagle Lake

Racine County

Lake size: 529 acres

Species population information: A 2025 spring electrofishing survey yielded an average length of 20.4 inches and a maximum length of 24.1 inches for walleye. In total, 89% of the walleye measured were above the 18-inch minimum length limit. Overall, the 2025 survey data indicates a walleye population with high quality size structure and an excellent harvest opportunity.

Current regulation: Daily bag limit three with a minimum length limit of 18 inches.

Access information: There are three public boat launches (two managed by the Town of Dover and one managed by Racine County). The Eagle Lake Park boat launch off Church Road is managed by Racine County and has the most parking available as well as shore fishing opportunities.

Something of interest: Eagle Lake is the second largest natural lake in Racine County but is generally shallow in nature. The maximum reported depth is 11 feet, the average reported depth is 6 feet, and 21% of the Eagle Lake is less than 3 feet in depth.

 - Travis Motl – Fisheries Biologist for Kenosha, Racine and Walworth Counties

Rock River

Rock County

River segment: 1 mile of river below Indianford Dam

Species population information: During a fall electrofishing survey below Indianford Dam, 137 walleye were sampled in two miles with a catch rate of 68.5 fish per mile. Lengths ranged from 6.1 to 22.4 inches, with an average of 13.5 inches. This stretch of river offers great numbers of walleye with a good chance to harvest, with 34% of walleye sampled over 15 inches.

Current regulation- Daily bag Limit of three fish. From Indianford Dam upstream to the Lower Watertown Dam, walleye, sauger and hybrids must be at least 18 inches. All other waters' minimum length limit is 15 inches.

Access information: Anglers at Indianford can access the shoreline on both sides below the dam on county property. The closest downstream boat launch is approximately 8 miles away in Janesville.

Something of interest: Anglers in this river can expect to catch walleye, sauger and hybrid saugeye all in one spot. Numbers of sauger in this stretch of river were high compared to other fisheries in southern Wisconsin.

– Josh Jonet, Fisheries Technician, Fitchburg
 

Lake Delton

Sauk County

Lake size: 249 acres.

Species population information: A 2025 comprehensive survey found a quality walleye population of 4.3 adults per acre for this stocked fishery. Walleye ranged from 7.3-27.2 inches with an average of 15.7 inches. Roughly 51% of the walleye sampled during this spring survey were over the minimum 15-inch length limit. Lake Delton offers a solid walleye population with excellent size structure. 

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of three, minimum length limit of 15 inches. 

Access information: There are three public boat landings on Lake Delton. The main boat landing is located on Canyon Rd. Trail on the south end of the lake. The other two are located on E. Hiawatha Drive on the North and West ends of the lake that are more suited for smaller boats, canoes, kayaks, etc. There is also a fishing pier located on the North end along County Highway A.  

Something of interest: On June 9, 2008 heavy rainfall caused Lake Delton to breach the embankment along County Highway A which flushed most of the water in the lake into the Wisconsin River. The fishery was rebuilt by stocking efforts and fish migrating down from Mirror Lake which is the next impoundment upstream of Lake Delton. 

- Casey Weber, Fisheries Biologist, Poynette

Eagle River Chain

Vilas County 

Lake size: The Chain consists of 10 lakes encompassing over 3,500 acres. 

Species population information: The Chain supports above-average walleye abundance through strong natural reproduction. Adult walleye populations across the Chain were assessed during the spring of 2025, and juvenile recruitment was evaluated in the fall. Eagle Chain lakes ranged between 1.3 – 9.8 adult walleye per acre, with most lakes above 5 fish per acre, (a level of 3 adults per acre is considered good), and juvenile recruitment surveys showed plenty of promise for upcoming year classes. 

Current regulation: The current walleye regulation is a daily bag limit of three with no minimum length limit, but fish between 14-18 inches must be released, and one fish can be over 18 inches. Because of the above-average adult abundance and strong juvenile year classes, anglers can experience high catch rates of small- to medium-sized walleye. 

Access information: Multiple boat landings are available. 

- Lawrence Eslinger, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Woodruff

Big McKenzie Lake

Washburn and Burnett counties

Lake size: 1,129 acres

Species population information:  Big McKenzie Lake offers a low density/big walleye fishing option in Washburn and Burnett counties. Adult walleye ranged from 13.2 to 26.7 inches.  The adult average length was 19 inches. Approximately 58% of the adult walleye sampled were above 18 inches.

Current regulation:  18-inch minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of three fish.

Access information: There is one public boat landing on Big McKenzie Lake off County Highway E.

- Craig Roberts, Fisheries Biologist, Spooner

Golden Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 250 surface acres

Species population information: Average length – 13.9 inches. Population estimate – 2.0 adults per acre. An adult walleye population estimate completed in spring of 2023 revealed good size structure and a strong 2015-year class. Successful large fingerling stocking has boosted this walleye population with above average growth and excellent health. Multiple year classes of walleyes have been stocked into Golden Lake in odd years since 2015.  Golden Lake lives up to the name having sandy substrate and excellent water clarity. Diverse aquatic plants and well protected wetlands on the north end of the lake provide excellent habitat for wildlife and fisheries.

Current regulation: 18-inch minimum length, daily bag limit of three fish.

Access information: The DNR public boat launch is located on Hwy 18, west of Dousman.

- Benjamin Heussner, Fisheries Biologist, Eagle

Wazeecha Lake

Wood and Portage counties
 

Lake size: 140 acres

Species population information: 121 walleye were caught during the 2025 spring survey; the relative abundance was 15.8 fish per mile and is in the 64th percentile compared to similar lakes.  The population estimate was 1.6 adults per acre.  Walleyes ranged from 6.0 to 22.6 inches and mean length was 12.2 inches. 39% of the walleyes were 15 inches or larger.  
Current regulation: The minimum length limit is 18 inches, and the daily bag limit is three.

Access information: Wazeecha Lake has one public boat landing and has ample shoreline fishing opportunities.  The South Wood County Park surrounds much of the lake.

Something of interest: Wazeecha Lake is stocked with walleyes on odd years at 20 large fingerlings per acre, this walleye fishery is dependent on stocking.

- Jennifer Bergman – Senior Fisheries Biologist, Wisconsin Rapids
 

Back to Species Forecasts

MUSKELLUNGE

Green Bay and its tributaries

Brown, Oconto, Marinette and Door counties

Species population Information: In the spring of 2025, the DNR conducted their annual adult muskellunge fyke netting survey on the Fox River and added netting sites on the East River and Duck Creek. A total of 196 adult muskellunge were captured across 64 net nights of effort for a catch rate of 3.1 adult muskellunge per net night. Seventy-one percent of the captured muskellunge were males ranging from 35.7 – 51.2 inches (907 – 1,301 mm) with an average length of 43.2 inches (1,099 mm). Twenty nine percent of the captured muskellunge were females ranging from 39.9 – 55.1 inches (1,015 – 1,400 mm) with an average length of 50.0 inches (1,270 mm). Furthermore, two female muskellunge >54.0 inches were captured in 2025 including one that was >55.0 inches. Also, two male muskellunge that were >49.0 inches were captured including one that was >51.0 inches in the spring 2025 fyke netting survey.  Results from the spring 2025 fyke netting survey show that the Green Bay system continues to produce good numbers of trophy-sized muskellunge.

Current regulation: Regulations vary by season and location. Please check the Wisconsin-Michigan Boundary Waters section, Major Tributary Streams to Green Bay and Lake Michigan section, and the Lake Michigan section of the fishing regulations for the regulations for the specific waterbody you are interested in fishing.

Access information: Many great shore fishing locations and boat accesses can be found throughout Green Bay and its tributaries. Maps for both boat launches and shore fishing locations can be found at:

Lake Michigan tributary access.

Something of interest. The DNR continues to use Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags to help manage the Green Bay muskellunge population. All adult muskellunge captured in fyke netting and electrofishing surveys are scanned for a PIT tag and given one if they do not already have one. Also, up to 20% of the stocked large fingerling and yearling muskellunge are PIT tagged at the time of stocking. Data from PIT tag recaptures can provide information about growth rates, movement and survival of stocked muskellunge. In recent years, anglers have purchased PIT tag readers and are scanning angler caught muskellunge for PIT tags and reporting recaptures to the DNR. During the 2025 open water fishing season on Green Bay, anglers reported catching 85 muskellunge with PIT tags! These muskellunge were originally tagged in a variety of locations including 19 that were PIT tagged at the time of stocking and stocked in the Lake Winnebago system (i.e., eight in the upper Fox River near Omro, one in Lake Butte des Morts, nine in Lake Poygan, and one in Lake Winnebago). Anglers who purchase a PIT tag reader can scan muskellunge along their back next to the dorsal fin. Anglers who catch a muskellunge with a PIT tag in the Green Bay system can report their catch to Jason.Breeggemann@wisconsin.gov or 920-420-4619. The tagging history for each muskellunge will be provided to the angler.

- Jason Breeggemann, Fisheries Biologist, Green Bay

Twentysix Lake

Burnett County

Lake size: 218 acres

Species population information: Based on results on the 2025 survey, the muskellunge population is currently abundant in Twentysix Lake.  The average length was 36.0 inches and ranged from 17.7 to 47.0 inches.  Twenty-two percent of the muskellunge collected were over 40 inches.  A catch rate of 0.8 fish/net night was also observed.

Current regulation:  40-inch minimum length limit, one fish daily bag limit.

Access Information: There is one public boat launch on the Northeast side off of Eliot Johnson Rd.

Something of interest: Twentysix Lake is home to a moderate abundance of cisco which likely help support the healthy musky fishery.

- Craig Roberts, Fisheries Biologist, Spooner

Fox Lake

Dodge County

Water size: 2,713 acres
 
Species population information: Although musky have been documented in previous DNR fishery surveys of Fox Lake, 2025 was the first year of a two-year survey specifically targeting them. In April 2025, 23 musky were captured using fyke nets at a catch rate of 0.35 per net night. This catch rate is just above the 50th percentile when compared to other similar lakes. Muskies in Fox Lake show good growth potential with the average length of 41.6 inches and the largest fish captured measured 48.6 inches. DNR crews will be sampling Fox Lake again in the spring of 2026 to gain more information on the musky population as well as other gamefish and panfish.
 
Current regulation: Daily bag limit of one with a 40-inch minimum length limit. Open season for 2026: May 2, 2026-Dec. 31, 2026

Access information: There are two public launches on the lake: Clausen Park in the City of Fox Lake on the Mill Creek outlet and Town Park in the northwest corner of the lake. Shore fishing access is available at these two locations as well as Hwy A at the Cambria Creek inlet, HWY A/HWY 33 bridge and wayside in the City of Fox Lake and at the dam on the Mill Creek outlet. 

Something of interest. Musky natural reproduction in Fox Lake is likely limited so the current population primarily relies on stocking. The DNR discontinued musky stocking in Fox Lake after 2001 but the Winnebago Musky Club and Fox Lake Preservation Organization have stocked the lake from 2010-2017 and 2023-2024. Musky captured during the 2025 survey were tagged with PIT tags to facilitate a mark and recapture population estimate. PIT tags are not externally visible but if anglers are interested in purchasing a PIT tag reader to scan their fish and aid in collecting data on musky growth and movement, they can contact Mark Baldock at Mark.Baldock@wisconsin.gov or Andrew Notbohm at Andrew.Notbohm@wisconsin.gov.  

- Andrew Notbohm, Fisheries Biologist, Horicon

Amnicon Lake

Douglas County

Lake size: 426 acres

Species population Information:  Amnicon Lake provides a quality musky fishery. A recent survey estimated 0.16 adult musky per acre which is a low to moderate density but with above average sizes as 64% of the fish handled in the survey were at or above 38 inches and 27% were at or above 42 inches. These data suggest anglers have opportunities to catch some large fish.

Current regulation: The current musky regulation is a one fish daily bag limit with a 40-inch minimum length limit.

Access information: There is one public boat launch on Amnicon Lake located off Tri Lakes Rd in the Town of Summit.

Little Green Lake

Green Lake County

Lake size: 466 acres.

Species population information: Little Green Lake supports a good musky population.  A total of 66 muskies were caught in our survey yielding a population of 0.4 adults per acre. Catch rates averaged 0.5 fish per net night which places Little Green Lake in the 60th percentile compared to lakes in the same lake class. Fish captured ranged from 34.2 – 46.0 inches and averaged 39.9 inches. Anglers have a decent opportunity to catch quality-sized fish with 42% of adult fish sampled being 40 inches or larger. Catching 50+ inch fish may be challenging, but Little Green Lake has produced and still has the potential to produce fish of this size. No natural reproduction has been documented on Little Green Lake, therefore the fishery is maintained by every other year stocking of one fish per acre.

Current regulation: The musky regulation is the statewide regulation of 40 inches and a daily bag limit of one fish.

Access information: There are three very nice public boat launches on Little Green Lake. 

- Scott Bunde, Fisheries Biologist, Wautoma

Black River

Jackson County

Species population information: The stretch of the Black River that flows through Jackson County is home to a thriving muskellunge population. Electrofishing survey results from 2025 documented moderate to high densities throughout the river. Muskellunge sampled ranged from 19.2–47.7 inches. The DNR floy tags muskies and encourages anglers to report tags.

Current regulation: The statewide standard harvest regulation of one fish per day with a minimum length limit of 40 inches applies.

Access information: Public boat launches are scattered along the river including launches at HWY 108 near Melrose, Mason’s Landing off Old 54 Rd and Perry Creek Landing off Perry Creek Rd.

 - Zach Woiak, Fisheries Biologist: Black River Falls 
 
 

Mildred Lake

Oneida County

Lake size: 168 acres 

Species population information. A fishable population of muskellunge is present in Mildred Lake. Lengths of muskellunge varied between 33 to 45 inches with the typical length around 38 inches.

Current regulation: There is a 40-inch minimum length limit and the daily bag limit of one muskellunge on Mildred Lake. 

Access information: Mildred Lake has a public ramp on the East end of the lake off Lake Mildred Road.
 
Something of interest: The lake association has been increasing fish habitat throughout the lake through additions of fish sticks, half logs and fish cribs over the past few years. 

- Nathan Lederman, Fisheries Biologist, Rhinelander

Bone Lake

Polk County

Lake size: Bone Lake is 1667 acres and provides a trophy muskellunge fishery primarily sustained through stocking. 

Species population Information: A recent survey estimated there were 0.28 adult musky/acre which is a low-moderate density. Muskellunge lengths ranged from 12.7–46.5 inches with an average length of 36.6 inches and 44% of the fish handled were greater than 38 inches. A quality population persists in Bone Lake that offers decent angling opportunities and a chance for trophy-sized fish.

Current Regulation: The muskellunge population is managed with a one fish bag limit with 50-inch minimum length limit. 

Access Information: There are two public boat landings on Bone Lake and a public fishing pier located off Bone Lake Park Ln.

- Kyle Broadway, Fisheries Biologist, Barron
 

Spirit Lake and North Spirit Lake

Price and Taylor counties

Lake size: 339 acres

Species population information: Wrapping up the comprehensive evaluation started in 2024, fyke netting in the spring of 2025 served as the “recapture” sample in a two-year survey to estimate the number of muskies in Spirit Lakes. We recaptured 11 of the muskellunge that we tagged in 2024. From the ratio of tagged and untagged fish in the “recapture” sample, we estimated that Spirit Lake had 102 mature muskies at least 30 inches or 0.81 adults per acre. North Spirit Lake had an estimated 92 adults or 0.43 per acre. In 2025, their lengths ranged from 22.7 to 45.5 inches and averaged 34.3 inches in both lakes combined. In both years, the average length of muskies in the Spirit Lakes ranked between or near the 90th and 95th percentiles among lakes with similar characteristics.

Current regulation: Anglers may keep a daily bag limit of one musky at least 40 inches in the open-water period. Beginning in 2026, anglers may target muskies from the first Saturday in May through December 31, but not on the ice.

Access information: The DNR owns and maintains a public boat landing with a dock and parking lot on the south shore of Spirit Lake adjacent to State Highway 102. North Spirit Lake has no public boat landing, but it is accessible via the channel connecting these lakes.

Something of interest: Tag recoveries provide reliable information on the population’s growth rate by comparing the length of individual fish between capture events. Twelve male muskies gained on average 1.2 inches in about one year. Two females grew 1.2 and 1.8 inches over the preceding 325 and 403 days. The longest period between tagging and tag detection was 3,508 days or about 9.6 years over which a 16.3-inch musky captured by electrofishing in September 2015 gained 19.6 inches.

– Jeff Scheirer, Fisheries Biologist, Park Falls

Eagle River Chain

Vilas County

Lake size: The Eagle River Chain consists of 10 lakes encompassing over 3,500 acres. 

Species population information: The Chain sustains above-average musky abundance through a combination of natural reproduction and stocking. Adult musky populations were surveyed across Eagle Chain lakes during the spring of 2025. Over 300 musky (including some recaptures of the same fish) were captured during the survey. High capture rates of adult musky indicate a high-density or action fishery. Size structure of the musky populations was comprised of many 30- to 40-inch fish, with good numbers of small, young recruits and a few large individuals up to 49 inches. Anglers seeking good musky action primarily on small- to moderate-sized fish should consider the Eagle River Chain.

Current regulation: 40-inch minimum length with a daily bag limit of one fish.

Access Information: Multiple boat landings available. 

 - Lawrence Eslinger, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Woodruff

Okauchee Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 1257 surface acres, maximum depth = 92 feet

Species population information: Muskellunge have excellent size structure in Okauchee Lake with a healthy cisco population providing additional forage. Continued stocking partnership between the DNR and the Muskellunge Club of Wisconsin has maintained this muskellunge population with an average size of 37.9 inches with one fish measuring 51 inches during spring fyke netting in 2025.

Current regulation: 50-inch minimum length limit, daily bag limit of one.

Access information: There are two public launches on Okauchee Lake found at the Golden Mast Restaurant and the DNR launch. The DNR boat launch is located just east of the Okauchee Lake dam on Road T, north of Wisconsin Avenue. The Golden Mast boat launch is located off Lacy Lane north of East Wisconsin Avenue.

 - Ben Heussner, Fisheries Biologist, Eagle

Back to Species Forecasts

LARGEMOUTH BASS

Long Lake

Chippewa County

Lake size: 1,052 acres

Species population information: According to recent survey data, the largemouth bass catch rate has increased three-fold relative to its historic average. Electrofishing survey data shows 65 largemouth bass per mile were captured in May of 2025. Many of the largemouth bass were in the 8 to12-inch range which is a great eating size, but largemouth in excess of 18 inches were also captured in the survey, so the opportunity for quality-sized fish exists as well. Anglers are encouraged to harvest largemouth bass which may increase growth rates and improve size structure.  

Current regulation: The largemouth bass regulation is liberal allowing anglers to harvest five bass per day with no length restrictions.  

- Joseph Gerbyshak, Fisheries Biologist, Eau Claire

Lake Wingra

Dane County

Lake size: 336 acres 

Species population Information: In 2025, a nighttime electrofishing survey found a healthy largemouth bass population with high abundance and improved size structure compared to historical values. Largemouth bass had an average length of 12.1 inches and an average weight of 1.8 pounds. Lengths of fish ranged from 2.7 to 20.6 inches with the heaviest weighing 5.6 pounds. Lake Wingra had a largemouth bass catch rate of 45.8 fish/mile which ranks above the 75th percentile when compared to other similar lakes. 

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of one, minimum length of 18 inches. 

Access information: The only developed boat landing on Lake Wingra is located on Knickerbocker Street in Wingra Park; however, parking is limited. There is an undeveloped kayak launch located along Vilas Park Drive. Plenty of shore fishing opportunities are available on Lake Wingra at Vilas Park where there are fishing piers near Vilas Beach and Wingra Dam. 

Something of interest: Lake Wingra is known for its unique recreational opportunities because boats are required to move at a slow-no-wake speed and motors can’t be used on Saturdays or Sundays. These regulations make Lake Wingra a friendly place to use kayaks, paddleboats, paddle boards and canoes – all of which can be rented at Wingra Park. 

 - Mitchell Trow, Fisheries Biologist, Fitchburg

Long Lake

Fond du Lac County

Lake size: 423 acres 

Species population information: A 2025 spring electrofishing survey on Long Lake captured a total of 257 largemouth bass for a catch rate of 36 fish per mile of shoreline. That catch rate is over the 50th percentile of similar lakes around the state. The average length of largemouth bass sampled was 12.2 inches with the largest measuring 20.4 inches. This moderately high density largemouth bass fishery provides anglers with ample opportunity to catch legal-sized fish with 41% of fish sampled being over 14 inches. The catch rate of largemouth bass of legal size was 15 fish per mile. 

Current regulation: Five largemouth bass or smallmouth bass in combination measuring at least 14 inches. 

Access information: There is one public boat ramp located in the Long Lake Recreation Area in the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit. There is ample shoreline access that can be found within the recreation area as well for bank anglers. A state park pass is needed to use the boat ramp as well as recreate through the Kettle Moraine State Forest. 
 
 - Drew Wallace, Fisheries Biologist, Plymouth

Hewitt Lake

Iron County

Lake size: 79 acres. Hewitt Lake provides a good largemouth bass action opportunity for anglers, located northeast of Mercer. 

Species population information: During a 2025 summer panfish netting survey, crews sampled 178 largemouth bass at a high rate of 29.7 per net-night. Individuals ranged from 6.3 inches to 17.8 inches, with 48% measuring larger than 12 inches and 8% larger than 15 inches.  

Access information: Anglers can access Hewitt Lake from the public boat launch on the end of Hewitt Lane north of Highway G.

 - Zach Lawson, Fisheries Biologist, Ashland

Long Lake

Manitowoc County

Water size: 119 acres

Species population information: A total of 97 largemouth bass were captured in a spring 2025 electrofishing survey of Long Lake for a catch rate 32.9 largemouth bass per mile of shoreline. A catch rate of 32.9 largemouth bass per mile of shoreline ranks in the 79th percentile for lakes in Wisconsin, indicating moderate-high densities of largemouth bass can be found in Long Lake. The average length of largemouth bass captured in the spring electrofishing survey was 13.8 inches with largemouth bass ranging from 6.1 – 21.3 inches being captured. Long Lake provides anglers with plenty of opportunities to catch quality size largemouth bass as 52% (i.e., 50) of the largemouth bass captured were ≥14.0 inches including 10 that were ≥18.0 inches and two that were ≥20.0 inches. The catch rate of largemouth bass ≥14.0 inches in the spring electrofishing survey was 16.9 largemouth bass per mile of electrofishing, which ranks in the 95th percentile for lakes in Wisconsin!      

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of five largemouth bass and smallmouth bass combined with a minimum length limit of 14 inches for both species. 

Access information: One boat landing in a county park on the NE side of the lake. 

Something of interest: Both the DNR and private clubs have stocked walleyes into Long Lake. Since 2010, 2,408 large fingerling (average length of 7.4 inches) and 25,533 small fingerling (average length of 2 inches) walleyes have been stocked into Long Lake. Results from recent surveys show that Long Lake supports one of the higher density walleye fisheries in Manitowoc County lakes. Also, Long Lake in one of only a few lakes in the area that supports a population of yellow bass.

 - Jason Breeggemann, Fisheries Biologist, Green Bay

Wheeler Lake

Oconto County

Water size: 293 acres

Species population information: Electrofishing catch increased substantially between 2014 and 2022 from 28.5/mile to 42.2/mile despite the implementation of a more liberal harvest regulation in 2020 (no minimum length limit/five fish daily bag limit).

Current regulation: No minimum length limit and five fish daily bag (in aggregate with smallmouth bass)

Access information: Town of Lakewood boat landing (south side) with limited parking

Something of interest: Between 2012 and 2021, DNR partnered with the Wheeler Lake Association to construct and place 80 fish cribs throughout the lake. In 2019, the U.S. Forest Service placed approximately 45 trees around the east island and 15 trees around the west island to enhance fish habitat.

 - Chip Long, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Peshtigo

Bolger Lake

Oneida County
 

Lake size: 115 acres.

Species population information: A low abundance largemouth bass fishery was found in Bolger Lake during the 2025 survey. The increasing relative abundance of the largemouth bass fishery provides opportunities at trophy-sized individuals with total lengths of captured individuals varying between 5 to 19 inches. 

Current regulation: There is currently a minimum length limit of 14 inches with a daily bag limit of five for largemouth bass on Bolger Lake. 

Access information: Bolger Lake has a public ramp with ample parking on the Northeast end of the lake off Bolger Lake Road. 

 - Nathan Lederman, Fisheries Biologist, Rhinelander

Eagle Lake

Racine County

Water size : 529 acres

Species population information: 2025 spring electrofishing surveys yielded an average length of 15.8 inches and a maximum length of 20.4 inches for largemouth bass.  Overall, the 2025 survey data indicates a largemouth bass population with trophy size potential but no harvest opportunity due to the high minimum length limit.

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of one with a minimum length limit of 22 inches.

Access information: There are three public boat launches (two managed by the Town of Dover and one managed by Racine County).  The Eagle Lake Park boat launch off Church Road is managed by Racine County and has the most parking available as well as shore fishing opportunities.

Something of interest: Eagle Lake is the second largest natural lake in Racine County but is generally shallow in nature.  The maximum reported depth is 11 feet, the average reported depth is 6 feet, and 21% of the Eagle Lake is less than 3 feet in depth.

 - Travis Motl – Fisheries Biologist for Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties
 

Eagle Spring Lake

Waukesha County
 

Lake size: 270 surface acres

Species population information:  Average length – 9 inches.  This lake has an abundant population of largemouth bass so anglers are encouraged to harvest bass less than 14 inches to help reduce the population and improve growth rates.  

Current regulation: No minimum length limit - largemouth bass and smallmouth bass from 14 inches to 18 inches may not be kept, and only one fish over 18 inches is allowed.  The daily bag limit is five. 

Access information: The public launch is located on the lakes’ east side off of county Highway E, near Eagle Spring Pub.

 - Benjamin Heussner, Fisheries Biologist, Eagle

Middle Genesee Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 98 surface acres

Species population information: Average length – 13 inches with average abundance and excellent trophy potential.

Current regulation: 14-inch minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of five.

Access information: A newly renovated DNR managed boat launch is located on Genesee Lake Road.

Something of interest: Recent surveys showed Genesee Lake continues to show excellent largemouth bass size structure and abundance.   

 - Benjamin Heussner, Fisheries Biologist, Eagle

Weyauwega Millpond

Waupaca County

Lake size: 253 acres

Species population information: Average length 15.0 inches with above average abundance and largemouth bass sampled above 19.0 inches. Over 30% of the adult population is over 16.0 inches.  

Current regulation: 14-inch minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of five.

Access information:  Two different boat landings. Along with two different park access areas and fishing piers.

Something of interest: 2025 surveys showed Weyauwega Millpond has dense vegetation with above average abundance levels and high size structure of largemouth bass populations.

 - Elliot Hoffman, Fisheries Biologist, Shawano

Wazeecha Lake

Wood and Portage counties

Water size: 140 acres

Species population information: 46 largemouth bass were caught during the 2025 spring survey; the relative abundance was 10.5 and fish per mile and is just below the 75th percentile compared to similar lakes.  Largemouth bass ranged from 5.1 to 19.2 inches and mean length was 13.7 inches. 87.5% of the bass were 12 inches or larger, 45% were 15 inches or larger.  

Current regulation: The minimum length limit is 14 inches, and the daily bag limit is five.

Access information: Wazeecha Lake has one public boat landing and has ample shoreline fishing opportunities.  The South Wood County Park surrounds much of the lake.

Something of interest: Wazeecha Lake has smallmouth bass too, 13 fish were caught during the survey and the largest was 19.3 inches.

 - Jennifer Bergman, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Wisconsin Rapids

Back to Species Forecasts

SMALLMOUTH BASS

Upper Eau Claire Lake 

Bayfield County

Lake size: 1,030 acres 

Species population information: Upper Eau Claire Lake provides a quality smallmouth fishery. During a 2025 spring electrofishing survey crews sampled smallmouth at a moderate relative abundance of 6.2 per mile. Smallmouth ranged from 7-19 inches with 19% of the catch over 17 inches. Results from this survey indicate anglers should have a good opportunity for decent numbers of quality fish. 

Current regulation: The current smallmouth bass regulation on Upper Eau Claire Lake is an 18-inch minimum length limit and one fish daily bag limit during the open harvest season. 

Access information: There is a public access boat launch off Island Rd in the Town of Barnes. 

Namekagon River

Burnett, Sawyer and Washburn counties

River length: The Namekagon River flows through Sawyer, Washburn and Burnett counties. Smallmouth bass mostly are found from Hayward to the St Croix River confluence.

Species population information:  The Namekagon River is located in Northwest Wisconsin and offers great fishing for smallmouth bass.  Smallmouth bass are the most abundant gamefish in the river and can be found in most holes, eddies or chutes.  2025 surveys show an overall average length of 11.8 inches with bass up to 20.0 inches.  Twenty-one percent of the fish collected were over 14 inches.  

Current regulation: 14-inch minimum length limit, five fish bag limit

Access information: There are multiple canoe access points between Hayward and the St Croix River confluence.  

 - Craig Roberts, Fisheries Biologist, Spooner

Green Bay Waters

Door County

Species population information:  The smallmouth bass fishery along the Green Bay waters of Door County is well known for its outstanding abundance and robust size of fish. Although the 2025 creel data are not yet available, smallmouth bass angler targeted catch-per-effort has been at historically moderate levels the last three years and close to the previous 15-year average of 0.66 smallmouth caught per hour fished. The most recent smallmouth bass netting surveys of various populations around Door County indicate that catch-per-net-night of effort (a measure of relative abundance) has been relatively steady since the mid 2010s, but generally lower than measured in the surveys from the earlier 2000s. Overall, the Door County smallmouth meta-population abundance has been stable in recent years and trophy-sized fish continue to be there for the catching. 

Current regulation:  The rules vary by location and date; anglers should check the smallmouth fishing rules in the ‘Lake Michigan’ section as well as ‘Tributary Streams to Green Bay and Lake Michigan’ section of the regulation pamphlet for season and harvest rules. Important rule update: Anglers should note that a new rule, to be implemented in 2026, created a new catch and release season for all of Green Bay as well as the waters within 5 miles of Door County in Lake Michigan. This rule will extend the standard catch and release season until July 1.  

Access information:  There are many boat launches and shoreline access points in Door County. Anglers can go to: boat and shore access and Lake Michigan tributary access for a listing of some of the launches and access points in the area.  

Something of interest: Growth data for smallmouth bass populations in Sturgeon Bay in recent years indicate that fish can on average reach the 14-inch length limit within 3-4 years. Whereas, during the 1990s and early 2000s fish did not reach this length until they were 5-6 years old, on average.

 - Jason Breeggemann, Fisheries Biologist, Green Bay
 
 

Grant River

Grant County

River length: 43.85 miles but most of the best smallmouth bass fishing happens in the 15 miles downstream of the classified trout water.

Species population information: Wadable smallmouth bass surveys have described abundance of catchable adult-size fish (≥8”) having increased from 9.7 to 34.3 fish/mile between 2017 and 2024. Abundance of larger legal-size fish (≥14”) is still pretty limited and has showed a small increase from 2017 (0.6 fish/mile) to 2024 (1.4 fish mile). Compared to other streams, this stream still shows a very moderate smallmouth abundance. The percentage of catchable adult fish showing quality sizes or better (≥11”) has nearly doubled from 2017 (16% of population) to 2024 (30% of population). Smallmouth bass have even shown some expansion into upstream classified trout water portions of the Grant River.  Trout populations have also improved which could be a sign of improving habitat and water quality conditions.  

Current regulation: 14-inch minimum length limit with a five fish daily bag limit

Access information: Streambank easements mainly exist in the trout water portions of the stream but there several stream bank easements from STH 35 (Near Hackett Branch Confluence) and upstream.  Beyond this, public road right of ways represents the most available of options to access the stream.

Something of interest. Supported entirely through natural reproduction. Some of the best smallmouth fishing happens just downstream of the classified trout water in the Grant River. Often in areas with rocky streambeds and notable outcroppings along the stream corridor are where you can catch either smallmouth bass or large brown trout.  When water temperatures hit the low to mid 60s, larger brown trout will move into the higher quality habitats downstream of the classified trout reaches (downstream of CTH A Bridge).  That is usually a prime opportunity to catch both brown trout and smallies, and to see some really beautiful reaches of the river.

 - Tim Parks, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Dodgeville
 
 

Lake Alexander

Lincoln County

Lake Size:  677 acres

Species population information: Electrofishing and fyke netting surveys done in 2025 found a very high quality smallmouth bass population. For example, a single night of spring electrofishing by one boat produced 108 smallies ranging from 9-21 inches; 84% were over the 14-inch length limit with 26% and 9.9% over 18 inches and 19 inches, respectively. And these bronzebacks are filled-out footballs to boot!

Current regulation:  There is a minimum length limit of 14 inches with a daily bag of five for smallmouth and largemouth bass combined on Lake Alexander.

Access information: There are three public boat landings: one off of STH 107 and Forest Drive at Council Grounds State Park (state park sticker required) near the east side of the dam and downstream end of the flowage, another at the end of Lokemoen Road on the northeastern upstream portion of the flowage and one off of Sunset Drive in the southwestern portion of the flowage.

Something of interest: Impoundment on the “hardest working river” in the U.S. due to its 26 hydroelectric dams over the course of its 430-mile-long-length making it the longest river fully contained within one state (outside of Alaska) in the United States.

 - Dave Seibel, Fisheries Biologist, Antigo

Bolger Lake

Oneida County

Lake size: 115 acres. 

Species population information: An above average abundance smallmouth bass fishery was found in Bolger Lake during the 2025 survey. The increasing relative abundance of the smallmouth bass fishery provides opportunities at trophy-sized individuals with good action potential as total lengths of captured individuals varied between 2 and 21 inches. 

Current regulation: There is currently a minimum length limit of 14 inches with a daily bag of five for largemouth bass on Bolger Lake. 

Access information: Bolger Lake has a public ramp with ample parking on the Northeast end of the lake off Bolger Lake Road.

 - Nathan Lederman, Fisheries Biologist, Rhinelander

Oconomowoc River

Waukesha and Jefferson counties

River reach length: Approximately 17 river miles 

Species population information: Average length – 13.5 inches. 

Current regulation: 14-inch minimum length, daily bag limit of five 

Access information: Access sites include numerous highway and road crossings where right of way public access rules apply including South Concord Road, Hwy BB, Morgan Road, Hwy F and West River Drive. 

Something of interest: The Oconomowoc River provides excellent opportunities for paddlers and in some reaches wading can be productive. Clear water and abundant woody structure provide excellent habitat for smallmouth bass.

CATFISH

Rock River

Jefferson County

River length: A stretch of river totaling 3.3 river miles was surveyed between the towns of Ixonia and Ashippun.

Species population information: Based on the 2025 hoop netting survey data, this stretch of river provides an excellent channel catfish harvest opportunity for anglers. A total of 2115 channel catfish were sampled for a catch rate of 58.8 fish per net nigh, indicating a high abundance of channel catfish with modest size structure. The average channel catfish measured was 15.6 inches, however channel catfish up to 26 inches were sampled.

Current regulation: 10 catfish daily bag limit, no minimum length limit.

Access information: Kaul County Park, just off Hwy CW, provides shore fishing access as well as a public boat launch.

Something of interest: To maximize catch, hoop nets are baited when targeting adult channel catfish in rivers. Pressed soy cake, dry dog food and Zote soap have all been used as bait by fisheries crews in the southeast region of the state. For this survey on the Rock River, Zote soap was used for the first time with exceptional results. In addition to hoop netting, low pulse electrofishing was performed to target young of the year (YOY) channel catfish. By adjusting the pulse rate of DNR electrofishing boats, biologists are effective at capturing these small catfish that are usually only 1-3 inches long. After a quick measurement, the young catfish are safely returned to the river. The results of the 2025 low pulse electrofishing survey indicate that this stretch of river provides good spawning and nursery habitat for channel catfish. In total, 392 YOY catfish were sampled at a catch rate of 147.9 per mile of electrofishing.

- Andrew Notbohm, Fisheries Biologist, Horicon

Fox River

Racine County

River length: From the CTH JB Boat Landing upstream approximately 2.5 miles.

Species population information: During a 2025 hoop netting survey a total of 161 channel catfish and 4 flathead catfish were captured.  Channel catfish lengths ranged from 11.5 to 30.0 inches with an average length of 18.7 inches.  Flathead catfish lengths ranged from 27.8 to 42.0 inches with an average length of 35.3 inches.  Overall, this section of the Fox (IL) River offers a catfish population with average size structure but below average abundance.

Current regulation: The Fox (IL) River has a year-round open season for all gamefish except muskellunge, lake sturgeon, trout, paddlefish and threatened or endangered species. No minimum length limit and 10 fish total daily bag limit on catfish.

Access information: There is a boat landing with limited parking near the bridge at CTH JB (also known as Karcher Road or 31st Street). There are shore fishing opportunities at the CTH JB boat landing as well as at the end of Hoosier Creek Road.

Something of interest: There is a consumption advisory of no more than 1 meal a month on channel catfish from the Fox (IL) River, including Tichigan Lake.

 - Travis Motl, Fisheries Biologist for Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties

Back to Species Forecasts

GREAT LAKES SALMON AND TROUT

Lake Superior

Douglas, Bayfield, Ashland and Iron counties

COHO SALMON

Species population information: Coho salmon are a popular species targeted by anglers throughout Wisconsin waters of Lake Superior from Superior to Saxon Harbor. Coho salmon in Lake Superior are sustained by naturally reproducing stocks that spawn in the fall in many of the South Shore streams. Most cold-water tributaries to Lake Superior support coho salmon, from the large Brule River system to much smaller streams such as the Onion River or Fish Creek. Coho salmon harvest in 2025 was the highest on record for Wisconsin waters of Lake Superior. The 2022 cisco boom created prey conditions that were very favorable for coho salmon growth, which led to consistent catches of very large fish in 2023. Since then, the number of encounters with very large fish decreased in 2024 and 2025 back to more typical sizes for Lake Superior, but the total numbers of salmon produced has been impressive. We expect similar trends in the 2026 fishing season.

Current regulation: Five salmon in total, no minimum length limit.

Access information: Main access locations can be found in Superior, Port Wing, Cornucopia, Little Sand Bay, Red Cliff, Bayfield, Washburn, Ashland and Saxon, Wisconsin.

- Dray Carl, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Bayfield

Lake Superior

Douglas, Bayfield, Ashland and Iron counties

Species population information: Lake trout in Wisconsin waters of Lake Superior are predominately sustained by natural reproduction in the Apostle Islands. The 2025 fishing season was characterized with low recreational lake trout harvest, which was due to both lower-than-average catch rates and angling effort. Lake trout abundance and harvest in Wisconsin waters of Lake Superior have declined over the past couple years, likely due to lower levels of recruitment of young fish into the fishery and an inflated number of sea lamprey in the region. Sea lamprey are still a large component of lake trout mortality in Lake Superior, and lamprey control efforts are still critical for maintaining productive fisheries. The average length of harvested Lake Trout in Lake Superior is generally around 22-24 inches due to size regulations outlined below, but 35 and 40-inch trophy lake trout are sometimes encountered. July and August are the most popular months to troll for lake trout. As ice thickens into deeper areas of the Apostle Islands, anglers enjoy great lake trout ice fishing, or deep-water “bobbing”, in mid to late winter months. Our team continues to tag hundreds of Lake trout each year during surveys on the research vessel R/V Hack Noyes. So, if you ever come across a tagged lake trout in Lake Superior, be sure to relay the tag number to the Bayfield DNR Office to learn the often-fascinating history about the fish you just caught.

Current regulation: The lake trout season is open from December 1 through September 30. 15-inch minimum length limit, but only 1 over 25 inches. West of Bark Point (WI-1): bag limit of three; East of Bark Point (WI-2): bag limit of two. The season may be closed early if the annual quota is reached prior to September 30.

Access information: Main access locations can be found in Superior, Port Wing, Cornucopia, Little Sand Bay, Red Cliff, Bayfield, Washburn, Ashland and Saxon, Wisconsin.

- Dray Carl, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Bayfield

South Shore Tributaries

Douglas, Bayfield and Iron counties

River length: 2.4 miles

Species population information: The Lake Superior Fisheries Team continued annual stream surveys on a 1, 3 and 6-year rotation schedule across south shore tributaries up to the first impassable barrier to monitor long-term trends in stream resident brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), brown trout (Salmo trutta), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). A total of 2,084 trout and salmon were collected over 2.4 river miles and distributed across 14 streams. Two streams highlighted unique angling opportunities for a variety of cold-water fish species across urban and remote landscapes within the Lake Superior watershed. In Thompson Creek, adult brook trout density (greater than six inches) exceeded 200 fish per river mile, which is far above average compared to similar cold-water tributaries across the state of Wisconsin (90 percentile). In the Little Bois Brule River, adult brown trout density exceeded 328 fish per river mile, which is also above average across the state of Wisconsin (65 percentile).

Current regulation: Daily bag limit is five trout/salmon in total, only two of which may be brown trout over 15 inches and only one may be a rainbow trout. Minimum length limits include brook trout 8 inches, brown trout 10 inches, salmon species 12 inches and rainbow trout 26 inches. Each year, the lower river (Highway 2 to mouth) season opens the last Saturday in March through November 15 and the upper river (upstream of Highway 2) season opens on May 1 to Sept. 30^. 

Access information: There are a variety of canoe launches and public access points across the south shore of Lake Superior. Check out this website for details.

Something of interest: In Fall 2024, a 215-foot concrete box culvert and nearly 60,000 cubic yards of the surrounding soils were removed from Little Balsam Creek in Douglas County. The goal of this project was to restore connectivity of 4.5 miles of upstream Class 1 trout waters, continue efforts to protect and enhance brook trout habitat within the Lake Superior watershed and increase the ability to handle flooding. Historically, the culvert and embankment served one of the many railroad lines in northwest Wisconsin. The line was eventually abandoned and later became the Gandy Dancer State Trail, which is used throughout the year by snowmobiles, ATVs, bicyclists and others. A total of 576 feet of river channel was reconstructed and a 140-foot-long bridge was installed above the stream to maintain the existing trail corridor. This project was funded and supported by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Wisconsin’s Department of Administration, DNR St. Louis River Area of Concern program, DNR Fisheries, DNR Parks and Recreation and the Town of Summit. Check out this website for details.

- Sam Peterson, Fisheries Biologist, Superior

Lake Michigan and tributaries

Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan

CHINOOK SALMON

Species population information: The DNR stocked about 1.3 million Chinook salmon in 2025. During 2025 fall sampling, nearly 6,795 Chinook were processed for data at Strawberry Creek Salmon Spawning Facility in Sturgeon Bay. The sampled Chinooks ranged in age from 1-4 years and averaged 12.1 pounds. The average weight of age-3 female Chinooks in 2025 was 14.7 pounds based on known age-3 fish from fin clips at Strawberry Creek. This measure is down from recent years where average weights of age-3 female Chinook have been relatively large. The average weights peaked at 21.9 pounds in 2018 but have decreased yearly since (2024 was 17.0 pounds).

Current regulation: Open all year. Daily limit is five trout/salmon in total. Minimum length limit is 10 inches.

Access information: There are numerous boat and shore access locations to fish.

Boat and Shore Fishing Access

Fall Shore Fishing Close to Home - Michigan

Lake Michigan Tributary Access

Something of interest: Chinook salmon originating from Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and even Lake Huron mix throughout much of the year across the lake. As a result of this extensive movement and overlap, anglers are routinely catching Chinook salmon from a wide range of stocking and naturally reproduced origins rather than from a single state or source.

Lake Michigan and tributaries

Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan

STEELHEAD

Species population information: The DNR stocked over 515,000 steelhead in Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan in 2025. Over recent years, three strains of steelhead have been stocked into Wisconsin tributaries to expand opportunity for anglers, because the strains have different spawning run times. Skamania steelhead run from late summer through fall, Chambers Creek steelhead run from late fall through spring, and Ganaraska steelhead run in the spring. Currently, the fishery is largely comprised of Chambers Creek and Ganaraska steelhead, as the Skamania strain was discontinued in Wisconsin after 2008 due to fish health concerns but was reinstated on a limited scale in 2018-2019 but was stocked again in 2022. Four-year-old Skamania average 28 inches. The majority of spawning Skamania are four- and five-year-olds.  Four-year-old Skamania average 28 inches and 8 pounds while five-year-old fish average 32 inches and 12 pounds. The majority of Chambers Creek spawning adults are three- and four-year-old fish.  Three-year-olds average 25 inches and 6 pounds while four-year-olds average 29 inches and 9.5 pounds. Ganaraska returning adults average 23 inches at age 3 and 26 inches at age 4.

Current regulation: Open all year. Daily limit is five trout/salmon in total. Minimum length limit is 10 inches.

Access information: There are numerous boat and shore access locations to fish.

Boat and Shore Fishing Access

Lake Michigan Tributary Access

Something of interest: The total numbers of steelhead stocked by Wisconsin DNR increased from 350,000 in 2019 to 460,000 annually for 2020-2022, nearly 520,000 in 2023, and over 440,000 in 2024. Yearling steelhead that were stocked in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024 had an adipose fin clip and were tagged internally with a tiny 1-mm coded wire tag (CWT) as part of a cooperative and lake-wide program with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to evaluate wild production, movements, growth and stocking practices. If you harvest a steelhead that is missing its adipose fin, please see catching a tagged fish to learn more about the program and find DNR or cooperating business drop off locations for steelhead snouts.

Green Bay and tributaries

Marinette, Oconto and Door counties

BROWN TROUT

Species population information: Brown trout fishing season occurs year-round, with some of the best fishing in Green Bay happening in early spring when fish are moving into warmer nearshore waters to feed. Trolling for brown trout in summer months is also popular, while stream anglers can find success as fish move into the tributaries in October and often remain through the winter. Wisconsin exclusively stocks Seeforellen (German) strain brown trout into lakes Superior and Michigan. This strain of brown trout originated in alpine lakes in Germany. Wisconsin first obtained eggs from the state of New York in the early 1990s and has been propagating the Seeforellen strain for over 35 years. Each fall, crews collect a sample of adult brown trout from the Kewaunee, Root and Milwaukee Rivers. Fish are brought to the Besadny Anadromous Fish Facility in Kewaunee, where eggs are collected weekly in November and early December when the fish are ripe. Fertilized eggs are brought to hatcheries where the majority are raised to yearlings and stocked in the spring. The catch and harvest estimates for open water Green Bay brown trout in 2024 was 5,163 (catch) and 3,459 (harvest) during open water creel which was conducted from March 1 to October 31, 2024. This was the highest harvest recorded since 2005. Green Bay comprised 38% of the total brown trout harvest for Lake Michigan in 2024 (Lake Michigan total: 9,183 fish), followed by Milwaukee County (23%) and Ozaukee County (12%). The 2025 catch and harvest estimates will be available by spring of 2026.

Current regulation: Open all year. Daily limit is five trout/salmon in total. Minimum length limit is 10 inches.

Access information: Anglers can troll for browns in the spring and summer months. There are numerous boat access locations along the shores of Green Bay. Check out this website for details.

Brown trout make fall migratory runs into the Menominee, Peshtigo and Oconto Rivers. From late September into the winter months, shore anglers may have luck catching browns in these major tributaries. Visit the website to find detailed tributary access information.

Lake Michigan and tributaries

Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan

LAKE TROUT

Species population information: Lake Michigan provides fantastic fishing opportunities for lake trout, supported by stocking and natural reproduction. A total 14,636 lake trout were harvested in 2024 lake wide. Anglers from Kenosha to Sheboygan reported high catches of lake trout, accounting for 74% of the total lake trout harvest for Wisconsin in Lake Michigan for 2024. The average length of a lake trout caught by anglers was 26 inches. Every fall, the Wisconsin DNR conducts a lake trout spawning survey on two nearshore reefs near Milwaukee. In 2025, 169 lake trout were caught in these surveys, and the average lake trout caught was 31 inches.

Current regulation: The lake trout season on Lake Michigan and tributaries is open year round with a daily bag limit of five in total with other trout and salmon and a minimum length limit of 10 inches. The Mid-Lake Reef Complex is a refuge for lake trout. No lake trout may be targeted or possessed within the boundaries of the Mid-Lake Reef Complex.

Access information: There are numerous boat and shore access locations to fish.

Boat and Shore Fishing Access

Fall Shore Fishing Close to Home - Michigan

Lake Michigan Tributary Access

Something of interest: The average age of a lake trout captured in Wisconsin DNR surveys is 9 years old, while the oldest lake trout captured in surveys was a 38-year-old fish captured in Fall 2022.

Back to Species Forecasts

INLAND TROUT

Elk Creek

Chippewa County

Stream length: The majority of Elk Creek is located in southwest Chippewa County, but it flows south into Eau Claire County for a short stretch prior to entering Dunn County and ultimately empties into the Chippewa River.  There are 12 miles of Class I trout water from the headwaters to Elk Creek Lake which offers excellent trout fishing opportunities especially for anglers looking to harvest trout.  

Species population Information: The trout populations in Elk Creek are composed of approximately 90% brown trout and 10% brook trout.  Brook trout are mainly found in the upper reaches of the stream while brown trout can be found throughout.  There are stretches that contain as many as 1,000 brown trout over 8 inches per mile, but trout over 14 inches are relatively rare due to the high density of smaller trout.  However, trout over 18 inches exist in Elk Creek.  Anglers are encouraged to harvest moderate sized trout to free up limited resources to improve growth rates of the remaining trout. 

Current regulation: The daily bag limit is five trout and there are no minimum length limits

Access information: There are public access fishing easements and trout habitat improvement projects on Elk Creek located throughout Chippewa County.  
 
- Joseph Gerbyshak, Fisheries Biologist, Eau Claire

Rowan Creek

Columbia County

BROWN TROUT

Stream segment: Approximately 2.7 stream miles from the bridge on Loveland Rd. downstream to the Highway 51 bridge near Poynette. 

Species population information: Rowan Creek is a Class 1 and 2 trout stream that contains a naturally reproducing brown trout population. 2025 stream electrofishing surveys found an abundant population in this stretch of stream with an average of 2,405 brown trout/mile which is in the 90th percentile for the region. Abundance of adult trout over 8 inches averaged 494 trout/mile and fish over 12 inches averaged 114 trout/mile which are both in the 75th percentile. Brown trout in these surveys ranged in length from 2.1-19.2 inches with an average length of 7.6 inches. 

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of three, 8-inch minimum length limit and no gear restrictions. 

Access information: Nearly this entire segment of stream lies within the Rowan Creek Fishery Area with designated parking areas at Loveland Road, Tomlinson Road, South East Street and Highway 51 East of Poynette. 

Something of interest: Rowan Creek Fishery Area is a 651-acre property located a mile east of Poynette on US Hwy 51 and two miles west of Poynette on County Hwy CS in Columbia County and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, hunting, trapping, hiking and cross-country skiing. Several habitat projects in 2011 and 2015 were completed which involved bank stabilization and instream habitat structures such as boulders and lunker structures.  

 - Casey Weber, Fisheries Biologist, Poynette

Black Earth Creek

Dane County

BROWN TROUT

Stream length: 20.13 miles of Class 1 trout water. 

Species population information: Black Earth Creek is a Class 1 trout stream that contains a naturally reproducing brown trout population. One of the 2025 stream electrofishing surveys was done at H.M. Zander Community Park. This stretch had an average of 1,008 brown trout/mile which is in the 65th percentile for the state. Abundance of adult trout over 8 inches averaged 650 trout/mile and fish over 12 inches averaged 125 trout/mile which are both in the 75th percentile statewide. Brown trout in this survey ranged in length from 2.8-18.2 inches with an average length of 8.9 inches. 

Current regulation: USH 14 (east side of Mazomanie) upstream to South Valley Road; One trout over 18”. All other trout waters; daily bag limit of three, 8-inch minimum length limit and no gear restrictions. 

Access information: This entire H.M. Zander Community Park section lies within public property owned by the Village of Cross Plains with a parking area off of Main Street. The rest of Black Earth Creek also has numerous public accesses due to Black Earth Creek Fishery Area, easements and several public parks along it’s shoreline.  

Something of interest: Since the 1950s several millions of dollars have been invested to restore and protect Black Earth Creek with pollution control projects, habitat improvements and land acquisition by several agencies and organizations. Including a re-meandering habitat project in 2013 by the Village of Cross Plains and DNR at the H.M. Zander Community Park section of the creek highlighted above.  

 - Kyle Olivencia, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Fitchburg

Trout Creek

Iowa County

Stream length: 9.17 miles 

Species population Information: Trout Creek in Iowa County hosts a population of both brook and brown trout. Currently the portion of stream upstream from the dry dam is managed for brook trout and currently undergoing a brook trout restoration effort. Over the last two years, brown trout have been captured and removed from the upstream portion and relocated downstream. At the same time, stocking efforts have been underway to increase the brook trout population. Brown trout are managed below the dry dam and recent relocation efforts have increased the population at this site. Recent surveys estimated the brown trout population along the downstream portions at 508 brown trout per mile, near the median value for all brown trout populations statewide. Trout Creek has plentiful access, flowing through 963 acres of Trout Creek Fishery Area. In the coming years, anglers can expect the brook trout population along the upstream reaches to increase and provide diverse trout fishing opportunities throughout Trout Creek. 

Current regulation: Upstream from the dry dam: five trout in total; all brook trout caught must be immediately released; brown and rainbow trout – no minimum length. Below the dry dam: five trout in total of any length.

Access information: Trout Creek flows through a total of 963 acres of DNR owned fee title property.

 - Justin Haglund, Fisheries Biologist, Dodgeville

Tank Creek

Jackson County

Water length: Class I trout stream, 6.6 miles long. 

Species population Information: Tank Creek offers anglers a mixed fishery of brook and brown trout. Browns make up a larger proportion of the fishery and offer an action fishery with trophy potential. 2025 survey results documented 21 brown trout 14” or greater per mile with 5 brown trout 18” or greater per mile. The largest brown sampled in 2025 measured 18.8”. 

Current regulations: The fishing regulation is a five trout daily bag limit with no minimum length limit. 

Access information: Fishing access occurs along multiple road crossings near Hixton and in the Tank Creek Fishery Area northwest of Black River Falls.

 - Zach Woiak, Fisheries Biologist, Black River Falls

Stocked Waters

Langlade County

• Crooked Lake:14 acres. Small boat landing. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.
• Jack Lake: 86 acres. Boat landing (electric motors only). Stocked with large fingerling, wild strain brown trout.
• Rogers Lake: 14 acres. Walk-in access. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.
• Townline Lake: 16 acres. Boat landings. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.

Lincoln County

• Ament Lake: 16 acres. Walk-in access. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.
• Henson Lake: 6 acres. Small boat landing. Stocked with large fingerling rainbow trout
• Larson Lake: 12 acres. Walk-in access. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.
• Moraine Lake: 10 acres. Walk-in access. Stocked with yearling rainbow trout.
• Tahoe Lake: 7 acres. Walk-in access. Stocked with large fingerling rainbow trout.

Species population information: These lakes, with the exception of Jack Lake in Langlade County, are managed as “put-and-take” trout fisheries and not necessarily for quality size or carry-over of trout from one year to the next. They are stocked annually with domestic strain trout, either with yearling trout in the spring, or large fingerling trout in the fall.

Current regulations: There is no minimum length limit, and the daily bag limit is five trout. The fishing season on these stocked lakes is from the first Saturday in May through the first Sunday in March of the following year. As such, ice fishing for trout is allowed on these lakes during their open season. An inland trout stamp is required for all anglers aged 16 and above.

Access information: These lakes are all on county forest lands in their respective counties and are open to the public. The type of access is briefly noted in the individual lake descriptions above.

Something of interest: Please avoid confusing these stocked lakes managed for trout fishing with spring ponds that contain wild and native brook trout with seasons that close after October 15 each year.

- Dave Seibel, Fisheries Biologist, Antigo

South Branch Pemebonwon 

Marinette County

Brook trout

Water size : Class 1 = 22 miles; Class 2 = 9 miles

Species population information: The fishery is maintained by natural reproduction.

Current regulation: no minimum length limit and a 5 fish daily bag limit.

Access information: Multiple road crossings and public land provide excellent access.

- Chip Long, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Peshtigo

Eau Galle River

Pierce and Dunn counties

Water size: 27 miles of Class II trout water

Species population information: The Eau Galle River is a large trout stream flowing through northeastern Pierce County and southern Dunn County were it enters the Chippewa River. The river contains a moderate density brown trout fishery and low-density brook trout population. Brown trout densities have been increasing during the past several years due to increases in natural reproduction. In 2025, total brown trout densities were 2,043 per mile near Elmwood while adult brown trout densities were 1,236 per mile. As for larger fish, densities of brown trout larger than 12 inches were 175 fish per mile which is in the 90th percentile for Class II Driftless Area streams. There were also 19 fish per mile larger than 15 inches (85th percentile). Harvest of brown trout is encouraged!

Current regulation: No minimum length limit but only one trout may be over 12 inches, daily bag limit of five fish.

Access information: There are several access points via bridge crossings on the river from Spring Valley downstream of Elmwood. There are streambank easements located off of CTH B, STH 128 and CTH P. There is also a town park in Spring Valley off of STH 29. 

Something of interest: The Eau Galle River was previously reliant on stocking of brown trout to provide a fishery but recent increases in natural reproduction have shown there is no longer a need for stocking. Stocking of brown trout ceased in 2020. 

 - Kasey Yallaly-Senior Fisheries Biologist, Baldwin

Tomorrow River

Portage County

Surveyed river location and length: Clementson Road upstream 0.96 miles; 0.85 miles upstream to Nelsonville

Species population information: A very high-density brown trout population with low to moderate size structure is present in the upper Tomorrow River which offers anglers an action fishery with NO lack of harvest opportunity. During the 2025 electrofishing surveys, brown trout relative abundance was very high at both survey sites and appears to be increasing since the early 2010s. At Clementson Road relative abundance of brown trout was 886/mile ≥4 inches, 212/mile ≥10 inches and 61/mile ≥12 inches. At Nelsonville relative abundance of brown trout was 1,163/mile ≥4 inches, 236/mile ≥10 inches and 56/mile ≥12 inches.

Current regulation: Amherst Dam upstream to Clementson Road: Daily bag limit of two trout over 12 inches and only artificial lures may be used. Upstream from Clementson Road: Daily bag limit of three trout in total; minimum length limit for brown and rainbow trout is 12 inches and for brook trout is 8 inches.

Access information: Numerous access points and public parking areas available for trout anglers, especially throughout the Richard Hemp Fishery Area and along stream-crossings from public roads.  Additionally, there is a boat launch where trout anglers can access the Amherst Millpond portion of the Tomorrow River.

Something of interest: Populations of brown trout upstream of the Amherst Dam are entirely self-sustained through natural reproduction. Brook trout occur above the Amherst Dam, but their population has been steadily declining since 2017.

 - Lucas Koenig, Fisheries Biologist, Wausau

Knapp Creek

Richland County

Stream length: 18.35 miles (Class 1 water)

Species population Information: Knapp Creek continues to support a productive brown trout fishery throughout. This stream is classified as Class 1 trout water with excellent natural reproduction, recruitment and a fishable adult population. Upper Knapp Creek contained the highest abundance of trout with an average of 1,327 total trout per mile based on four sites surveyed. Knapp Creek upstream of County Highway U hosted the highest abundance of trout with a total of 2,548 brown trout per mile. Knapp Creek hosts a plethora of public access and fishing opportunities for those who wish to get off the beaten path and explore the vast countryside of Richland County. 

Current regulation: Upstream from STH 171: Five trout in total; no minimum length limit but only one fish may be over 12”. Upstream from CTH F at Excelsior to STH 171: Two trout over 12”.

Access information: 6.8 miles of Knapp Creek flow through a total of 132 acres of DNR-owned fee title property and streambank easements.

 - Justin Haglund, Fisheries Biologist, Dodgeville

West Branch Red River

Shawano County

River length: 29 miles of river located in northwest Shawano County, which eventually flows into the Red River.  

Species population information: Nearly the entire portion of the West Branch Red River is Class I trout water. Brook trout were the only species of trout sampled in the West Branch of the Red River. There are portions of stream which showed over 1,000 brook trout per mile of stream. Over all sites sampled, there are 69 brook trout > 8 inches per mile of stream. Several brook trout were sampled over 10 inches, with the largest fish measuring 14.9 inches.  

Access information: There are 12 different road crossings on the West Branch Red River, which give access for fishing opportunities.  

 - Elliot Hoffman, Fisheries Biologist, Shawano

Nichols Creek

Sheboygan County

Stream segment length: 4.3 miles of Class I brown/brook trout waters. 

Species population information: 2025 surveys collected 91 brown trout for a catch rate of 1,046 fish per mile which ranks in the 85th percentile of class I brown trout waters. Fourteen brown trout were captured over 8 inches for a catch rate of 161 fish >8 inches per mile of stream (70th percentile) with a few fish over 10 inches also being encountered. Nichols Creek also has a naturally recruiting brook trout population thought it is in a relatively low abundance but does provide a fishery. 

Current regulations: Five trout in total; brown trout and rainbow trout no minimum length, all brook trout caught must be immediately released. 

Access information: The best access can be found from the parking area off County Road N at the Nichols Creek State Wildlife Area. 

Something of interest: Nichols Creek State Wildlife Area is a 612-acre public property that consists of the cold-water seeps and springs that create the fishery found on Nichols Creek. The property is great for trout fishing but also can be used for other outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking. 

 - Drew Wallace, Fisheries Biologist, Plymouth

Coon Creek

Vernon County

Water size: 12.9 miles of class II trout water from Coon Valley to Chaseburg and 13.8 miles of class III trout water from Chaseburg to Stoddard.

Species population information: Coon Creek supports a moderate density brown trout population sustained by natural reproduction. In 2025 Wisconsin DNR completed population estimates at five sites on Coon Creek using an inflatable raft electrofishing unit. Densities of brown trout decreased from upstream to downstream, with the high densities occurring near Coon Valley (1,795 brown trout per mile), moderate densities near Chaseburg (792 brown trout per mile) and lower densities downstream (242 brown trout per mile). Most trout were between 8 and 14 inches, but several large (i.e. >16”) were captured, with the largest trout measuring 25”.

Current regulation: Bag and length limit: Five trout in total of any length. Harvest season: First Saturday in April at 5:00 a.m. to Oct. 15. Catch and Release Season: First Saturday in January to First Saturday in April all trout shall be immediately released. Only artificial lures may be used.

Access information: Coon Creek is accessible through multiple road crossings and extensive DNR streambank easements between Coon Valley and Stoddard. Easement locations can be viewed through the Wisconsin DNR’s “Public Access Lands” map.

Something of interest: Warm water species, such as northern pike, largemouth bass and walleye are occasionally captured near the stream's confluence with the Mississippi River.

Timber Coulee Creek

Vernon County

Water size: 11.3 miles of class I trout water 

Species population information: Timber Coulee Creek supports an abundant brown trout population sustained by natural reproduction. Since 2008, the DNR has annually surveyed Timber Coulee Creek using electrofishing equipment. In 2025, catch rate of age one and older brown trout (i.e., 5.5 inches and larger) was high, at 1,815 fish per mile. Size structure was moderate to good, with 54% of brown trout over 9 inches and the largest brown trout captured measuring 18 inches.

Current regulation: All trout caught must be immediately released. Catch and release season begins first Saturday in January and ends on October 15th.

Access information: Timber Coulee is accessible through multiple road crossings and extensive DNR streambank easements near Coon Valley. Easement locations can be viewed through the DNR’s “Public Access Lands” map.

Something of interest: Timber Coulee brown trout are the source population for all feral/wild brown trout stocking that occurs in Wisconsin.
 
 

Bluff Creek

Walworth County

Water Length: Bluff Creek is approximately 2 miles of Class I and II trout waters from its confluence with Whitewater Creek upstream to its headwaters.

Species population information: A 2025 electrofishing survey upstream of CTH P yielded an average length of 10.4 inches, with a maximum length of 16.6 inches. The catch rate from that survey was 642.2 trout per mile which ranks it around the 80 percentile when compared with all other Class II brown trout waters statewide. Overall, the 2025 survey data indicates high quality size structure and above average abundance for a Class II brown trout stream.

Current regulation: Bluff Creek has a daily bag limit of two, minimum length limit of 12 inches, and no gear restrictions.

Access information: Bluff Creek is almost entirely encompassed by Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit and Bluff Creek State Natural Area. A parking lot can be found near its crossing with CTH P.

Something of interest: Covering more than 22,000 acres of forested glacial hills, kettle lakes and prairies, the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is interlaced with more than 100 miles of mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking and nature trails. Paddling, boating, swimming, fishing, hunting and winter sport opportunities are all available. There are three family campgrounds, a horse riders camp, two group camps and remote backpack shelters on the Ice Age Trail.

Back to Species Forecasts

LAKE WHITEFISH

Lake Superior

Ashland and Bayfield counties

Species population information: Lake whitefish are an important component of the recreational fishery in Chequamegon Bay and the Apostle Islands region of Lake Superior. Popularity, as well as harvest, of lake whitefish in the shallow-water ice fishery and open-water jigging fishery has increased over the past decade and remains a species of primary management interest for DNR and tribal and federal partners. The lake whitefish population in this region remains in good standing after we observed increases in population abundance throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The average length of lake whitefish harvested in Lake Superior is generally around 18 to 19 inches with several measuring over 25 inches each year. Lake whitefish that primarily reside within Chequamegon Bay grow faster than those that primarily live in the Apostle Islands. The average-sized lake whitefish caught in Chequamegon Bay are often 10 years of age or older with whitefish up to 25 years old are often observed in the area.

Current regulation: Daily bag limit of 10 with no length limit. There is a year-round open season.

Access information: Popular public access points for this fishery include Second Landing and Kreher Park in Ashland; Washburn Coal Dock and Washburn Marina; Bayfield Municipal Boat Landing and Legendary Waters Boat Ramp in Red Cliff.  

 - Dray Carl, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Lake Superior

Green Bay Waters

Door, Kewaunee and Brown counties

Species population information: Lake whitefish have continued to provide much of the action for ice anglers on Green Bay since the advent of this unprecedented fishery nearly 20 years ago. The bulk of the fishing takes place along the east shore at various locations south of Sturgeon Bay, although some areas along the west shore provide action as well. While catch rates have been at historically low levels in recent years, partially due to poor ice conditions, the overall population is still considered robust, and anglers will continue to see considerable numbers of fish from the year classes hatched in the mid to late 2010s.   

Current regulation:  The bag limit for lake whitefish is 10 fish with no length limit.

Access information: There are a number of access points. Anglers can go to: Boat and shore access and Lake Michigan tributary access for a listing of some of the access points in the area.  Anglers are advised to check ahead locally for ice conditions before venturing out.   

North Nokomis Lake

Oneida County

Lake size: 470 acres. 

Species population information: A strong cisco population was found in North Nokomis. The 2025 survey found catch rates of 128 per gill net night which is an increase from the 33 per gill net night that was found in 2014. Sizes of measured cisco varied between 3” to 11”. 

Current regulation: There is no minimum length limit and the daily bag limit is 10 for cisco on North Nokomis. 

Access information: North Nokomis has a public ramp with ample parking on the Southeast end of the lake off Hwy D.

 - Nathan Lederman, Fisheries Biologist, Rhinelander

NORTHERN PIKE

Meder Lake

Ashland County

Lake size: 135 acres

Species population Information: Meder Lake provides a good northern pike opportunity just south of Mellen. During a 2025 spring electrofishing survey, 26 northern pike were surveyed at a moderate rate of 12.1 per mile and ranged in length from 17.7 to 25.7 inches, with an average length of 21.8 inches. 

Access Information: Anglers can access Meder Lake via the public boat launch on Meder Lake Boat Landing Road.

Long Lake

Fond du Lac County

Lake size: 423 acres 

Species population information: A 2025 comprehensive survey on Long Lake captured a total of 562 northern pike for a catch rate of two fish per net night in fyke net surveys. The catch rate puts it near the 75th percentile for lakes with similar characteristics in the state. The average length of northern pike sampled was 18 inches with the largest measuring 37 inches. Thirty-five percent of northern pike sampled were over 21 inches and four percent were also over 28”. This high abundance northern pike fishery can provide good action for anglers who are looking to catch numbers of fish but also provides the opportunity of catching a trophy fish. 

Current regulation: Five northern pike and no minimum length limit. 

Access information: There is one public boat ramp located in the Long Lake Recreation Area in the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit. There is ample shoreline access that can be found within the recreation area as well for bank anglers. A state park pass is needed to use the boat ramp as well as recreate through the Kettle Moraine State Forest. 

Something of interest: Located in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit, it is a great place to spend a weekend camping within Long Lake Recreation Area as you explore angling opportunities on Long Lake as well as other lakes found nearby. And if you want to find an outdoor activity outside of fishing while visiting, many hiking and biking trails are found nearby to explore the Kettles as well as part of the renowned Ice Age Trail. 

 - Drew Wallace, Fisheries Biologist, Plymouth

Lake Wausau

Marathon County

Lake size: 1,918 acres; Downstream boundary: Rothschild Dam; Upstream boundary: Wausau Hydroelectric Dam

Species population information: During the 2025 comprehensive survey 1,338 northern pike were captured. They ranged in length from 10.9 to 40.7 inches with an average length of 23.9 inches. Their relative abundance has steadily increased since the early 2000s. Relative abundance in 2025 was very high and was well above the 90th percentile lake class standard for similar lakes in Wisconsin. The population in Lake Wausau was estimated to be 6,930 northern pike (3.6/acre). Although the northern pike density was estimated to be high, the overall size structure of their population was good and two fish were captured that were over 40 inches.

Current regulation: Open all year; No minimum length limit; Daily bag limit of five fish

Access information: Boat access: Oak Island Park boat ramp, Memorial Park boat ramp, D.C. Everest County Park boat ramp, Big Rib River Access boat ramp (Gulliver’s Landing), Bluegill Bay County Park boat ramp, Schofield Dam boat launch, Kort Street boat launch. Shore access: All access locations listed above also provide shore access. Riverside Park, Isle of Ferns Park, Rookery View Park, Radtke Park and Rothschild Pavilion (Park Street)

Something of interest: Lake Wausau is one of two waterbodies in the state where the black redhorse can be found, which is listed as endangered in Wisconsin. Since they live alongside other similar looking redhorse species, it is important to protect all redhorse species within Lake Wausau.

- Lucas Koenig, Fisheries Biologist, Wausau

Lake Tomah

Monroe County

Lake size: 245 acres. 

Species population information: Lake Tomah is an impoundment on the South Fork of the Lemonweir River in the city of Tomah. Though shallow, Lake Tomah supports a high-density northern pike fishery with trophy potential. Northern pike catch per effort was high, 15 fish per net night, with 36% of captured fish 28 inches or greater. Multiple fish over 40 inches were captured with the largest reaching 45 inches. 

Current regulation: Daily bag is one northern pike 40 inches or greater. 

Access information: There are four boat landings and two public parks along the shoreline, which is entirely owned by the city of Tomah, to accommodate public use. 

Something of interest: Lake Tomah underwent a successful rotenone treatment to eradicate common carp. Return weed growth has helped support the northern pike population described above.

White Potato Lake

Oconto County

Lake size: 1,023 acres.

Species population information: The 2025 population estimate for pike was about 0.5 adults/acre. That may not sound like a lot but the spring fyke netting catch rate (3.8/net night) was better than 75% of other lakes within its classification. Pike averaged 24 inches and 25% were over 26 inches.

Current regulation: no minimum length limit and a five fish daily bag limit

Access information: Anglers can choose from six boat landings to access White Potato Lake.

Something of interest: The average depth of White Potato Lake is less than five feet. There is an ice fishing jamboree in January that draws a very large crowd.

Spring Valley Reservoir (Lake George)

Pierce and St. Croix counties

Lake size: 126 acres

Species population information: Spring Valley Reservoir contained an excellent northern pike population during the 2025 spring survey. Densities of pike were high and in the 90th percentile for pike in similar lakes across Wisconsin. Pike were found up to 43.1 inches while average length was 25 inches. Pike were in excellent condition and size structure was great, offering anglers a great trophy opportunity. 

Current regulation: No length limit with a five fish daily bag limit

Access information: A public boat ramp and fishing pier is located on the southwest side of the lake via the U.S. Army Corps Eau Galle Recreation Area. There is also an unimproved landing on the northeast side of the lake at Lousy Creek Landing. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake. 

Something of interest: The lake is completely surrounded by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers land offering public access to the lake as well as hiking, horse-back riding and camping opportunities. 

 - Kasey Yallaly, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Baldwin

Mirror Lake

Sauk County

Lake size: 139 acres.

Species population information: During a 2025 spring netting survey on Mirror Lake, 268 pike were handled with a catch per effort of five fish per net night. Pike ranged from 10.4 to 39.6 inches and the average length was 22.4 inches. Mirror Lake offers not only an abundant population of pike with an opportunity to harvest but also offers great trophy potential.

Current regulation: No minimum length, but northern pike from 25" to 35" may not be kept and the daily bag limit is five.

Access information: There are two boat landings on Mirror Lake located off Lakeview Rd. on the upper end of the lake and at Mirror Lake State Park along the eastern shoreline. There is also a small canoe/kayak access point on the upper end of the lake along Highway 23.

Something of interest: A large portion of the surrounding landscape is Mirror Lake State Park which allows access to miles of shoreline via its trail system.

- Casey Weber, Fisheries Biologist, Poynette

Spider Lake

Sawyer County

There’s something special happening in Spider Lake in Sawyer County and it means an extra exciting pike fishing experience on a beautiful lake. Northern pike are not native to Spider Lake, but they have been present now for about 30 years. A new research project is aiming to understand how northern pike interact with their cousin, the muskellunge, which are native to the lake. 

Species population Information: In 2024 we estimated there were 3,760 adult pike in the lake, or about two pike per acre of water. Anglers are encouraged to come help harvest those pike. The daily bag limit has been increased to 10 per day on this specific waterbody to aid those efforts (there is no length limit). As a bonus, there are 12 tagged northern pike in the lake that are being monitored by a DNR research team. Catching one of those pike, or one of the 28 tagged muskies, and reporting it to DNR can help with the overall study and we can share a wealth of information with anglers about what those fish have been up to, while also learning how to better manage both pike and muskellunge. Just look for the blue tag sticking out near their dorsal fin to know you've caught one! Instructions on what to do next are available at the public boat landing on West Elaine Drive.

 - Max Wolter, Fisheries Biologist, Hayward

Okauchee Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 1,257 surface acres

Species population information:  Northern pike are abundant in Okauchee Lake, a result from excellent natural reproduction. Fyke netting in early spring 2025 revealed a thriving pike population with excellent catch and release or harvest opportunities.
Average length – 21.1 inches

Current regulation: Northern pike slot size.  No minimum length limit, fish between 25 and 35 inches may not be kept, daily bag limit of two.

Access information: There are two public launches on Okauchee Lake found at the Golden Mast Restaurant and the DNR launch.  The DNR boat launch is located just east of the Okauchee Lake dam on Road T, north of Wisconsin Avenue.  The Golden Mast boat launch is located off of Lacy Lane north of East Wisconsin Avenue.

 - Benjamin Heussner, Fisheries Biologist, Eagle

Wazeecha Lake

Wood and Portage counties

Water size: 140 acres

Species population information: 195 northern pike were caught during the 2025 spring survey; the relative abundance was 2.4 fish per net night and is in the 50th percentile compared to similar lakes.  Northern pike ranged from 9.2 to 38.1 inches and average length was 21.0 inches. 45% of the northern pike were 21 inches or larger, 5% were 28 inches or larger and 2% were 34 inches or larger.  

Current regulation: The minimum length limit is 26 inches, and the daily bag limit is two.

Access information: Wazeecha Lake has one public boat landing and has ample shoreline fishing opportunities.  The South Wood County Park surrounds much of the lake.

Something of interest: Wazeecha Lake is a reservoir on Buena Vista Creek. Northern pike can be challenging to survey on these systems as they tend to migrate upstream to spawn in vegetation.

 - Jennifer Bergman, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Wisconsin Rapids

Back to Species Forecasts

PANFISH

Chetek Chain of Lakes

Barron County

Lake size: The Chetek Chain of lakes is 3,763 acres and consists of Prairie, Chetek, Tenmile, Pokegama and Ojaski lakes. 

Species population Information: These lakes are extremely productive with heavy algal blooms during the summer but consistently yield high-quality panfish. The Chetek Chain is a consistent producer of 7 to 9-inch bluegills and 8 to 11-inch crappies. Bluegill and crappie of trophy size are present. Numerous 10-inch+ bluegill were observed during the 2025 spring netting survey. 

Current regulation: Panfish populations in the Chetek Chain are managed with a 25 fish daily bag limit and no minimum length limit. 

Access information: There are 11 public boat landings throughout the Chetek Chain. There are also two public fishing piers on the Chetek Chain, one is at Brown’s Landing on Prairie Lake and the other is on the south end of Pokegama Lake off CTH D.

Cable Lake

Bayfield County

Lake size: 160 acres

Species population information: A recent spring electrofishing survey yielded 202 fish per mile, which is higher than 80% of other lakes of the same lake class surveyed in the last ten years. Anglers on Cable Lake have an opportunity of catching a good amount of decent sized bluegills as 53% of the fish captured in the survey were at or above 6 inches. 

Current regulation: Panfish regulations are a 25 fish bag limit. 

Access information: There is one public boat launch on Cable Lake. Largemouth bass, northern pike and black crappie are also present in good numbers and sizes offering anglers the opportunity for a quality multispecies trip.

Winnebago System

Calumet, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Outagamie, Shawano, Waushara, Waupaca and Winnebago counties

YELLOW PERCH

Lake size: The Winnebago system contains approximately 167,000 acres of open water.

Species population information: The 2025 Winnebago bottom trawl survey showed an above average adult yellow perch catch rate of 7.2/trawl, though catch was largely comprised of smaller individuals. The catch rate of preferable harvest-sized fish (greater than 9 inches) was above the survey average though notably lower when compared to the last three years of the survey. Winnebago system yellow perch continue to provide notable angling opportunity but have shown a decline to recent high abundance years. Young-of-year catch was the second highest on record at 15.8/trawl. The observation of high production is a good sign for the future of the fishery.  

 - Jason Kohls, Fisheries Biologist-Oshkosh

Mead Lake

Clark County

WHITE AND BLACK CRAPPIE

Lake size: 310 acres, maximum depth of 16 feet. 

Species population Information: A 2025 comprehensive survey documented a robust crappie fishery consisting of both white and black crappies. Multiple year classes are present and 23% of the crappies sampled measured 10 inches or greater with the largest measuring 16.7 inches. 

Current regulation: The panfish regulation is the statewide standard of 25 panfish/day with no minimum length limit.

Access Information: Access includes two public boat landings; one located on the south side of the lake along S. Lake Rd. and the other in the county campground on N. Lake Rd. 

 - Zach Woiak, Fisheries Biologist, Black River Falls 

Lake Altoona

Eau Claire County

YELLOW PERCH

Lake Size: 720 acres 

Species population information: The yellow perch population in Lake Altoona remains in a healthy state. According to fisheries survey data collected in spring of 2025, fyke net catch rates were as high as 4,000 perch per net with many fish over 12 inches. Yellow perch catch rates were so high in some locations, fyke nets were moved during the survey to limit the number of fish handled. Yellow perch up to 15 inches were captured, so there is potential for some truly special fish on Lake Altoona.  

Current regulation: Being close to Eau Claire, fishing pressure is high, so there is a 10-fish daily bag limit for panfish.

 - Joseph Gerbyshak, Fisheries Biologist, Eau Claire

Trude Lake

Iron County

Lake size: 786 acres. 

Species population information: Results from a 2025 spring electrofishing survey on Trude Lake suggest that bluegills offer anglers a quality opportunity. Bluegills were surveyed at a moderate rate of 137 per mile and ranged from 3.1 to 8.7 inches, 72% of which were larger than 6 inches. 

Access information: There is good access located just off of Popko Circle East or via water from the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage.  

Long Lake

Manitowoc County

Water size: 119 acres

Species population information: A total of 1,367 black crappies were caught in a spring 2025 fyke netting survey for a catch rate 57.0 black crappies per net night. A catch rate of 57.0 black crappies per net night ranks in the 96th percentile for lakes in Wisconsin, indicating high densities of black crappies can be found in Long Lake. The average length of black crappies caught in the fyke netting survey was 8.2 inches with black crappies ranging from 4.8 – 10.4 inches. Approximately 70% of the black crappie that were captured were ≥8.0 inches with 48% also being ≥9.0 inches. A total of 67 bluegill were caught in a spring 2025 electrofishing survey of Long Lake for a catch rate of 67.0 bluegill per mile of electrofishing. A catch rate of 67.0 ranks in the 46th percentile for lakes in Wisconsin, indicating moderate densities of bluegill can be found in Long Lake. The average length of bluegill captured in the electrofishing survey was 6.4 inches with bluegill ranging from 3.5 – 8.7 inches being captured. Furthermore, 31 bluegill (46%) that were ≥7.0 inches and six bluegill (9%) that were ≥8.0 inches were captured  

Current regulation: 25 panfish may be kept but no more than five may be bluegill.

Access information: One boat landing in a county park on the NE side of the lake. The county park also provides great shore fishing opportunities for both black crappies and bluegill in the spring.  

Something of interest: Both the DNR and private clubs have stocked walleyes into Long Lake. Since 2010, 2,408 large fingerling (average length of 7.4 inches) and 25,533 small fingerling (average length of 2 inches) walleyes have been stocked into Long Lake. Results from recent surveys show that Long Lake supports one of the higher density walleye fisheries in Manitowoc County lakes. Also, Long Lake in one of only a few lakes in the area that supports a population of yellow bass.

Green Bay

Marinette, Oconto, Door and Brown counties

YELLOW PERCH

Species population information: Open water harvest of yellow perch as estimated through creel surveys (May 20 to Oct. 31) in 2024 was 192,061 fish, up from 98,867 fish in 2023. The majority of the open water harvest was by boat anglers launching at ramps in Door and Kewaunee counties (39%), Oconto County (24%) and Brown County (17%). The majority of the open water harvested fish were age-2 (2022 year class; 40%) or age-3 (2021 year class; 39%), but ages from 1-7 were present. The mean length of open water harvested yellow perch was 9.3 inches. Guided trips on Green Bay reported a total harvest of 4,696 yellow perch in 2024. Open water harvest estimates for 2025 should be available by spring 2026.  Winter harvest is influenced largely by ice conditions, which can limit effort. Ice conditions in January and February 2025 were generally good but deteriorated by early March when access locations became muddy and cracks formed in the ice in parts of Green Bay proper. An estimated 63,486 yellow perch were caught, and 26,246 were harvested between January and March 14, 2025. This is up from to the previous winter (2024) of poor ice when winter harvest was estimated at 9,273 perch. Catch and harvest of yellow perch on Green Bay in summer and fall 2025 has been favorable and is forecasted to continue into 2026.  

Current regulation: Open May 20 to March 15. Daily limit is 15 yellow perch. No minimum length limit.  

Access information: There are dozens of boat and shore access locations to fish for yellow perch on Green Bay. Check out the following websites for more details and maps. Boat and shore fishing access and tributary access. 

Montello Lake

Marquette County

Lake size: 341 acres

Species population information: A recent spring electrofishing survey yielded 349 fish/mile which is a higher bluegill density than 90% of Wisconsin lakes of the same lake class surveyed.  Anglers on Montello Lake have an opportunity of catching a good amount of decent-sized bluegills as 44% of the fish captured in the survey were at or above 6 inches. Our largest fish sampled was 8.7 inches.  Bluegills in Montello Lake show above average growth with fish reaching 6 inches after 4.1 years.  Both black crappie and yellow perch are present with fishable numbers that fluctuate annually, but the survey done in 2024 doesn’t provide a good assessment of the population. 

Current regulation: The panfish regulation is the statewide regulation of no length limit with a daily bag limit of 25. 

Access information: There is one public boat launch on Montello Lake. Other species present are largemouth bass, northern pike, black crappie, pumpkinseed and yellow perch.  
 

Stella Lake

Oneida County

Lake size: 415 acres. 

Species population information: Above average abundances of bluegill and average abundances of black crappie and pumpkinseed were found in Stella Lake during the 2025 survey. Lengths of black crappie varied between 3.8 to 12.5 inches with the typical length around 8.5 inches. Lengths of bluegill varied between 2.3 to 8.4 inches with the typical length around 6.4 inches. Lengths of pumpkinseed varied between 4.8 to 8.1 inches with the typical length around 7.0 inches. 

Current regulation: There is no minimum length limit and the daily bag limit is 25 for panfish on Stella Lake. 

Access information: Stella Lake has a public ramp on the west end of the lake off Stella Lake Road.

- Nathan Lederman, Fisheries Biologist, Rhinelander

Thomas Lake

Portage County

Water size: 32 acres

Species population information: During the 2025 late-spring electrofishing survey, 53 bluegill, nine pumpkinseed, three yellow perch and one black crappie were captured. The bluegill population provides a low to moderate relative abundance of fish (captured/mile = 51), which is just above the 25th percentile lake class standard for similar lakes in Wisconsin. However, bluegill size structure was very good, with fish ranging from 1.2-9.6 inches and an average length of 6.4 inches (above the 95th percentile for its lake class). Bluegill size structure has substantially increased since the last surveys conducted in 2012, with 28% of all fish captured measuring ≥ 8 inches in 2025.

Current regulation: Open all year. No minimum length limit. Daily bag limit of 25 panfish

Access information: Thomas Lake Access (unimproved boat landing off Lake Thomas Road)

Something of interest: In the 1950s and 1960s, fish removals and chemical treatments (toxaphene) were conducted to remove and kill undesirable fish due to concerns of the overabundant panfish populations. Following these fish removals and chemical treatments, fisheries survey work determined the treatments to be unsuccessful. However, substantial water level fluctuations over the past few decades have completely changed the structure of the fish community, which now provides lower density panfish populations with very good size structure.

 - Lucas Koenig, Fisheries Biologist, Wausau

Waubeesee Lake

Racine County

Lake size: 139 acres

Species population information: A 2025 spring electrofishing survey yielded an average length of 5.4 inches and a maximum length of 8.1 inches for bluegill. In total, 36% of the bluegill measured were 6 inches or larger. Overall, the 2025 survey data indicates quality size structure and average abundance.  

Current regulation:  Daily bag limit 25 panfish, no minimum length limit.

Access information: A state-owned public boat launch on a channel leading to Waubeesee Lake is located at the intersection of Long Lake Drive and West View Drive.  

Something of interest: Waubeesee Lake has an average depth of 19 feet and a maximum depth of 73 feet.  Since 2015 Waubeesee Lake has been stocked with large fingerling walleye through the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative.

Sissabagama Lake

Sawyer County

Species population information: Panfish are one of the most popular targets for Sissabagama Lake anglers, with crappie leading the way. A 2024 survey found that the crappie population remained strong, with 84% of crappie captured being over 10 inches in length. Crappie are popular in both the summer and winter, but ice anglers should be mindful that it can be difficult to successfully release crappie caught from deeper water. Ice anglers are encouraged to harvest the fish they intend to keep and avoid fishing for crappie in deep water with the intent of releasing them. Recently, Sissabagama bluegill have been catching the attention of anglers and the DNR fisheries crew as well. The 2024 survey found 18% of all bluegill captured were over 8 inches. Bluegill can be found in weeds and shallower areas year-round. 

Current regulation: The bag limit for panfish in Sissabagama Lake is 10 per day (all panfish species combined). 

Access information: There is a public boat landing off of Hathaway Lane. 

 - Max Wolter, Fisheries Biologist, Hayward

 

Beaver Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 313 surface acres

Species population information:  Average length – 5 inches with maximum length of nearly 10 inches.  

Current regulation: No minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of 25 panfish in total.

Access information: Beaver Lake has a carry-in only public access located on Hwy 83 north of Hwy 16.  

Okauchee Lake

Waukesha County

Lake size: 1257 surface acres, maximum depth = 92 feet

Species population information:  Black crappies have excellent size structure with fish up to 14 inches captured during 2025 spring netting. Okauchee Lake has a diversity of aquatic plants and multiple shallow bays including Stumpy Bay and Icehouse Bay. Average black crappie length was 10.6 inches during spring fyke netting in 2025.

Current regulation: No minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of 25 panfish in total.

Access information: There are two public launches on Okauchee Lake found at the Golden Mast Restaurant and the DNR launch.  The DNR boat launch is located just east of the Okauchee Lake dam on Road T, north of Wisconsin Avenue.  The Golden Mast boat launch is located off Lacy Lane north of East Wisconsin Avenue.

Weyauwega Millpond

Waupaca County

Lake size: 253 acres

Species population information: Average length 5.8 inches with above average abundance and bluegill sampled up to 9.0 inches. Over 40% of the adult population is over 7.0 inches.2025 surveys showed Weyauwega Millpond has dense vegetation with above average abundance levels and high size structure of bluegill populations.

Current regulation: There is a daily bag limit of 25 panfish in total

Access information: Two different boat landings. Along with two different park access areas and fishing piers.

- Elliot Hoffman, Fisheries Biologist, Shawano

Upper and Lower Buckatabon lakes

Vilas County

Lake size:  846 combined acres

Species population Information: Upper and Lower Buckatabon lakes could be your next fishing destination if you like panfish. In 2025, data collected during spring surveys indicated a quality population of bluegill, pumpkinseed and black crappie. The average length of bluegills and pumpkinseeds captured during surveys was 6.8 inches, the largest collected was 9.3 inches and 42% were 7 inches or larger. Black crappie averaged 9.1 inches, the largest being 13.2 inches and 17% were 10 inches or larger. 

Current regulation: Season open all year with a bag limit of 25 panfish (bluegill, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, white and black crappie) in total. 

Access information/Interesting points: There is a very liberal bass regulation (no minimum length limit) and abundant largemouth bass population, so if you catch a largemouth bass while pan fishing you may consider keeping it for dinner. Upper Buckatabon has a great boat landing located on the south shore of the lake off East Buckatabon Road. The landing has sufficient parking, a vault toilet and a nice new pier. This access point is managed by Vilas County and there is a fee to launch.    

 - Eric Wegleitner, Fisheries Biologist, Vilas County

Back to Species Forecasts

LAKE STURGEON

Red Cedar River

Dunn County

Water size: 16 miles from Menomonie to Chippewa River confluence

Species population information: The Lower Red Cedar River contains a robust lake sturgeon population that will be open for catch and release fishing beginning in 2026. Monitoring surveys of the population have occurred annually since 2015 and have documented increases in catch rates of lake sturgeon in all size classes. An average of 50 fish are sampled annually below the Lake Menomin dam. In 2025, sturgeon ranged in length from 20 to 61 inches with an average length of 39 inches. All sturgeon captured are tagged with a pink floy tag at the base of the dorsal fin and an internal PIT tag for future tracking. Anglers are encouraged to report tagged fish by calling the phone number on the tag or contacting your local fisheries biologist.

Current regulation: Catch and release only.

Access information: There are several access points on the Lower Red Cedar River including a boat ramp at STH 25 in Menomonie. Shore fishing is also allowed from STH 25 up to the Lake Menomin dam and downstream of STH 25 through Riverside Park on the west side of the river. The Red Cedar State Trail runs parallel to the river down to Dunnville. Boat ramps are also present at Downsville, Dunnville and Durand.

Something of interest: Lake sturgeon likely spawn and naturally reproduce in the Red Cedar River. Lake sturgeon are a highly migratory species and tag reports from some fish that were tagged in the Red Cedar River have documented extreme movements. For example, a fish that was tagged in the Red Cedar River in 2018 was caught in the Rock River in Illinois in 2021 which would have resulted in it traveling at least 330 miles and passage through 13 locks and dams. It was then caught in Pool 13 of the Mississippi River in 2024 near Bellevue, Iowa!

- Kasey Yallaly, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Baldwin

Mississippi River

Pierce, Pepin, Trempealeau, La Crosse and Vernon counties (Pools 3-8 and top five miles of Pool 9)

Water size: 135 river miles, ~105,000 acres

Species population information: Wisconsin-Minnesota waters of the Mississippi River are home to an abundant lake sturgeon population that supports an extended catch-and-release season. With the right bait – good, old-fashioned nightcrawlers on the bottom, general location and a little patience, anglers can expect to catch sturgeon. Mississippi River DNR staff collaborated with two trained volunteer anglers in 2024 and 2025 to tag 268 lake sturgeon in 61 days, that’s an “average” catch rate of over four sturgeon per trip! Both anglers primarily fished tailwaters below locks and dams and the first 1-2 miles of river downstream. 148 Lake sturgeon captured on Pool 4 ranged from 17.5-64 inches and averaged 38 inches, 120 lake sturgeon captured on Pool 8 ranged from 16.8-51.3 inches and averaged 32 inches. On Pool 8 in 2025, catch rates and size structure in the tailwaters were relatively high during the first several weeks of the season, decreased substantially throughout summer and increased significantly post September. October catch rates exceeded two fish per angler hour! Unlike many traditionally targeted species lake sturgeon bite well, sometimes even better, after dark making them a perfect target for short fall days. Anglers are encouraged to report tagged fish to their local fisheries biologist.

Current regulation: Mississippi River from the Red Wing Dam upstream: catch-and-release only (0 daily bag), open season: June 16 – March 1. Mississippi River from the Red Wing dam downstream: catch-and-release only (0 daily bag), open season: June 16 – April 14. Wisconsin-Iowa boundary waters: No open season.

Something of interest: For being a large, benthic (bottom-dwelling) fish it may come as a surprise to some that lake sturgeon often jump after being hooked. Both small and large fish jump, sometimes in spectacular fashion coming almost entirely out of the water. I personally even had one jump into my boat during a fight!

- Evan Sniadajewski, Fisheries Biologist, La Crosse

Catch and Release Lake Sturgeon Season

Wisconsin anglers will have more opportunities to fish for lake sturgeon in the coming years now that a 9-month catch and release season has been established that runs from the first Saturday in June through the first Sunday in March on a subset of waters statewide (see table below).  This season will not be too much different from other border states such as Michigan and Minnesota that also have extended catch and release seasons for lake sturgeon on specified waters. Recently, the DNR conducted a hooking mortality study to determine if expanding angling opportunities would have negative biological effects on lake sturgeon populations. This study took place on multiple lake sturgeon fisheries throughout the state across a range of water temperatures. No lake sturgeon mortality was observed during the study. Additionally, the physiological impacts of angling on the test subjects were low. Most hooked sturgeon recovered immediately without impairment upon release. These results suggest that expanding the catch and release opportunities will have little, if any, negative impacts on lake sturgeon populations. Lake sturgeon surveys conducted by the DNR around the state show stable or increasing sturgeon populations in many waterbodies where lake sturgeon exist. Surveys also have shown populations expanding in waterbodies that previously had low or remnant lake sturgeon abundance. Hopefully Wisconsin anglers will take advantage of this unique opportunity of catching fish that may be older and larger than the angler on the other end of the line.

Table 1. Waters, including the upstream and downstream boundaries, that are available for catch and release lake sturgeon fishing. 

URBAN/COMMUNITY FISHING

Urban and Community Fishing Waters

Kenosha County: Anderson Park, Bong Children’s Pond
Milwaukee County: Brown Deer Park, Dineen Park, Estabrook Park, Franklin High School, Greenfield Park, Holler Park, Humboldt Park, Jackson Park, Juneau Park, Kosciuszko Park, McCarty Park, McGovern Park, Miller Park, Mitchell Park, Oak Creek Parkway, Saveland Park, Schoetz Park, Scout Lake, Sheridan Park, Washington Park, Wilson Park
Outagamie County: Appleton Memorial Pond
Ozaukee County: Harrington Beach Quarry, Mequon Rotary Park East and West, Pucketts Pond, Schowalter Park, Willow Brooke Park
Racine County: Gorney Park, Johnson Park, Lockwood Park, Pritchard Park, Quarry Lake, Reservoir Park
Rock County: Lions Park Pond
Sheboygan County: Kohler-Andrae State Park Pond, Sheboygan Quarry, Memorial Park, River Park Lagoon
Walworth County: Ceylon Lagoon, Congdon Park, Millpond Park Pond
Washington County: Boot Lake, Hartford Millpond, Homestead Hollow Park, Kewaskum Millpond, Regner Pond, Sandy Knoll Park, Wells Lake, Wiedenbach Park Pond
Waukesha County: Calhoun Park, Delafield Rearing Pond, Foxbrook Pond, Heyer Park North and South, Lapham Peak Pond, Lepper Dam Millpond, Lions Park-Overland, Menomonee Park, Minooka Park, Muskego Park, Nixon Park, Regal Park, and Woodfield North  
 

Lake size: Urban fishing waters are small lakes and ponds under 25 acres.

Species population information:  Ponds are stocked annually with rainbow trout from the state hatchery system.  Approximately 75,000 rainbow trout were stocked across these ponds in 2025.  The average length of a stocked fish is 8.5 inches.

Current regulation: Designated urban waters have a year-round season, no length limits, and a special season (March 14 through April 24, 2026) for juveniles 15 years of age and younger and certain disabled anglers. They also have a daily bag limit of three (3) trout, one (1) gamefish (largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, sauger, and northern pike), and ten (10) panfish (bluegill, crappie, pumpkinseed, yellow perch and bullhead)
 
Access information: Shore fishing opportunities are found at all urban ponds.  Stocking information is available seasonally on the Urban Fishing Hotline at 414-263-8494.

Kids clinics: Urban fishing waters are a great place to take kids fishing and in a typical year many host free kids fishing clinics for both ice fishing and open water.  For clinic information, visit the angler education page on the DNR website.  

 - Laura Schmidt, Fisheries Biologist, Milwaukee
 

Remington Pond – City of Antigo

Langlade County

Rainbow Trout, Panfish, Possibly Other Gamefish

Lake size: 5 acres

Species population Information: Stocked in the spring with yearling rainbow trout and in the fall with large fingerling rainbow trout for kids under the age of 16 and certain disabled adults. The Antigo Chapter of Trout Unlimited also periodically stocks larger trout for the kids and disabled adults to enjoy.

Current regulation: Open year around – no length limit, three trout per day, one bass or northern pike per day, 10 panfish (bluegill, sunfish, crappie, perch, bullhead) per day.

Access information: City of Antigo at the corner of Second Avenue and North Hogan Street. There is a disabled accessible fishing dock off of North Hogan Street and the entire shoreline is owned by the city of Antigo and is mowed and available for shoreline fishing opportunities

Something of interest: This pond is managed as part of our “Urban Fishing Program” and intended to give kids under the age of 16 and certain disabled adults a safe, fun, and nearby place to fish and enjoy outdoor activities. Please follow the posted age and fishing regulations to ensure that this opportunity can remain for these kids and disabled adults.

- Dave Seibel, Fisheries Biologist, Antigo

Back to Top