FISHING WITH THE GUIDES with George Langley - WEEK OF 2/22/26 to 3/1/26

After that stretch of Spring-like sunshine and warmth, we were reminded quickly last week that winter still has a firm grip up here. Recent snowfall freshened things up across the Eagle River and greater Vilas County area, and out on the ice we’re seeing a mix of firm travel lanes and softer, snow-covered stretches off the beaten path. There are some challenges with drifting and access now. With all the snow we’ve gotten and considering the time of the year, that’s to be expected. It’s still generally fantastic out there, but be prepared for surprises.

Ice thickness reports are running 22 up to 30” on most area lakes. Looking ahead to the coming week, we’re expecting more typical late-February conditions with cooler temperatures settling back in after that brief warm-up. This should help firm up any sloppy areas created by the recent snow, but it may also tighten fish activity windows. And there’s talk in the weather of more snow mid-week. Staying flexible with location and timing will be key as we close out the game fishing season.

Walleye action has settled into a late-season pattern. The bite continues to favor low-light windows, with the most consistent activity coming right at dusk and into the first hour or two after dark. Fish are holding along deeper weed edges in about 15–20’, with some anglers finding better marks just off those first breaks, into 25–30’ flats on stable days. Set lines with medium shiners or suckers. Jigging spoons and glide baits tipped with minnow heads will still trigger fish, but patience is key. This time of year, subtle movements and longer pauses often outproduce aggressive jigging. If you’re marking fish but not getting any, downsizing your presentation can make a difference.

Northerns continue to provide steady action and are keeping folks busy throughout the day. Weed edges in 8–15’ have been the most productive, especially where healthy cabbage remains. Larger shiners and suckers are producing both numbers and some impressively sized fish. Midday, when walleye activity tends to taper, the pike are more than willing to pick up the slack. With the recent snow cover dimming light penetration, we’ve seen pike roaming a bit shallower at times, so don’t be afraid to fish closer to the inside weed line.

Panfish have provided great action recently - a good omen as we get to the end of game fish season. Perch are hanging in deeper mud flats and at basin edges in the 10 to 20’ range. We’re also hearing of some action being had near weed edges, a little more shallow in the 12-15’ range. Anglers drilling plenty of holes, searching vertically and staying mobile are finding active schools. Small spoons and tungsten jigs to get things into the depths, tipped with spikes or waxies continue to be effective.

Bluegill seem to be holding deep also, at 15–20’ around deeper weeds and in soft-bottom areas. Ultra-light line, small plastics or spikes, and a slow, controlled presentation are producing best. You might find these guys hanging right with the perch, which can make for a nice mixed-fish meal.

Crappies are being found both shallower and suspending over deeper basins—often 25–30’ down—and are most active toward evening. In shallower water at 12-15’, look for weed edges. Tip-downs or deadsticks with crappie minnows set a few feet off bottom have been putting fish on the ice. A willingness to fish different depths in the column is what seems to be separating good days from great ones, at this time.

With game fish season closing this Sunday, March 1st, it is the final push for walleye and pike on hard water. Snow cover can reduce light penetration and change expected fish behavior, so don’t hesitate to experiment with slightly shallower or deeper set-ups depending on the day and the time. It’s also worth paying attention to weather swings—approaching fronts and stable high-pressure evenings have both produced windows of solid action recently.

There is still plenty of solid ice and opportunity across the Northwoods. Whether you’re chasing one last walleye at dusk or gearing up for March panfish, late winter offers some of the most peaceful and rewarding days of the entire season. Take your time, move with purpose, be flexible and enjoy.

Good luck and good fishin’!

Wisconsin Fishing Information

                                                                                                                           

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