FISHING WITH THE GUIDES with George Langley - Week of 3/29 to 4/5/2026

 Well, we got a taste of something nice this weekend — temps climbed into the upper 50s on Sunday with southwest winds and fair skies, which felt pretty good after the stretch we've been through. Don't read too much into it, though. Monday looks to be the highlight of the week with a high near 55, but after that we're sliding back down — rain and snow mix by Tuesday, highs only in the upper 30s through the middle of the week, and a good chance of snow Thursday. The Northwoods winter isn't ready to let go just yet.

There is still plenty of ice out there, but it's getting messy and iffy in spots.  Current areas like the Chain deserve extra caution right now. No major access issues to report yet, but that can change fast — especially on the warmer, sunnier days and along south-facing shorelines. Stick to the well-traveled routes and check conditions as you go. Generally though, there is still a good amount of solid ice under the punk throughout the area.

Perch have been the bright spot lately and should stay active heading into the coming weeks as we approach the spawn. They are feeding heavily right now in preparation. Anglers have been finding nice-sized fish using small minnows and waxies, turning up both in the weeds and over the deeper mud flats. You may have to search around a bit, but it's worth the effort.

Crappie action has been decent. Fish are schooled up in deeper water on most lakes, and small minnows on tip-downs have been the most consistent approach. These fish can be right on the bottom or suspended partway up the column, so start low and work your way up if nothing's happening. Late afternoon into evening has been your best window.

Bluegills have been moving in shallower with the melting.  As the days warm eventually, we’ll see them up in the shallows more consistently. Small presentations in 6-8’ along weed edges is a good place to start. Patience is the game right now, but they'll turn on - and when they do? Oh, boy.

Mornings are going to be your most reliable time on the ice this week for getting around, with the variable conditions in the forecast – but evenings are still where the bite is best. Get out while things are firm and keep an eye on the clock, and those North shores on sunny and warm days. We’re firmly in the final days of the season now.

And if you're done with winter and open water is all you can think about, we can't blame you. We're getting there, but we all know the typical April story up here – our “April showers” tend to be snow, at least in the beginning! As long as the ice is gone by May 2nd, it’s all good.

Good luck and good fishin'! 

Wisconsin Fishing Information

                                                                                                                           

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