Fall Fishing in Wisconsin: An Angler's Paradise

October 30, 2023

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Wisconsin is a state known for its stunning natural beauty, and it truly comes alive in the fall. With its crisp air, colorful foliage, and serene waters, autumn in Wisconsin offers a unique and captivating backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. For anglers, this season brings a special opportunity as the cooling temperatures and changing aquatic ecosystems create ideal conditions for fall fishing. In this article, we will explore the joys of fall fishing in Wisconsin, what you can expect to catch, and the best places to drop your line.

The Seasonal Shift

As summer transitions to fall, the temperatures in Wisconsin start to drop, prompting significant changes in the state’s aquatic ecosystems. Cooler water temperatures and diminishing daylight hours trigger fish to become more active, as they prepare for the colder months ahead. This shift provides anglers with a prime opportunity to target a wide variety of fish species, from freshwater giants to delicious panfish.

Top Fish Species to Target

Musky: Fall is renowned for musky fishing in Wisconsin. These apex predators become more aggressive and eager to feed in the cooler water temperatures. Popular musky waters include Green Bay, the Chippewa Flowage, and the Eagle River Chain.
Walleye: Walleye fishing excels in the fall. The Lower Wisconsin River and the Mississippi River are hotspots for catching trophy-sized walleye as they move into shallower waters to feed.
Smallmouth Bass: As waters cool down, smallmouth bass become more active. The Fox River, Lake Geneva, and the St. Croix River are excellent destinations for smallmouth bass enthusiasts.
Northern Pike: These toothy predators are abundant in many Wisconsin waters. Try your luck at the Chippewa Flowage, Lake Superior, or the Manitowish Chain of Lakes.
Panfish: Crappie, bluegill, and perch provide great opportunities for anglers looking to fill their cooler with tasty fillets. Fish the shallower waters of many lakes and rivers, such as Lake Winnebago and Lake Monona, for panfish success.

Best Techniques and Strategies

Fall fishing in Wisconsin demands a different approach than the summer months. Here are some tactics to employ for a successful angling adventure:

Live Bait and Lures: In the fall, fish become more opportunistic, and anglers often have luck using both live bait, such as minnows and nightcrawlers, and lures like crankbaits and soft plastics. Experiment to find what works best for your target species.
Crankbaits: Crankbaits can be particularly effective for walleye and musky. Their erratic action imitates injured prey, making them irresistible to hungry fish.
Jerkbaits: These lures work well for bass, especially in clearer waters. Their erratic and twitching movement can trigger aggressive strikes.
Deep Diving Lures: As waters cool, fish may move to deeper areas. Employ deep-diving lures to reach these fish effectively.
Dress Warm: Fall temperatures can be unpredictable. Dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is essential for comfort during your fishing excursion.

Best Fall Fishing Spots

Lake Michigan: For salmon and trout fishing, the Lake Michigan shoreline offers excellent opportunities. Ports like Milwaukee and Sheboygan are famous for fall salmon runs.
Northwoods Lakes: The lakes in Wisconsin’s Northwoods are great for musky, northern pike, and panfish. Eagle River and Minocqua are top choices for anglers.
Mississippi River: The Mississippi River is a hotspot for walleye and sauger in the fall. Consider launching your boat from La Crosse or Prairie du Chien.
Door County: Known for its smallmouth bass and musky, Door County’s waters offer excellent angling experiences, particularly around Green Bay and Sturgeon Bay.

Fall fishing in Wisconsin is a time when nature’s transition is beautifully reflected in the state’s pristine waters. Whether you’re an avid angler or just looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the autumn scenery, Wisconsin’s fall fishing season offers an abundance of opportunities. So, grab your fishing gear, embrace the changing leaves, and savor the joy of angling in this picturesque season in the Badger State.