Fishing & Outdoor Report

Fishing & Outdoor Reports for Washburn County

7/17/18- Reported by AAA Sports

Hot weather has the fisherman out earlier in the day or into the early evening hours. Weeds on the lakes have us selling a lot of weedless hooks and lures such as the Johnson Silver Minnow or the Eppinger weedless spoons such as the Red eye. Also the 6" and 8" weedless worms. We just got in some new half head jigs for those of you who have asked. Also the Kalin "google Eye rattler". Not much for "show off" fish have come in but just a lot of fish for the dinner table. Don't forget our monthly fishing contest, good for $10.00 in bait! Coffee's on at 6:00 am!

7/10/18- Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

6/25/18- Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

6/23/18- Reported by AAA Sports  

Rick was out on Lipsie with four guys on Sunday; they caught over 85 nice panfish/crappies. They were using waxies and occasionally throwing out some leech for bait. Another gentleman was out on McKenzie and caught a dandy walleye on Saturday morning using leeches and his favorite secret lure. We're selling lots of crawlers right now as well. Some guys are buying a flat and keeping them for the whole summer in crawler bedding and worm food. I had an uncle that fed them egg shells and coffee grounds. Assuming that the lakes "up north" are compromised by the rains and subsequent flooding, lots of fishing would be going downstream. 

 6/19/18 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

Even though it seems I'm always launching the boat into an east wind the fishing has remained good here in Washburn County this week.  We've been catching a mixed bag of walleyes, bass, pike and panfish on many of our lakes.  Water temps have held steady in the upper 60's for the most part, the cool rain has been a factor in keeping the temps down to the refreshingly cool place they are at, the fish seem happy!  Good green weeds are one of the best spots to fish on any lake right now, as lots of fish are hanging here. Slip bobbers or jigs and leeches are a good choice bait wise, also the largemouth bass are jumping on wacky worms like mad right now, which is a lot of fun too.  All in all things are going good and the bite has been strong most of the time.Good luck and good fishing,

6/4/18 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

Fishing has been very good around Washburn County this week. We've done quite well on Walleyes and bluegills in particular. For walleyes a jig and leech presentation is doing good. Look for good green weeds In 6 to 12 feet on area lakes.  Bluegills have been shallow and spawning this week. Many areas hold bluegills during the spawn, keep moving checking shallow shoreline areas until you find them. The 'gills should willingly bite a wax worm on a small hook suspended under a small bobber, no need to get fancy about it as they should be easy to catch most days.

5/29/18- Reported by AAA Sports  

It was a great Memorial Day weekend. Record number of people in the store. We literally ran out of some live bait on Saturday before the supplier came. With the weather being so hot, the fishing was better early morning and later evenings. There was some nice walleye off of Shell Lake with leeches, but really early ( like 5 AM) We got into some nice crappies and blue gills on Spooner both Saturday and Sunday night. (Jigs and waxies) Snagged a couple bass while moving to the hot spot. Depending on the lake the fish are spawning .Little later than usual, but the hot weather has the shortened the time frame. More people moving into the plastics and lures rather than live bait as this crazy hot weather continues.  Pro tour  5" trick sticks have been going well, and Berkley 7" powerbait. We have  all sizes of leeches, they last a long time if you keep them cold and clean. Coffee's on at 6 AM everyday, have a great week!

5/17/18 - Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Let the Fishing Begin!!! Things are starting to pick up on Long Lake/Mud Lake this week. Water temps as of Wednesday night on Long Lake were between 60-62 degrees, Mud Lake coming in around 69 degrees. Fish are beginning their trek to the shallows but some still deeper. Nice Bluegills 8”+ seem to be liking red worms and waxies. Crappie are beginning to bite too and some nice ones at that 13”+! Crappie Minnows seem to be working.On the Bass side of things they are hopin as well! Word is the Largemouth seem to like clacking baits and the Small Mouth Jerk Bait. Walleye are still on the slow side, but a few are being caught. Walley size limit on Long Lake is 18” or larger to keep. Panfish still 25 in general. Public landing piers are in as well as a new addition at each of the landings: Picnic tables provided by the Long Lake Chamber of Commerce!

Fishing Report 5/16/18- Reported by  Jim Stroede Guide Service

Crappie fishing is just beginning to pick up as a good number of fish are starting to move into the shallows now.  We had a nice morning the other day boating lots of nice crappies and also a few big bluegills. The crappies seemed to like the small jig and plastic baits that we were throwing.  Water temperatures in Washburn County are in the mid 50's currently. Good luck and good fishing!

Fishing & Outdoor Report 5/9/18- Reported by Washburn County Tourism

Spring has sprung in Washburn County! The weather was absolutely beautiful for Opening Weekend! With a majority of the lakes having ice out, fishing was very good. Walleye that were anxious to spawn, were very hungry.  Anglers had good luck fishing with jigs and minnows. Walleye fishing should be excellent for the time being as they continue to spawn. Birds have flown back to the Northwoods and many of the trees are in the bud or flowering stages.  Bears and their cubs are out from hibernation and looking for food. Make sure to keep an eye on your birdfeeder. Spring turkey hunting is in its 4th week. Tom turkeys are gobbling and displaying for the hens. Elk Hunting tags are available from May 1st- 31st  for Wisconsin’s first ever Elk Hunt. Four tags will be given to four Wisconsin residents through a random drawing. A fifth elk tag will be rewarded to a Wisconsin resident through a raffle drawing held by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

5/2/18 - Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

The first photo was taken this morning at 6:30 am in the narrows in front of the Rockford House Saloon.

 

 

The other two photos were taken at the Narrows Landing last night, May 1st. The left photo is looking off to the NE of the landing and the other is looking out toward Mud Lake. The channel to Mud Lake is open. Ross at Lincolnwood Resort was reporting in at 13" on some parts of Long Lake yet.

 

 

 

5/2/18 Reported by AAA Sports  

The ice is going off area lakes daily, Spooner was open off the Mann landing and dark ice off the golf course landing..maybe by this weekend it will be completely gone. Most river fishing is good to go.

5/1/18 - Reported by Shell Lake Marine

Small lakes and flowages are open but the larger last still haven't completely broke out. The shorelines are open but theres still ice in the middle of the lakes. 

4/27/18 - Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Fishing & Outdoor Report 4/23/18- Reported by AAA Sports & Washburn County Tourism

This warm weather has started to break up the ice along the lake shores. On the small lakes it seems as if most of the ice is already out but the larger lakes still have brave fishermen venturing out. Starting getting ready for the spring fishing opener just over a week away!

The 2nd season of for turkeys starts Wednesday, April 25th. If you have harvest a bird feel free to share your photos with us! Use #WashburnCounty #HuntingWashburnCo on your photos, you just might see your photo on the outdoor report or one of our social media pages! 

Fishing & Outdoor Report 3/29/18- Reported by AAA Sports

With this last big snowfall, there is not much to report as far as fishing goes. However, we do have an update on the availability of tags for turkey hunting: There are no tags left in Zone 6, but there are 2 tags left for the last two weeks of hunting in Zone 4. Fishing opener is only 2 weeks away! Time to get those rods and reels out and get them ready!

Fishing & Outdoor Report 3/29/18- Reported by AAA Sports

The panfish are coming on again! After a couple of weeks of slow fishing, last Thursday the fish got hungry again. The fish are biting on  waxies, spikes and crappie minnows. There is still a lot of ice. However, the landings are starting to break up.

Fishing & Outdoor Report 3/16/18- Reported by AAA Sports

 The weather looks to be in the upper 30’s during the day and in the teens at night, so the ice should stay good for awhile yet.Fishing was really slow after those last two big snowfalls. It got really slushy on the lake and made it hard to get around. Starting last Friday, the fishing picked up. Waxies and crappie minnows seem to be working well right now. Some nice perch have been caught off Spooner Lake and bluegills in Dilly Lake. Be persistent and be patient!

 2/27/18- Reported by  Jim Stroede Guide Service

Washburn County recently received a foot of new snow, this has been great for skiing and snowmobilers but has made getting out on the ice a little bit of a struggle for atv and truck traffic. Walking out to good crappie and bluegill fishing is still very good and easy on Long Lake. Multiple locations are perfect for walk out fishing.  Tiny jigs and soft plastics are working well right now.  The use of a flasher and or underwater camera is a great help for catching fish.

 2/26/18- Reported by AAA Sports

The weather pattern from this past weekend made it difficult for fishing. The weather pattern for this weekend looks very favorable for fishing. Get out and enjoy the last weekend of game fishing!

  2/16/18- Reported by AAA Sports

There has been a lot of successful fishing out on Spooner Lake. Colder temps are keeping some of the fishermen (and women) off the lakes. But for those getting out and being persistent, it pays off. Game fishing closes on March 4th. Make sure you get out there before then!  

1/29/18- Reported by  Jim Stroede Guide Service

Ice fishing around Washburn County has been good this week.  Plenty of crappies and bluegills are biting on many area lakes.  Small ice jigs tipped with wax worms or soft plastics are producing action typically near bottom, in 10 to 16 feet of water, depending on the lake.Also of interest is the bass and northern pike bite.  These fish have really been aggressive lately.  Most folks are using tip ups baited with shinners, and placing them along weed edges or up on top of the flats for the best results.

1/22/18- 12/28/17- Reported by AAA Sports

What a great weekend it was to be outdoors. The Boy Scouts had their funday on Sunday on Spooner Lake which was a big success. Don't forget we host a monthly fishing contest! The winner for the largest northern, bass, crappie, perch, bluegill will get a $10.00 in store credit. Give us a call if you have any other questions about this contest!

1/22/18- Reported by Shell Lake Marine

Fishing has turned a corner for the better with this warmer weather but still not great. Smaller lakes have been recording better catches with decent northern and panfish bites. Walleyes are still extremely light even on normally productive ground.

 12/21/17 - Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

"Just coming off our 1st week of freezing temps, Long Lake is finally making ice! Remember it is still 1st and is inconsistent! The North End is reporting anywhere from 2" to 6", the South End is reporting anywhere from 2" to 8". Fishing is off to a great start! So far the best fishing time is in the late afternoon into the early evening. Most species are stacked at anywhere from 12' to 20' with the larger fish on the top layer in 20' to 0' of water. Some of the Crappie caught have eben around 10" to 15". There are also reports of bluegill and perch being caught. Fishermen have had some nice Northerns pulled through the ice, catches around 25" to 28" plus! Also some pretty nice Walleye caught 20" to 27"! Fishing folk have been having the best luck with tip-ups for the Walleye & Northern using shiners and suckers. Crappie and other panfish seem to be liking waxies and spikes righ tnow. Enjoy the fishing and be safe!"

12/28/17- Reported by AAA Sports

"This cold weather has really made some great ice. We are happy that we did not get the snowfall that was predicted this past week so the ice had a chance to deepen. Anglers have been out on most of the local lakes; snowmobiles & 4-wheelers are actively being used and some small shacks are starting to pop up on the lakes." Waxies seem to be doing the trick when it comes to jigging for panfish, mostly crappies & perch. The last week of archery season is quickly approaching, January 7, 2018 and there have been successful trappers so far. 

12/21/17 - Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

As of this morning, very inconsistent, as it is 1st ice, the Narrows Landing and Lucy's Bay are reporting in anywhere from 1-2", no one venturing out too far off the landing. Landing off Rockford road reporting in at 2"-4", the Z Bar 2-5". Woody's and Lincolnwood reporting in around 3 1/2" We have had mild temps making the snow that was on top now slush. Hoping the cold temps on the way will help us along and the snow misses us to get more consistent good ice going. However, the fishing is picking up, reports of nice sized Walleye and Northern. Crappie are starting and some Bluegill and Perch.

12/19/17 - Reported by Washburn County Tourism

Fishing weeds seems to be the common factor when catching fish this time of year around the Washburn County area lakes. There have been quite a few nice bass pulled through the ice as well as pike and after dark walleyes. When out on the ice still be using lots of caution as there are still some slushy, soft spots. For the most part there seems to be 3 to 7 inches of ice.

The lucky fishermen have been using shinners on tip-ups as well as jigging for crappies. Kyle Tyree let us know that he was jigging with a black jig that had a black plastic tail and was able to pull some fish through the ice with it. In the 12 feet of water areas fish were staying close to bottom. 

12/18/17 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

12/4/17 - Reported by Washburn County Tourism

We heard from  Barb at AAA Sports over the weekend and she told us that Spooner Lake has 4-6" of ice near the Mann Road landing. Definitely only good for walking on at this point. Other lakes reporting good ice include Dilly, Whalen and Cable.The rain today is good, even if we don't get a lot of snow. So be hoping for COLD weather to give us even more of an ice base.

On the hunting side of things...The hunting season was pretty successful. Everyone in Barb’s hunting gang got a deer; two of which were really nice 8 pointers. But there were a lot of hunters who said they never saw a deer all season. “We are currently in the muzzleloading season that started last week and goes through this Wednesday, December 6th. Then it's the statewide antlerless hunt from Thursday to Sunday.  Archery/crossbow continues through January 7th.”

 For those who are looking for other hunting forms, beaver trapping is open through April 30, 2018 and fox & beaver trapping is open through February 15, 2018.

“We are still in a holding pattern here in between open water and ice fishing here in Washburn County,” says Jim Stroede of Jim Stroede Fishing Guide Service  The good news is that the weather forecast is for colder temperatures the next couple weeks. That should lock up area lakes once and for all, providing ice fishing opportunities all across the area.

11/30/17 - Reported by Washburn County Tourism

According to the Wisconsin DNR, another Wisconsin nine-day gun deer season is in the books. There was a slight increase in the statewide buck harvest, with 98,364 hunters fortunate in their quest of the antlered deer. Northern counties showed the most significant upsurge in both buck and antlerless harvest. Overall, preliminary figures show that 195,738 deer were registered down slightly from the 197,262 registered in 2016.

We wish the hunters good luck who are trying their luck this muzzleloader season and during the four-day doe season following. Share your photos with us by using #WashburnCounty #HuntWashburnCounty.

11/16/17 - Reported by Washburn County Tourism

Temperatures are trending up this week. The forecast is calling for temperatures in the mid to high 30’s during the day, with no major drops in the evening hours.  Towards the end of the week, there will be a chance for snow showers.

The Wisconsin DNR reports that the white-tailed deer rut is on and going strong, with many deer moving through the day. Harvest for the archery season is progressing and updated harvest numbers can be found on the DNR website. The traditional nine-day gun deer season is now just a little over a week away, so if you haven't sighted in your firearms yet time is running short. Check the DNR website for shooting ranges and for additional information about the upcoming season.

There's not much to report on this week, says Jim Stroede of Jim Stroede Fishing Guide Service. Ice is covering all but the biggest lakes in Washburn County. The trouble is it's not much for walking on, yet enough to block boat traffic. “Some brave souls are trying their hand at ice fishing for a few bluegills and crappies, but most of us are waiting for good solid ice before venturing out.”

With those few brave souls out fishing the very early ice, there have been reports of some beautiful crappies being pulled through the ice. As for the hunting side of things, Barb from AAA Sports says there have been lots of reports of nice buck being harvested by archers in the area.

11/6/17- Reported by AAA Sports

Well the weekend started out with some serious Muskie fishing people coming in. Tthey were dressed for the arctic! Not sure how well they did,  but they ordered more suckers for this weekend. Trapping season is underway: Beaver, mink, muskrat, raccoons, fox  and coyote. We've taken a lot of deer hides, so there has been a lot of successful hunters out there. There are still antlerless tags available in Washburn and Barron Counties.

11/6/2017- Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

 10/30/17 - Reported by Washburn County Tourism

According to the Wisconsin DNR, weather across the state last week from the 70’s at the beginning of the week, to 30’s and 40’s by the end of the week. Small amounts of snow were reported in the far north, with more in the short-term forecast. Expect more of the same weather next week.

The Wisconsin DNR says whitetail deer are moving into the rut. Rutting activity will be nearing its peak now and into the early weeks of November. Buck scrapes are being found and deer movement has increased significantly. It’s that time of the year where if you see one deer, you will probably see more.

Barb of AAA Sports in Spooner says there have been several nice deer hides come in, and hunters showing off their pictures.  One that came through was a non-typical 12 point that weighed close to 235 pounds. Everyone seems to be seeing more deer than the last couple years. Barb also reminds you to site in your guns because rifle season will be here before you know it!

As for the fishing side of things… Musky fishing is currently the best it's been all year!  Jim Stroede says the colder weather has triggered the fish into a feeding frenzy.  They've been catching Muskies nearly every time out.  Most of the fish are coming on live suckers or by jigging.  The current water temps are in the upper 40's.

Barb also added that the weather is more in line with rifle season than fall archery or fishing. There were still a few brave souls out on the lakes over the weekend with the snow coming down.

10/24/17 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

10/23/17- Reported by Washburn County Tourism

Heading into late October, the forecast calls for more seasonal temperatures. However, on Friday, they are calling for a high only reaching the upper 30’s with snow showers. The weekend will be partly sunny, with daytime temps in the low 40’s.

According to the Wisconsin DNR, “The recent warmth seems so to have slowed deer activity and discouraged some hunters from hitting the woods with bow in hand. Bachelor groups of bucks seem to have broken up now causing some bucks to abandon existing spots in search of new ground. There have been reports that some bucks are already starting to follow does and scrapes and rubs are being seen in the woods already. To read about the 2017 White Tailed Deer Hunting Forecast, click here: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt/documents/2017MP_deer_forecast.pdf

A local outdoorsman predicts that with the cooler weather coming everything in the woods should start to pick up.

Barb from AAA Sports said that she has not heard of many successful musky catches but lots of fishermen and women are buying musky minnows as they head up north. “We’ve has several nice dear hides come in from the bow hunters, with several different reports of 6-8 point bucks.”

When it comes to the Waterfowl hunts, there have been some very successful hunters. It seems as if many reports of hunters limiting out on ducks, geese, etc.

“The duck and geese seem abundant this year,” Barb said. “It’s a great time of year to live up north with all of the hunting and fishing going on…it can really keep a person busy!”

10/23/17- Reported by AAA Sports

We're getting lot of guys getting musky minnows as they head north, but have not heard of any successful catches. We've had several nice hides come in from the bow hunters and have had reports of several 6 and 8 point bucks.Lots of duck and geese hunters out there now too. Our grandson was successful over the weekend with seven geese total. It's a great time of year to live "Up North'. Hunting and fishing can keep a person really busy.

10/16/17- Reported by AAA Sports

The weather was beautiful on Saturday and Sunday, once we got past the early morning showers. Most of our anglers were getting live bait for their bait of choice; from crappie minnows to musky suckers. There was quite a variety of fanglers in the area this weekend. We're on the last of  the leeches. We sold a lot of musky suckers for the guys heading to Hayward Lakes area. Water temps are going down. There are guys out grouse hunting this week. More guys heading to the woods  for bow hunting now that the leaves are falling and it's cooling off.

10/9/17- Reported by AAA Sports

Lots of anglers out here pursuing the big muskies. We have large sucker minnows and also brought in a line pf Savage Gear soft bait. Last of the leeches are being used on the panfish and crappies. We had a 34" northern come in from "LOST LAKE," a guy said he caught it while trolling  for bass. The Brule has been pretty popular right now for the steelheads. Heard some guys went up to Washburn and caught some trout.They said they were throwing large poppers. Get out there and get fishing!

10/9/17 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/25/17 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/12/17 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/12/17 - Report by Shell Lake Marine

Fishing is starting to turn a corner and pick back up for the fall bite. Shell Lake has had some reports of some 30"to mid 40" muskies along with ok panfish coming back into the weed lines from the cribs. Smallmouth Fisherman have reported some fair to good action along with everyone including the walleye seekers wishing leeches were still available. Crawlers have to be substituted or get creative with plastics as there are quite a few realistic alternatives. Everyone has been enjoying the early fall type weather including the annual site of the geese gathering has made fishing enjoyable for all.

8/9/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Fishing Report for Long Lake--Lot's of activity in and around the weeds! Bluegills, Bass, and Perch!  Also this week we have had reports of the Walleye and Crappie starting back up again off the deeper edge of the weeds anywhere from 12'-15' using crawlers.  The leech season is done, but most folks are having excellent luck with Crawlers, worms and waxies, also the crappie minnow and Fathead traffic is picking up!  Special note: there is a shortage of Walleye sucker minnows right now. Long Lake Bait has all in stock!  Open 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday- Saturday and Sunday's 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

8/8/17- Reported by Shell Lake Marine

I am not one for fairy tales, every report I have received this week has been dismal. Panfish bite is slow and size is small. Small mouth is probably still the best action at mediocre. Walleye is very light bite with few hook ups. Time to try spinners for northerns and at least you will get some exercise :)

Good morning, these warm August days have produced some exceptionally fine weeds on the lakes. Lots of anglers looking for the weed less hooks and lures now. Some are using the Johnson Silver Minnow's and the Snag Proof Boss Rat and Mouse. Also the weed less hooks and worms ,such as a GAMAKATZU weed less and a YUM, KALIN, or YAMAMOTO worm. Most of the customers who are coming in for bait say they are catching enough for a meal or two but nothing real exceptional for quantity and size. We're on the tail end of the leeches, but should have small ones for the next 1-2 weeks. Spooner Lake still producing a lot of fish ( crappies, bluegills and a few perch).

8/1/17- Reported by Shell Lake Marine

Fishing has been extremely tough this past week on Shell Lake. Can't even buy a walleye. Smallmouth bass are about your only option for some action try a Lindy rig with a crawler or spinners off the weed lines. Panfish are sporadic off the cribs.

7/25/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

7/24/17- Reported by Shell Lake Marine

Fishing on Shell Lake has picked up for Small mouth bass with reports of fish over 20". Panfish are on the cribs in fair numbers. Walleye action has slowed down as normal for mid summer limited success with trolling with perch or gold rapalas.

7/24/17- Reported by AAA Sports

Hi from AAA Sportshop. The hot humid weather had the Anglers fishing early in the morning and later in the evening. Seem to be selling more lures than minnows over the weekend. A lot of SPRO frogs and BOOYAH pad crasher went out the door in addition to chatterbaits. We had 2 bass over 4 LBS come in. One 30" 8 LB northern too, Rick continues to have guests in 3-4 days a week and they always go home with their tummies full and some fish to take home to enjoy later. Customers also purchasing weedless hooks and worms. Some lakes are really a challenge with the weeds by now. The coffee's on at 6:00 AM! Have a great week!

7/17/17- Reported by AAA Sports

Beautiful weather and great fishing! We've had lots of visitors to the area in over the past 2 weeks. We've sold quite a variety of bait with leeches being the strong seller, panfish ones on a jog or hook, regular size ones on spinners, beetle spins, larger ones on bigger jigs. Frogs from SPRO and BOOYAH have been going well for the bass. Weedless hooks and jigs are selling well for the lakes where weeds have become a problem. We brought some TUFFIES a smail bait fish, slightly bigger than fatheads but smaller than walleye minnows. 

7/17/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

7/10/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

7/3/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

6/22/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service  

6/13/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service  

6/9/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Fishing report for Long Lake as of Thursday June 8th. Lot's of Fish Fry's this week~fishing remains great on Long Lake!   Lake temps continue to climb surface temp is around 68 degrees with deeper water coming in around 60ish!  The Bluegill bite is on!  The gills are hanging out on the weed beds.  Crappie bite has slowed but folks still catching some nice ones here and there. Lot's of nice Small and Large Mouth Bass, Walleye are biting just off the edge of the weed beds at about 8-12'. Some nice Perch too!  Fish seem to be liking all types of live bait right now.  We have a full line of Bait~ Waxies, Crawlers, Leaf & Red Worms, Euro Worms, Leeches (panfish, medium, large and jumbo), Crappie Minnows, Fat Heads, Walleye Suckers and Northern Suckers! Beat the heat this weekend by renting a Stand-up Paddle board, Kayak, Canoe or Peddle Boat from us!  Bait Shop Hours are M-Sat 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday's 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Enjoy the Hot Summer Weekend!

6/6/17- Reported by AAA Sports

We have had guests in to fish several days in the past few weeks. Everyone catches fish and goes home with a full tummy and fish to fry for future meals. Spooner Lake continues to be outstanding for pan fish, crappies and the occasion perch. We've heard that walleye are biting on Shell Lake south bay. Leeches and jig head seem to be working well. Water temps are on the rise so fish are moving into beds on most lakes. Everyone has their favorite bait or lure so it's hard to say what works best. Honestly, everyday someone comes in and says "the fish are only biting on this particular thing" and of course several people say the same thing, everyday! It depends on the day, weather, equipment and the bait or lure. The old tried and true: the red and white Daredevil, the Arbogast Jitterbug and the original floating Rapala's are the standard for a lot of fishermen and we're strong in sales on those items. Add a spinner bait, some kind of frog and a plastic of choice on a 1/0 hook and you've got a lot of good fishing lures to work with for the bass and northern. Rick's tried and true for the crappie and pan fish are the lead head jig (1/32, 1/8) and a waxie, of course. Now add a chicken jig or popeye jig to the lures, and maybe top it with a leech. You don't have to spend a ton of money on bait or lures, get the basics!!

5/25/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service  

4/10/17- Reported by AAA Sports   

The summer is off to a great start. Opening weekend the weather was really nice and the anglers were out in droves. The biggest bass for the week was a 5 1/2 lb off of Spooner Lake. Largest crappie was 14 oz. off Lost Lake on a crawler. We do have leeches, but our supplier is not up to full steam yet. Don't forget our monthly fishing contest. $10.00 in store credit for the largest in each species: walleye, bass, northern, crappie, perch, and bluegill.

5/10/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Fishing kicked off to a great start opener weekend!  Current water temps ranging anywhere from 57 degrees up to 62 degrees.  Reports of Really Nice Crappie coming from Mud Lake and in shallower waters in depths of 1' - 4'using mostly Crappie Minnows, some worms, waxies as well as Gulp. Walleye's are biting as well! Had a nice 5 pounder caught off off a dock with Walleye Sucker!   Folks were using pretty much everything for bait ranging from Fat heads, Walleye Suckers, Leeches, Crawler, Rapala's you name it it seemed to work!  Bass were also very active along with a few Northern.  Reports of Bluegill beginning to bite as of yesterday!  Long Lake Bait Shop is now back to Summer hours 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.Monday - Saturday and Sunday's 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Fully stocked with Bait! All sizes of Leeches, Waxies, Crawlers, Worms, Euro Worms, Crappie Minnows, Fat Heads, Walleye Suckers,  & Northern Suckers.

4/10/17- Reported by AAA Sports   

This weekend we had reports of crappies and panfish biting...this is early!! !ater temps are still in the low 50's. Look for the fish in the shallow waters on the north and east side of the lake, where they get the most sun. Here's a to great open water fishing in 2017!

3/10/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

2017 Licenses went on sale March 8th.  They are good through March 31 2018.  Cold temps are keeping the landings usable to get out on the ice.  Typical Spring Ice conditions exist so use caution.  Folks are still pan fishing.  It has been a bit slow, but folks are catching some nice Crappie and Bluegill along with some smaller ones. Also some really nice Perch out there too!  Have had reports of folks fishing shallow around 5-6' as well as some fishing deeper in around 20-24' and having good luck.  We have plenty of Crappie Minnows, Fatheads, Waxies and Spikes in the store.  Open 7 a.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Sunday's 7 a.m. - 3 p.m, Closed on Monday's.  

3/7/2017- Reported by AAA Sports   

Big game season ended on Sunday the 5th. In review of the winter:Our on the ice time was walking on in late November, driving on early January, shacks pulled off in Mid February. The fair to average days outweighed the good to excellent days.  If I was to pick the best fishing,( based on the fish brought in for our monthly contest) I would pick the timeframe of February 1-10. In the time frame we had the largest northern largest bass and largest pumpkinseed brought in.  The pumpkinseed was 1 oz from being a state record. It was 2# 11/2 oz weighed here and at the grocery store.  The next 10 days shows freezing weather every night, so we won't be losing any ice Still  lots of time to get out there and snag a few panfish. Don't forget about the monthly contest. Largest fish of each species get $10.00 in store credit!Bring in your  summer reels for new line!!

2/23/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

 

2/9/2017- Reported by AAA Sports    

Here's what's biting! This past weekend was windy and cold, but if you were persistent, you'd catch fish. The Spooner Lions club contest on Spooner had over 200 people and lots of fish were caught. We sold a record breaking amount of suckers and shiners. Everyday people call and ask how the fish are biting and what are they using, etc. We can only tell them about what HAS been biting and what people are using. Every day is different, with weather patterns being the dominate factor. We'll help you as much as we can, but some days it's just fishing, not catching. Days are getting longer, gaining about 2 minutes a day!!

2/6/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

1/26/17- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

1/18/2017- Reported by AAA Sports   

There are lots of people out fishing!  What works for one guy, does not always work for another.  This week’s requests have included size 6 rat finke pink head/white body, size 4 GLOW demon red hook/silver body, heavier tip up line, larger shiner minnows, smaller shiner minnows, and colder weather!  There are reports of 15 plus inches of ice on the lakes.  Fisherman are reporting shiners are working better than minnows, spikes for perch, purple/blue jigs with waxies, flirty girty’s seem to be popular, smaller Rapala jigging raps for crappie and larger Rapala jigging raps for Walleye.

1/17/2017 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

1/13/2017- Reported by AAA Sports  

Lots of fishermen in today. All thinking it will be great weekend after the full moon and January freeze. Don't forget we run a monthly fishing contest: largest northern, walleye, crappie, perch, and bass. Each worth $10 in store credit, and we don't even ask where you caught it. Just bring it in for weight and length!

1/10/17 - Reported by Stone Lake Bait & Tackle

Recent reports have been that there's 12-16 inches of good ice on area lakes. Snowmobile trails have been marked to the best of our knowledge. The fishing has been living up to most angler's expectations with walleyes in 15-20 feet and hitting on medium suckers under a tip up. Northern pike can be found in shallower depths taking large shiners or large suckers. Although there's been several reports of good sized pike being picked up while jigging for panfish with a crappie minnow. Now that's a good time! If you can't find the crappies at your favorite spot try going deeper for them. We were told that crappies were found down at the 30-35 foot range recently ans small spoon type jigs tipped with waxies, fathead heads or crappie minnows are the presentation of choice. Continue to stay alert and aware of ice conditions when you head out. If you have equipment issues or have forgotten something at home we have most ice fishing gear for rent at Stone lake Bait and Tackle to include Vexilar flashers, ION battery powered augers, underwater cameras and more! Give us a call at 715-865-4665 for more info. Good fishing!

1/2/2017- Reported by AAA Sports    

Most of the area lakes have 8+ inches of ice. Safe for ATV's and snowmobiles. Always know where you're fishing and let someone know where you are.The Holiday weekend had lots of ice-fishing action. We had 4 guys from South Carolina in the week before Christmas. Rick took them to several lakes and they caught northern, bass, perch and crappies. Over new years weekend we have 4 guys in who ventured out of 4-5 lakes and were able to catch  some nice fish. With some cold weather coming in the middle of this week, we should see the ice thicken and hopefully get out on the lakes with vehicles. We have suckers minnows, shiners, rosy reds, fathead and crappie minnows as well as spikes and waxies. Just got in a new tiger Eye lure and also just filled up on Rapala jigging raps. Open everyday at 6:00 AM!!

12/21/16 - Reported by Stone Lake Bait & Tackle

Ice conditions in the Stone Lake area continue to improve rapidly. Although fishing seems a little slow right now there has been a decent northern bite with suckers on tip ups working well. Ice thickness will vary depending on currents and water depth. Currently we are getting reports of 3-4 inches on Big Sissabagama, Slim and Big stone and as much as 6-7 inches on Lac Courte Oreilles and Whitefish. There has been very limited ATV and snowmobile traffic on the lakes. I, personally, would give it another week before venturing out too far with your machines. Please use extreme caution at all times on the ice. Don't go alone but if you do let someone know where you plan on fishing. Feel free to call us at Stone lake Bait and Tackle anytime during business hours for ice condition and fishing updates at 715-865-4665. We're open 8-4:30 M-F and 7-4:30 weekends. We have all the bait you need including frozen smelt and herring. We will be open 7-2pm on Christmas Eve and all day Christmas day. Good luck! Be safe and Merry Christmas! 

12/21/16- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Merry Christmas to All!  1st Ice Conditions on Long Lake consist of 2" -8" on the South End and 2"- 5" and spotty on the North End by the Narrows by means of "Foot Traffic"  The North End just fully crusted over last Wednesday. Use EXTREME CAUTION!  Reports of nice Walleye, Crappie and Bluegill being caught all hours of the day!  Folks are using a full array of live bait!  Long Lake Bait Shop hours are Tuesday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday's 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Closed Mondays.  Open Christmas Eve 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Open Christmas Day 9 a.m. - Noon.  

12/19/16- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

1st Ice Has arrived on Long Lake! Reports coming in from the South End that it crusted over on Monday December 12th with 1"-5" in some spots. North End just crusted over on Wednesday evening December 14th reports coming in of 1"-3" in some spots. Due to the recent snow fall we now also have water coming up through the ice. Thickness of the ice is exremly inconsistant. There have been a few brave soles out there this weekend catching some really nice Walleyes! EXTREME CAUTION IS RECOMMENDED!!!!

9/9/2016- Reported by AAA Sports    

Winter is here and so is the ice fishing! Only 10 days ago all the lakes were open and now we have reports of over 6" on most area lakes.We have not had any great fishing reports but we should soon. And don't forget out monthly fishing contest. $10.00 store credit for largest fish in each category!

12/15/16 - Reported by Stone Lake Bait & Tackle

Big Siss, Slim and Bass Lake (Springbrook) all have 2-2 1/2 inches of ice. There were a few guys out on these lakes and recommended that you don't venture out too far as of yet. Definitely no 4 wheeler's. It appears that Big Stone is still open. Please stay smart and safe. Check back for further updates.

12/8/16 - Reported by Stone Lake Bait & Tackle

The Stone Lake area lakes are cooperating nicely with the forecast although there's not enough ice to venture out yet in my opinion. The wind we've had has been keeping the waves rolling pretty good. This should change a lot by this time next week. We'll be closed this weekend but we've got fresh bait coming in on Tuesday, 12/13 so hopefully the smaller bays and lakes will be ready to go. With that being said please use extreme caution with early ice or at any time during the winter for that matter. Don't forget your ice picks and be safe! It's just a fish. Good luck!

10/27/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/30/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/22/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

9/9/2016- Reported by AAA Sports   

The cooler weather is when the true fishing enthusiast get out on the water. The lazy days of summer are over. Fish are moving more as they water temps start to lower. This makes them more of a challenge as they're probably not where you been finding  them all summer. For your bass and Northern: if you're "go to" bait of minnows is not working, throw them a spoon or spinner. The Bass have been really active and hitting on the "frogs" , whether it be a SPRO bronzeye or Boo-yah pad crasher. We also encourage you to try a plastic worm such as the Berkley power worm or Yamamoto Senko. Panfish can be even pickier, Rick continues to use the jig and waxie but has went to a crappie tube or cubby tail  when the catching has been slow. Musky fishermen are getting their orders in for the larger sucker minnows. The bigger bucktails have been selling well.

9/7/16 - Reported by Stone Lake Bait & Tackle

Fishing in the Stone Lake area has been a little slow recently. Most anglers are thinking that it could be due to all the rain and storms as of late. The presentations that seem to get the best results are using a small jig tipped with a crappie minnow or similar looking plastic bait, 4-5 feet under a bobber, along a good weed edge for crappies. Walleye anglers are having some action using a 1/4 to 3/8 ounce jig tipped with either a fathead minnow or medium sucker minnow in 12-14 foot depths. The musky action appeared to be pretty good over the Labor Day weekend with 2, 50 plus inch fish being caught, The bucktail type lures are producing the most action it seems. The smallmouth and largemouth bass are hitting spinner bait and top water frogs if you're fishing in heavy weeds. Leeches appear to be done for the season in our area although there's always the Berkley Gulp leeches that work well for a plan B. If you're in the Stone Lake area please be sure to stop in for all of your live bait and tackle needs. Good fishing to all! Stone Lake Bait and Tackle "It's Catchin' On!"

8/31/16- Reported by Long Lake Bait, Tackle & C-Store

Fishing remains pretty good on Long Lake!  Lots of nice Blue Gills, Perch, Large & Small Mouth Bass, and a few Walleyes.  Crappies are a bit on the slow side right now.  Most all species are sitting just off the weed line at about 10' to 12'.  We are done with leeches for the season.  We have plenty of Crawler, Leaf Worms, Euro Worms, Waxies as well as Crappie Minnows, Fat Heads, Walleye Suckers and Northern Suckers.  We can order in Musky suckers upon request if they are available with our bait dealers. Bait shop hours through September 30th are: Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 pm. and Sunday's 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. ( we begin our "Off Season Hours" October 1). We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Labor Day Weekend!

8/25/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service

 8/17/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

8/11/16 - Reported by AAA Sports  

If you don't mind the heat then the fish are still out there to catch. More anglers are using crankbaits, spoons, and spinners rather than minnows because the heat makes it difficult to keep the minnows fresh. Leeches are still being used in all sizes. Walleye on Shell lake have been biting, but the size are on the small size. We had a few nice crappies come in from Lipsie over the past weekend using Southern Pro crappie tubes (pumpkin/chartreuse). Trego Lake produced a couple nice northern on spoons. Rick continues to fish Spooner with guests a couple days a week and usually gets the limit. He still uses waxies and a jig head. Looking forward to fall fishing, We have leeches, but not sure for how long. We will be getting in Musky suckers in a couple weeks. Take a kid fishing!

8/10/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

7/27/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

7/27/16 - Reported by AAA Sports  

As the summer goes on the angler is turning from live bait to artificial, such as Gulp Alive, Minnows, leeches and crawlers. Yamamota has full line of plastics and we have the hooks from 1/0 to 5/0. Bass are doing better on spinner baits and frogs. We still have leeches form small to large. If theyre not biting, watch the weedlines as the fish are moving under that for cover. Have a great week!

7/20/16 - Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

7/7/16- Reported by Jim Stroede Guide Service 

7/2/2016- Reported by AAA Sports   

Beautiful day to get out on the area lakes. Spawn is pretty much over and the fish are going deeper. We had 2 couples in this week that nick-named  Rick , the" fishing magician". They caught northern, bass, perch, crappies and sunnies. Mostly on Spooner with the traditional jig and waxie for the panfish and crankbaits for the larger game fish while trolling. Island produced some nice crappies this past week. 2 -8-10 # northern off of Spooner came in and several Bass using Scum frogs and hula-poppers. Catfish off the dam at Trego using "dough bait" in dip tubes 2 nice walleyes off of Big McKenzie using jighead and leeches. Get out and fish!!