FISHING WITH THE GUIDES with George Langley - April 27 to May 4, 2025

Here we are, less than a week away from the 2025 game season opener this Saturday!  A stretch of warm days and mild nights has opened up all area lakes, although you might still see some random, floating ice on lakes to the North. You can expect good access across the Northwoods, and Saturday’s weather looks to be pretty ideal for the first day of game fishing. Boat landings are in solid shape, and water levels are stable. Water temps are still in the mid-40’s at the time of this writing, so were still mid-perch spawn and eagerly awaiting the crappie.

While there’s nothing catastrophic in the weather forecast, it’s definitely not steady – temps are ranging from lows in the mid-20’s to a highs of 65. By the weekend we’re hoping for a nice 60 degrees on Saturday. This weather pattern is pretty normal for this time of the year, but it makes for a bit of a challenge in guessing the spawn for all species, and what we’d expect for “normal” fish-behavior. However, we’ve had many worse years in the past, including those where there was still ice fishing going on for the opener!

Water temperatures are climbing quickly, especially on smaller and mid-sized lakes. As stated, the perch are still spawning - and the bite has been fantastic. We’ll need to see those water temps get into the upper 40’s and 50’s before the crappie start their spawn, but we’ve heard whispers of them visiting, and checking out their spawning grounds. Now that we’re into “Real Spring” we can expect that excellent crappie bite to start in the next little bit, here.

The Wisconsin River is running pretty normal for the melt and temperature, and is very fishable up here. Walleye action has been steady, with anglers finding success using jigs and minnows in slower-moving sections. The Eagle River has very nice conditions with an easy current, so if you’re looking for a place to fish for the opener, this is it. There’s good access from several landings, so we typically see a lot of people out there. This year will be no exception. ?

For the opener, speaking of Walleye, look shallow. If you want to cast, try a shallow-running crankbait or a jerk bait. Otherwise, a good old jig with a big fathead should do the trick. As always, early morning or late evening  will be best.

This opener is shaping up to be a winner! Saturday’s weather, as of this writing, looks ideal. If you haven’t already, get your gear out and prepared. Oil your reels and get fresh line on your spools. Check the guides on your rods for cracks or missing ceramic. Make sure your net hasn’t been chewed through by a mouse during the winter. Make sure that your first day out isn’t an exercise in frustration. Have a GREAT first day of the 2025  Game Fishing season!

Good luck and good fishin’!     

                                                   Wisconsin Fishing Information

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