Look for Springs

Many of the Wisconsin river bottom sloughs have springs bubbling up in them. Sometimes the springs are out in the lake somewhere and sometimes they are near the high bank. If you know a slough with springs, take a look near those springs as a place to try ice fishing. Even though springs are known for cold water, the water coming from them is warmer than the lake water, and the warmer water will attract fish.

Another thing that has made fishing slow is the low oxygen levels in the sloughs. Spring water has more oxygen than the other lake water, and this will also be an attractant to fish.

Often if you fish near these springs, you’ll find better concentrations of fish and more active fish. Do be careful though because the ice may look good on top, but underneath, it usually is much thinner than the surrounding ice. Get a little too close and you may get a wet foot….or worse.

Dan Bomkamp - Author and Host of "How's Fishing"

Southwest Wisconsin Land For Sale