As of March 9, 2026, fishing in Southeastern Wisconsin is transitioning from late-winter ice conditions to early spring river runs. While some northern lakes still hold thick ice, southern areas are seeing significant thaws and the start of the annual walleye migration.
Southeastern Wisconsin Lakes & Shoreline
The general inland game fish season (walleye, northern pike, bass) closed on March 1, 2026, for most inland waters. Anglers are now shifting focus to panfish and Great Lakes tributaries.
- Panfish (Bluegill, Crappie, Perch): Activity is picking up in shallow bays as water begins to warm. In areas with remaining ice, “finicky foolers” and tungsten jigs tipped with spikes or waxworms are effective.
- Lake Michigan Tributaries: Action is heating up for trout and salmon. Significant numbers of Coho salmon are currently in the rivers, with brown trout and steelhead mixed in.
- Techniques: Casting hard lures like spinners and crankbaits, or float fishing with beads and salmon egg imitations.
- Ice Safety: A warming trend is pushing temperatures into the 40s and 50s. In southern regions, ice is becoming honeycomb-textured or has disappeared entirely. All permanent shelters must be removed from Lake Michigan and Lake Superior boundary waters by March 15, 2026.
The Wisconsin River Report
The Wisconsin River is currently a “hot spot” for early-season action, particularly near dams where water remains open and the spring run is beginning.
- Walleye & Sauger: The spring spawning run is at the “doorstep”.
- Castle Rock & Petenwell: Anglers are concentrating below the Castle Rock Dam and Necedah Dam (Yellow River). Smaller males are typically the first to arrive in these staging areas.
- Techniques: Vertical jigging with minnows in deeper holes or pulling crankbaits upstream.
- Northern Pike: On the Lower Wisconsin River (LWR), pike are open year-round. Focus on side channels and backwater sloughs rather than the main channel.
- Conditions: Floating ice chunks are currently a navigation hazard near Nekoosa and other river stretches; use extreme caution when launching boats.
Key Fishing Dates & Regulations
- Inland Game Fish Season: Closed March 1; reopens the first Saturday in May.
- Early Catch & Release Bass/Trout: Open on select inland waters until May 2nd.
- Northern Pike (LWR): Open year-round; 26-inch minimum length, daily bag limit of two.
For the most recent updates on water levels and boat launch accessibility, check the Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report.