It’s opening weekend for Wisconsin fishing season, and officials say the conditions are ripe for a great day out on the lakes.
DNR fisheries biologist Steven Hogler says that, thanks to the warmer weather this spring, you’ll be seeing fish up and active and farther along in the spawning cycles over last year. That includes walleyes and panfish. “A lot of people target panfish, they are moving in towards shallow water right now because that water’s warmer. They’re finding things to eat, and they are available to anglers.”
Anglers in the northern Ceded Territories will have an easier time following regulations on walleye bag limits this year. “There has been a rules package that has been approved that changes the bag limit to three. That’s across the board. You don’t have to necessarily worry about ‘is it one or is it two?'” It makes the bag limit three.”
Hogler says the rules on fish sizes will differ from lake to lake, so make sure to check your regulations and check the signs at the boat landings.
As always, Hogler reminds anglers to stay safe out on the water. “The water temperatures are still very cold, and you can lose the ability to swim or move very quickly. So make sure you’re wearing proper clothing, make sure you’re wearing your PFD, and always be careful and obey the boating rules.” And remember that you can get an OWI while out on the water, so make sure to stay safe while having beers on the lake.
For more information, pick up a regulations handbook at your local bait or license shop, or head to the DNR’s website.
WSAU