Central Wisconsin fishing report for Jan. 14

Well we are finally seeing some safe ice on most of our area lakes and guys are getting out to their favorite hot spots. That doesn’t mean it’s safe everywhere but there are a few good locations for anglers to head out.  Always use caution when heading out on the ice.

The bite has been very good for all species of panfish as well as pike and walleyes.  Most of the action is coming from shallow weeds in 4 to 6 feet of water or over mud flats in 8 to 12 feet of water adjacent to the main channel in the flowage. The panfish are coming on small tungsten jigs tipped with waxies or spikes and the larger predator fish like walleye and pike are taking medium sized sucker minnows or golden shiners that have been set under tip-ups.  The best bite has been during the low light periods for most species but we have been seeing a good after dark bite for the walleyes in shallow water.

Phil Schweik is a lifelong resident of Central Wisconsin who lives in Mosinee. Phil is a fishing and hunting guide for Hooksetters Guide Service and a professional musky tournament fisherman. He can be reached by checking out the Hooksetters' website at www.hooksetters.biz.