Open water fishing has arrived in Central Wisconsin. With accessible boat landings and stable water conditions, the setting is perfect for early spring walleye fishing on the Wisconsin River. Unlike most lakes and rivers, the Wisconsin River remains open year-round for game fish like bass, walleye, and pike, allowing anglers to take advantage of some great early season fishing.
 

The walleye limit on the Wisconsin River remains at 5 fish per day per angler. Size restrictions apply and are as follows: Each angler is allowed a 5 fish daily bag limit with no fish under 15 inches and no fish between 20 and 28 inches. Each angler is allowed 1 fish per day over 28 inches as part of their daily bag limit of 5 fish.
 

Water temperatures are right around 35 to 37 degrees right now which is concentrating a lot of fish in the deeper pools of the river system. An easy way to target these fish is to slip drift with the current while slowly working a jig and minnow or a Lindy rig right on the bottom. A slow and steady lift and drop method will not only produce more fish for you but it will also help eliminate a lot of snags as you drift with the current.
 

Don’t be surprised if you pick up a few incidental catches while targeting these spring walleyes either. We have seen just about anything and everything while fishing like this from musky to pike, and catfish to sturgeon! They are all holding in these same areas and are not prejudice when it comes to eating a tasty meal that is drifting by.
 

For working a river system like this Elk River Rods https://www.elkrivercustomrods.com/ has come out with a new series of walleye rods specifically designed for this application. They have done extensive research and with help from several different professional anglers have created the new ER1 6’6” med-lite walleye rod and the new 6’10” ERX med-lite walleye rod. Both rods are super sweet and they both come with the new soft touch reel seat and have an all stainless guide set. You will love them!
 

Have a great week,
 

Phil Schweik
Hooksetters Guide Service
Phone: 715-693-5843