Jeff Evans (Jeff Evans Fishing Guides) shares the latest fishing report from northern Wisconsin for late August.
Welcome to another edition of the Buzz Bite Report with Jeff Evans. Today, we’re fishing in the Hayward Lakes area of northern Wisconsin. As we approach the end of August and September is just around the corner, we’ve been experiencing cool temperatures and plenty of rain. The water temperatures have been dropping down to the mid-60s overnight, but if we get a sunny day, it can warm up into the low 70s. It’s clear that the fall trend is starting to happen, and we have some exciting fishing opportunities right now.
Walleye Fishing on Mudflats
Currently, we’re targeting walleyes, and the key to success is finding them on the mudflats. Using our electronics, we locate fish in 30 to 35 feet of water. It’s crucial not to stop the boat until we’re confident that we’re seeing groups and schools of fish. Once we find a school, we use spot lock on the MinnKota to stay in that area for as long as possible. Sometimes we’re able to stay in a school of fish for a long time, picking off two or three before the bite slows down. However, if we go more than 15 minutes without a bite, we move on to the next school. Patience and persistence are key when targeting walleyes on mudflats.
Effective Baits and Presentations
When it comes to bait selection, we’ve been having success with a variety of options. One fun bait that has been effective is a Johnson quarter ounce Johnson splinter jigging spoon. On some days, we’re also using nightcrawlers, leeches, and minnows. Slip bobbers and jigs have also been working well. The key is to vary the presentations and approaches based on the conditions and the fish’s preferences on any given day. It’s important to remember that every day can be different, so being adaptable is crucial.
Smallmouth Bass and Crappie Fishing
In addition to walleyes, we’ve also been catching some nice smallmouth bass on the mudflats and rock piles. They can be found in depths ranging from 10 to 25 feet. Just like with walleyes, it’s important to keep moving and use your electronics to locate the fish. Crappie fishing has also been productive, with suspended fish being found in 19 to 25 feet of water. Using small jigs and plastics, as well as vertical jigging, has been effective. Slip bobbers with small plastics have also been working well. There’s a lot of action happening with crappies, walleyes, and smallmouth bass.
Muskies are Turning On
As the water temperatures continue to drop, muskies are starting to become more active. Some anglers have been trolling in the main lake basins and having success. There are also still fish in the weed lines. Over the next couple of weeks, the muskie bite is expected to really pick up. So, if you’re interested in targeting muskies, now is a great time to do so.
Fall Fishing in the Hayward Lakes Area
With all the different species and fishing opportunities available, fall is definitely on the way in the Hayward Lakes area. Whether you’re interested in walleyes, smallmouth bass, crappies, or muskies, there’s something for everyone. The key is to stay mobile, use your electronics to locate fish, and be adaptable with your bait selection and presentations.
For more information on fishing in the Hayward Lakes area of Wisconsin, as well as other great fishing spots like the Chippewa Flowage, Bayfield, Ashland, and the St. Louis River in Duluth and Superior, be sure to visit Jeff Evans Fishing (jeffevansfishing.com). They have all the information you need to plan your next fishing adventure.
So, get out there and enjoy the fall fishing season in northern Wisconsin. Tight lines and happy fishing!
