Wisconsin guide Jeff Evans gives his latest Buzz Bite Report for the Hayward area lakes on January 26th, 2023.
Hayward Area Lakes Buzz Bite Report 1-26-2023
Guide Erik Thue reports up to 10″ of ice on most lakes with some having 12″ – 14″ with a lot of slush. He highly recommends staying on established trails with snowmobiles, and error on the side of caution. ATV travel is not recommended, and trucks should not be considered an option. If heading out by foot, a pair of snowshoes would be a good idea to help keep from punching through the slush.
The panfish bite has been productive in main lake basins with a few fish still cruising deep weed edges. You’ll want to concentrate your efforts in 15′ – 30′ of water on most lakes. Small tungsten jigs tipped with plastics and a waxie or spike are a good option, but don’t be afraid to switch to a lead jig if fish get finicky.
The pike bite has been a bit more inconsistent. It tends to vary by the day, and Erik suggests bringing extra minnows as you never know when they might put on the feed bag.
Set I Fish Pros and open bail rod sets over weed beds and along edges rigged with suckers or shiners. Make sure to keep a few close to those basin panfish where the big girls will be looking for an easy meal.
Cover as much of the water column as you can setting baits anywhere from 6″ off bottom to 2′ below the ice. If the bite is tough, you’ll want to concentrate closer to bottom and lightening up your hooks, leader, line, etc.
Be safe and good luck fishing the Hayward area lakes!
- Jeff Evans
Northern Wisconsin Fishing Guide
Website: https://jeffevansfishing.com
Phone: 715-292-1424
Email: info@jeffevansfishing.com
