Hayward Area Lakes Buzz Bite Report 1-26-23

January 26, 2023

Jeff Evans

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

Jeff Evans

Like most of you reading this, I love to fish, plain and simple. Born in Hayward, WI, I've been blessed with many opportunities that have led me to a career on the water. As is the case with most kids, I was introduced to fishing by my father, a retired educator and coach who always made sure a trip to Canada or the Boundary Waters was scheduled at the end of every school year. My grandmother Doris was also instrumental in encouraging my passion and interest for all things fishing. You see, Doris fished, and she loved to eat what she caught. Bluegills were of special interest to Doris, and some of my fondest and earliest memories on the water were spent with her below the Nelson Lake dam. We always cleaned what we caught after an obligatory stop at West’s Dairy for the best ice cream cone ever made. In 2013, the decision was made to begin guiding full time and devote all energy to my career on the water. I became a credentialed U.S. Coast Guard Charter Captain and certified to guide on waters of the Great Lakes that I've fished for many years. This includes Chequamegon Bay and the St. Louis River-Superior Harbor in addition to the inland lakes I've been guiding on since 1992. The continued support from my family, friends, and faithful customers has made it possible for me to pursue my passion. You've all helped me in so many ways. There aren’t enough words to express how I appreciate having you in my corner. The relationships I've made on the water are priceless, and I don’t take any of you for granted.