Wisconsin has continued to experience some unseasonably cool and wet conditions in the last week. The entire state has received rainfall, with the southwestern portion of the state hit early this week by some major storms, including several tornadoes.
Angling success was mixed due to variable weather, which also keept fishing pressure down a bit. In the north, largemouth bass have been providing the most consistent action with fish showing much more of a typical summer pattern. The changing weather kept musky on the move with no consistent patterns found. Some anglers were having success finding suspended fish in deep clear water lakes following schools of cisco and other bait-fish, while others were still reporting success on top-water baits. Walleye success has also been erratic. Panfish action has been fair with some decent catches of perch, crappie and rock bass reported.
There is a huge gizzard shad hatch on Lake Winnebago, which is having a negative influence on walleye and perch fishing. There will be more boat traffic than usual on the Winnebago system this weekend, as it is a great place to be in a boat this weekend with the EAA Airventure a show in the sky, so boaters are encouraged to use some extra caution while navigating the waterways.
Lake Michigan anglers continued to report some nice catches including a few limits. Chinook salmon and rainbow trout were the most common fish landed although a few coho salmon and brown trout were mixed in. Pier anglers also had a good week with mixed catches of trout and salmon landed.
The Mississippi River slowly dropped again this week and was below the 7 foot mark at Prairie du Chien. Wing dams, closing dams, and sunken logs pose a serious danger when the river is this low. Panfishing improved a little this week, while walleye and sauger action was spotty. Smallmouth and largemouth bass have been very active.
This is the time of year that homeowners may find unexpected company visiting their homes and buildings. Young bats are becoming mobile and may be seen trying to hide in corners of rooms or flying around, looking for a way out of the building or to their roost. Although most people do not want bats in their houses, these animals are very beneficial and will eat many mosquitoes. The best way to deal with these bats are to open the doors and let them find their own way out.
This is also the time of year when snakes are often seen basking in the sun. Northern water snakes are being seen on logs or on branches overhanging rivers and backwaters. This nonpoisonous snake is the only water snake in Wisconsin and is sometimes mistaken for the venomous water moccasin, which does not occur in the state. The brown and black spotted fox snake is sometimes mistaken for a rattlesnake because it pretends to ?rattle? its tail to scare intruders away. This snake is also nonvenomous and is a great mouser, hunting small rodents in the forest.
Bluebirds are producing second broods. Canada geese are starting to be seen flying around again after their molt period. White pelicans can be seen up and down the Mississippi this summer, with some 200 sometimes being seen south of Stoddard in lower pool 8.
Milkweed is putting on a nice display and not just with its flowers. If you look closely you can find the monarch caterpillars greedily munching away on the milkweed leaves. These colorful caterpillars will later turn into the beautiful monarch butterflies.
Red raspberries and blueberries are now ripe with a few blackberries starting to show up. Recent rains should give the berries the much needed boost to ripeness.
And an important reminder, this Saturday, August 1, is the deadline to apply for permits for fall turkey hunting, goose hunting in the Collins and Horicon zones, sharp-tailed grouse, and bobcat, fisher and otter. It is also the d to apply for Upriver Winnebago system sturgeon spearing season. Permits are available through the DNR Web site, from any license vendor, or by calling toll-free 1-877-WI LICENSE (1-877-945-4236). For more information call the DNR Customer and Information call center at 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463) anytime between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
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A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.
A new report is put on the line each week.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Although last week's rain helped bring up the flow for the Bois Brule River for a short while, it is pretty low once again. As of July 30, the flow was at 103 cfs (cubic feet per second) The 64 year average is 133. Anglers will be happy to know that last weeks rain has encouraged some lake run fish into the Bois Brule River. Some brown trout and a Coho has been sighted so far. Canada geese are starting to be seen flying around again after their molt period. The geese will soon be starting to gather up in large groups before the fall migration. Many song birds are raising their second clutch. Milkweed is putting on a nice display and not just with its flowers. If you look closely you can find the monarch caterpillars greedily munching away on the milkweed leaves. These colorful caterpillars will later turn into the beautiful monarch butterflies. Some residents (the Brule Ranger Station included) are finding that they have some unexpected company visiting their houses/buildings recently. No it is not the in-laws...young bats are becoming mobile and are being seen trying to hide in corners of rooms or flying around, looking for a way out of the building or to their roost. The best way to deal with these bats are to open the doors and let them find their own way out. If they are on a wall or ceiling take a container such as a coffee can or butter tub and place it over the bat. Take a piece of cardboard or rigid paper and slip it along the rim of the container, trapping them in. The bat can then be released safely outside. This time of year is a good time to start thinking about "bat proofing" for next year. To keep bats from coming back inside right now bat exclusion funnels can be built if the home owner know where bats are coming in. Look around the house and look for bat droppings, which indicate the bat entrances. Once the entrance is located place the bat exclusion funnel over the hole so bats can get out but not get back in. This should only be used once the young bats are mobile so they are not stuck inside. In late fall or winter entrances can be sealed by using expanding foam. Although most people do not want bats in their houses, these animals are very beneficial and will eat many mosquitoes. Bat houses are a good way of providing bats a place to stay and take care of the mosquito population without having the extra company in the house. For information on bats of Wisconsin see [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/eek/critter/mammal/wiscbat.htm]. For interesting bat facts see [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/eek/critter/mammal/bat.htm] For more information on bat-proofing, attracting bats to bat boxes, construction plans for bat boxes, and exclusion funnels and much more see [http://pubs.cas.psu.edu/FreePubs/pdfs/uh081.pdf] The Wisconsin Natural Resource Board (NRB) has established a Special Advisory Committee for Hunter and Landowner Support of Effective Alternative Deer Population Control Methods to study and recommend potential alternatives to existing deer herd control methods. The web site [http://deerherd.editme.com/] has been developed to assist the Committee and serve as an informational resource for the public.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Most of the Upper Chippewa Basin received 1 to 2 inches of much-needed rain in the past week -- but it all seems to have soaked into the ground as river and lake levels continue to be at mid-summer lows. Emergent vegetation such as wild rice, pickerelweed and bulrush seem to be at typical densities, and submergent weed growth has been quite variable on the many lakes and flowages in the area. Angling success continued to be generally slow with the variable weather of the last week -- with the periodic rain showers and cold fronts also keeping fishing pressure down a bit. Largemouth bass have been providing the most consistent action as the fish have been showing much more of a typical summer pattern. The best success has been coming from the thick cover -- in the down wood, the thick lily pad beds and under mats of vegetation. Top-water baits and soft plastics have been the most productive lures and the key has been to work them slowly through the cover. Smallmouth bass also seem to have reappeared on many lakes and flowages in the area. Some nice fish have been caught on a slow presentation of plastic finesse baits -- worked near cover in the 4 to 8 foot depths. Musky action continued its generally slow trend of this season, with many anglers becoming frustrated with the variable success. The constantly changing weather seems to have kept the fish on the move and no consistent patterns have been found. Some anglers have reported quite a few follows and sightings but catches have mostly been of small fish in the 30 to 36-inch size, with the bigger fish seeming to be holding off in deeper water yet. Slow top-water baits and smaller bucktails have been the favorite lures. Walleye success has also been erratic. Some days have produced some good catches in and around mid-depth weed beds, and others days would find a person wondering if there's any fish in the lake! Weedless jigs fished with a leech or a piece of crawler have been the most productive bait. Panfish action has been fair. Larger bluegill have been tough to find but some decent catches of perch, crappie and rock bass continue to be reported.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Area fishing guides report that walleye and smallmouth bass action is on the rise. The warming lake temperatures are considered to be a contributing factor. As has been reported this summer, musky action continues to be good. Musky anglers are having good success finding suspended fish in deep clear water lakes. Fish can be found following schools of cisco and other bait-fish suspended over deep water. In addition, top water and smaller profile bucktails are producing some nice fish. Largemouth bass, pike, bluegill, and perch action continues to be steady. Walleye anglers are also having moderate success fishing weed lines with leeches in 12 to 20 feet of water. With fall just around the corner, hunter safety courses are being offered. Red raspberries and blueberries are now ripe with a few blackberries starting to show up. Recent rains should give the berries the much needed boost to ripeness Now is a good time to enroll children in these sessions if they will be eligible to hunt in the upcoming hunting seasons. Check the upcoming education classes page [https://hfwolf.centraltechnology.net/wdnr/laam.nsf/publicHSClasses?OpenForm] of the DNR Web site for updates on the class offering dates and schedules. With the increase in ATV use and popularity, we remind ATV operators that it is a good idea to brush up on the rules and regulations for operation of ATVs. This summer area conservation wardens are encountering a number of ATV operators who are, for the most part, inadvertently committing violations. One of the bigger problems is ATV trespass. Operators need to remember that ATVs can only be driven on designated routes and trails or on property with permission of the owner. ATVs need to be registered in order to operate in Wisconsin. A trail pass is needed for any out of state registered ATVs..
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Temperatures at the landings this week were in the mid 70s, with good water clarity. The area received some much needed rain last week. Fishing pressure was light to moderate. Catfish were being caught at the mouth of the Peshtigo Harbor still fishing with crawlers. Boats launching from the harbor area were fishing up river and having success with smallmouth and the occasional largemouth bass. The bite for salmon remains steady out of the Menominee River in the area of Green Island. At times any color will work, but when fishing gets a little tough try switching to greens and or purples. The flow on the upper Menominee River has improved due to the much needed rain. The Peshtigo fisheries crew conducted a sturgeon population survey this week covering several miles downstream from White Rapids Dam with more than 250 sturgeon counted, the largest just over 60 inches.
Oconto County - The Stiles Dam area has still been producing some nice panfish on slip bobbers and worms on the south side of the dam. Walleye were still being caught out of Pensaukee and the Oconto Breakwater Park, though the numbers seem to be down a bit. Try fishing in the 16 to 20 foot range with crawler/harness. Some perch were being taken from Oconto Park II in the 8 to 12 foot range on the edges of the weeds, crawlers and minnows are good baits to try.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Manitowoc County - Trout and salmon anglers in Manitowoc County had a good week fishing on Lake Michigan. Week day weather was very nice although the temperature was on the cool side. Scattered showers and wind made fishing over the weekend more difficult. Boat anglers fishing near Two Rivers had a lot of success trolling Lake Michigan on Thursday and Friday with many nice catches including a few limits. Chinook salmon and rainbow trout were the most common fish landed although a few coho salmon and brown trout were mixed in. Pier anglers had a good week fishing from both the north and south pier casting spoons or using alewives rigged up off the bottom or with a bobber. Catches were mixed with a variety of trout and salmon landed. Catfish anglers fishing inside the harbor picked up a few nice catfish that ranged in weight from 4 to 7 pounds with one big catfish weighing in at 16 pounds. In Manitowoc, pier anglers had a great week of fishing. Most anglers were fishing from the south pier casting spoons. Successful anglers used a variety of spoon colors that included bright silver, green, blue, or purple. Success on the piers was spread out from sunrise to sundown with catches dominated by chinook salmon. Perch anglers fishing inside the harbor had a fair week. Perch anglers were concentrated on the north pier stub or fishing off the rocks around the marina. Successful anglers were using worms or minnows rigged up with a bobber.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Whitefish Dunes State Park - Recent rains have helped both plant and animals at the park. With the much needed moisture the summer flowers have perked up. The butterflies and moths are sipping nectar from the summer wildflowers. Hike the Red trail to enjoy a variety of species. Snakes have been seen in large numbers all over the park. Don?t worry the brown/black spotted snake is a fox snake. It pretends to ?rattle? its tail to scare you away. This snake is a great mouser and hunts small rodents in the forest. Don?t forget to look up while you hike, the porcupines can be seen almost daily on the Red trail. Deer and turkeys are also common on early morning, late afternoon, or evening hikes. Hairy and pileated woodpeckers can be seen along the green and yellow trails. Watch for their holes in trees. The pileated creates a rectangular hole while the hairy will create much smaller rounded holes. The color of summer is all about. Spring and early summer flowers are now showing their berries. White baneberry with their ?doll?s eyes? can be seen along the Brachiopod trail. Red elderberries are common on the rocky shoreline and black trail. The thimbleberry are just beginning to ripen but are a bit later this year due to the cooler weather and lack of moisture. Other seeds are not as neat to see. Hounds? tongue and burdock are sticking to pant legs, dog fur, shirts and even shoe laces. Please remember to put these seeds in the trash instead of on the ground to help prevent the spread of invasives. Help the park staff during the weekly work days to control these invasive plants from taking over our park. Dog owners are reminded that the first segment of the beach is now closed to dogs. The dog beach is still open. You can access it by hiking the red trail to the third beach access. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash for their safety and the safety of the park wildlife. A map to the dog beach is available in the nature center.
Kewaunee County - Weather this past week continued to be cooler than average and dry. Some rain moved in toward the weekend bringing a little moisture to the area. Anglers have been reporting some limited success casting spoons for trout and salmon off of the piers in Algoma and Kewaunee. Only a few fish were being caught by these anglers in the mornings and evenings. Anglers that have been going out on the lake had some good fishing at the start of the week, which slowed down in the middle, but then picked up again before the rain scattered the fish. Kings and steelhead account for most of the catch with there being more kings than steelhead being caught. Anglers have found that the fish have been moving in closer to shore and as such they are finding fish in shallower waters. Most fish were being caught in water depths between 50 and 100 feet. Steelheads were still hanging higher in the water column with the kings hanging out in the deeper water. Most anglers have been using a combination of dipsies and flashers and flies, but spoons and J-plugs have also been having some success as well. The most common colors seem to be either a bright green or blue. Most anglers have been either fishing north of Algoma up toward the bank reef or well south of Kewaunee. This was is due to cooler water and better fishing being found in these areas.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
There is a huge gizzard shad hatch on Lake Winnebago, which is having a negative influence on walleye and perch fishing. Some of these fish are currently stuffed with shad. There are still a few anglers reporting walleye success on the reefs. The Winnebago system is a great place to be in a boat this weekend with the EAA Airventure putting on a show in the sky. There will be more boat traffic than usual so use some extra caution while navigating the waterways. Many prairie plants are currently blooming, including Joe-pye weed, nodding onion, purple coneflower, and boneset. The deadline to apply for Upriver Lakes Sturgeon Spearing is August 1. 500 licenses will be available each year on the Upriver Lakes and awarded by preference point status.
DNR Southeast Region
Havenwoods State Forest - Prairie flowers in bloom at Havenwoods include culver's root, mountain mint, cup plant, rosinweed, compass plant, prairie dock, marsh milkweed, whorled milkweed, butterfly weed, early goldenrod, rattlesnake master, yellow coneflower, purple and pale purple coneflower, bergamot, Joe-pye weed, and leadplant.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - ? In Sheboygan anglers on the ends of the north and south piers have been catching decent numbers of rainbows and chinooks. Spoons and alewives have both produced fish. Sheboygan trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, coho, rainbows, and some lake trout and browns, but fishing has been slow overall. Most fish have been taken from 20 to 50 feet down in 60 to 100 feet of water on a variety of spoons and J-plugs.
Ozaukee County - Shore anglers in Port Washington have been catching perch near the power plant and off the pier on jigs. Pier anglers have also been catching a few chinooks, coho, rainbows, and browns on alewives and spoons. Trollers out of Port have reported chinooks, coho, and rainbows taken 20 to 40 feet down in 40 to 100 feet of water, with spoons and J-plugs producing the most fish.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee perch fishing from shore has been slow, but boaters near the Oak Creek Power Plant and at the boils continue to catch perch on minnows. Trolling out of Milwaukee continues to be relatively slow, although most chinooks have been taken in 40 to 60 feet of water.
Racine County - Shore fishing in Racine has been spotty for perch anglers. The north pier has been hit or miss, but the rocks near the DeKoven Center have produced a bit more consistently. Boaters have been able to find some perch on minnows or smaller jigs along the end of the rock breakwall south of the harbor. Trollers out of Racine have been finding coho, rainbows, and big chinooks off Wind Point in 40 to 60 feet of water. Glow-in-the-dark, purple, or orange spoons as well as white flashers with blue or white flies have been producing.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha shore fishing has been slow, but a few browns have been caught in the harbor on spoons and white tube jigs. Perch fishing has been slow for both boaters and shore anglers, although a few perch have been taken off the end of the south pier on jigs and minnows. Kenosha trollers have been catching a few chinooks, coho, rainbows in 50 to 80 feet of water.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Wyalusing State Park - Trails that are open are in good hiking condition. The trail crew has been working on Sugar Maple Nature Trail and is nearing completion of the entire loop. The entire Sugar Maple Nature Trail is hikeable, but one short section needs some work before it is completely finished. The trail crew will start making repairs to Sand Cave Trail when Sugar Maple is finished. Weather forecast for the upcoming weekend includes a slight chance of rain each day with temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s. Canoeists using the marked canoe trail through the Mississippi River backwaters report a number of mature and juvenile bald eagles. Area bird sightings include: yellow-billed cuckoo, black-billed cuckoo, eastern wood peewee, Acadian flycatcher, least flycatcher, eastern peewee, great crested flycatcher, eastern kingbird, blue jay, American crow, chickadee, house wren, Eastern bluebird, veery, wood thrush, robin, yellow-throated vireo, warbling vireo, red-eyed vireo, cerulean warbler, prothonotary warbler, Kentucky warbler, cardinal, rose-breasted grosbeak, indigo bunting, towhee, chipping sparrow, Henslow?s sparrow, song sparrow, northern oriole, purple finch, American goldfinch and humming bird. The heyday of the hummingbirds has certainly arrived at the Wyalusing State Park Visitor Center. Swarms of hummingbirds visit the visitor center, entertaining almost everyone who enters the park. Hummingbirds feed heavily in the morning, right before night fall and on cloudy days. There are approximately 40 to 60 hummingbirds at the feeders during this peak feeding time. The prairie garden at the park office is especially beautiful this year. Flowers in bloom include: pale purple coneflower, purple coneflower, butterfly milkweed, purple milkweed, royal catchfly, prairie clover, black eyed Susan, liatris, wild onion, and mallow. False indigo has gone to seed, but even in the seed stage the plant is impressive. Bluebirds continue to thrive at Wyalusing State Park. Bluebirds are sighted daily near the office and throughout the park. Second brood bluebird report from mid July includes eight fledlings, 16 nestlings, and five eggs. Blackberries are just starting to ripen. Within the next two weeks, blackberries should be at their peak. Blackberries can be found near the indoor group camp, and along Turkey Hollow Trail, near Whitetail Meadows and along parts of Whitetail Meadows trail. All reservable campsites are taken for this weekend. Wyalusing has 22 non-reservable sites open on a first come, first served basis. Availability of these sites varies from day to day. The campsites have been filling by late afternoon on Fridays, with bluff sites and electric sites going first. Area lodging and campsites will be impacted by the Prairie Blues Festival. Interpretive Programs this weekend include Saturday, August 1 an Outdoor Cooking Demonstration with free samples across from the tennis courts at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Reptiles and Amphibians with Matt Heeter of the Coulee Herpetological Society at the Nature Center (next to Peterson Shelter) at 6 p.m. On Sunday, August 2 there will be a Prairie Garden Program at 10 a.m. Meet at Park Office and a Human History Walk at 6 p.m. Meet at Concession Stand.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Willow River State Park - Fishing reports have been few. The Willow River and Little Falls Lake have held their level and clarity reasonably well. Average summer conditions continue, with winds predominately from the north or west. Temperatures have been at the average to slightly cool. There is a lot of greenery around the prairie for late July. Rain has fallen typically in downpours of short duration. One area gauge shows 3 inches of rain in recent history. Rain came in again on Monday. Campgrounds remain full on weekends with better availability Sunday-Thursday nights. Chain saw crews will be working as time allows. If you encounter the crew, please wait until it is safe to pass through the work area. Visitors may use the wood the crew cut for campfires or in the picnic area grilles. You can not take the wood home. The Willow Falls parking lot has 12 parking spaces. If all spaces are taken, you will need to park at the beach or boat launch lots if your destination is Willow Falls. August 8 will be the next date for a Full Moon Hike at the Nature Center at 8 p.m.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Northern water snakes can now be seen basking along the stream banks, on logs or on branches overhanging most of area rivers and backwaters. An early sunny morning that follows a cool night is excellent time to spot them. The nonpoisonous northern water snake is the only water snake in Wisconsin and is often mistaken for the venomous water moccasin, which does not occur in the state. Northern water snakes eat crayfish, amphibians, small mammals, and slow moving fish. At one time, some anglers felt that they were having deleterious effects on game fish populations. To the contrary, it is now believed that they can actually strengthen the local fish population by removing diseased or stunted fish or slower, less desirable rough fish. White pelicans can be seen up and down the Mississippi this summer. The best place to see them is usually lower pool 8, south of Stoddard. Sometimes 200 can be seen on and near rock islands along the main channel. They do not nest there, even though many are of breeding age judging from the tubercle, or bump, on the upper bill. The only places they are known to nest in Wisconsin are on Horicon Marsh and along Green Bay. The only Mississippi River nesting colony is on pool 13 between Illinois and Iowa. Many more pelicans will arrive in October, on their way to wintering grounds in the southeastern U.S.
Perrot State Park - Water levels are low. Fishing is slow. The trails are in good condition. All campsites and facilities are open. White wild indigo, harebell, butterfly weed, coneflowers, common yarrow, bouncing bet, tick trefoil, hoary alyssum, sweet clovers, Queen Anne's lace, fleabanes, black-eyed Susans, butter and eggs, liatris/blazing star, , swamp milkweed and common milkweed are currently blooming in the park. The north road leading to the park is being paved this week. Construction will hopefully be finished at the end of the summer. There will be a naturalist program August 1 at 7 p.m. featuring George Richtman: Life of a Riverman;
Great River State Trail - The trail is open and in dry condition. Prairie wildflowers are really shining! White wild indigo, coneflowers and butterfly weed are the current standouts! Watch for frogs and turtles from the bridges as you ride along!
Crawford County - A new slow no wake zone is now in effect on the Mississippi River?s main channel. The slow no wake zone is approximately half a mile long and is located adjacent to the City of McGregor Iowa. The area is marked with slow no wake buoys that line both sides of the navigation channel. For reference the area affected is in the area of river mile 633.5. The Mississippi River slowly dropped this week. The current level is 6.93 feet. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for it to remain fairly steady. Boaters on the Mississippi River should use caution now that the river is below the 7 foot mark. Wing dams, closing dams, and sunken logs now pose a serious danger to lower units. Boaters are also advised to use caution at some boat ramps as the water levels drop. Don?t back your trailer in to far as the tires might drop off the end of the launch pad. Some deep holes have developed at the end of the ramps too. This is caused by large vessels ?power loading?. The Wisconsin and Kickapoo Rivers are at normal summer time flows. The sand bars on the Wisconsin River are in great shape for camping. All trout streams in the area are in good shape with normal flow and water clarity is good. Panfishing improved a little this week, most notably was the bluegill and perch action. Bluegill were biting better this week, although the very large bluegill are few and far between. It appears that winter kill from the 2007/8 and 2008/9 winters have taken their toll on the bluegill populations in some areas. The Ambro Slough, Black Slough, Fish Lake, the Upper and Lower Doubles and Big Missouri and Gremore Lake have been slow. The most popular bait has been a chunk of night crawler or garden worms. Fishing at Cold Spring continues to be slow. Perch fishing improved last week. Walleye and sauger action was spotty. Nightcrawlers and leeches have been the best live bait so far. Smallmouth and largemouth bass have been very active. Smallmouth can be found on closing dams and wing dams or rock shorelines on the Main Channel. Largemouth bass can be found in a variety of habitats. Plastics, spinner baits, and crank baits have worked well. Bass anglers report catching numerous undersized fish. Catfish, both flathead and channel, activity was pretty good. Channel cats have been a bit more active than the flatheads. Sheepshead are very active. White bass action this week was spotty. Some moderate action was reported at the dam this week. Watch for surface feeding fishing and work those areas in the Main Channel. Northern pike have become very active this week. Look for northerns where small feeder streams enter the river or try fishing the weed edges. Many popular bass baits have worked well for northerns including spinner baits and plastic top water baits. Trout fishing has been very good even though vegetation and insects are staring to make fishing a bit more difficult. Many local streams produced some very nice brown and brook trout. Insects like mosquitoes and deer flies are out in large numbers. Mosquitoes are really a problem in the river bottoms while the deer flies are in the wooded areas. After last week?s rain another hatch of gnats showed up, however they were short lived. Parsnip is starting to die back, but still can cause severe blistering. Stinging nettle and poison ivy are out too so outdoor users should take appropriate precautions.
Vernon County - Trout fishing was excellent until two weeks ago, but has slowed into the summer doldrums. Trout are nibbling on miniscule insects, when they are nibbling on anything at all, and duck for cover after the first cast.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Black River State Forest - Work has begun on upgrading the wetland crossings on a 1.1 mile section of ATV trail from Wildcat Road heading west. For this week this section of trail will be remain while crews haul material in. Please drive cautiously on this section of trail. Starting August 3, this section of trail will be closed during the week for construction. The trail will open on Friday August 7 by 4 p.m. for weekend riding. The work is expected to take two to three weeks.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT STATE PARKS, FORESTS, AND TRAILS
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Check with the park or forest of your choice for additional activities and special events not listed. Most events are free of charge; park admission sticker required unless otherwise noted. Events and times subject to change.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, Dundee, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: The Ants Go Marching. Do you ever wonder why ants march single file, or what they?re doing in their hills?; We?ll find the answers to these questions and much more. This hour of nature fun awaits 3 to 6-year olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Walk the Park's Woodlands. Hike the Woodlands Dunes Trail with Drew Morris. Learn about tree identity, age of trees and other interesting facts. Family hike. No pets allowed. Meet at trailhead near the playground. 10 a.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Kayak Tour: 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. Must pre-register at Nature Center. $15/person. Please phone (920) 868-3258 for complete information.
? Wildcat Mountain State Park, Ontario, (608) 337-4775. Build a Bug Hand Puppet. Recycle common items while learning about bugs. Fun for all ages. Meet at the Nature Center. 7 p.m.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Buckhorn State Park, Necedah, (608) 565-2789 - Bird Bonanza. Drop in and learn about our Wisconsin birds. Hands on activities and displays located at the park office. 10 a.m. to Noon.
Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Family Hike: Summer Flowers. Havenwoods grasslands are exploding with color. Orange butterfly-weed, purple coneflowers, and yellow black-eyed Susans are ready to make our hike through the prairie an exciting one. New in 2009! Spend an hour on a family-friendly hike through Havenwoods. We'll use magnifiers, binoculars, and super-duper outdoor lookers to spend the morning in nature. 10:30-11:30 a.m. No admission sticker required.
Heritage Hill State Park, Green Bay, (920) 448-5150 - Laura Ingalls Wilder Day
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Fishing Fun. Experienced anglers will share their knowledge on how to bait a hook, cast a line and reel in fish. If you're lucky, you may even learn to clean the fish you catch. Bring your fishing gear, if you have some. A limited number of rods and reels will be available, and bait is provided. People over the age of 16 will need to have a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish. This program is best for families/groups with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Long Lake Recreation Area Fishing Pier. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Drop In at the Beach: Tree Houses for Wildlife. Trees provide homes to many different animals. Learn what animals live in the leaves, branches, trunks, bark and roots of forest and city trees. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. Drop in anytime 1-4 p.m. Searching for Hidden Treasures: Geocaching. The global positioning system (GPS) has revolutionized how to find directions and locate specific sites. Wisconsin Geocaching Association members and Jackie Scharfenberg, forest naturalist,will show how to use a hand-held GPS device and compass, and how to read a topographic map. Then we will be off in search of hidden treasures at selected geocache locations. This program is best for people over 10 years old. Sponsored by Friends of the Kettle Moraine. Ice Age Visitor Center. 6:30-8:45 p.m.
Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - The Sands of KASP - Sand Stories, Games and Crafts. Join volunteer naturalist Chris Lilek as she reveals the history and source of KASP beach sand through stories, games and sand painting. Bring the family and prepare to get down and dirty in the sand. No pets allowed. A vehicle admission sticker is required. Meet at the beach near the bath house. 3-4 p.m. Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants. Come hike with John Johnston to search for the wild edible and medicinal plants found at Kohler-Andrae. John will share tips on using these unique and interesting plants. Wear comfortable shoes - the hike lasts about an hour. Meet at the closed gate. 2 p.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Fern Walk: 9 - 9:45 a.m. Meet at Nature Center. Discover identities of lush bulblet and marginal wood ferns, as well as other ferns of the Niagara Escarpment. Easy walking. Beautiful Bats: 10 - 11 a.m. Nature Center. Enjoy the story Bats at the Beach then craft one to keep. Flashing Fireflies: 7 - 8 p.m. Nature Center. Fantastic firefly facts, story and a cool glow stick craft. $1 donation/glow stick.
Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, (608) 534-6409 - George Richtman: Life of a Riverman
Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Spider House Hike. You'll peek into a few funnels, over some sheets and through a few orbs looking for spiders and the creative constructions they call home. Meet at the Nature Center before heading over to the Ancient Shorelines Nature Trail. 4 - 4:45 p.m. Spy on a Spider. Crawl over to Potawatomi's Campground Shelter and spy on a few 8-legged critters that hold secrets we will surely uncover during this hair-raising family program. Campground Shelter. 7 - 8 p.m.
Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, (715) 842-2522 - Concert in the Clouds. The Friends of Rib Mountain State Park sponsor the summer Concert in the Clouds series [exit DNR]. Dangerous Folk will be performing in the park amphitheater. 6 p.m.
Roche-A-Cri State Park, Friendship, (608) 565-2789 - Bird Bonanza. Drop in and learn about our Wisconsin birds. Hands on activities and displays located at the park office. 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Fossils! Discover nature, check out a beach toy, and learn something new. Programs begin on the hour and involve a craft and educational activity. Each week focuses on a different theme. Will be canceled of rain or lightening. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access. 1-3 p.m.
Wildcat Mountain State Park, Ontario, (608) 337-4775. Storytelling Hour. Meet at the Wildcat Mountain Amphitheater. 7 p.m.
Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 996-2261 - Outdoor Cooking Demonstration with free samples. Across from the tennis courts. 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reptiles and Amphibians by Matt Heeter, Coulee Herpetological Society. Meet at the Nature Center (next to Peterson Shelter). Sponsored by the Friends of Wyalusing. 6 p.m.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Open House. Interstate State Park is celebrating the completion of a new addition to the Ice Age Interpretive Center with an open house. There will be free admission to the park for the event. A pancake breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. to noon, and a special dedication of the addition will take place at 11 a.m. at the Ice Age Center. The pancake breakfast, sponsored by the Friends of Interstate Park, will serve as a fundraiser to furnish the new classroom addition. Funds will also be used to build a nearby shelter building for use for educational field trips. The cost is $5 for adults, $3 for children under 10.
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Drop In at the Beach: Tree Houses for Wildlife. Trees provide homes to many different animals. Learn what animals live in the leaves, branches, trunks, bark and roots of forest and city trees. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Long Lake Recreation Area South Beach. Drop in anytime noon - 3 p.m.
Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Spider Crafts - Drop-In Program. Kids and their parents can pop by the Nature Center to make one or all of the spider related crafts we'll have available for you to create. Feel free to come and go as you wish. Nature Center. 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 996-2261 - Prairie Garden Program. Meet at the Park Office. 10 a.m. Human History Walk. Meet at the Concession Stand. Sponsored by the Friends of Wyalusing State Park. 6 p.m.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - The Universe from the Hubble. All ages are invited to meet Harald Schenk for a slide presentation showing Hubble space telescope images and find out why the recent shuttle mission was needed. The rogram will last about an hour. If the weather cooperates a telescope will be set up outdoors to view the night skies. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. Sanderling Nature Center. 7 p.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Eagle Trail Hike: 10 - 11:30 a.m. Meet at Eagle Tower. Hike Peninsula's most spectacular trail. Learn tree ecology, geology and park history. About two miles. Difficult hiking. Animal Signs Quest: Stop by the Nature Center any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to walk a short trail, discovering animal signs. Figure it out - get a prize.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Buckhorn State Park, Necedah, (608) 565-2789 - Junior Naturalist Program. Available to youth ages 9-14. Sessions include: Kids Homemade Camp, Nature Playground and Crafts, Geocaching and Field Identification. Pre-registration is required and attendance is limited. Call or stop in the office to register and for more information. Attend at least 2 sessions to graduate with a certificate, patch, and prize on August 18. Other dates are August 11 and August 18. Meet at the north picnic shelter. 10 a.m. to Noon.
Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Hellestad House Open. Hellestad House. 1-4 p.m. Please call ahead to verify event has not been cancelled or changed.
Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Meet the Ranger. Families are encouraged to meet a park ranger to learn about a ranger's job in the park and see the equipment they use. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. Meet at the park shelter between campsites 13 and 15. 7 p.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 868-3258 - Talking Tombstones. 10 a.m. - Noon, Blossomburg Cemetery. Learn Door County history through costumed characters and friendly descendents of early settlers. Meet Dr. Sneeberger, Carl Anderson, Julia Duclon and many others. $2 suggested donation. Please bike. Cars may park in Nelson's picnic lot. Limited handicapped parking on Shore Road. A state park vehicle sticker is not needed to attend this event. Rain or shine.
Roche-A-Cri State Park, Friendship, (608) 565-2789 - Junior Naturalist Program. Available to youth ages 9-14. Sessions include: Kids Homemade Camp, Nature Playground and Crafts, Geocaching and Field Identification. Pre-registration is required and attendance is limited. Call or stop in the office to register and for more information. Attend at least 2 sessions to graduate with a certificate, patch, and prize on August 18. Other dates are August 11 and August 18. Meet at the Kiosk Shelter. 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
MacKenzie Environmental Education Center, Poynette, (608) 635-8105 - Wildlife Exhibit Tour ? Community Workshop Learn about each of the native animals living in our wildlife exhibit by joining us for a free guided tour with a MacKenzie staff member. RSVP not required.. Contact Jenny Krause, wildlife technician at 608-635-8105 or jennykrause@wiwf.org. More information about the center is on the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation Web site [www.wiwf.org/education/MEEC] (exit DNR) 6-7:30 p.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Lost Treasure! 10 - 11 a.m. Nature Center. We've found an old letter from Sailor Sven, telling of hidden gemstones in the nearby woods. Gemstone ring craft to follow. $1 donation/treasure. Watercolor Workshop with Elaine Cregan 1 - 3 p.m. Weborg Shelter. $10 donation includes paint, instruction. Register at Nature Center. Whether you're a beginner or just want a refresher, this special workshop with a Door County artist is for you. Kids and adults ages eight and older.
Thursday-Sunday, August 6-16, 2009
State Fair Park, West Allis, - Wisconsin State Fair [exit DNR]. Visit the Department of Natural Resources exhibits at this year's Wisconsin State Fair. The theme for the 2009 DNR Park is Renewable Energy and Climate Change. Children age 6-12 can get 'Passport to Fun' to direct them and their families to the various program displays for simple and fun activities, passport stamps, and prizes. Near the southwest corner of the fairgrounds..
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Hellestad House Open. Hellestad House. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please call ahead to verify event has not been cancelled or changed.
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalists Julie Fox and Barb Walker will share a story and activity with preschool through kindergarten children and their parents. The short activity after the story will reinforce the story's nature-related theme. Nature Storytime generally will last 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the participants. 10 a.m.
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Life on the Ledge: 10 - 10:30 a.m. Nature Center. A discussion especially for adults and older kids about the ancient cedars growing on Peninsula's Bluffs. Wisconsin Style UnNature Trail: Stop by the Nature Center any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. See how many items you can spot along the trail that do not belong. If your number is correct, you can pick a free nature poster. Night Hike 9-10 p.m. Nature Center. Experience Peninsula in a different light.
Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Moon Calendar. Discover nature, check out a beach toy, and learn something new. Programs begin on the hour and involve a craft and educational activity. Each week focuses on a different theme. Will be canceled of rain or lightening. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access. 1-3 p.m.
Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 996-2261 - Archaeology Program. Meet at the Peterson Shelter. 6 p.m.
Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report
Edited by Paul Holtan
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707-7921
(608) 267-7517
Fax: (608) 264-6293
E-mail: paul.holtan@dnr.state.wi.us
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/or/
