WDNR Outdoor Report as of February 28, 2008
Snow conditions generally remain good to very good over most of Wisconsin, ranging from a low of about 4 inches in west central part of the state to nearly 30 inches in the north central and east central parts of the state. Snowmobile and cross-country ski conditions continue to be reported from good to excellent in many locations on the Department of Tourism’s snow conditions report. The Lake Superior ice road between Bayfield and Madeline Island has been in great condition this year. Last year, it was barely kept open maintaining the minimum of 11 or 12 inches of ice depth. This year there are 18 to 24 inches of ice. Traffic is limited to automobiles and small pick-up trucks.
Bobbing for lake trout has been good on Lake Superior near Ashland. Walleye action has been improving on inland northern lakes with most fish relating to shallow water weed edges. Perch continue to provide good action in the shallow water weeds, but crappie and bluegill action has been slower. Fishing action slowed somewhat on southern waters. A few bluegills and crappies were reported from Sheboygan and Washington county waters, where anglers were also catching a lot of small northern pike. Better action was reported from Waukesha County lakes, with some walleye and larger bluegills reported. Northern pike will be starting to stage for spawning on southern lakes soon.
Perch action on Green Bay was spotty over the last week. A few small fish were being iced at the Peshtigo and Oconto harbors, where there have also been a few anglers fishing for northern pike. Anglers have been getting walleye and sauger on Mississippi River at Lake Pepin and through the ice below the Lynxville dam.
The general inland water game-fish season closes March 2 in Wisconsin; the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers boundary waters close March 1. Anglers are reminded that ice shanties must be removed from inland waters south of Highway 64 by March 2 and by March 16 from inland waters north of Highway 64 and from Green Bay. Portable shanties may continue to be used but must be removed when not occupied.
The early catch and release trout season opens March 1 at 5 a.m. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed and all trout must be immediately released. Northern Wisconsin trout streams are pretty well socked in with snow and ice and will likely not be very fishable by the early opener. Many southern Wisconsin streams are open, but deep snow may inhibit access. Coulee region anglers are cautioned they may find their favorite stream has completely changed after flooding last August. Some streams have been completely scoured by flooding and some huge holes have formed especially below restricted areas like bridges. The depth of these holes may be deceiving and anglers may find themselves in deep water above their waders if not careful.
Large winter turkey flocks are still being reported and while deer are becoming more active, they are still yarded up in many areas. Wildlife managers say that despite the return of a good winter this season, wildlife area fairing quite well. Even with the deep snow and cold weather, conditions are still just at the moderate level on the Winter Severity Index, which wildlife biologists use to track winter impact on wildlife.
And early signs of the approaching spring are beginning to snow up, include tree buds swelling and the occasional opossum seen out and about.
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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
Pattison State Park – Cross-country ski trails are in very good condition. There is a 12-inch base. Trails were last groomed Feb. 26.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Big Bay State Park - This has been a great winter snow-wise. Cross-country ski trails were groomed again on Friday Feb. 25 for classic-style skiing. Trails are not wide enough, nor groomed for skate skiing. Snowshoeing has been great, especially back in the lagoon (Big Bay Bog State Natural Area), which is otherwise unreachable the rest of the year. The Ice Road between Bayfield and Madeline Island has been in great condition this year. Although it opened almost two weeks late due to problems with trying to seal an ice heave. Last year, it was barely kept open maintaining the minimum of 11 or 12 inches of ice depth. This year there are 18 to 24 inches of ice. Traffic is limited to automobiles and small pick-up trucks. Ice Road conditions and Windsled schedule can be heard from a 24-hour recording at (715) 747-5400. Bobbing for lake trout has been good, although this has been a typical spotty February. This month is usually slow, but picks up in late February, and is best in March until way past when it is safe to fish! Views from trails of the ice formations on Lake Superior are pretty fabulous. The ice changes daily, freezing up, blowing out, and refreezing again. The power of the wind is unbelievable, but visitors can witness the ice cracking, shoving, and piling up before your very eyes. Definitely remember to bring a camera.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Snow is needed in the area to improve the snowmobile and cross-country ski trails as they have experienced lots of traffic since the last snowfall. Unfortunately, there have continued to be numerous snowmobile accidents in the area. The two most common factors in snowmobile accidents are speed and alcohol; they simply don’t mix. Snowmobilers who you choose to drink should save it for after the ride. Walleye action is improving with most fish relating to shallow water weed edges. Perch continue to provide good action in the shallow water weeds. Crappie and bluegill reports are not real positive at this time. The game-fish season is winding down with the closure March 2, 2008. Anglers are reminded that ice shanties must be removed by March 16 north of 64. Portable shanties may continue to be used but must be removed when not occupied. Please remember to exercise caution if you are planning on driving out onto the lakes with any type of vehicle. As we have mentioned before, ice conditions are not always consistent on individual lakes, as well as in areas on the lakes. Lakes should be assessed for safety before driving out. Boat registration renewal notices are being mailed out now from Madison so be on the lookout and make your renewals now so that you don’t have to deal with registration right before you want to use your boat. A further reminder with reference to hunting and fishing licenses: Current licenses expire on March 31, with new licenses going on sale beginning March 10. Conservation Patrons will not receive reminder notices to renew their licenses.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - With the recent warm up and cool down, cross-country ski trail conditions had become icy. Madeline trail was groomed Feb. 26. McNaughton and Raven were groomed Feb. 27. Escanaba was groomed Feb. 28. All trails were in good condition as of Feb. 28.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - The perch action has been spotty over the last week with only a few fish being iced at the Peshtigo harbor. There have also been a few anglers fishing for northern pike. Most of the pressure has been in the river itself or out in bay in about 10 feet of water. Success rates have been slow, but a few northern have been caught. Ice anglers had moderate success at the Lake Noquebay Fisheree last weekend near Crivitz. Some northern pike and crappie were harvested. There are some trout anglers itching to find open water to practice on during the early trout season but unfortunately for anglers wondering about north of Amberg, the streams are snowed in and at last check, iced over. Ice shanty owners should begin to get prepared for shack removal in two weeks north of Highway 64. While inland waters south of Highway 64 are required to remove ice shelters by March 2. A seasonal change can be felt with the extended daylight and warming sunshine. It may not look like much is going on but the tree buds are swelling and soon early migrating birds will begin their journeys northward. Deer are becoming more active in lowland areas and occasional opossum have been seen out and about.
Oconto County - There were a few people fishing for perch out of the Oconto harbor. Most of the perch have been very small. The people that have been catching the perch were in 18 feet of water. The perch seem to be biting best on minnows and wax worms. There has also been a few northern pike caught using similar bait. It is not too early to be thinking about registering to attend a Hunter Safety Class. The Oconto Middle School will be hosting such a class beginning April 3 through 29. In order to attend people must pre register by calling the instructor at 920-834-5790 as class size is sometimes limited. Ice fishing shelters must be removed from the ice of Green Bay by March 16.
Shawano County - Fishing especially for panfish has been good. Snow around the lakes has made traveling very difficult, and ice shack removal this Sunday will be challenging. Snowmobile trails are in pretty good conditions yet. The Navarino Nature Center will host a Snowshoe Race this Saturday with registration from 8-8:45 a.m. Races begin at 9 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. A 4X800 meter relay, 2.5 mile, 5.0 mile and kids 800 meter race will be offered. Ski trails are in good condition and many people are taking advantage of the nice weather and are out snowshoeing also. Ice fishing shelters must be removed by this Sunday, the first Sunday after March 1st, on inland waters south of Highway 64.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County
Peninsula State Park – As of Feb. 26, snow cover was approximately 12 inches. All sections of the park's 16 mile cross-country ski trail system were in good condition. However, trails are somewhat icy/glazed due to warm temperatures on Monday. Snowmobile trails are open and in good condition. The sledding hill was open. The road through the park is plowed and open. Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is not accessible to motor vehicles. Eagle Tower is open and accessible. Waterfowl sightings are abundant along the shore of Peninsula State Park. Water levels in Green Bay and Lake Michigan are still very low, approximately 18 inches below the long-term average. The Bay has extensive ice, but is unsafe in many areas. Use extreme caution if you venture onto any ice.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
Hartman Creek State Park – As of Monday, Feb. 25, cross-country ski trail conditions were fair to good. Snow base is approximately 16 inches. Some melting took place over the weekend, and therefore, some icy areas are on the trails. Trails were groomed last week, Tuesday and Wednesday. Hillview is groomed for ski skating and the Oak Ridge & Pope Lake are tracked and groomed for diagonal skiing. Please use caution on the trails as there may be some branches, pine needles and possibly other debris hanging down on the trails (especially in the pines area) due to snow melting off the trees & breaking branches.. Please call ahead for updated information at 715-258-2372, as trail conditions can change rapidly.
DNR Southeast Region
Sheboygan County
Kohler-Andrae State Park - The cross-country ski trail was groomed Feb. 22. The trail snow depth ranged from 2 to 10inches. It was generally in excellent condition at that time with a few icy spots. Nature and hiking trails are snow covered. The Townsend’s solitaire has still been seen feeding near Sanderling Nature Center.
Waukesha County
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Lapham Peak Unit – As of Feb. 27, cross-country ski trails were still in very good to excellent condition after receiving an inch of snow Feb. 26. The lighted loop was groomed in the late afternoon. The ski trail lights are lit everyday, except Sunday until 10 p.m.
Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit – Cross-country ski trails remain in good condition. The Nordic trail was groomed a couple of times this week. The skating lane was fast and tracks were set on the new snow, except in a couple of sunny places where they were glazed over. The Zillmer trail skating lanes were groomed Feb. 26 as they had gotten rather icy from the weekend and warmer temps. The tracks were not reset. The entire trail may be re-groomed on Friday, depending on weather conditions. As of Wednesday the skating lanes were very good and the tracks were good but icy in places. The McMiller trail received 2 inches of new snow Monday. The trails were packed on Tuesday morning and a classical track was set. The conditions were generally good although somewhat soft with the fresh layer of snow. The Scuppernong received about 1 inch of new snow last night. The entire trail was churned up mixing the old and new snow and a double classical track was set around the entire system. Conditions were very good although the track may get a little icy with use.
Inland fisheries team report
Washington, eastern Fond du Lac, and inland Sheboygan counties - Fishing reports lately have indicated that action has slowed somewhat. Fishing should begin to improve as warmer temperatures begin to melt the heavy snow cover. Trout streams are pretty well socked in with snow and ice and will likely not be very fishable by the early opener. Some good panfish action was reported from the north end of Long Lake near Dundee. A few bluegills and crappies were also reported from Crystal Lake in Sheboygan County. Anglers were catching a lot of small northern pike on Crystal Lake, Silver Lake (Washington County) and Little Cedar Lake near West Bend.
Waukesha County - Pewaukee Lake is consistently producing legal sized walleyes. Nagawicka lake has been producing large numbers of bluegills in 10-12 feet of water. Northern pike will be starting to stage for spawning, so concentrate efforts in areas near emergent vegetation such as marshes. Best results have come in 12 feet or less using tip-ups and large or jumbo golden shiners. Anglers have just a few days left to fish for game fish before the season closes on March 2. Fishing for panfish and rough fish is open year around. All streams in Waukesha County are open for the early trout season. The early catch and release trout season runs from March 2 at 5 a.m. until April 27 at midnight. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed and all trout must be immediately released. Rosenow Creek, Mason Creek, and the Scuppernong River system, including Paradise Springs, Scuppernong Springs, and McKeawn Springs all have brook and brown trout. The south branch of the Scuppernong, south of Highway 59 near the Kettle Moraine Forest headquarters has produced a few nice big brown trout over the years.
DNR South Central Region
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Sauk County
Devil’s Lake State Park – The park received 13 inches snow on Sunday, Feb. 17, breaking local yearly snowfall records by a wide margin. Park roads were snow-covered but are plowed and easily passable. Parking areas are cleared at winter trailheads and near buildings used in the winter. Snow is piled 5 to 12 feet high in areas around cleared parking lots and walkways, and snow depths in the open areas range from 12 to 30 inches. Hiking trails are not maintained or cleared in any way during the winter. Cross-country ski trails were groomed and tracked Thursday, Feb. 21, and were in excellent condition for the weekend. The East Bluff Woods Trail portion of the advanced loop is closed for the winter, awaiting washout repairs when maintenance workers can tackle the job in the spring. The lake is ice and snow-covered, but surface conditions are poorer than usual this year. Finally, late in the season, a few vehicles have ventured onto the surface, but generally have stayed near to the shoreline. A few ice shanties have been placed, but also near the edges. Latest word from late February is that the northern pike were just beginning to hit.
Dane County
Governor Nelson State Park - Ski trails were groomed and tracked on Tuesday, Feb. 26. Trail Conditions are good with some icy hilltops and blowing drifting snow. For current updates please call the office at 608-831-8005
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
The extreme cold weather this winter has allowed for expanded ice fishing opportunities on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers and on Lake Pepin. Anglers have been getting walleye and sauger. The St. Croix River season closes March 1 for walleye, sauger, bass and n. pike. Inland game fish season closes March 2. Most of Wisconsin has had record or near record snowfalls, but western Wisconsin areas have missed most of the snow. Snowmobile trails have been closed most of the winter and were in poor shape even when open. The positive for this area is wildlife should get through the winter in good shape, especially pheasants, which have made a good rebound recently, in St. Croix, Pierce and southern Polk counties.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
With the early catch and release trout season opener Saturday morning, Coulee region anglers are cautioned they may find their favorite stream has completely changed after flooding last August. Not only have many area streams been completely scoured by flooding but some huge deep scour and blow holes have formed especially below restricted areas like bridges. The depth of these holes may be deceiving and they could present a danger to anglers who get too close to icy snow covered banks. Wading anglers are also cautioned that the newly formed rubble bottom may be loose with steeper than normal descents into deep pools. Anglers may find themselves in deep water above their waders if not careful. Anglers are also reminded that only artificial lures with barbless hooks may be used while fishing for any species of fish on trout streams during this early season. To prepare for the upcoming spring wild turkey season, it is always a good idea for turkey hunters to pattern their shotguns. Spending a half hour or so at the target range can make the difference between a successful turkey hunt or going home without a bird. Large winter turkey flocks are still being reported throughout the area.
Crawford County - All the snowmobile trails in the county remain open for the time being. The Mississippi River was at 7.85 feet on Feb. 25. It has been on a very slow rise this past week. The Wisconsin River was slightly up this past week while the Kickapoo River remained fairly steady. Ice conditions vary greatly throughout the area. Travel upon the ice is dangerous in many areas this time of year especially on the Mississippi River. Ice thickness ranges from less than an inch, primarily on the Main Channel to over 16 inches. Most of the Main Channels of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers are frozen over. Backwater sloughs that have current flowing through them can be dangerous and ice conditions vary there. This past weekend’s warm temperatures made for sloppy travel on the ice. Those unfamiliar with ice fishing in the Crawford County area should not venture out alone or travel in areas where others have not been. Bluegill, perch, and crappie action this past week was generally slow, but there were a few days this past week where a few anglers found some pretty good catches. Cold Spring continued to be spotty. Shoreline fishing was at Cold Spring was also spotty. Those fishing through the ice have had some success using a variety of jig colors. Many used bait to include wax worms and spikes. Anglers were still crossing over the Ambro Slough to fish Mud Slough and Tilmont Lake. Anglers were using a variety of baits and on some days need to change colors frequently to find what is working best. Some anglers have ventured up to Fish Lake and the Lower Doubles where bluegill fishing was also slow. Action farther up at Little and Big Missouri and the Upper Doubles was slow too. Ice conditions on the Ambro Slough upstream from the USFWS landing is a bit dangerous because of the feeder stream that enters the slough. Caution is advised in that area. Ice fishing on Sturgeon Slough was very slow last week. Some anglers ventured out to McGregor Lake where the action was spotty. The lower bottoms outside Prairie du Chien have not seen much fishing activity due to access problems. Airboats or hover craft is the best and safest way to access this area. Some anglers have been fishing through the ice below the Lynxville dam for walleye and sauger. The weather has warmed up this weekend making access more dangerous. Anglers were catching sauger and a few walleye. Rabbit hunters are found the going tough. Deep snow is causing both dogs and hunters problems. Rabbits seemed to be sparse recently. There are plenty of coyotes roaming around and some hunters are having fair success calling them into gun range. Bald eagles can be seen along the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers near open water areas. Many reports of eagles being sighted farther inland searching for food. Eagles have been seen feeding in farm fields. Deer and turkeys have grouped up in search of food also.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park – Cross-country ski trails have been groomed and are in excellent condition. Snowshoeing conditions in other areas of the park are very good. Fishing pressure has been very light with mixed results in the north campground bays. Anglers were reporting generally good ice conditions in the backwater areas. The park does not monitor ice conditions. The Cornell flowage water levels fluctuate throughout the year and we urge caution when venturing onto the ice. Vehicle passes are required year round. Species of birds seen or heard include: hairy and downy woodpeckers, ravens, black capped chickadees, piliated woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - The snowmobile route has been closed through the park due to numerous downed trees. The oak barrens nature trail and pond trail were packed late last week, but not tracked due to the heavy snow. A couple of skiers were out on trails this past weekend. Ski trails on the peninsula have branches hanging down still from the icy rain last week. Hiking is not allowed on the groomed trails. Many people have been out ice fishing on the lake. Remember the park does not monitor ice conditions - be safe out on the lake! Sites 8, 9, 16 are open year-round, sites are first come basis, and drinking water is available at the park office. Site 8 is plowed and has electric! Applications are available for the November Buckhorn Youth Deer Hunt. Contact the park office at 608-565-2789 for questions or to get an application.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Cross-country ski trails have been packed and are in fair condition. Due to ice and heavy snow, a few areas of trail have overhanging trees. Hikers are reminded to stay off of ski routes when trails are snow-covered and skiable. The campground and facilities are currently closed for the season, but the park remains open for day use. Roche-A-Cri is accessible through the winter parking lot on Czech Avenue, the southern border of the park. The stairway up the Roche-A-Cri Mound is open, but not maintained for winter use.
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, February 29, 2008
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Saturn Observation. Enjoy the beauty of Saturn and its rings and moons. Telescopes and information provided by Kevin Koski of Rustic Skies Astronomy, Plymouth Stargazers, and Sheboygan Astronomical Society. An interesting experience for those age 10 and up. Parking lot adjacent to amphitheater. 7-9 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday, March 1-2, 2008
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Photography 101. Join us for the third in the "Once a Month 101" series. This month, learn the basics of composition, lighting and other tips to improve your photographs. We will go outside to practice, so dress for the weather. Bring your camera if you have one. Visitor Center. 10 a.m. - noon.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
• Brule River State Forest, Brule, (715) 372-5678 - Riverview Loppet Cross-country Ski Race. Races for youths and adults in the skate and classic styles. Sponsored by Brule Valley Ski Club, the Brule River State Forest, and the Brule Lions Club. 9 a.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Family Program: Incredible Eggs. Lots of animal babies hatch out of eggs. We’ll spend the morning discovering what animals lay eggs and we’ll even dissect a real egg! Environmental Awareness Center. 10:30 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Photography 101. Join us for the third in the "Once a Month 101" series. Learn the basics of composition, lighting and other tips to improve your photographs. We will go outside to practice, so dress for the weather. Bring your camera if you have one. Visitor Center. 10 a.m. - noon.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a nature-related story and activity with preschoolers and their parents. Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants. We'll spend time indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so dress accordingly. Ice Age Center. 10 a.m.
Friday, March 7, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Rowdy Red-Wings. Look! The red-winged blackbirds are back! Spring must not be too far away. Celebrate the return of the red-wings to the Kettle Moraine. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Discovery Saturday: Rain. Spring is around the corner and the snow is turning into rain. Come and make a rain painting and learn about clouds. Environmental Awareness Center. Drop in anytime between 9 a.m. and noon. No admission sticker required.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Winds of Spring. Have you ever wondered why the wind blows and from where it comes? Join us as we answer these questions and uncover the power of the wind. We will make several wind powered objects. This program is best for families with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-11 a.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - The Earliest Migrants. Bring your binoculars and join us for an early morning hike to see which migrating birds have returned. Visitor Center. 7:30-9 a.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/
