WDNR Outdoor Report as of May 8, 2008
The weather did not cooperate Saturday morning of the opening of Wisconsin 2008 game fishing season. Cold conditions statewide with some rain in the south and even some snow in the north put a bit of a damper on fishing. However, conditions improved in the afternoon and on Sunday, and many anglers reported success. Most lakes across the state were free of ice, but some of the larger, deeper lakes in far northern Wisconsin were still ice covered.
Walleye spawning is varied across the north. Spawning in full swing on some of the larger lakes that have just opened but smaller lakes and the flowages are in post spawn feeding patterns. Crappies are reported to be moving in to the shallower warm water. In the south, some good musky action was reported. The walleye bite has been tremendous at the mouth of the Menominee River in Marinette and action was also good on the Wolf River. On the Fox River in Green Bay, a few walleye have been caught, post-spawn, from the dam to the mouth.
Trout anglers found plenty of action on northern streams, with brook trout the most common fish in the bag. Coulee Region trout streams have been inundated with floodwaters and both streams have finally returned to within their banks. Several headwater streams had cleared and were returning to normal.
Green Bay water temperatures were about 51 degrees this week. Walleye action has been good to very good at night. Anglers fishing for smallmouth bass enjoyed success in the back areas of most of the bays. Northern pike continued to be taken along the channel in Sturgeon Bay as well as well as out of Sawyer Harbor and Little Sturgeon.
Along Lake Michigan, brown trout action remained good with anglers trolling Lake Michigan from Baileys Harbor south. Steelhead fishing has slowed considerably on all tributaries of Lake Michigan. In the southeast, trollers have been catching decent numbers of browns out of Sheboygan and Port Washington. In Milwaukee, shore anglers have been catching brown trout and trollers have been catching a few lake trout and chinook.
Mississippi River water levels remain high, with many boat landings under water and not usable, but the river has been on a steady decline and by Monday was at 15.2 feet. Anglers were catching some nice largemouth bass in areas where the water has receded. Other fishing has been slow due to the high water.
Turkey hens are nesting and the first Canada geese goslings have been reported. The spring migration continues, although things appear to be a bit behind schedule due to the intermittent north winds and cool weather. This Saturday, May 10 is International Migratory Birding Day, which celebrates the return of millions of migratory birds from their warm winter habitat in South and Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the southern U.S., to their North American homes. More information about International Migratory Bird Day can be found on the IMBD Web site at [www.birday.org]. A number of International Migratory Bird Day activities and related events are being held throughout Wisconsin in May.
Green up is proceeding with many trees already leafed out in the south, and popples budding and red maples putting on a colorful display of blossoms in the north. As a result, wild fire danger has dropped and is currently at moderate across most of the state. Spring wildflowers are slowly making their appearance. Hepatica, spring beauties, wood violets, trout lilies, and harebells are in bloom in the south, with trilliums also starting to bloom. Marsh marigolds and trailing arbutus are blooming in the north. Mushroom hunters have reported limited success so far in search of the elusive morels, with mostly small, gray in color mushrooms found so far.
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A new report is put on the line each week.
Wildfire Conditions for May 8, 2008
In the past week, 39 fires burned 34 acres. The main causes were railroads, debris burning, equipment, fireworks, and power lines. The largest was a 19-acre fire in Oconto County. Recent wet weather, paired with the green-up of vegetation has moderated fire conditions around much of the state. Check this site for current statewide fire danger and burning permit restrictions: [http://dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire/].
Northern Region Wildfire News
In parts of Northern Region where DNR is responsible for wildfire suppression, 17 fires burned a total of 9 acres with four structures saved this week. The fire danger is Moderate across the region. The prescribed burning season is in full swing with a total of 15 prescribed burns on 2,208 acres completed. A remote lakeside cabin near Hayward was directly saved by two lookout towers (Sand Lake and Hayward). The cabin only received damage to its siding. The cause was improper ash disposal. Remember, burning permits are required and burning is only allowed from 6:00 pm – Midnight with no burning on Sundays or legal holidays.
South Central Region Wildfire News
Green up and recent wet weather have slowed wildfire activity. This week, two fires burned just under one-half acre. Prescribed burning continued in the region, with 53 prescribed fires improving habitat, reducing fuels, and working to control invasive plants on 1,776 acres. Fire danger levels remain Moderate across the region and burning permits are required.
West Central Region Wildfire News
Seven new fires burned this week. All fires were suppressed quickly, leaving total acreage burned to under one-half acre. Fire danger is currently Moderate across the region. One prescribed burn was completed on 4 acres. During camping season, the DNR wants to remind people to make sure their campfires are fully extinguished before leaving their campsites.
Northeast Region Wildfire News
In parts of the region where DNR is responsible for wildfire suppression, 13 new fires burned a total of 24 acres. Seven of the fires were caused by a locomotive, the largest of which burned 19 acres. Fire danger is currently set at Moderate across the region. Weather changes rapidly this time of year, remember to call for conditions, BEFORE you burn!
Firewise Tip: Create clear access to your property. Make sure your driveway is at least 12 feet wide with a vertical clearance of 14 feet to allow room for fire department vehicles.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest – The Brule area received 1.55 inches of rain (more in some areas) over last weekend, bringing the Bois Brule's flow close to 500 cubic feet per second (cfs). As of Wednesday May 7, the Bois Brule River was flowing above average at 337 cubic feet per second (cfs). The 63 year average is 219 cfs. The rain has also helped fill some of the areas that had dried up over the past few years. Many ditches along roadsides are filled up with water...it has been common to see ducks swimming right next to the roads. Fisheries personnel are very busy this time of year netting and electro shocking fish. This is done to get an estimate on fish populations in the Wisconsin lakes and rivers. The netting is now complete and the second round of electro shocking will begin next week. Electro shocking uses an electric current to safely immobilize fish so people can scoop them up in a net. Walleye spawning is almost done, muskellunge is near peak, and bass and bluegill should peak around Memorial weekend time. Birds continue to return from their wintering areas. Some of the recent arrivals include bluebirds, common loons, and chipping sparrows. A Wisconsin endangered red-necked grebe was sighted on Lake Nebagamon on May 6. Saturday, May 10 is International Migratory Birding Day. The International Migratory Bird Day celebrates the return of millions of migratory birds from their warm winter habitat in South and Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the southern U.S., to their North American homes where they nest and rear their young. More information about International Migratory Bird Day can be found on the IMBD Web site at [www.birday.org]. A number of International Migratory Bird Day activities and related events are being held throughout Wisconsin in May. Spring wildflowers are slowly making their appearance. Trailing arbutus and round-lobed hepatica are starting to bloom...depending on where the sun hits. Other spring wildflowers are pushing their way up. Red maples are putting on a colorful display with their red blossoms.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Bayfield County - Finally the week following Wisconsin game fish opener, ice has left Lakes Owen and Namekagon in Southern Bayfield County. The weather did not cooperate Saturday morning of the opener, but by 4 p.m. that afternoon may people had their bag limits of walleye on both Upper and Middle Eau Claire. Choice baits were minnows and a jig. Also, the northern pike cooperated on Middle Eau Claire for the opener, with some nice size fish taken. Though the fishing slowed on Sunday of the opener, most people fishing on the Eau Claire Chain had their bag limits by dark. The weather did not slow those who love to trout fish: Despite the snow and rain, many people were out enjoying the fishing opportunities southern Bayfield County has to offer, with many bag limits being caught on the White River and its tributaries. Reminder to those heading out fishing, don't forget your fishing licenses; they are to be carried while/when fishing. Boaters: be sure to do a double check regarding safety before heading out, making sure you have a PFD for each person on board and a throwable device if your boat is 16 feet or longer. With these cold water temperatures, a PFD could make a difference, no matter how well of a swimmer you are and don't forget to check your boat for current registration stickers, if you forgot, last minute applications can be filled out on line, if you need to up date your registrations.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - The opening of the general fishing season on Saturday May 3 found that nearly all lakes were ice free -- with the exception of some of the large, deep lakes around the Hayward area. However, snowy and cold conditions put a bit of a damper on fishing success and most anglers reported some action during the morning hours. The weather did moderate by mid-afternoon on Saturday and anglers did enjoy some fair success. The best action was on the managed trout lakes where nearly all anglers were catching some fish. Patterson Lake, just east of Park Falls, saw relatively heavy pressure and some good catches of trout were recorded. Brookies up to 12 inches, rainbows up to 18 inches and quite a few browns in the 17- to 20-inch size were creeled. Walleye success was generally slow as most anglers had a hard time finding fish. A few nice catches were reported and the best success came on jig and minnow combinations fished near rocky drop-offs.
Flambeau River State Forest - The North and South forks of the Flambeau River are high. Boat landing docks are in. Marsh Marigolds are up and should be blooming over the next week. Bloodroot is also blooming. Ticks and mosquitoes are out. Red Maple buds are swelling and fiddlehead ferns are up. Forest roads are open; most have firmed up and are in dryer condition. The Lake of the Pines campground is open. Connors Lake campground will open at noon on the Thursday before Memorial Weekend.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
The Lakeland area is finally seeing green grass and budding trees. Opening weekend of fishing season on May 3 saw anglers hitting the waters on area lakes. Fishing action was reported as fair with the flowages and smaller lakes producing the fastest action. Anglers had to work hard but were just happy to be back out on the waters. Crappies are reported to be moving in to the shallower warm water. Walleye spawning is varied across the north. Some of the larger lakes have just opened up but find spawning in full swing. Smaller lakes and the flowages should be in post spawn feeding patterns at this time. Be sure to get the Ceded Territories Walleye bag limit insert that covers the lakes in the northern portion of the state. Bass season is still catch and release only until June 14 in the northern zone. Trout anglers found plenty of action on area streams and lakes with brook trout the most common fish in the bag. A reminder to anglers to make sure that you have a current fishing license and that the license is on your person when you are out on the water. Musky season opens May 24 in the north. Free Fishing Weekend is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8. Although fishing licenses are not required during those two days, fishing regulations still apply. Also, please remember that you must have the appropriate and correct number of personal flotation devices in your boat. Boater safety courses are currently being given and/or scheduled to begin. A Boating Safety Internet course is available on line. However, the course is not recommended for children under the age of 14 years. The black flies and the gnats will soon be out. Head netting may be the headgear of choice when working outside on the lawn or in the garden, or even if persons are camping or boating in our area.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Warmer temperatures will bring out the springtime wildflowers. Marsh marigolds, also known as buttercups, are beginning to bud and bloom with lilac bushes just beginning to bud and leaf out. Turkey hens are nesting usually seen running along agricultural and open fields along woodlands. Ticks are out along with minimal mosquito action. Bear are active throughout the county, hitting birdfeeders for seeds and suet. Please put your feeders away as bears will damage them if left out. The walleye bite has been tremendous, with the mouth of the Menominee River producing many fish both by pier anglers and boaters alike. Trolling with stick baits has been slow but jig heads (1oz green) with twister tails tipped with minnows being worked as you drift has been the rule. A few boats using "Gulp Alive", 4 to 5 inch in a shad color has been out performing anything else out there. They are catching more and bigger fish than the live bait. Boats are now fishing the turn basin and up and around Stephenson Island, having good luck with crawler harnesses, and jigging spoons. Stop by the fence of the fish refuge next to the power house in Peshtigo and observe the many sturgeon there. This prehistoric looking fish are quite fascinating. One night this week there were six of them hugging the cement wall, one even had lamprey hitching a free ride.
Oconto County - Fishing success on area waters has been fair. Trout fishing has been slow due to high water levels and colder temperatures. Ticks are out in force! Oconto Park II is giving up limits of walleyes using crawler harnesses in 6 to 8 feet of water. The occasional brown is also being caught. Water temps at the Iron bridge by the Stiles dam have reached 60 degrees, and the number of sucker you can observe from the bridge can be counted on three hands. Pensaukee had some shore and boat anglers activity. The fishing at the Oconto breakwater has been slow for walleye, but they are catching and releasing some nice smallmouth bass.
Shawano County - Fishing is picking up on the Wolf River and bass have been active on the inland lakes. Turkeys are spread out and migrating birds are coming through. On Saturday, May 17, the Navarino Nature Center will be holding the 4th Annual Prairie Bird Survey from 5:30 to 11 a.m. If interested you may contact Timm at the NNC (715) 758-6999 for more information.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - Perch season is still closed on Green Bay. On the Fox River in Green Bay, some walleye have been caught, post-spawn, from the dam to the mouth. Crank baits and vertical jigging seem most effective. Shore anglers have caught a few walleye as well. A few walleye have been caught in the bay on crank baits and crawler harnesses. Bay water temperature is 51 degrees.
Manitowoc County - Anglers fishing in Manitowoc had fair success this past week. Boat anglers were able to land mixed bags of brown trout and a few lake trout this past week. Most of the brown trout that were harvested ranged in weight from 3 to 7 pounds. Anglers fishing the north pier stub inside the harbor had some success on Saturday afternoon landing some nice brown trout and one large northern pike. Anglers casting bright colored spoons had the most success catching brown trout this week. On the Manitowoc River, fishing activity was centered around Lower Cato Falls Park and the County Highway S crossing. Most anglers were casting spoons for northern pike and only had mixed success in landing any pike. In Two Rivers, anglers were trolling out on Lake Michigan brown trout. Anglers were fishing close to shore with stick baits. Success, however, was limited to a few lucky boats. Inside the harbor, bullhead anglers had a great week of fishing using worms off the bottom. On the West Twin River many anglers were out over the weekend to enjoy the opening weekend of the regular fishing season. Most anglers were casting spinners or floating a worm and bobber, but fishing success was a little slow. On the East Twin River, a couple rainbow trout anglers were fishing on Sunday afternoon. They had little success but did report seeing a few rainbow trout jumping near the Mishicot dam.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - Again this week the weather was less than beautiful, with mostly cool and overcast days, scattered showers and even an occasional thunder clap. Opening day on Saturday was good despite overcast skies and a few rain showers. Anglers fishing for smallmouth bass enjoyed success in the back areas of most of the bays. Tube jigs and jerks baits seemed to be providing most of the action. Walleye action has been good to very good at night, with anglers trolling in 4 to 15 feet of water producing some very nice fish. The Sherwood Point, Henderson Point and Dunlop Reef areas all were producing fish. Crank baits, crawler harnesses and floating Rapalas were all reported as catching nice walleyes. Brown trout action remained good with anglers trolling Lake Michigan from Baileys Harbor as far south as Algoma reporting success in 15 to 20 feet of water. Several anglers fishing for smallmouth bass in colder water were pleasantly surprised by nice browns on the Green Bay sides of the county. The flow of water out of the streams remains good and although I didn’t get any reports of success, there are at least some anglers still fishing the streams for steelhead. Northern pike continued to be taken along the channel in Sturgeon Bay as well as well as out of Sawyer Harbor and Little Sturgeon. Unconfirmed reports say that there are some big northerns coming out of the waters around Washington Island.
Peninsula State Park - All trails are open; however, considerable standing water is present in low lying areas. Sections of mountain bike trail are impassible, due to standing water. The Door County Half Marathon (and 5k run), held in Peninsula State, was a huge success, drawing over 600 runners. Waterfowl sightings are abundant along the shore of Peninsula State Park. New birds are arriving daily. Wood frogs and spring peepers are calling. Watch for warblers migrating as well as bald eagles, sandhill cranes, migrating hawks and turkey vultures. Water levels in Green Bay and Lake Michigan are still approximately 18 inches below the long-term average. Some increases in water levels are developing. Peninsula State Park golf course is open. Tee times are generally available, and reservations may be made. Visit the Golf Course website at
www.peninsulagolf.org or call 920-854-5791.
Potawatomi State Park - The birds are singing and wildflowers and morels are springing. Hepatica, spring beauties, wood violets, trout lilies, and harebells are in bloom. Trilliums are just starting to bloom. .Hiking and biking trails are open. The tower is open for the season. Two launching docks at the boat landing site and the accessible fishing pier near the picnic area are now in the water. All campground facilities are open, including the shower building and dump station.
Kewaunee County - Steelhead fishing has slowed down considerably this past week out of all tributaries of Lake Michigan. Trolling has picked up some out of Algoma and Kewaunee. Brown trout out of Algoma have been reported in about 12-16 feet, and fish have been caught trolling with Rapalas. Based on angler accounts, the water is a little clear for optimum conditions; however, this next week's conditions may change that for the better. Trolling should continue to pick up if the weather permits it.
DNR Southeast Region
Sheboygan County - A black and white warbler and a water thrush have been seen recently and there have been reports of other warblers moving through. The white-throated & white crowned sparrows seem to be in full swing, calling everywhere. Hummingbirds are back as are the orioles and other migrants. Woodcock have quieted down (done or due to the weather?). The frogs have been rather quiet with the cool weather recently. Gnats are out in force (clouds are large enough to see). Mosquito larvae are getting big in the pools of water, but I haven't seen one flying yet. Bees have been flying around for a while now visiting open flowers. Marsh marigolds are blooming. Dandelions have started flowering.
Kohler-Andrae State Park - All nature and hiking trails are open. All campsites are open and showers, flush toilets, and water fountains are open for the season. Rose-breasted grosbeaks, orioles, eastern towhees, chipping sparrows, white-throated sparrows, hummingbirds, and red-headed woodpeckers have all been visiting the bird feeders this week. Various warblers are migrating through the area. Tree swallows are constructing a nest in the bird cam bird house. Visitors can watch nest construction on the television located in the office conference room.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan, shore fishing has been slow, but boaters fishing in 10 to 30 feet of water between the Sheboygan harbor and the power plant have been catching fair numbers of brown trout.
Ozaukee County - Port Washington trollers have been catching decent numbers of browns on spoons in 20 to 40 feet of water.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, shore anglers fishing off McKinley pier have been catching brown trout on crank baits, and at Jones Island anglers have been catching a few browns on shiners and crank baits. Trollers fishing off Milwaukee have been catching a few lake trout and chinooks on flashers and flies.
Racine County - In Racine fishing at the lakefront has been slow. On the Root River DNR crews are done collecting fish for the season. Major flooding and poor conditions hampered efforts this spring, and only 241 steelhead were processed, with roughly 100,000 eggs taken. Fortunately, over a million steelhead eggs were collected at the Besadny Anadromous Fish Facility in Kewaunee, so DNR egg-taking goals have been met. Root River anglers have been catching a few steelhead just below the dam and down into Quarry Lake Park. Egg imitation flies in chartreuse or orange have been the most effective.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha fishing in the harbor has been slow overall, but a few browns have been caught on spawn sacs.
Inland fisheries team report
The opening weekend was successful on trout streams in the area. Water conditions remain very good on all the streams. Panfish action was slow, in general, but should pick up with warming temperatures. Some musky action was noted on Random Lake. Largemouth bass action was good on Big Cedar Lake.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County - The Mississippi River water levels remain high throughout the county. Most boat landings remain under water and are not usable. One would be fisherman remarked, that by the time his boat floated, the water would be coming in the doors of his truck as well! The Mississippi River had dropped several feet in the last few days, but the river current remains very strong, with the lock and dam gates still out of the water at both Dubuque and Guttenberg. Fishing and boating activities remain in limbo. Anglers are catching fish at O'Leary Lake where the water has receded below the access road and north parking lots. Several 16-plus-inch largemouth bass have been caught in the area of the north parking lot on night crawlers. Anglers were also catching many small yellow perch with an occasional keeper sized fish. The striped bass fishing has slowed due to the receding water levels. Inland streams such as the Grant and the Platte had been inundated with floodwaters and both streams have finally returned to within their banks. Access to the streams is severely limited by the large amounts of debris and mud on adjacent fields and roads. Many more days of warm sunshine should dry up and compact the fields. A few folks ventured out for the opening weekend of trout fishing on northern Grant County streams and found streams fishable. Several headwater streams had cleared and were returning to normal for trout waters, but the lower reaches remained murky. Turkey hunters were reporting increased hunting success having improved weather conditions over the first two periods. With the recent rains and sunshine, the vegetation is increasing in wooded areas and providing better cover. The morel hunters have reported limited success as their elusive morels were small, and gray in color. Warmer weather in the next few days have raised their hopes for a good season.
Green County - In the last week things have greened up very quickly. The fields are drying out, allowing the crop farmers to hit spring planting in full force. The Pecatonica River is still out of its banks in the southern part of the county but the Sugar River is almost completely back to where it should be. Morels have been out in some places since before the last week in April, but are starting to really pop with the recent warm weather. Even though the heavy rains a few days earlier slow things up a bit, the fish opener proved more prosperous than expected, with the bass and walleyes biting well.
Horicon DNR Service Center area
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - The spring migration continues, although things appear to be a bit behind schedule due to the intermittent north winds and cool weather. Each year, around the first week of May is when the Canada geese have their young and we witness the return of common summer birds, such as Baltimore orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks and ruby-throated hummingbirds. Goslings have been popping out on Horicon Marsh and other sites daily and while numerous people are reporting sightings of songbirds and other spring migrants throughout southern Wisconsin, it seems that the large numbers of these have yet to arrive. Trees are just beginning to bud out across the area and the lack of foliage and cool temperatures is also reducing the opportunities for insect hatches which provide the bulk of the food for our songbirds. However, while numbers are still rather low, with a bit of searching around there is a good chance to see a wide variety of songbirds across the area. It is expected that the coming warm fronts and south winds will make up for the recent delay in the progress of the season and the birds will be arriving in greater numbers over the next week or so. As a result, this is the time to get outside and keep a watch as the migrants return to the area and soon many of them will become increasingly more difficult to watch as the trees leaf out and others pass on as they venture to nesting grounds further north.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Sauk County
Devil’s Lake State Park - The lake level is high, but there has not been any damaging flooding. Most of the 29 miles of hiking trails are now open, but expect more than usual mud, standing water and slippery sections. Tumbled Rocks Trail is temporarily closed due to high water, and the East Bluff Woods Trail is temporarily closed awaiting maintenance work on some washouts. Mountain bike trails are closed to bikes and will remain closed as long as trails are muddy enough to be easily damaged, probably at least until mid or late May. The lake water is very near the road at the south shore of the lake, but nothing is closed. Swimming beaches are underwater. The north shore boat landing and adjacent parking lot are closed and water-covered. The south shore boat landing is open. The lake is now open for game and panfishing, and 18,000 brown trout were stocked in the lake on May 1. Turkey vultures, sandhill cranes, and Canada geese are back. Chickadees are singing their spring mating songs. Though hidden from view, owl chicks are already hatched and are maturing in their nests. Three ospreys have been fishing along the south shore of the lake and wood ducks have been paddling is various ponds of the park. Spring peepers and a cacophony of other frogs are trilling, chirping, ribbitting along streams, ponds and ditches every evening. Panoramic vistas show shades of bright greens smeared across the dark forest of tree trunks and branches as different species of trees are budding in a broad variety of greens. All campgrounds are open and water facilities (shower and restroom buildings, drinking fountains, water taps, RV dump/fill stations) are now all functioning for the season. The north shore Chateau, including boat rentals, is open for the season 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The south shore concession and Ice Age store will be open by Memorial Day weekend, perhaps earlier. The University of Wisconsin – Baraboo/Sauk County is sponsoring a spring birding hike May 10. There is a small fee for participation through the university’s Lifelong Learning program.
Dane County
Governor Nelson State Park Conditions - All trails are open for hiking. Some of the lowland trails have standing water. One of the boat launch piers have been installed allowing for two launch lanes to be open. Additional piers will be installed after the high water level subsides on Lake Mendota. The fish cleaning table behind the boat launch restroom is open for the season. The boat launch restrooms are open.
Lake Kegonsa State Park - The campground, dump station and shower building are open for the season. The park is in the process of adding 16 new family campsites and 3 new group campsites! Construction will be going on for the next couple of months. An aerial pesticide spray for Gypsy Moth is scheduled for this spring. The date has not yet been determined. The spray will include the areas of the Family Campground and the White Oak Nature Trail, where high concentrations of gypsy moth egg masses have been observed. The Gypsy Moth is a serious tree pest that can defoliate and kill trees. In large numbers the caterpillars can also cause allergic reactions in humans. The spray should reduce both the caterpillar numbers and the amount of damage done to trees. The pesticide being used is generally harmless to people, animals and insects other than caterpillars. For more information please contact park staff or go online to
http://gypsymoth.wi.gov.
Jefferson County - Anglers were catching some nice sized bluegill on the marsh on Rock Lake. A few limits have been taken although most anglers were catching around a dozen or so. Walleye action has still been slow on the Upper Rock and Crawfish rivers, with the best success by the wastewater treatment plant in Watertown. Anglers were catching the walleye on jigs and minnows and a few on twistertails. Most of the fish were just under the size limit but a few keepers were caught. Mushroom hunters are now beginning to find a few of the smaller dark mushrooms popping up. Warmer weather should improve their success as soil moisture is good. Canada goose goslings are beginning to appear all over Jefferson County. No ducklings have been observed yet but the hens are nesting.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
St. Croix County
Willow River State Park - The general fishing opener provided some unexpected good results, given the cold weather in the prior days. Several keeper size largemouth bass were caught and released on the lake. The largest fish was reported at 20 inches long. The recent rain brought the Willow River up a little bit and it is still running off color. Water is turned on in the campground. The bathrooms, showers, and the dump station are open. The picnic area and beach area water will be turned on next week. Expect to find a crew working on tree removal in various areas on weekdays in coming weeks. Please stay clear of the work area until it is safe to pass through. Visitors may use the down trees for firewood in the park. The first camp host is expected to arrive May 15, depending on weather. Firewood sales will begin when the host is here. Sales are from 7 to 8 p.m. daily. Saturday, May 17 is an active bird day at the Nature Center. The annual Warbler Walk will leave from the Nature Center at 8 a.m. with Mike Ellington and Mike Middleton. At 7 p.m. the Full Moon Hike begins with a classroom presentation about Swifts and hummingbirds then go for a hike. Both of these events are free with a daily or annual state park sticker on your vehicle.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Wild turkey hens appear to be on their nests, incubating their clutch of eggs. Turkeys typically lay one egg each day over about a 10-12 day period, resulting in a clutch of 8-14 eggs. Incubation takes about 28 days. Most incubating hens leave their nest one time each day, although it is common for some to skip a day. Upon leaving the nest, hens typically find a drink of water, feed, and return to the nest after about an hour's absence.
Crawford County - Last week the Mississippi River was at 16.7 feet but has been on a steady decline ever since. By Monday of this week the river was at 15.2 feet. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for it to drop this week. The Wisconsin River and the Kickapoo River have both been dropping this week. Bluegill, perch, and crappie action was again slow this week due to the high water. Perch action at the dams has slowed. Bluegill and crappie action was slow throughout the area. Fishing from the shore at Cold Spring was slow this week also, mainly because much of the area is under water. Not much of a bite going on for either crappie or bluegill. The boat ramp this past week was under water and extremely hard to access; however, by the end of the week a few boats were able to launch. You’ll need knee or hip boots. The Ambro Slough complex and Sturgeon Slough did not see much fishing activity either because of the high water. Spring Lake is full of water as is the entire Ambro Slough complex. Fishing below the Lynxville dam for sauger and walleye was pretty slow this week. There were a few days last week where anglers were able to come off the water with a few walleyes or sauger, otherwise action was slow. The boat landing at Gordon’s Bay is completely under water and unusable. Some shore anglers have been fishing on the long wall at the dam with limited success with perch, northern and walleye. Anglers can park in the lot at Lock and Dam #9 and walk down to the wall; however, you might need knee or hip boots to access the wall. The third turkey season closed Sunday and hunters were met with a variety of weather patterns to include some miserable hunting conditions. High winds, heavy rain, and fog and cold temperatures hampered some hunts. Even though, a fair number of hunters were able to bag their gobbler. Most hunters report fair gobbling action with a decent number of sightings. It appears that hens are starting to leave the flocks in search of nesting sites. Bald eagles are occupying nests along the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Some of the best viewing areas can be found on Pool 9 in the Lynxville/Ferryville area. Pelicans can still be seen on the Mississippi River, however, not in the numbers found a week or so ago. Canada geese are actively nesting in the backwaters. Sandhill cranes, robins, blue birds, red-winged blackbirds and other song birds have returned and are starting to nest. Turkeys are in the thick of their mating ritual as are pheasants and grouse. A chorus of frogs can be heard on warm days throughout the day.
Wildcat Mountain State Park - Trails are still wet in places but are firming up. Spring flowers, hepatica, blood root, spring beauties, cowslips (marsh- marigolds) are all blooming. The Virginia blue bells are just starting. Some of the smaller grey morel mushrooms are being found but in small quantities. Most of the June weekends for the family campground are already booked but there are still plenty of sites available during the week. The Kickapoo River levels are excellent for canoeing. Canoe rentals and shuttles are available nearby in the Village of Ontario.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - The opening weekend of fishing was productive with many northern and walleye being taken. A good number of young painted turtles are being seen on the move. Species of birds seen or heard include: red polls, bluebirds, lake gulls, golden finches, mallard ducks, common loons, great blue herons, red winged blackbirds, phoebes, Canada geese, sandhill cranes, robins, mourning doves, nuthatches, ravens, black capped chickadees, piliated woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles. Park trails are generally dry with occasional muddy areas. The south campground is open with electric sites, hand water pump, and a pit toilet. The south campground shower facility, the picnic area flush toilet building, and the camper dump station are still closed until warmer weather arrives later this month.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Many sites are open for camping. Some far sites are still closed. Sandhill cranes have been heard in the area and some robins seen. Osprey have started rebuilding nests. Many birds are starting to migrate through the Castle Rock area. Remember, park stickers are required for Launch C and D and there are no additional launch fees. There are still dates available for the accessible cabin in May, Sept, and Oct. 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. The 2008 application is also available on the park website through the DNR internet site. Turkey hunting for area 15 is allowed in the Yellow River Wildlife Area only (formerly wildlife area B).
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Trails are in good condition for hiking. The main entrance is open and the first loop of the campground is open for camping. Early spring is a great time to get out and take photos for the annual photo contest.
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.
Saturdays, May 10 and June 14, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Rain Garden Workshop. In this two-part workshop Sharon Morrisey, Milwaukee County University of Wisconsin-Extension Consumer Horticulturist, will show how to create a beautiful yard with native perennial plants while reducing rainwater runoff. Session 1, indoors: The value of rain gardens and rain barrels, site-specific rain garden design and construction, and plants that thrive in rain gardens. Session 2, outdoors: How to lay out a rain garden and prepare the site. Help plant native plants in Havenwoods’ new rain garden. Send name, address, contact information, and check for $6 for the first person in a household and $2 for each additional person to UWEX Rain Garden Workshop, Milwaukee City UWEX, 932 S. 60th Street, West Allis, WI 53214. 9-11 a.m. No admission sticker required.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
• Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 - Birding Hike. Enjoy one of the park's beast birding spots. Expect to find neotropical migrants, like warblers, grosbeaks and tanagers. Register with University of Wisconsin-Baraboo . Sponsored by UW-Baraboo/Sauk County Continuing Education. Messenger Creek. 8-10 a.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Discovery Saturday: Borrow Some Binoculars. The birds are starting to migrate, so borrow some binoculars from us and do some bird watching. You’ll also have a chance to make your own super-duper outdoor lookers. Drop in anytime 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Volunteer Work Day. Help build some technical, challenging and environmentally sustainable mountain bike trails in the Kettle Moraine. Work gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirts and bottled water are recommended. We will supply tools, expertise and guaranteed fun! If the weather looks questionable, check the Trail Information Line (262) 594-6202 on Friday to make sure the work day is not canceled. Meet at the John Muir parking lot at 8:30 a.m. and work from 9 a.m. - noon.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - National Astronomy Day. Celebrate National Astronomy Day with "Search the Sky with the Naked Eye" presentation by the Glovers, followed by telescope viewing courtesy of Rustic Skies Astronomy and Plymouth Star Gazers. Please dress warmly; bring blanket or chair. No pets allowed. Bath house building. 7-10 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, May 10-11, 2008
• Crex Meadows Wildlife Area Grantsburg, 715-463-CREX (2739) - Spring bird festival. This event coincides with the peak of the spring bird migration and International Migratory Bird Day. The event begins 5 p.m. Saturday with a presentation on the Birds of Crex, followed by a birding tour through Crex Meadows to watch the sun set over the refuge. Sunday leads off with the “Crex Specialty” tour from 4 to 7 a.m. and the “Early Bird Special” tour from 7 to 9:30 a.m. Space is limited for the two early morning tours and reservations are required. Buses leave the education center at 10 a.m. and noon for ninety minute birding tours of Crex Meadows and Fish Lake Wildlife Areas. Reservations are not required for the bus tours but a nominal donation is requested to cover the cost of bus rental. Various birding related programs are scheduled throughout the day. Tag along with bird bander, Bruce Bacon, as he tends the “mist nets” and bands a variety of songbirds. Chris Cold, a wildlife biologist, will be on hand, along with several live birds, for a program on raptors. Wildlife photographers Dale Bohlke and John LaMere will share their favorite images of Crex during their program called “Birds and Light.” For more information, or to reserve a spot on the Early Bird Tour, call or visit the Frriends of Crex Meadows Web site at: crexmeadows.org (exit DNR).
Sunday, May 11, 2008
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Mother's Day Wildflower Hike. Show Mom (or anyone special) a bouquet they will always remember. Bring your camera to take the memories, not the flowers, home. Trail is rough and wet. Meet at the Visitor Center but prepare to drive. 2-4 p.m.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Adopt a Highway. Help pick up litter along the highway in front of the park. You must be at least 12 years old. Equipment provided. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association . Meet at the Visitor Center. 6 -7 p.m.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5607 - Knee-High Naturalist. Explore nature with a child. Bring your 3-5 year old to this fun and involving nature program. A new topic every month! Dress to go outside. Visitor Center. 10 -11:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, (414) 527-0232 - One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Fabulous Frogs. Spring is time to listen to the frogs sing. Drop in and listen to some frog calls, meet some live frogs, make a frog to take home, and much more. Environmental Awareness Center. 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Volunteer Work Day. Help build some technical, challenging and environmentally sustainable mountain bike trails in the Kettle Moraine. Work gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirts and bottled water are recommended. We will supply tools, expertise and guaranteed fun! If the weather looks questionable, check the Trail Information Line (262) 594-6202 on Friday to make sure the work day is not canceled. Meet at the John Muir parking lot at 8:30 a.m. and work from 9 a.m. - noon.
• Pattison State Park, Superior, (800) 254-7944 - 2008 Greentouch Program. Community volunteer day at Pattison State Park. Paint picnic tables, do trail work, pick up litter, and clean up the picnic grounds. East Central Energy will provide lunch. Sponsored by East Central Energy. Meet at the Shelter Building. 9 a.m. - noon.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Camping 101. Learn what equipment you need and how to make camping fun and safe whether you are car camping or backpacking. Meet at the Amphitheater. 10:30 a.m. - noon. Bird Migration Hike. Experience the magic of migration. Bring your binoculars and we will try to spot newly-arrived birds, especially warblers. Trail may be wet. Meet at the Vista Picnic Area. 7-9 a.m.
• Rock Island State Park, Washington Island, (920) 847-2235 - Lighthouse Sesquicentennial Celebration. Rock Island’s Pottawatomie Lighthouse is 150 Years Old! join us for cake and refreshments. Washington Island musician Julian Hagen will perform, commemorative lighthouse items will be for sale, and there'll be a raffle for an original lighthouse painting and a handmade lighthouse quilt. Sponsored by Friends of Rock Island. Lighthouse grounds, or in case of inclement weather, Jackson Harbor Ranger Station on Washington Island. 1 p.m. Lighthouse Sesquicentennial Banquet. Dinner, lighthouse favors, and a chance to win door prizes. Space is limited to the first 120 people who sign up. Send a check for $25 per person payable to Friends of Rock Island to Jeanell Dailey, treasurer, 526 Clemons Ave., Madison WI 53704, by April 15. Sponsored by Friends of Rock Island. Karly's, Washington Island. 5:30 p.m.
• Sandhill Wildlife Area, Babcock, (715) 884-6333 or (715) 884-2437 - Frogging. Learn more about Wisconsin’s marshland frogs and toads and their ecology from a herpetologist ( specialist in amphibians and reptiles). Dan Nedrelo will talk about the status of Wisconsin frogs and toads and then lead a search for the croakers in their marshland homes. Hip boots are required and are available upon request. Bring a meal and refreshments if desired. Register by mailing $20 per person by May 9 to Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, PO Box 156, Babcock, WI 54413. Outdoor Skills Center, 20 miles west of Wisconsin Rapids on County Highway X, 1 mile north of Highway 80 near Babcock.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
• La Crosse River State Trail, Ontario, (608) 337-4775 - Always on a Sunday: Prairie Walk . Here's your chance to learn about native wildflowers and grasses on this remnant of railroad prairie. A leisurely walk on level terrain. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to block the sun. Enjoy the afternoon along the trail with local columnist and naturalist, Bob Lee! Downy phlox, hoary pucoon, columbine, bird's-foot violet, and great Solomon's seal are likely to be in bloom. Meet at the trail crossing on Commercial St. (County Highway J) in Rockland. 1:30 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/
