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/DNR Outdoor Report as of February 16, 2012The warm-weather, low snow trend continued for another yet week in Wisconsin, continuing to limit outdoor winter recreation. While much of the state did receive some snow in the last week, ranging from a dusting to 3 to 4 inches, that was followed by temperatures that once again approached 50 degrees in the south and the mid 40s in the north.
Snowmobile trails remain open in the northern tier of counties, with the best conditions now being reported in northern Marinette and Florence counties, as well as the Mercer area. Trails in Vilas, Oneida and Iron counties are in fair to poor condition, as they have received very heavy use and are hard packed and icy in many areas. Trails remain open in a few other areas but are generally in poor condition. Cross-country ski trails were still in fair to good condition on the Northern Highland-American Legion and Brule River state forests.
Poor ice conditions and low water clarity continue to hamper spearers participating in the Lake Winnebago sturgeon spearing season. Wardens report there were about half as many sturgeon spearing shacks on the ice as a normal year. Spearers on the upriver lakes had better conditions, and that season closed Sunday after spearers reached the harvest cap, with 242 sturgeon registered. As of Wednesday, only a total of 122 sturgeon had been speared on Lake Winnebago, with just 17 fish on Wednesday. Spearers were reportedly moving shacks around a fair amount in search of happier hunting grounds on better ice.
Inland fishing was picking up somewhat, with anglers fishing open water below dams on the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers for walleye. Ice conditions continued to be poor on some southern lakes, with three vehicles going through the ice on Beaver Dam Lake in the last 10 days. With the mild temperatures, good numbers of ice anglers have been out on northern lakes, which still have a foot to 17 inches of ice. Reports were mixed, with some anglers having to move around a lot to find decent panfish, but some other areas reporting action picking up for walleyes and northern pike on tip-ups.
The fresh snow improved tracking conditions for coyote and fox hunters early in the week, but that tracking snow was short-lived. The mild winter has made it easy for many wildlife species. Turkeys are able to scratch to find food, deer are spread out because of simple travel, and birds can forge comfortably. There are still seeing a handful of white-tailed bucks holding their antlers, but most should have shed them by now.
However, the creatures under the ice have been struggling. Receding water levels and poor ice conditions have caused muskrats to seek better habitat in deeper water. Past similar conditions have proven to be harder on reptiles and amphibians. With the spring approaching, birds have begun to show mating behavior such as pheasants crowing, turkeys strutting, and geese and trumpeter swan pairs claiming nesting territory. Eagles are still being seen below dams on the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers, but more are now moving onto nesting territories and can be seen carrying sticks and grass to rebuild nests.
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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.
Statewide Birding Report
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Days are continuing to lengthen, allowing people to enjoy more time the outdoors in the daylight. Skiers are finding good conditions at the Afterhours Ski Trail. A few spots are thinning out but are easily avoidable. Overall, skiers have been happy with the conditions. Brule River Riders Snowmobile Trail Report as of Tuesday, Feb. 14, was that grooming operations have been suspended until further notice. The last measurable new snow was an inch on Monday Jan. 30. Snow conditions are very marginal for snowmobiles every where but Trail No. 2 from Poplar to Trail No. 1 to the Brule River. Trail 2 is Ok to the old Brule Sports and then gets poor for the next quarter mile to the river.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Bayfield County - The lack of snow in the Bayfield Peninsula is continuing to frustrate everyone, but that is Mother Nature! The area has not received any new snow since a week ago when there was anywhere from 1-5 inches around the Peninsula. There were some snowmobilers out this past weekend, but the trails are down to very little except in the National Forest area west of Washburn. The Madeline Island Ferry will continue to run due to open water off Bayfield and south into the Onion/Sioux River areas. Some limits of whitefish were coming off of Basswood Island area, but that ice is very sketchy and with warmer weather it may not last long. With very little snow it will be easy for antler shed hunters to hike around, but be aware the deer never had to go to the lake shore areas from the forest due to the warm weather/lack of snow this winter.
Douglas County - The absolutely unheard of condition of zero snow in the immediate Superior area continues. A 10 acre wildfire burned just south of Superior over the past weekend. Although snowmobile trails are open throughout Douglas County, even east and south of Superior where 2-6 inches of snow cover exist, snowmobile use would be far from recommended. Temperatures are forecast to be in the upper 30s for the upcoming week. Ice conditions in the area remain good, and there has been lots of fishing pressure due to mild daytime temperatures, but not so much fishing success. Some decent catches of crappie and perch have still been occurring around the area.
Hayward DNR Service Center area
Sawyer County - Big Chetac Lake in the Birchwood area is starting to produce some decent panfish action. Fish are of variable size and most individuals are releasing a few smaller ones before getting one to keep. Preferred depth on the lake for perch and crappie seems to be in the 12-20 feet with 18 feet being the more common depth for action. Best luck seems to be on the weed breaks or points into the deeper water and around the islands. Mix bags of fish are possible at these locations with perch and crappie making up the bulk and some bluegill mixed in. More bluegills are coming from slightly shallower water with weeds. The bite is inconsistent for all fish, with sporadic activities throughout the day. Some individuals fishing through the night were seeing some heavy sporadic activity as well. For subjects wanting to cover lots of water looking for larger active fish, plastics with a minnow head, plastics with several wax worms or smaller flutter type jigs with a minnow head or wax worm, which allow for quick and easy moving, seem to be best. Those waiting the fish out in the typical locations that produce will just sit with live minnows or wax worms waiting for fish to swim buy or turn on. Northern pike also were biting well on the lake with walleye and bass being pretty slow with only a few being caught here and there. Shiners and suckers are the preferred bait with anglers upsizing for northern and downsizing for walleye and bass. Travel on Big Chetac is good with foot and all vehicles but caution is always advised especially when searching in new areas. Anglers are reminded that Big Chetac has a 25 daily bag limit on panfish but only 10 can be bluegill. There is also 15-inch size limit on walleye and a daily bag limit of two.
Spooner DNR Service Center area
Burnett County - There still is not any snow in the county to speak of. The snowmobile trails remain closed. The frozen ground ATV trails are open and in good condition. Be sure that to check the trail map to see which trails are open. Fishing in the area continues to be good. Walleye action has been good on area lakes. Some nice panfish can also be found. Northern pike action has also been good. Ice conditions are okay and people are driving on most lakes but use caution. This ice is not as good as usual at this time of year.
Polk County - Ice fishing has been slow. People are reporting smaller fish compared to previous years of ice fishing. Snowmobile trails are closed with very little snow on area lakes.
Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area - The mild winter has made it easy for many of the wildlife. Turkeys are able to scratch to find food, deer are spread out because of simple travel, and birds can forge comfortably. However, the creatures under the ice have been struggling. Receding water levels and poor ice conditions have caused muskrats to seek better habitat in deeper water. Past similar conditions have proven to be harder on reptiles and amphibians. With the spring approaching, birds have begun to show mating behavior such as pheasants crowing, turkeys strutting, and trumpeter swan pairs claiming nesting territory. This weekend, beginning Friday, Feb. 17 is the Great Backyard Bird Count. Visit
http://www.birdsource.org/gbbc/ for more information on how you can help.
Ladysmith DNR Service Center area
Rusk County - Still no snow. Fortunately the fishing has picked up a bit with several area lakes producing bluegills, although most are small. Fishing on cribs or structure seems to be your best bet. Ice remains good in most locations. Fur prices have several people participating in beaver trapping.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Ice conditions in the north have been generally good with most lakes holding at 14 to 17 inches of ice. The milder weather of the past week did melt down a bit of the snow cover and most lakes now have a 3- to 4-inch layer of heavy grainy snow. Travel has been fair to most areas on the lakes, but 4WD has been necessary when travelling off of some of the packed trails. While the weather has been fair and good numbers of anglers have been out, fishing success has continued its generally slow trend of the last month. Panfish have provided the most consistent action, but anglers have had to move around quite a bit to find the active fish - both from lake to lake and from spot to spot on a given lake. Some decent perch catches have been made on the mid-depth mud flats and around any old weed beds, with waxworms and small minnows producing some fair action. Both crappie and bluegill have been found in deeper water areas and suspended 3 to 5 feet off the bottom, and small finesse baits have been needed to entice these finicky feeders. The erratic walleye bite has not changed, with most anglers reporting it pretty tough to catch any keeper-sized fish. A few anglers have reported some fair success on 11- to 14-inch walleye, with a few up to 22 inches also reported. The best action has come in the late afternoon hours, with both suckers and shiners producing a few fish in water from 4 to 10 feet deep. Northern pike success has been fair, with most anglers reporting just enough action to keep them interested. On many of the pike lakes, anglers have had to move their baits up several feet off the bottom. This is to get above the low oxygen levels that are starting to show up on these generally shallow and weedy lakes.
Taylor County - New snows of an inch or more have rekindled efforts from local coyote hunters. Several groups are out pursuing coyotes with their packs of hounds. Coyotes are plentiful and minimal effort is needed to find fresh tracks on most mornings outings. Fishing has remained consistent and as the weather improves increased numbers of anglers are observed on area lakes and flowages. The deer trapping research project is under way in Taylor County and local high school biology classes and volunteers from local Sportsmen's clubs are assisting with trap placement, checking, and removal and tagging of the deer.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Vilas County - Very little snow has fallen recently in the Boulder Junction area and some area snowmobile trails are not in real good shape. Lack of snow has caused areas of bare ground and icy corners on many areas of the trails. Extra caution should be used while traveling the trails at this time. Fishing activity has been okay with walleyes being caught at last light and a few perch being found in deeper water. Temperatures are predicted to be average to above average with plenty of sunshine most of the week. Travel in vehicles on some lakes can be difficult with deeper snow and some slush areas. Getting off the snow packed travel areas of the lakes is not recommended unless traveling by snowmobile.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - All cross-country ski trails have tree debris (oak leaves and pine needles) on them. Madeline and Escanaba trails were last groomed Feb. 7, with fair to good conditions. Raven and McNaughton trails were last groomed Feb. 13. There are thin spots on both trails with fair to good conditions.
Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area - Ice fishing remains slow. A few panfish can be caught as well as the occasional walleye. Ice conditions remain good with about 16 inches of ice although it is variable. There is still about a foot of snow, so any activity involving snow remains good. The skiing and snowshoeing remain great. Snowmobile trails show a bit of wear near road crossings and close to town. Optimal tracking conditions provide many sightings of wolf, fox and coyote as breeding season is underway or just past for these creatures. Snowshoe hare are more active with the warmer temps and can provide some fun hunting.
Rhinelander DNR Service Center area
Oneida County - Snow conditions in the woods remain excellent for snowshoeing and skiing. Snowmobile trails are fair to good in less traveled areas. In heavy traffic areas, snowmobile trails are fair to poor. Some areas on the lakes are seeing slush accumulations, otherwise ice conditions remain good. Fishing has been somewhat slow with anglers reporting inconsistent action.
DNR Northeastern Region
Northeast Wisconsin has had unseasonably mild temperatures the last couple of days, not unlike much of the winter. Snow cover has melted significantly. Snowmobilers will need a fresh snow fall to make trails in much of the county rideable again. Ice anglers are still out and about and having some success. Caution on the ice is still advised with the unusually warm winter and unpredictable ice depths. Anyone venturing out on the ice should check ice depths especially before taking a vehicle out.
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Fishing activity has been slow this past week due in part to ice conditions and wind.
Marinette County - Things are getting bad on Lake Noquebay. A vehicle went through the ice last Sunday. Anglers are out in force north of the Peshtigo Harbor catching some rather nice northern pike using tip-ups with shiners or smelt, with most people setting up on the inside of the first ice shove. The Sixth Street slip on the Menominee River is seeing activity for walleye and whitefish, with most people jigging live bait.
Oconto County - Geano Beach anglers have been catching whitefish using small jigging raps tipped with minnows south of the public access. Some perch were also being caught in 7 to 10 feet of water jigging with minnow or wax worm. Oconto Breakwater anglers report some northern pike being caught north of the Breakwater on dead smelt in the round or shiners. A few whitefish were being caught while jigging.
Shawano County - Snow conditions continue to deteriorate with little available in the area. Even the lakes have very little on them so Snowmobiling has been very limited. Ice conditions remain variable with some areas having up to 17 inches but warm, sunny weather and currents make ice travel hazardous. Use common sense when travelling out onto the lakes. Large Numbers of ducks and geese are still in the area and can be seen below the Shawano dam.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - Perch fishing has been slow at Sunset Beach and Duck Creek with fish running on the small size. Ice conditions at Voyageur Park have made walleye fishing a rather dangerous undertaking.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - Perch fishing in Sawyer Harbor has been hit or miss the last few days with the change in weather conditions. Most anglers were finding the best luck in 6-10 feet of water. Early mornings have been the best time of day. Whitefish were being caught along the Stone Quarry boat landing. Northern pike were being iced at the yacht club; medium golden shiners on tip-ups have been working the best. Walleye fishing has been good along Larsen's Reef. Late afternoons have been the most productive with most anglers using a jig and minnow to get bites. Perch action has been a bit slow the last week at Little Sturgeon Bay. Whitefish have been biting with anglers fishing from Lime Kiln Road to Snake Island. The typical jigging spoon tipped with a waxworm has been the best producer. Ice conditions still are not all that good so use caution when traveling. Whitefish action has slowed some off Bayshore Park. Most anglers, however, were still reporting catching fish, especially during the early morning hours.
Peninsula State Park - Warm weather this week melted most of remaining snow in the park. There is not enough snow to groom ski trails and snowshoe trails are in poor condition due to lack of snow. Hiking is allowed on all trails in the park at this time. Please be careful as some trails are very icy.
Potawatomi State Park - Groomers report the Red and Black Loops of the ski trail (in the north area of the park) are skiable and in generally good condition as of Feb. 15. About 3 inches of snow fell in the area on Feb. 10. Ice fishing activity on Sawyer Harbor has picked up with the colder nighttime temperatures over the past week.
Kewaunee County - Kewaunee County remains slow for winter outdoors sports. With the recent snowfall about 3 inches of snow is present but the high winds that accompanied the snow made it so the snow was distributed unevenly with a lot of bare ground on the countryside. All of the snowmobile trails remain closed. The coyote and rabbit hunters at least have a starting point but the hunting pressure remains light. Ice fishing continues to be dangerous with poor ice conditions.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
Green Lake County - The cold weather last week has made some good ice on Big Green Lake. There are still areas with dangerous cracks, and anglers should use caution. Anglers are catching cisco near the sandstone area, and good numbers of lake trout have been seen near the inlet area. Little Green Lake continues to be producing good numbers of panfish.
Waupaca County - Canada geese have never left the Waupaca area. Geese are now observed in pairs and are sitting on the ice to "reserve" their nesting sites. Ice fishing in the Waupaca area has never really materialized. Ice conditions still prevent many from driving a vehicle on the ice. The back waters of the Wolf River were still producing some legal size northern pike, but most were in the 18- to 24-inch length. Panfish on the mill ponds are running small and have slowed down over the last couple weeks. A golden eagle has been reported a few miles north of Waupaca. The bird was photographed sitting on a dead deer. Hikers are still enjoying good weather and have been taking advantage of the lack of snow - especially on the Ice Age Trail. Good time to start shed hunting for the big bucks. Still seeing a handful of deer holding their antlers, but most should have lost them by now.
Waushara County - Ice conditions are not too bad on smaller lakes, which have 6- to 10 inches of ice for the most part - stay on foot only, no driving on ice. Temperatures reached 42 degrees Wednesday, so what little snow the area picked up is now history. All snowmobile trails remain closed. There were reports of "butcherbird" sightings. They are officially known as the northern shrike, a predatory songbird. Plenty of geese are around. Feels a lot like late march. A few turkeys have been seen strutting.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Calumet County - Sturgeon spearing is off to a slow start along the east shore of Lake Winnebago. Overall poor ice conditions leading into opening weekend along with lower than average water clarity led many die-hard sturgeon spearers to stay home this season. The shanty count on the lake was down roughly 50 percent when compared to opening weekend last year. Stockbridge Harbor registration station had only three fish registered on opening day. Several cracks on the lake continue to move both open and closed depending on the wind conditions. Almost all sturgeon spearers were utilizing either ATVs or snowmobiles during opening weekend. Most spearers were setting up within a mile of the shoreline with a few venturing out farther onto the ice. Spearers are reminded to check their ATV and snowmobile registration status before heading out. It is anticipated the season will run the full 16 days on Lake Winnebago.
Fond du Lac County - Sturgeon spearing season is under way on Lake Winnebago. The harvest has been low with poor water clarity and half the usual number of ice shacks out on the lake. As of today the ice conditions have been deteriorating on the southern end of the lake some areas still have 8 inches but cracks and shoves have changed the look of the area just in the past few days. Many people are moving their shacks to new locations or off the lake due to the unknown impact the upcoming weather will have on the ice conditions into the next week. As always use caution if you are heading out as the conditions can change on Lake Winnebago within hours depending on the temperatures and wind.
DNR Southeast Region
Milwaukee DNR Service Center area
Kettle Moraine State Forest, Lapham Peak Unit - Not sure if this is a snow ski, water ski or slushy report. Temperatures reached nearly 50 degrees Wednesday, creating quite a meltdown and then add in a little rain after dark. Despite everything that Mother Nature has thrown at the man made snow loop this year, it still remains snow or rather snow-cone covered with a depth of 6 to 18 inches. The Wednesday night ski league took place last night with 30-plus school age and 45 adults slugging through some soft snow and slush. It was a work out. The groomers work on the trails daily, but they really need some colder temps to dry the snow out. Ski conditions are mostly dependent on the air temperature at the time. There are a couple icy spots forming where the melted snow has puddled on top of an icy base and eventually freezes, but in general there is loose ground up snowy ice on the surface, which can be fairly good skiing if the temperature is not too warm. Thursday is predicted to be warm again so conditions will be better earlier in the day. When the temp, or maybe that is if the temperature, stays below freezing for a period of time and things freeze up the snowcat power tiller will be used to break up the glacier. There have been nearly 60 days of skiing at Lapham this winter, with only about 17 of those days on natural snow.
Kettle Moraine State Forest, Pike Lake Unit - Cross country ski trails are not skiable. All trails are have many icy areas
Kettle Moraine State Forest, Southern Unit ? The forest received about 1 inch of new snow earlier this week. The groomer packed the new snow on ski trails and reports the trail is almost all snow covered and skiable. Scuppernong was probably in the best shape of the three trail systems at the Southern Unit, but it is still poor skiing with some fair sections and no classical track set.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - - In Sheboygan anglers in the harbor have taken a few northern pike, and rainbow and brown trout on minnows, but fishing has been generally slow. There are pockets of open water in the marina, but anglers have been fishing from the docks. Some anglers have also been fishing off the south pier, with a few brown trout taken. The Sheboygan River has stretches of open water upstream near Esslingen Park, but ice along the shore hampers angling activity in that area.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington, open water fishing near the power plant has been hit-or-miss for brown trout. Days that fish are not biting in the harbor, some anglers have had success casting crank baits from the pier.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, boaters continue to have consistent brown trout action in the harbor, and they are catching some rainbows as well. Trolling has produced fish, as has jigging or soaking spawn. Open water anglers fishing behind the Summerfest grounds have also been catching some brown trout and occasional rainbows, and spawn has produced most fish for them. There is little ice currently in the inner harbor, but conditions can change quickly.
Racine County - The Racine harbor had fishable ice, but conditions have deteriorated with the current warm temperatures. Anglers have been fishing from the docks and have been catching brown trout along with some rainbows, and fish had been caught on spawn and Gulp.
Kenosha County - Open water can be found in the Kenosha harbor. Casting small spoons or using tube jigs or spawn sacs should produce some brown and rainbow trout.
Sturtevant DNR Service Center area
Kenosha and Racine counties - Anglers are taking advantage of ice conditions ranging from 4 to 7 inches, trying to make the most out of their dismal ice fishing season thus far. Anglers were reporting good luck on tip-ups for northern pike while panfish have been a little harder to come by. While a lot of ATVs and snowmobiles have been seen on lakes, be sure to check conditions before venturing out. With the varying weather conditions this ?winter,? the 4-7 inches of ice that is out there may not be a ?good? or even safe.?
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County - The weather has been warm and comfortable. With a short cold snap last weekend, ice flows formed on the river and the water level came up again. The recent warm weather has melted most of the ice and the river remains high. Ice conditions on the backwaters are deteriorating quickly. Ice fishing was fair over the weekend with just a few small panfish being caught. It was much slower than last weekend. Trumpeter swans and Canada geese are being seen and heard in several locations on the Riverway. Bald eagles can be seen feeding along the Wisconsin and Mississippi. With mild weather, it's easy to hike out and see them. Eagles are also carrying grasses to line their nests. Skunks have been seen and smelled recently.
Green County - With all the melt and lack of snow in the area many of the hunters in the area, be they coyote, deer or whatever, have it a little harder seeing the game. The ice has never gotten very good this year and in most areas is still spotty, but anglers that know where the ice is a little better are still finding a good supply of fish.
Iowa County - Folks have been out ice fishing while the weather has been cold enough to keep the ice. Trumpeter swans have been seen on the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway.
Lafayette County - No snow in Lafayette County. Cardinals are beginning to sing so spring can't be far away.
Richland County - Warm conditions have the snow melting in the area. Many deer and turkeys can be seen feeding in fields. There was even one report of a deer tick out. Bald Eagles are abundant along the Lower Wisconsin Riverway. Ice fishing is limited in the area where backwaters continue to fluctuate and ice conditions are changing.
Horicon DNR Service Center area
Dodge County ? Warm weather continues to wear on already poor ice conditions. During the past 10 days 3 vehicles have gone through on Beaver Dam Lake. Angler sand other venturing out onto area lakes are asked to keep this in mind and take precautions: leave the vehicle at the landing and walk, take or wear a life jacket, wear ice creepers and carry ice spikes. Take a friend or leave a plan with a relative or friend if venturing out alone. Beaver Dam Lake is developing a lot of new heaves, creating different conditions from day to day. Fishing remains productive on the Beaver Dam and other area lakes; however, it has slowed some since first ice. Snowmobile trails are closed in Dodge Co. due to an obvious lack of snow. The ATV trail along the Wild Goose Trail from Hwy 60 to Hwy 49 is now closed along with the Dodge County Snowmobile Trail system. Warmer temperatures and deteriorating trail conditions have forced closure. Check the 24 hour trail status message for updates 920-386-3705 or trail information, including snowmobile and ATV trail maps, is available at
www.dodgeparks.com.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Columbia County - Snow conditions are patchy, but much of the ground is not snow covered. Ice conditions have improved over last week. Owls and bluebirds activity is reported to be on the rise in the county and spring bird calls are being heard from other species as well. There are still many bald eagles utilizing the open water below the Prairie du Sac dam and can be seen scavenging in the area farm fields as well.
Dane County - Tundra swans can still be seen on Madison area lakes. Bluebirds and robins are returning to the area. It is breeding season for foxes and coyotes.
Jefferson County - Anglers continue to ice fish area lakes with mixed success. Area residents report seeing more raptors hunting the fields. Marsh hawks (harrier) have become a more common sight cruising area fields and wetlands. Bald eagle sightings continue throughout the Rock and Crawfish river basins.
Sauk County - Fishing across Lake Redstone has slowed down and the fish that were consistently being caught on the north side of the lake seemed to have moved out. Look for crappies suspended around 14 - 17 feet of water. Either plastics, minnows or a jig with plastics have been working. Ice anglers and outdoor enthusiasts need to take extra precautions since the ice thickness varies between 5 to 10 inches around the lake with an open pressure crack running east and west is splitting the lake in half. The pressure crack is located in the middle of the lake. Section 11 continues to be a safe launching point for access to the lake. Dutch Hollow remains slow with few people fishing the lake. Again, use caution since ice conditions vary in thickness as well. Walleyes have been biting on the Wisconsin River. Due to the mild weather, the access launch at Rivers Edge is available for boaters to get onto the river.
Janesville DNR Service Center area
Rock County - Geese are on the move and many local fields are full of geese for the viewing. Ice is melting and anglers have been observed catching good numbers of walleyes below local dams.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Interstate Park - Winter recreation trails are open but icy with minimal snow. Summer hiking trails are not maintained for winter use. Winter wildlife can be observed from the comfort of your vehicle or on an easy walk on one of six winter recreation trails. Bird feeders at the Ice Age Center attract woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, squirrels, wild turkeys and deer.
Willow River State Park - The beavers are once again active near the area where the north side trail will come down along the river. Beavers are cutting on the oak trees, which generally do not have anything nutritious for a beaver. Girdled trees are reported along the Blue trail. Beaver populations rise and crash in the park just like anywhere else and it appears they are on the up side of the cycle when oak trees are cut. The trails that we used for the Candlelight Hike got some work to make footing a little better for the event. The Purple Trail and the Hidden Ponds trail may offer a little better traction for hiking. Warm weather is predicted so we will be back to the brink of mud season soon. When or if we ski this season is unknown. The slippery stretches of the park road were treated recently. There still may not be a secure enough surface for driving at the posted speed limit on areas that are not bare asphalt. We have had a few anglers reporting some luck with bluegills.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Perrot State Park - Due to the warm temperatures, there is very little snow on the ground. You will find some muddy areas and there will be some ice along the trails. There is open water on the Mississippi River and Trempealeau River but much of the backwaters remain ice covered. Mallards can be seen along the canoe launch area, deer are able to access all areas of the park without any snow cover. Turkeys are seen in the agricultural fields just outside of the park. .
Wildcat Mountain State Park - Ski trails have closed with the warm weather and melting trails. The 1.5-mile snowshoe trail is in fair condition. Deer are moving freely with the reduced snow pack. Raptors such as hawks are common sights as their small mammal prey do not have a blanket of snow to hide under. Eagles are often seen near the open water of the Kickapoo watershed. Owls are sitting on their nests.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
After a couple inches of new snow the coyote hunters have seen some action, but again it is melting. No snowmobile trails open yet in Adams County. For those venturing out on the ice watch for new ice heaves on Castle Rock and Petenwell flowages. The water has been lowered some and there is a lot of water on the ice by the recently formed ice heaves. Some walleye action is taking place below the Wisconsin River Dams. In Jackson County, ATV trails remain open and snowmobile trails are still closed. Numerous bald eagles are wintering below the Petenwell Lake dam.
Black River State Forest - Trails are closed to snowmobiles, but open to ATVs. Trails are in poor condition and likely icy in areas, so we recommend caution. Cross-Country Ski Trails are still unsuitable for skiing; trails are icy in some areas, bare in others. We do not recommend skiing at this time.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Chippewa County - A light dusting of snow has given the coyote hunters a few days of good hunting, but there still isn't enough for many other winter activities. There have been some reports of thin ice in some areas as a result of the recent warm weather. People should be very careful around areas where current and wildlife activity could cause the ice to deteriorate.
Eau Claire County - Mild temperatures has made for some great times in the outdoors. Motorist are reporting black bears on the move in the Chippewa Valley. Ice anglers on Little Lake Wissota were catching some crappies in about 30 feet of water on wax worms fished just off the bottom, but ice fishing has generally been slow in Eau Claire and Clark counties. The Tower Ridge Ski Trails are still in fair condition with some bare spots on hills. The only place to drive snowmobiles is on frozen lakes but there is very little traffic.
Wausau DNR Service Center area
Marathon County - Snow conditions continue to deteriorate with the warm weather. Snowmobile trails are still closed and have not opened to date this year. Snowmobile and ATV activity has been limited to lakes and rivers. Fishing has slowed with fewer people out, even on the weekends. The flashboards on the Mosinee Dam broke a few weeks ago, so fishing above the dam has come to a stand still as most people are hesitant to go out there due to dropping water levels. Common redpolls have been observed at area feeders.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - The drawdown has started on the lake and will continue through early March.
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 17, 2012
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Moon Faces Nature Storytime. Has the moon ever smiled at you? Come uncover the many faces of the moon. This hour of nature fun awaits 3 to 6 year-olds with accompanying adults. Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitor's Center. 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
? Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area, Monroe, (608) 214-1716 - Snowshoe Walk & Wine and Cheese Tasting. This event will be a unique opportunity to sample wine and Green County cheese, enjoy the beautiful wooded hills of the state recreation area, and get some winter exercise all at the same time. There will also be hot chocolate, hot cider and a campfire at the end. The registration fee is $20 per person, or $30 for two. Proceeds from the day will be used to help purchase new playground equipment for the recreation area. If there is no snow we will have a lovely winter hike instead. For more information, see the Friends of Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area website [exit DNR].
? Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Grantsburg, 715-463-2739 - Shakers & Movers 2012 Series: Wolves and their Signs. Each month we will take a closer look at a person, animal, or management practice that has an impact on something else. Crex Meadows Biologist, Steve Hoffman, and Wildlife Tech Bob Hanson will present about wolves and the signs they leave behind. The morning will begin in the classroom then we will head out into Crex Meadows for some hands on investigation. Be sure to dress for winter weather. Outdoor activity requires walking through snow. Crex Meadows Visitor Center and throughout the wildlife area. 9 a.m. to noon
? Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 - Great Backyard Bird Count. Come and watch the birds! Spend some time counting the birds at the feeders around the Nature Center. These results will be recorded online so you can check out the results. We?ll have some simple bird crafts to do as well. Nature Center. 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
? Governor Thompson State Park, Crivitz, (715) 757-3979 - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Enjoy luminaries set out to light a 1-mile loop trail groomed for both diagonal striding and skate skiing as it weaves through the woods. Non-skiers are welcome to hike on another 1-mile candlelit trail with scenic views of Woods Lake. Hikers and pets are not allowed on the the ski trail, but are welcome on the hiking trail. Warming fires and hot chocolate are available at the shelter building. Vehicle park admission sticker is required and can be purchased at the park office. Meet at the Woods Lake Picnic Area Shelter. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Winter NatureFest - Winter Past Times. If you were around 100 years ago, what would you have done during the winter to pass the time? Join us for some down-to-earth fun from the past, both indoors and out. Take a nature hike, make crafts and toys, play games, and more! This event is for people of all ages. Snow or no snow! 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Winter Explorer Hike. Join us to explore the trails and discover what is happening this winter in the park. Dress to be outside. Meet at the Visitor Center. 10-11 a.m.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Jacksonport, (920) 823-2400 - Quiet Side Bird Exploration. Join amateur birders Bill and Sarah Krouse for a morning of winter lakeshore birding. Begin at Whitefish Dunes to learn the basics of winter bird watching (with refreshments) then carpool to various hot birding spots (Cave Point, Jacksonport, Baileys Harbor). The group will travel northward before returning to the park. Depending on current birding information, travels may take the group to different sites than listed. Dress warmly, bring water and a snack; as trip may include a stop for lunch if birding provides to be extremely successful. Trip participants receive 15 percent off all bird books at the park store. 9 a.m. - noon.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Let?s See Your Teeth. Smile and say ?Ahhhh!? We?ll take a close look at our teeth and the teeth of some wild animals. Touch real skulls and discover how animals use their teeth. Preschool storytimes are for children ages 3-5, and their parents, grandparents, or other adult. 9:30 ? 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Bat Monitoring Workshop. Peninsula is hosting a Bat Monitoring Workshop on Wednesday, February 22, from 2 - 3:30 p.m. Meet at the Gibraltar Town Fire Department at 3496 County Road F. This program is free and open to the public. Bill Mueller of the Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory is the lead presenter. Bill will share information on bat ecology and biology, threats to bats, the reasons why bat monitoring is becoming important, and will show how to use ANABAT units. Participants will have the option of "adopt" a bat monitoring site for 2012, and be part of a state-wide effort to save Wisconsin bats. Monitoring bats is a great family activity, too. You can count bats once a summer, or once a week - all monitoring efforts are worthwhile. Bat monitoring can also fulfill high school graduation service hour requirements. 2-3:30 p.m. at the Gibralter Town Fire Department.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
? Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 - Roznos Meadow Hike. Take a nature break on your lunch break! We?ll hike or snowshoe the meadow part of the Roznos Trail. Earn miles towards the ?Hike 101? happening at the park. Meet at the trail head on South Shore road. Noon to 1 p.m.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with pre-schoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. It is a great opportunity for parents to get out to the park with their little ones during this time of the year! Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the number of participants. Program is indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly. 10 a.m.
