WDNR Outdoor Report July 24, 2008
With generally warm and pleasant weather during the past week, conditions were generally excellent for outdoor recreational activity in Wisconsin. There was about an inch or more of rain statewide in the last week, and some bad storms were reported late last week in the north. But generally the high water levels on southern lakes and rives continued to drop and water levels in the north remain low. Slow-no-wake restrictions were moderated this week on Lake Kegonsa in Dane County, but they remained in place as of Thursday on the other Madison area chain of lakes.
Most state park and trail facilities damaged by flooding last month have reopened statewide, with the exception of portions of the 400 State Trail between Wonewoc and Reedsburg and Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area near Devil’s Lake, where trails and bridges were washed out. In addition, some southern parks still have piers removed and beaches under water because of the high water conditions.
Anglers are reporting generally normal mid-summer fishing action, with bass providing some of the most consistent success. Largemouth bass have taken up shop near firm overhead cover such as logs, stumps or bog edges. Smallmouth bass have been relating very close to mid-depth woody structure and deep weed edges. Musky anglers have also been out in increased numbers and activity has bumped up a notch. Bucktails and top-water baits have been the favorite lures. Walleye and panfish action continues to be erratic.
There has been some good perch success reported on Lake Winnebago. The yellow perch bite on Green Bay has been spotty, but when anglers found these fish, they did well. The walleye bite in the lower Green Bay has been only fair but steady. Smallmouth bass were being caught in the weed flats and near drop-offs going from 8 to 12 feet dropping to 20 to 30 feet.
Anglers continued to report good fishing on Lake Michigan. On Friday afternoon, one fisherman on the Manitowoc Harbor north pier casting a spoon caught a 21.5-pound chinook salmon. Good numbers of rainbows, browns, coho, and chinooks have been hitting alewives off the Port Washington pier. Milwaukee shore anglers have been taking chinooks and browns off McKinley pier in the early morning hours. Trollers also had a good week of fishing although lake conditions were a little unfavorable with dense fog and bad winds over the weekend. Anglers reported nice catches of chinook and coho salmon and rainbow trout with a few lake trout mixed in the catch.
The Mississippi River was down to about 8.3 feet at Prairie du Chien this week. Fishing action is starting to pick up on the Mississippi. Anglers were finding some decent bluegill action below the dam and on wing dams. Fishing for sauger and walleye picked up a little late in the week, with some very good action on wing dams. Bass fishing has been fairly good, with anglers finding active bass in shallow backwater areas, on wing dams, and in the timber.
Antler development on white-tailed bucks is now quite visible with the heavy velvet growth. Fawns are abundant and more active so be alert for fawns following does along roadways. Black bear sows with as many as three cubs in tow are being reported, along with numerous sightings of red fox kits.
While fall is still a ways off, the early migrations have begun with reports of good numbers of adult migrants recently back from their brief nesting season in the boreal forest and the arctic. Many birders have made a trip recently to Horicon Marsh where a pair of black-necked stilts have been nesting. The first ever nesting record of this species in Wisconsin occurred at Horicon Marsh about three years ago. Seven ibis have also been seen at the marsh. These are southern birds that occasionally wander north to Wisconsin. Observers in northern Wisconsin report good numbers of both crossbill species and pine siskins in the last few weeks.
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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:
Shorebird migration has begun to pick up across the state with many observers reporting good numbers of adult migrants recently back from their brief nesting season in the boreal forest and the arctic. Good places to view shorebirds include the numerous flooded fields in east central and southeastern Wisconsin. Horicon National Wildlife Refuge now has up to four black-necked stilts with one female sitting on a nest. Also discovered there this week were both glossy and white-faced ibis. Snowy egrets were being seen north of Waupun in a pond along Highway 26. The Lewis' woodpecker at Billings park in Superior is still around as well. Observers in northern Wisconsin report good numbers of both crossbill species and pine siskins in the last few weeks. The next week should bring continued shorebird migrants as well as our first wave of early warbler migrants across the north.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Summer days at the Brule River State Forest have been pleasant lately with temperatures in the 70s. The night time low temperatures have been in the 50s. Temperatures are forecasted to get into the 80s through the weekend…perfect for getting out on the water! As of July 24 the Bois Brule River is flowing at 123 cfs (cubic feet per second). The 63 year average is 135 cfs. Flowers that are beginning to bloom are milkweed, tansy, and flea bane. Baby toads have recently emerged from their shallow breeding areas. In some areas the ground has been so thick with the tiny toads, it is difficult to walk without stepping on them.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - With the generally warm and pleasant weather of the past week, both fishing pressure and recreational activity showed big increases on most waters across the Northwoods. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have continued to provide the most consistent action and the fish are pretty well settled into their typical summer patterns. Most of the largemouth bass have taken up shop near firm overhead cover such as logs, stumps or bog edges, and fewer fish have been found cruising the weed beds. As such, top-water baits have become less successful, with soft plastics and jig/craw combinations getting most of the action. Smallmouth have also gotten into their regular summer pattern and have been relating very close to mid-depth woody structure and deep weed edges. The best action has been on the larger flowages, with small plastics and crayfish-like crank baits catching most of the fish. Musky anglers have also been out in increased numbers and activity has bumped up a notch. Most anglers have been reporting some consistent action along weed edges and amongst the scattered weed beds. Bucktails and top-water baits have been the favorite lures of late. Walleye action has been a bit erratic with the dog-days of summer, and only fair success has been reported. A few smaller fish have been caught on the mid-depth rock bars and along the weed edges, but the walleye anglers have mostly been occupied with northern pike, smallies and rock bass. Panfish action has been erratic -- some anglers have been able to find some crappie suspended near mid-depth cover and larger bluegill have been getting real tough to find. With the relatively low amount of rain across the Upper Chippewa basin in the last month, stream and river levels are generally very low, with many canoeists having a tough time navigating the shallow rapids on the bigger rivers. Water levels on the natural lakes are already at their late-summer lows and flowages are maintaining 'normal' water levels. Weed growth has been variable, with some areas showing thicker densities than normal and other areas seeing much lower densities than past years. And watch out for the bugs -- seems like a fresh hatch of deer flies, 'ankle-biters', and mosquitoes have come out and been a nuisance to both stream and lake anglers.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Lake weed growth and water temperatures are about normal for this time of year. Walleye action is fair with the best action on weed edges in 10 to 12 feet of water. Bluegills are done spawning and can be found on the weed edges in 6 to 7 feet of water. Musky fishing is fair right now and bass anglers are reporting success throughout the Lakeland area along the deep side weed edges with leeches the preferred bait. Walleye are also reported to be in and around any weed growth with both leeches and crawlers temping them to bite. The recent warm summer weather has brought out numerous recreational boaters. Please use caution when traveling about and respect the rights of others. Antler development on deer is now quite visible with the heavy velvet growth. Fawns are abundant and more active so be watchful along the roads. If you spot the doe, the fawns are not far away. With the recent rains and warm temperatures there has been a very healthy population of wood ticks. These ticks are larger than the lymes disease carrying ticks common to these areas. Raspberries and blueberries are beginning to turn ripe and they appear to have a good crop and with periodic rains it could be a great berry year.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - Summer in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest continues to provide visitors with a variety of sights, activities, and memorable experiences. Visitors who have been enjoying the area bike trails have reported seeing whitetail deer nursing fawns during their early morning rides. The deer are a brilliant orange and red color at this time of the season and are beautiful to observe. Fishing for panfish has been very good on Carroll Lake near Woodruff. Visitors looking for a scenic fishing lake will enjoy the fishing opportunities on Carroll Lake. Bass have been active on Clear Lake, and fishing enthusiasts have reported catching some 20- to 24-inch small7mouth bass. Blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are all beginning to come into season and should be ready for picking within the next week. Visitors should be able to find abundant harvests of all of these berries along hiking and biking trails, and secondary forest roads. The Northern Highland American Legion State Forest is pleased to offer regularly scheduled Naturalist Programs in conjunction with the North Lakeland Discovery Center. These programs are offered at both the Crystal Lake and Clear Lake Campgrounds. Information about these programs can be obtained by visiting the ranger stations in the campgrounds or by calling the Clear Lake Ranger Station at 715-356-3668 or the Crystal Lake Ranger Station at 715-542-3923.
Antigo DNR Service Center area
Council Grounds State Park - Hiking trails are in good condition. Many visitors are enjoying the cool waters at the beach. Perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass are being caught on Lake Alexander. A sow bear and her three cubs have been sighted throughout the park as well as a red fox with her young.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Water temperatures at the boat landings this week have been in the upper range of the 70s this week. Fishing pressure has been light in the mornings during the week, picking up to moderate on the weekends. Rain and the threat of rain has had an effect.
Marinette County - Chinooks are still active with good catches coming from north of Green Island in 100 feet of water 50 to 80 feet down. The hot color is still green and the fish I am seeing range from 12 to 18 pounds. Smallmouth bass and walleye are still giving a good account for themselves using crawler/harnesses and tube jigs. People fishing the dam in Peshtigo were seeing a few bluegills and some small bass being caught. The bluegills were being caught in the pool below the dam while smallmouth were hanging out in the faster water below the power house.
Oconto County - The perch bite has been hit and miss, with those people who were fishing the very early morning doing the best. Crawlers and leaf worms were still out fishing minnows. Walleye were still being caught out of the Breakwater Harbor on crawler/harness with a half ounce weight and planer boards in 16 to 20 feet of water. The Stiles dam anglers were enjoying some success on bluegill and crappie using floating jig heads and minnows with just enough weight to get the jig head to the bottom.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - The walleye bite in the lower Green Bay has been fair but steady. Many anglers launching from Suamico ramp and Bayshore ramp were able to catch a few. Crawler harnesses seem to be the bait of choice, with no particular color working better than others. Point Comfort and 2-mile Reef seem to give better results. Most walleye seem to be biting at depths of 8 to 18 feet. The yellow perch bite is spotty, but when anglers found these fish, they did well. The good bite seemed to be flip-flopping between areas near and around Bayshore, including Red River, and areas near and around Chaudoir’s, including Rite’s Cove. These two areas have been very congested, especially on weekends. Anglers will need to practice patience and be respectful of each other when entering and leaving the water. Perch have been biting on both worms and minnows at depths between 15 and 25 feet. Those fishing closer to shore seemed to have better luck. Also, the early morning bite has been consistently better, with 8 a.m. being a time showing a significant drop in bite. By 10 a.m., very few perch were biting. Surface, and as deep as 20 feet, water temperature in the bay is in the lower 70s. Fishing activity in the Fox River at Green Bay has been slight. There is no musky or northern pike fishing activity to report from any of the areas mentioned above.
Manitowoc County - Anglers had a good week of fishing this past week. On Friday afternoon, one fisherman on the Manitowoc Harbor north pier casting a spoon caught a 21.5-pound chinook salmon. Anglers fishing the south pier on Saturday had a good afternoon landing some nice chinook salmon and brown trout all caught casting spoons. Boat anglers also had a good week of fishing although lake conditions were a little unfavorable with dense fog and bad winds over the weekend. Friday was an especially good morning for boat anglers producing nice catches of chinook salmon and rainbow trout with a few lake trout mixed in the catch. Chinook salmon ranged from 12 to 17 pounds and the rainbow trout were around 3 to 7 pounds. The most successful anglers trolled in 55 to 65 feet of water with spoons or flies.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - In the Little Sturgeon Bay/Sawyer Harbor area, fishing activity has picked up slightly from the last few weeks. Smallmouth bass were being caught in the weed flats and near drop-offs going from 8 to 12 feet dropping to 20 to 30 feet. Night crawlers are providing the best results. The walleye bite is slight. Those targeting walleye at Larson’s Reef have been having slightly better luck than others. There seems to be large numbers of alewives in the system at this time. This is likely causing a slower bite due to the extra food source. A better walleye bite should return once the alewives move on. The yellow perch bite has been slow. Some anglers have been able to catch perch in the cut weed beds along the channel. Both worms and minnows have been successful. Salmon anglers have been finding some luck trolling with flies and spoon. Water temperature in this area is in the upper 60s to lower 70s.
Kewaunee County - Fishing action has picked up from last week. More salmon have been caught this past week and water temperatures are warming ever steadily. In general, most fish have been caught in 60- to 100 feet of water. A smaller portion of fish were caught out as far as 140 feet, but very little was reported beyond that depth. Lake trout have been reported around 110 to 120 feet. Spoons, dodger and flies, and J-plugs were all used and nothing seemed to out perform the other. Pier anglers continued to have success this past week out of Algoma and Kewaunee, catching mostly salmon. Spoons and wobblers seemed to work best, and silver and green were the primary colors. The warmest water temperatures were in from 80 to 100 feet, in the mid-high 50s. As long as the weather stays favorable, this next week should continue to bring good action on Lake Michigan.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Surface lake temperatures are presently around 70 degrees, which is a little cool for this time of year. The mud bite is starting to turn on. Anglers who are able to find active schools of walleye can pick up some fish trolling crank baits on boards or using crawler harnesses. There has been some good perch success reported on night crawlers in around 12 feet on the west shore. Goose broods and earlier hatch duck nests have fledged and are starting to concentrate in those larger wetland areas in the first signs of congregating in preparation for the movement south. Good numbers of does with one or two fawns have been seen this summer. Large insect populations are forcing deer out of the woods into open areas, which makes for good viewing, especially at dawn and dusk.
DNR Southeast Region
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan anglers fishing off the piers have been catching fair numbers of fish on both alewives and spoons. Browns, rainbows, and chinooks have been taken off the south pier, and rainbows and chinooks have also been caught off the north pier. Trollers off Sheboygan have been catching chinooks, rainbows, and coho in 50 to 100 feet of water. Spoons produced the most fish, but some were taken on a variety of J-plugs and flies as well.
Ozaukee County - Shore anglers in Port Washington have been catching browns and rainbows on spawn near the power plant. Good numbers of rainbows, browns, coho, and chinooks have been hitting alewives off the pier. Port Washington trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, coho, rainbows, and lake trout from 50 feet of water all the way out to 150 feet. Action has been sporadic, with some anglers catching only a few fish and others catching more.
Milwaukee County - Perch fishing in Milwaukee has been relatively slow from shore, but boaters looking for perch have been catching some off the Oak Creek Power Plant on small minnows. Milwaukee shore anglers have been taking chinooks and browns off McKinley pier in the early morning hours, and alewives fished off the bottom have been providing the most action. Trollers off Milwaukee have been catching mostly chinooks and rainbows. Fish have been active near shore in 30 to 60 feet of water as well as around the main gap.
Racine County - In Racine shore fishing has been slow overall, but a few chinooks and rainbows have been taken off the piers on alewives and spawn sacs. Racine trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, rainbows, coho, browns, and lake trout. Most fish have been caught in 20 to 60 feet of water. Small spoons have been productive, in addition to J-plugs and dodger & fly combinations.
Kenosha County - Shore anglers in Kenosha have been catching a few browns in the harbor on alewives. Perch anglers have been catching some off the piers, at the bubbler, and at the breakwall, but the bite has been very inconsistent. Small minnows have taken the most perch. Kenosha trollers have been catching primarily chinooks and rainbows, and the most fish have been found in 30 to 80 feet of water.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County
Wyalusing State Park – The Mississippi River at Prairie du Chien was at 8.3 feet July 24. This is close to the normal, summer river level in this area. Nice catches of bass, crappies and bluegills are being reported by local anglers. Park bird feeders have been removed for the season due to raccoon destructiveness. The hummingbirds at the park office continue to delight park visitors. Hummingbirds are most active right before dark. Hummingbirds are raising their young at this time of year, so the feeders are not as active as they were previously. The parents feed the young spiders and insects as a source of protein. It won’t be long before adults and young are back in full force at the feeders. Recent sightings in the park include: red-bellied woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, purple finches, cardinals, bluejays, chickadees, nuthatches, tufted titmice, prothonotary warblers, cerulean warblers, gold finches, mourning doves, tree sparrows, crows, flickers, bluebirds, robins, meadowlarks, orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, indigo buntings, Henslow sparrows, eagles, wild turkeys, turkey vultures, indigo buntings, and red winged blackbirds. Indigo buntings are seen daily near the intersection of Turkey Hollow Trail and State Park Lane. Henslow sparrows can be seen (heard) near the astronomy center. Yellow throated warblers may be found near the north loop of Turkey Hollow Trail by Homestead Picnic Shelter and also near the stand of pines before you go up the hill to Green Cloud Picnic Area. Orioles are eating more insects and less jelly now. They will start to eat jelly again toward the end of the month to prepare for migration. On really hot days, indigo buntings will be the only birds singing. Goldfinches will soon be nesting. Put out cotton nesting material to attract them. Goldfinches are one of the latest birds to nest. The native prairie garden at the park office is beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the prairie garden include: false indigo, spiderwort, side oats grandma, prairie bush clover, liatris, butterfly milkweed, blue verbain, Canadian anemone, blue flax, coreopsis, mallow, pale purple coneflower, purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, Deptford pink, and Joe Pyeweed. Wildflowers in bloom in the area include: cow parsnip, chicory, jewelweed Queen Anne’s lace, mullein.
Horicon DNR Service Center area
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area –This is about the time of year the nesting season for most birds ends, and both the fledging of young and movement among birds increases as they have completed their nesting duties. Horicon Marsh is currently a good place to observe waterfowl and other marsh birds with their young. Many duck broods are present and the coots are widespread with their young. There also is an opportunity to observe some of the less conspicuous birds and their young as they move about, including sora and Virginia rails, bitterns and others. Rails and bitterns tend to remain well hidden among the marsh vegetation, but random opportunities may present themselves to observe them around openings in the marsh and this is the best time of year to catch a sight of them. Shorebirds are already beginning their migration with recent sightings of lesser yellowlegs, semipalmated sandpipers and even a western sandpiper being sighted on the marsh. Among the most exciting recent sightings has been a pair of black-necked stilts nesting off of the main dike road. Dozens of birders have made the trip recently to get a look at these birds. The first ever nesting record of this species in Wisconsin occurred at Horicon Marsh about three years ago. This is a late nest record and is most likely a second nest attempt, assuming that the first effort may have been flooded out by earlier rains. While watching the stilts, a sighting of seven ibis was noted along this stretch as well. These are southern birds that occasionally wander north to Wisconsin. Horicon Marsh has been among the most likely places to observe this species in the state. As late summer is already the beginning of the migration for some birds and as others begin to wander about following the end of the nesting season and in preparation for eventual migration, this is a good time to get out and take a close look for both common birds and the exceptional late summer sightings.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Sauk County
Devil's Lake State Park – The park was closed for almost two weeks after heavy rains caused damaging flash flooding. The park reopened June 26. All campgrounds are open and showers and flush toilets are available in the campgrounds. The beaches are still under water but visitors are allowed to swim in the lake. Portions of the North Shore picnic area are open. Most of the South Shore picnic area is open but bathrooms there will remain closed. Portable toilets are available for visitors using the South Shore picnic area. The usual summer events are continuing as before the flooding – Nature Center programs, Saturday night dances, “Music in the Park” (last Sunday of the month at 6 p.m.). Concession operations are open, including boat rentals. There are still have some trails and facilities that will be closed because of the flooding and storm damage. Both boat landings will be closed until further notice. Small boats may be launched by hand, but barricades may not be moved and vehicles and trailers may not by-pass the barricades. The road along the south shore of the lake is underwater and will remain closed until the water level recedes. The Steinke Basin Trail loop and the Tumbled Rocks Trail are closed. Parfrey's Glen is closed and will remain closed until repairs can be done. Barricades are posted at the entrance. No admittance is allowed, including walking in on foot.
Dane County
Lake Kegonsa State Park - As of Wednesday, July 23, Dane County has eased the "Slow-No-Wake" rule on Lake Kegonsa to only be in effect within 500-feet of all shores. Slow, No Wake means boats must move as slowly as possible while maintaining steering control and producing no wake. The Slow No Wake order remains for the entire surface of lakes Mendota, Monona, and Waubesa, including the Cherokee Marsh. A Water Quality Advisory is in effect on the lake. Due to the record rainfall this summer, the lake levels are still high and the lake has experienced nutrient loading from runoff. The additional nutrients have caused increased algae growth including blue green algae. Conditions at the park beach and pet beach change daily depending on the direction of the winds. Contact and or ingestion of blue green algae can cause skin irritations and illness. Contact park staff at (608) 873-9695 for the most current conditions. Pet pier and shore fishing piers are still removed due to the high water. These will be installed when the lake level drops. Be prepared for mosquitoes due to the amount of water we have had in the area.
Military Ridge State Trail - The trail is open and in good condition. The second box culvert west of Verona is now open; however, there still is about 1 to 2 inches of water on the trail.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
St. Croix County
Willow River State Park - Fishing conditions should be good for the weekend with stable weather all week. The Willow River is at normal flow and clarity. Its summer and the lake water can turn color, making it a bit less appealing to swim in at the beach. We test the water weekly but we can’t do anything about the water color. Camping on weekends remains sold out on the reserved sites. Weekday availability is generally much more open, except electric hookup sites. The Kansas City Chiefs football team training camp opens this week in nearby River Falls. We usually have some Chiefs fans camping every year. Here are some results from the Kid’s Fishing Contest held last weekend: the largest fish was a smallmouth bass weighing just over 2.5 pounds, and the smallest fish was a largemouth bass at 18.89 grams (.04 pounds.) A northern pike at 1.75 pounds was among various other fish registered. 54 kids participated.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Boaters and water sports enthusiasts have been enjoying the Mississippi River's 78-degree water temperature and its many sand bars in the La Crosse area. Anglers have been catching and releasing 10- to 20-inch-plus bass as well as northern pike at morning in the sloughs and backwaters around Goose Island in Pool 8 of the Mississippi River just South of La Crosse. Most anglers have been practicing catch and release so these fish are there to fight another day. Despite continued mayfly hatches, crappie and bluegill anglers with a sharp eye for limbs full of mayfly hanging over the water are finding hungry fish waiting in the water below for a mayfly meal to drop into the water. Farmers are harvesting their second crop of hay for the year. These cut fields should be excellent areas to look for wild turkey, pheasant, and bobwhite quail broods. Cut hay fields are frequented by hungry broods searching for abundant and nutritious insects. Deer fawns are roaming farther away from their mothers. In fact, do not be surprised to see fawns by themselves, especially during the day. Deer are seeking open areas during the day, where strong breezes help to ease the torment from flies, mosquitoes, and gnats.
Mississippi River - More waterfowl are being seen on the wing now, not just because young ducks and geese are becoming old enough to fly. Adult waterfowl, unlike almost all other birds, molt all their flight feathers during a few week period in mid-summer. As a result, they can not fly during this time, and often group together in secluded areas where food and escape cover are abundant. Females with broods tend to molt later than other adult waterfowl.
Mill Bluff State Park - The swimming pond and beach are in good condition and is a big draw to the park. The water is tested and always has very good readings. Despite recent heavy rainfall in the area, all trails are open. All branches and down trees have been cleared and a few wet spots remain in certain areas of Camels Bluff Trail. Butterfly weed, black-eyed Susans, and milkweed are in bloom. Monarchs are flying. Due to the wet conditions the mosquitoes are plentiful in the area. Bring insect spray for a more enjoyable visit to the park.
Perrot State Park - The Winona Bridge connecting Wisconsin and Minnesota is now open to all vehicle traffic. Pedestrians and bicycles are restricted from using the bridge until further repairs to the walkway are completed.
400 State Trail – The 400 trail between Elroy and Wonewoc has reopened, following repairs to the damage caused by flooding June 7-8. The surface material on the 400 trail between Wonewoc and Reedsburg has been washed away in several places and bridges have been damaged. One set of bridges has been washed off the abutments and several have floated off the steel structure and resettled with debris under them leaving the bridges undulating across the span. The trail surface between Elroy and Wonewoc has been repaired and this section was reopened July 2. The remaining damage to the surface between Wonewoc and Reedsburg still needs to be repaired. When this new surface is complete it will allow the trail to be opened for 6 miles from Reedsburg northward to County Hwy V. Engineers have inspected and assessed the damage to the closed bridges. Their report and estimates will lead to the bridges being repaired and/or replaced. Once this work has been completed the 400 State Trail will be open for its entire length. For more information contact Lenore Schroeder or Jim Moorhead at Wildcat Mt. State Park – (608) 337-4775.
La Crosse River State Trail - The trail is open and in good condition. The Endangered Resources Crew has been out spraying the invasive knapweed in the Rockland Prairie. Larkspur, Turk’s cap lily, grey-headed cone flower and leadplant can be seen while riding the trail on the east end. Water lilies are in bloom in the wetland near La Crosse.
Crawford County - A somewhat dry period last week allowed the local river systems to settle down. The Mississippi River was down to about 8.3 feet. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for a very slow drop in water levels. By the end of this week the river is suppose to be less than 8 feet. The Wisconsin River rose somewhat last week, but has been slowly dropping late in the week. Many sand bars on the Wisconsin River are usable for camping purposes. The Kickapoo River is settling down quite a bit from last week. The Kickapoo River rose to 12.55 feet a week ago, but early this week it was down to around 9.35 feet and falling. Water clarity is improving on all the river systems in the area. All of the boat landings in the Crawford County area are open and usable. All the trout streams in the area are back to near normal conditions. Boaters on the Mississippi River are urged to use caution as the water drops. Wing and closing dams are getting dangerously close to outboard motor lower units. If you are unsure of where you are traveling, stay in the navigation lane. Earlier this week there was some floating vegetation coming down river which was a nuisance for anglers. Fishing action is starting to pick up on the Mississippi River. Fishing on the upper portion of Pool 10 was pretty good. Anglers are finding some decent bluegill action below the dam and on wing dams. Some anglers are drifting or dead lining in 4 to 10 feet of water and finding decent bluegill. Most anglers are using a chunk of night crawler fished off the bottom. White bass and crappie action has been spotty. Some reports of decent perch being taken adjacent to weed beds. White bass have been seen feeding on the top of wing dams, along rocky shorelines and at the mouth of the Wisconsin River. The best way to located decent fishing is to move frequently until you locate active fish. Fishing at Cold Spring was spotty. Some days anglers found some decent bluegill and crappie. Anglers are no longer targeting the shallows. Water temperatures are in the 70s so look for fish in deeper water or suspended in deeper water. The boat ramp at Cold Spring is in decent shape. Late week however a large mass of weeds floated into the boat landing making launching tricky. The Ambro Slough complex is starting to pick up. Access to boat landings is good. Anglers fishing Big Lake, Fish Lake, the Upper and Lower Doubles, Big and Little Missouri, Fennimore Cut, and Spring Lake have found decent fishing at times. One might have to move around to find decent size and active fish. There has been some decent bluegill action reported in downed trees and deeper sloughs. Spotty crappie action has been reported. Horseshoe (McGregor or Sturgeon) Lake seemed slow for panfish this week for some reason. Fishing for sauger and walleye picked up a little late in the week. Try trolling crank baits in deeper water sloughs. Black Slough, Roseau Slough, and Big Lake produced some fish. Another tactic is drifting with leeches or night crawlers. Once a walleye or sauger is caught target that area. The S curve by Harpers Ferry was pretty good to this week. There has been some very good action on wing dams. Trolling or dead lining have been great tactics. Live bait like night crawlers and leeches has worked very well. Northern pike action picked up a bit. Look for northerns in slack or slow moving water near weeds or downed trees. Casting crank baits, spoons, or spinner baits have worked the best. Look for northerns in medium depth areas without heavy current. Some decent fish have been caught trolling on Big Lake, the bottom end of the Ambro Slough, and the Lower Bottoms outside Prairie du Chien. Bass (both large and smallmouth) fishing has been fairly good. Anglers are can find active bass in shallow backwater areas, on wing dams, and in the timber. Some pretty good action for bass was found outside Ferryville and on the wing dams upstream from Prairie du Chien. Most bass anglers will have success with varying colors of plastics, spinner baits, and crank baits. Mosquitoes, gnats and now deer and horse flies are out. In some areas the gnat problem is diminishing somewhat. Mosquitoes have been terrible in the river bottoms and some upland areas. Stinging nettle, poison ivy, and parsnip await outdoor users so be careful and dress accordingly.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - Park trails are generally dry and in very good condition. The open water game fish and pan fish action has been good with warm water temperatures. Smallmouth bass have been hitting surface baits. Largemouth bass and northern pike action has been moderate, and there has been good musky action in the area. Catfish were being taken from the upper reaches of the flowage. Species of birds seen or heard include: rose-breasted grosbeaks, belted kingfishers, ruby throated hummingbirds, scarlet tanagers, a variety of wrens, 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, pileated woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles. The painted and snapping turtles have been digging nests throughout the park property. The fireflies and a variety of dragonflies and damselflies are out in abundance. Plants in bloom include wild bergamot, blue flag, marsh marigolds, dog violet, wild columbine, bellworts, false rue anemones, orange hawkweed, ox eye daisy, wooly yarrow, grove sandwort, harebell, spiderwort, and butterfly weed. The blackberry and raspberry vines, along with the common and wood strawberries are producing fruit. The milkweed plants are up but not flowering yet.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - White bass fishing on Castle Rock Lake has been great lately. People have also been catching catfish, walleye and northerns. A small black bear was spotted Sunday afternoon, July 20 along 31st St. Remember to secure food at campsites from all animals. Mosquito numbers are going down but may be numerous during hot humid weather in the park right now so remember to bring bug spray. Lake breezes kept them away at times at campsites. Visitors have been enjoying the picnic areas and beaches and renting canoes/kayaks. Remember, park stickers are required for Launch C and D and there are no additional launch fees. There are still a few spots open for the youth deer hunt. The candlelight hike that was cancelled due to weather will be rescheduled.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Trails are in great condition for hiking. Wildflowers are blooming in the prairie. If the office is closed, please self-register in the parking lot. Campsites and trails are dry. There are many quiet sites available during the week and on the weekend. There are a few mosquitoes so remember bug spray. Saturday, July 26 is Universe in the Park.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT STATE PARKS, FORESTS, AND TRAILS
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Check with the park or forest of your choice for additional activities and special events not listed. Most events are free of charge; park admission sticker required unless otherwise noted. Events and times subject to change.
Friday, July 25, 2008
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Ancient Abandoned Riverbeds. Take a trip back in time on the Meadow Valley Trail on a short hike with naturalist Barb Walker. Meet at the Meadow Valley Trail sign near the beach parking lot. 3 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Junior Forest Explorers: it's a Bird! It's a... What's that red bird? Join us we discover a birder's tricks to identifying birds by their habitats, behaviors, calls and color patterns. Bring binoculars if you have a pair. This fun-filled program is for all 6- to 12-year-old explorers. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-11 a.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Kayak Tour. Meet at Nicolet Beach Rentals at 9:45 a.m. to pay $14 rental fee, which includes $4 donation to Peninsula nature education. Ages 16 and younger must be in kayak with adult. Weather permitting. Experience a naturalist-led paddle along Peninsula’s incredible coast. Basic paddle instruction, geology and park history featured. Must pre-register at Nature Center. 9:45 a.m. – 12 Noon. Bird in a Birch Sconce. Nature Center. $2 supplies. Decorate a birch sconce with a red bird, silk leaves and ribbon. 10 – 11 a.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Geologic History of Door County. The geologic history of the Door Peninsula is a dynamic story of moving continents, far away volcanoes, tropical seas and continental ice sheets. Learn how geologic forces formed the towering bluffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Meet at the Potawatomi Amphitheater. 8 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday, July 26-27, 2008
• Aztalan State Park, Lake Mills, (920) 648-8774 - Native American Weekend . Crafts, arts, dancing,singing and drumming. Special performances are Saturday, 1 p.m. dances by Art Shegonee (Menominee-Potawatomi), 3 p.m. Wisconsin Dells Drummers and Singers (Ho-Chunk); Sunday, 3 p.m. Stra8 Across Drummers and Singers (multi-tribal). Traditional and contemporary crafts and art by Native artists will be displayed throughout the weekend and available for purchase. At 1 p.m. Sunday Karen Hartman will offer a program for children on making Dream Catchers ($2 per child). Sponsored by Friends of Aztalan State Park . 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
• Flambeau River State Forest, Winter, (715) 332-5271 - Nature Art. This nature program takes place at the Connor Lake Picnic Area. 1-2 p.m.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - The Owl and the Mouse. Meet Aztec, a live South American Spectacled Owl, and play a game that illustrates the exceptional hearing of some nocturnal creatures that have the best hearing of any animals on earth. A fun activity for the entire family! Meet at the grassy area in the center of the North Campground. 2 p.m. Molten Lava and Melted Ice. Take a scenic hike and learn about the gee-whiz geology of Interstate Park. Meet at the Pothole Trail sign. 4 p.m. Snakes! Snakes are among the most misunderstood and feared creatures on earth. Learn more about these amazing reptiles from naturalist Barb Walker. You also can meet two live snakes! Ice Age Center. 7 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Ice Age at the Beach. The glaciers have returned to Mauthe Lake! Discover how the glaciers created kames, eskers, kettles, and moraines through fun hands-on activities. Be prepared to get a little wet. This program is best for families/groups with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. 9:30-11 a.m. Drop In at the Beach: Nature Printing. Let your artistic energies flow! Using objects from nature, we will print lovely designs on cloth or note cards. Bring a T-shirt or bandanna or purchase one that day. Everyone is invited to drop in for a few minutes or more than an hour for some nature fun. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Long Lake Recreation Area South Beach. 1-4 p.m. Birds of the Kettle Moraine. More than 230 species of birds have been identified in the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Bill Volkert, Horicon DNR Wildlife Area naturalist, will share insights on how to identify them, and where and when to find them in the Northern Unit. This program is best for adults and youth over the age of 8 years. Ice Age Visitor Center. 7-8:30 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Owl Pellets. Join volunteer naturalist Jim Mohr to learn facts about owls and their interesting digestive system. There will be a short video and then time for actual pellet dissection and investigation. All ages welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. 2 p.m. Wolves of Wisconsin. Learn about wolf ecology, population, management issues, field study techniques and more from Richard Stoelb, a volunteer carnivore tracker and member of Timber wolf Information Network. Bring the family. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 7 p.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Universe in the Park. This outreach program by the University of Wisconsin - Madison Astronomy Department will feature an informational presentation and slide show on astronomy, followed by a chance to view the night sky up close through a high powered telescope! Meet at the Potawatomi Amphitheater. 8:30 p.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Nature Ramble. Put on your boots and bring your curiosity to ramble, explore and discover nature with the naturalist. Visitor Center. 9-10 a.m. Baths for Birds. Make a beautiful concrete leaf birdbath using a sand casting technique. Please call to pre-register and pre-pay the $15 fee. You will need to pick up your project at a later date. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association . Visitor Center. 7-8 p.m.
• Roche-A-Cri State Park, Friendship, (608) 565-2789 - Universe in the Park. Learn about the planets, stars and comets. Astronomers will show a slide show and talk about the night sky or recent astronomical news. Then you can look through a telescope to check out the summer night sky! Kiosk shelter. 8 p.m., sunset.
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Sand Sculpture Contest. Bring friends and family to help make sand creations on the beach. Prizes for everyone with grand prizes in three categories. You must be present to win. Ask the park for a rule sheet. Beach. Sculptures can not begin before 8 a.m. Registration 12:30-2 p.m., judging 2 p.m., awards 3 p.m.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Old-time Nature Skills, Games and Crafts. Take a step back in time to enjoy some old-time fun. Play outdoor/nature games like graces, sack races and pin-the-tail on the turkey. Try your hand at some nature crafts that would make your great-grandparents proud such as kites and leather treasure pouches. You will also be able to test your skills at archery, tracking and cross- cut sawing. Join us for an old-fashioned day of outdoor nature fun. In the event of threatening weather, this event will be canceled. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area. Noon - 4 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Stars with Universe in the Park. Come enjoy a night of stargazing at the Peninsula Nature Center. Evening.
Monday, July 28, 2008
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Campfire Talk. Come enjoy a roaring campfire and hear stories from Peninsula State Park Historian Bill Tishler. Nature Center. 8 - 9 p.m.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
• Big Foot Beach State Park, Lake Geneva, (262) 348-2420 - Sunsets, Yoga, and Paddling. Wendy Yanke of Indigo Yoga to teach you two of our favorite things at our favorite time of the day! We'll have plenty of insect repellent and incense burning to help you achieve a bug-free Zen. And when we're done you'll see why the sunsets at Big Foot Beach State Park have been rated the best in the state! Fee $30 per class or $100 for four-week session. Please call to preregister. Yoga 6-7 p.m., instructional sunset paddle 6-7:30 p.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 5277-0232 - Junior Rangers: Mister Golden Sun. Rain or shine, the sun is up there in the sky each day. We’ll celebrate the gifts the sun gives to plants, animals, and the whole earth. Concurrent story times concurrently for preschoolers, ages 3-5, and their parents and for primary age children, ages 6-8. These programs are not for day care centers or organizations. Environmental Awareness Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m. No admission sticker required.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Hike to the Summit. Join the naturalist for a short hike up the Summit Rock Trail. Learn fascinating facts about the history and geology of the area and see spectacular views of the St. Croix River. Meet at the Summit Rock Trail sign. 2 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Children's Storytime. Children ages 4-10 are invited to hear nature stories read by a volunteer storyteller. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 31 - Sunday, August 10, 2008
• State Fair Park , West Allis, - Wisconsin State Fair . Visit the DNR exhibits at this year's Wisconsin State Fair--a green oasis in the midst of the souvenir stands, amusement rides, food stands and loud music of the fairgrounds. Displays and demonstrations, license sales, and people to answer your questions. Nature discovery area for kids of all ages to enjoy. Near the southwest corner of the fairgrounds. 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Thursday, July 31 - Saturday, August 2, 2008
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent on the Beach. Discover the natural world on the beach under the tent. A different theme is featured each day with programs beginning on the hour. Programs feature a craft or game along with beach toys to check out. Themes for each day are; Thursday - Insects (with guest speaker Linda Williams, "Bug Lady"), Friday - Aquaculture (with guest speaker Sarah Kaarz, Wisconsin Aquaculture), Saturday - Frogs and Toads. The tent will be canceled for rain or lightening. Sponsored by the Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park and the Whitefish Bay Association. Whitefish Dunes Beach. 1 - 3 p.m.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Prairie Hike. August is one of the hottest months of the year - perfect for exploring out prairies! We’ll check out the prairie plantings by Lincoln Creek and see what’s in bloom. We will be walking through some tall vegetation, so dress accordingly and wear comfortable walking shoes. 10 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Join Naturalists Julie Fox or Barb Walker for a story and activity chosen especially for children pre-K through Kindergarten and their parents. Please dress the children for outdoor play. 10 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/
