Wisconsin Fishing Reports & Outdoor Report for May 19, 2016

[Rick]

Sun and warmer weather during the day has returned in full force this week, though some late evenings and early mornings are still well below 50 degrees. While this has increased fire danger to "high" in the northeast and northwest parts of the state, counties in the central and southern regions are at "moderate" and "low" levels respectively. Trilliums are in bloom this week near the campground at Potawatomi State ParkPhoto Credit: DNRThe current warm spell has increased water temperatures into the upper 50s to low 60s on many northern lakes and this has spurred on a slug of bass and panfish spawning activity. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass are starting their spawning period and many dished out areas have been observed in the shallows. Crappie are also full into their nesting period and many dark-colored males have been observed in the shallows along weed lines and brushy cover. Larger bluegill have also been congregating near shallow water and spawning colonies may start showing up in the next week or so.Despite strong winds, a late week cool down and highly variable success, fishing pressure steadily increased last weekend into this week. Walleye success has been very erratic, but there have been a few reports of good catches. Jig and minnow combinations continue to be bait of choice -- though leaches and crawlers are quickly becoming more popular. Warming water temperatures have mayfly nymphs starting to move, which will help draw the fish up shallow.

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