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Expert Lake Winnebago Fishing Guides | 4-8 Hour Trips
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Sturgeon Bay, WI
- $500 - $750 price range
Summary
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Reelin' Them In
Hooked a prized smallmouth bass while trying a variety of fishing techniques in partly cloudy conditions!
A massive 41-inch smallmouth bass landed after a ferocious fight on a variety of techniques in Wisconsin.
A massive Largemouth Bass caught with an array of angling techniques in the beautiful waters of Sturgeon Bay!
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Hooked a prized smallmouth bass while trying a variety of fishing techniques in partly cloudy conditions!
A massive 41-inch smallmouth bass landed after a ferocious fight on a variety of techniques in Wisconsin.
A massive Largemouth Bass caught with an array of angling techniques in the beautiful waters of Sturgeon Bay!
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Reel in the Action on Lake Winnebago
Hey there, fellow angler! Ready to wet a line on one of Wisconsin's finest fishing grounds? Our Lake Winnebago trips are the real deal for anyone looking to land some serious fish without the vastness of Lake Michigan. We're talking prime walleye waters, with a side of bass and perch that'll keep your rod bent all day long. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these 4 to 8-hour trips are tailored to give you the best shot at filling your livewell.
What's the Scoop?
Picture this: You're cruising across Lake Winnebago's 137,700 acres, the early morning mist rising off the water as we hunt down the day's hotspots. We don't just stick to the big lake, though. Our trips cover the whole Winnebago system, including the Fox and Wolf Rivers. It's like getting three fishing spots for the price of one! With room for up to three anglers, you can bring your buddies or make it a family affair. Just remember, we're here to fish - so leave the picnic basket at home and focus on filling that cooler with your catch instead.
Tricks of the Trade
Alright, let's talk tactics. On Lake Winnebago, we're usually trolling or jigging, depending on where the fish are hanging out. In the rivers, we might switch it up with some live bait rigging or casting crankbaits. We've got all the gear you need - top-notch rods, reels, and a boat that'll make other anglers green with envy. But here's a pro tip: bring a variety of clothes. Wisconsin weather can turn on a dime, and you don't want to be caught shivering when the bite is hot. Oh, and don't forget your camera - you'll want proof when you land that trophy walleye!
The Big Ones That Didn't Get Away
Our clients have been knocking it out of the park lately. Just last week, Mike from Milwaukee said, "I've fished Winnebago for years, but never like this. The guide put us on walleye after walleye - best day on the water I've had in a long time!" And Sarah, who brought her kids along, told us, "The kids were thrilled with all the perch we caught. The guide was so patient, teaching them how to reel in their first fish. We'll definitely be back!"
Fish on the Radar
Let's break down what's swimming in these waters, shall we? Walleye are the crown jewel of Lake Winnebago. These golden-eyed predators can grow up to 30 inches here, and they're at their best in spring and fall. We target them along the rocky shorelines and reefs, where they're hunting for their next meal.
Largemouth bass are the bulldogs of the lake. They love to hang out in the weedy bays and near docks. Summer is prime time for these fighters, and there's nothing quite like watching a big bucket mouth explode on a topwater lure.
Smallmouth bass, or "smallies" as we call 'em, are the acrobats of the bunch. They prefer the rockier areas of the lake and rivers. These bronze beauties put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear, especially in late spring and early summer.
Channel catfish might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch. These whisker-faced fish can grow huge in Lake Winnebago, and they're most active at night or on overcast days. If you're looking for a fish fry, these are your best bet.
American yellow perch are the perfect target for anglers of all skill levels. These tasty little fighters school up in huge numbers, especially in winter. They might not be the biggest, but when the action is hot, you can fill a bucket in no time.
Time to Get Your Fish On
Look, I could go on all day about the awesome fishing we've got here on Lake Winnebago, but wouldn't you rather experience it for yourself? Our trips are filling up fast, especially for those prime walleye seasons. Don't be the angler left on the dock wishing you'd booked sooner. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, once you've fished Winnebago with us, you'll be hooked for life. So what are you waiting for? Let's make some fishing memories!
Learn more about the species
American Yellow Perch
Yellow perch are the tasty panfish that draw anglers year-round. Most run 7-10 inches, but jumbos over a pound aren't uncommon. You'll find schools around weed edges, drop-offs, and submerged structure. Perch are active all day but bite best mornings and evenings. These feisty little fish are fun on ultralight tackle and absolutely delicious. They're easy to catch, making them perfect for kids or beginners. Small jigs tipped with minnows or worms are deadly. Pro tip: in winter, drill multiple holes and keep moving to stay on the school - perch rarely stay put for long.
Channel Catfish
Channel cats are the whisker-faced denizens of Lake Winnebago, averaging 2-5 pounds but capable of topping 20. You'll find them along muddy bottoms, especially near tributary mouths and deep holes. These nocturnal feeders are most active at night, making them perfect for relaxing evening fishing. Cats put up a dogged fight and are excellent eating. They're not picky - nightcrawlers, cut bait, or stinkbaits all work well. Here's a local trick: after a heavy rain, fish the inflowing rivers where cats gather to feast on washed-in food. Just be careful handling them - those spines are sharp!
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass are the heavyweights of the bass family, typically running 2-5 pounds but capable of topping 10. You'll find them lurking around structure like fallen trees, weed edges, and docks. These ambush predators love to explode on topwater lures, making for exciting strikes. Spring and fall are prime times as the bass move shallow. Largemouth put up a great fight, with powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. They're also excellent table fare. For a fun challenge, try working a big plastic worm slowly along the bottom - the bass can't resist. Just remember to set the hook hard, as their mouths are tough.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are the scrappy fighters of the bass family. They typically run 1-3 pounds but can top 5. Look for them around rocky areas, points, and current breaks. Smallies love cool, clear water and put up an incredible fight for their size - prepare for acrobatic leaps and strong runs. Spring through fall are all good, with peak action as the water warms. These bronze beauties are a blast on light tackle. Try working a tube jig or small crankbait along rocky shorelines. When you hook one, keep your rod tip up and let the drag do the work - smallies are known for throwing hooks with their wild jumps.
Walleye
Walleye are the prize catch of Lake Winnebago. These golden-eyed predators average 2-3 pounds but can reach over 10. You'll find them along deep breaks and rocky points, especially at dawn and dusk when they feed actively. Walleye love cool water, so spring and fall are peak seasons. They put up a stubborn fight and taste amazing, making them popular with anglers. Trolling crankbaits or drifting live bait rigs are go-to techniques. Here's a local tip: when the mayflies hatch in early summer, the walleye go crazy - match your lures to the hatch for non-stop action.
About the Lure In Motorboat
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 55
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
