Hayward Lakes VCB
04-05-2023, 02:50 PM
Travel conditions on the ice remain the biggest barrier for anglers due to slush, with walking the wisest choice. Ice depths remain generally good, but use caution and check as you go!
Crappie:
Crappie action is good when you find them. Check deep basins, bays, backwaters, weed edges, and areas adjacent to post ice-out spawning sites. Baits of choice include crappie minnows, waxies, and plastics on jigs, and larger spoons, rattlebaits, and live bait for aggressive fish.
Bluegill:
Bluegill fishing is good in shallow bays and backwaters, with fish feeding on bugs and hatches rising in the water column. Top baits include waxies, spikes, and Gulp! baits on small jigs.
Perch:
Perch action is good as fish start moving to pre-spawn staging areas near spawning sites. Look for them on the bottom in/on shallower backwaters, bays, and mudflats out to 10 feet. Small minnows, insect imitations, and spoons work well. Spread tip-ups and tip-downs to track the fish movement ‑ and be ready to move with them!
Crappie:
Crappie action is good when you find them. Check deep basins, bays, backwaters, weed edges, and areas adjacent to post ice-out spawning sites. Baits of choice include crappie minnows, waxies, and plastics on jigs, and larger spoons, rattlebaits, and live bait for aggressive fish.
Bluegill:
Bluegill fishing is good in shallow bays and backwaters, with fish feeding on bugs and hatches rising in the water column. Top baits include waxies, spikes, and Gulp! baits on small jigs.
Perch:
Perch action is good as fish start moving to pre-spawn staging areas near spawning sites. Look for them on the bottom in/on shallower backwaters, bays, and mudflats out to 10 feet. Small minnows, insect imitations, and spoons work well. Spread tip-ups and tip-downs to track the fish movement ‑ and be ready to move with them!