Best Places to Fish in Wisconsin: Lake Puckaway

Lake Puckaway, located in Marquette and Green Lake counties, is widely known for its northern pike fishery which produced the state record 38 lbs. fish. Every year, fish weighing 20 lbs. or more are taken, usually through the ice. The lake also boasts good numbers of quality sized largemouth, and has the added bonus of walleye, catfish, musky and panfish. Only an 1hr 20min drive from Madison, and an 1hr 50min from Milwaukee, Lake Puckaway is a great option for those looking to get out of the cities for a daytrip.

Anglers should be aware that due to its large size and shallow depths, waves on Lake Puckaway can become a real problem on windy days. Anglers should plan their trips according to the weather and be prepared to fish in sheltered areas on short notice.

Here are some key tips and locations for catching fish on Lake Puckaway:

• Upstream migrations during spring by spawning northern pike and walleye are common in the river inlets. These areas can provide superb post-spawn fishing action. A 1/4-oz. jighead tipped with a minnow is the most effective bait.
• Largemouth bass are available in both good numbers and size. Fishing the ‘slop’ bays with weedless baits is very effective. During cold fronts, try casting along the rocky shores of the dredge banks with crankbaits or spinners.
• The rocky shoreline along the dredge banks produces some nice walleye early and late in the day. Try drifting slip bobber rigs tipped with live bait along the rocks.
• Beds provide spawning grounds for crappie and bluegill in late spring. Large northern pike and bass are also found along the edges.
• Shallow-running crankbaits can provide excellent spring northern pike action along the warmer waters of the north shore. Crappie and perch can also be found in good numbers here. Look to the inside turns for the most action.

Join millions of anglers on Fishidy, an interactive map-based fishing app that provides expertly researched Fishing Hot Spots® containing local tips and techniques to help you find and catch more fish.