Polk County Fishing Friends Thread

[keith]

For the big fishing stories, see our Fishing! FishOn! Wisconsin Fishing Forums. These forums cover other topics including Great Lakes Fishing, more on Tackle, etc.

This thread is the place to click "Post Reply" and tell us where the fish are biting in Polk County!

You can also announce tournaments and such in this county here in this thread. (The main fishing forums recommended for that as well).

Please post this kind of information:

Subject Line: Lake or river name and what kind of fish are hitting

In the text: Please tell us whatever you can, including:

- where on the Lake / River
- what depth
- time of day
- bait / lure / presentation / colors
- boat access (and cost)

and anything else about the area like local bait shops, water hazards, alternative species and tackle in case the main stuff isn't happening, local places to stay, guide services, etc.

If it is an advertisement, put it in the classifieds; otherwise, hope you'll share some info for all. Just click "Post Reply".

Regards,
Keith

p.s.: If you're local and want to know when they're biting, click "Watch this topic for replies" below and an email will be sent to you whenever someone posts here. (You must be a registered Member of theBubbler.com - free.)

Please consider subscribing to topics in Fishing! FishOn! Wisconsin Fishing Forums as well.

[AlumniClub]

Located in northern Polk County, these two lakes are overshadowed by two famous neighbors, Balsam and Bone Lakes. In Antler’s case, that’s no big loss. For Antler is home to a moderate population of smallish Largemouth Bass, a gazillion tiny Bluegills, a few “Pumpkinseed” and not much more. At 22 feet maximum depth, this lake would likely winterkill often, were it not for the aerator run by the property owners’ association. If you’re looking for a lake to take the kids, where there’s next to no fishing pressure, and bites are guaranteed, launch a canoe or small boat at the west-side access site. If, however, you’re looking for a lake that’s as fun for the adults to fish as for the kids, pass this one by in favor of Half Moon. At close to 600 acres and 60 feet deep, this lake offers good fishing opportunities. Unfortunately, its reasonably clear water attracts hordes of “weekend warriors.” Hence, you’ll want to fish Half Moon during the week in order to avoid the hordes of jetskiers. According to Genny Carlin, owner of Gen’s Bait and Sport Shop, Amery, you’ll find “reasonable numbers of Walleyes, Northern Pike, and Largemouth Bass” here, along with “some huge Crappies.” Fish the Walleyes with a slip bobber/fathead rig off the gravel point on the southwest end, and with jig/minnow combos off the bar in the south end. The rocky east shore holds Crappies. The old, reliable jig/minnow combo at the 20-foot level should produce some good action in the summer. Fish the reeds and pads in the south bay for Bass, and also the weedline off the west shore. Interestingly enough, the west bay is not known as a good fish producer, says Carlin. You’ll find three public access sites here. The one in the town park on the northwest end offers a shelter, picnic area and concrete ramp with adequate parking. Thanks to Genny Carlin, owner of Gen’s Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715) 268-6231.

GB2

[AlumniClub]

At over 2,000 acres with a maximum depth of 37 feet, this clear-water lake qualifies as big water. It’s located at the Village of Balsam Lake in central Polk County and it’s home to a nice warm-water fishery. Says Rick Cornelius, area DNR fisheries manager, “Balsam Lake is one of the better all around lakes in northern Wisconsin.” It’s fished heavily, he says, for Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike and Panfish, and it gets more fishing pressure in the summer than in winter, although it’s known as a pretty good winter producer of Walleyes, Northerns, and Bluegills. It greens in August, but not to a problem level, says Cornelius. Nevertheless, Balsam can be difficult to fish in the summer. Since a multitude of jetskis and waterskiers turns these waters into one big boat wake on nice weekends, think in terms of a mid-week outing if you’re planning to fish Balsam Lake. Avoid, at all costs, those long summer holidays. But during the week, a nice experience awaits you. For early season Walleyes, work the shallow rock bar which partially obstructs the entrance to the main lobe of East Balsam, and give equal attention to the rocky shoreline at the far southwest. Jig/minnow combinations will work best. Later in the year, shift your attention to the small islands in the eastern lobe. Genny Carlin, owner of Gen’s Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715 )268-6231, says a trolled crankbait or live bait rig should get some action. For Bass, Carlin recommends the weedbeds in the narrow southwest bay, above the dam, and the area between the islands and the south shore at the lake’s center. The north-side shallows on East Balsam attract Northerns, Largemouth and Bluegills, and the shallow bay on the side of the main lake also deserves a good look. Another "hot spot" for Walleyes and Bass is the area near the high-tension lines, says Carlin. The north bay is also known as a good winter producer for Pike and ‘gills, as is the west bay above the dam. At this writing in early 1998, there was a 26-inch minimum length limit on Northerns, with a 2-bag. Of course, you'll want to check current Wisconsin fishing regs for up-to-date information. Three resorts with rental boats, a marina, and a supperclub serve this lake. Groceries and other supplies are available in Balsam Lake. You'll find four public access sites; the one in the Village of Balsam Lake on the southwest side, features a boarding pier, swimming beach, restrooms and parking. Thanks to Genny Carlin, owner of Gen's Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715)268-6231.


GB2

[AlumniClub]

Special thanks to Genny Carlin, owner of Gen's Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715)268-6231,
for the info provided. Information was provided from Sportsman Connection Map Guide Book

GB2