Outdoor Report for May 18, 2017

Published by the Central Office

View current conditions for Wisconsin State Parks, Trails and Forests
Check out the Wisconsin Department of Tourism (exit DNR).

General | Northern Region | Northeast Region | Southeast Region | South Central Region | West Central Region

Strong storms that swept across Wisconsin with high winds earlier this week downed trees in some state parks and forests but crews have been out clearing the damage and all park and forest campgrounds and public use areas remain open. High water on the Chippewa River has closed one section of the Chippewa River State Trail south of Eau Claire.

With all the recent rain, many rivers are running above normal spring flow for this time of year. Both the Brule River and Flambeau River state forests are cautioning paddlers that their rivers are running high and fast. The Lower Wisconsin River had started to come down, with some sandbars again beginning to emerge, but with this week's rain, it could begin to rise again by the weekend.

Fishermen have been having some success fishing the Flambeau River for walleye and bass. Some northern pike, walleye and smallmouth bass were being caught on the Oconto, Peshtigo and Menominee rivers.

On Green Bay, high winds from the northeast kept fishing pressure low much of the week, but many anglers still ventured out. Anglers that braved the wind found the walleyes were looking for warmer water. Anglers are reporting catching walleye and smallmouth bass out of the Oconto Breakwater Harbor. In the southern bay, most anglers were catching multiple harvestable walleyes as well as white bass and freshwater drum.

Along Door County, fishing pressure on Little Sturgeon Bay was high last week due to the tournaments that were held in Sturgeon Bay over the weekend. Anglers were primarily targeting smallmouth bass with a few anglers trying for some walleyes. Smallmouth anglers success varied widely, the key to catching good numbers of fish seemed to be staying mobile and finding the warmest water. Rainbows are finishing up spawning but are still holding in some of the Door County streams, likely waiting for warm water to force them back into the lake.

Along Lake Michigan, fishing pressure on the Milwaukee lakefront increased with a week of calm, stable weather and temperatures in 60s and 70s on the weekend. Large schools of alewives are starting to show up along the lakefront. Large flocks of seagulls were diving on the alewives as they swam towards the North Avenue Bridge. Activity at the McKinley and Riverfront ramps increased with limits of coho being caught on the weekend.

Fourth season turkey hunters reported quite a bit of early success, but as the week went on it sounds like the birds have been pretty quiet. Bears are out and about and looking for food. 

Black bears are out. Prevent bears from getting into trouble by bringing in bird feeders, securing garbage cans, not feeding pets outside and cleaning out the grease from grills.
Photo Credit: Michele Woodford

Fawns are being born and are being seen in many locations. Remember, fawns are rarely abandoned. It is normal for deer mothers to leave fawns unattended because keeping fawns hidden and alone is actually an adaptation to protect them from predators. If you see a fawn in the wild, leave it alone, back away, and it's mother will return to care for it.

It is also turtle nesting time. Watch out for turtles trying to cross roads to get to warm sandy spots in which to nest and you can report turtle crossing sites to help biologists protect our native turtle species.

The spring songbird and warbler migration is in full swing, with 18 species of warblers seen at Wyalusing State Park this week, along with several species of flycatchers and thrushes. This weekend will afford many opportunities for bird watching, with six state properties hosting birding activities, including the Crex Meadows Bird Festival this Saturday. For a complete list of activities, search the DNR website for "Get Outdoors."

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Upcoming events at Wisconsin recreational properties

Friday, May 19

• Horicon Marsh Visitor and Education Center - Night Sounds Hike
• Newport State Park - Spring Wildflower ID
• Peninsula State Park - Park Art, Naturally
• Interstate State Park - Mountain Meadow Mosses

Saturday, May 20, 2017

• Newport State Park - Spring Birding Hike with Bill and Sarah Krouse
• Interstate State Park - Birding!
• Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area - Crex Meadows Spring Bird Festival
• Peninsula State Park - Wings Over Weborg
• Roche-A-Cri State Park - Breakfast with the Birds
• Devil's Lake State Park - A Hike Back in Time
• Horicon Marsh Visitor and Education Center - Wildflowers for Wildlife
• Havenwoods State Forest - Turtles
• Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit - Get Outdoors! Go. . . Survive Outdoors
• Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit - Discover Beulah Bog State Natural Area
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area - Explorer Hike
• Kohler Andrae State Park - Bring your Rocks to the Park Day
• Willow River State Park - Art in the Park
• Peninsula State Park - Eagle Trail Hike
• Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit - Explore the Mukwonago River Unit
• Kohler Andrae State Park - Night Noises: Midnight Music for Campers
• Sandhill Wildlife Area Outdoor Skills Center - Bats of Wisconsin
• Devil's Lake State Park - Frog Safari

Sunday, May 21, 2017

• Whitefish Dunes State Park - Birds of Whitefish Dunes
• Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit - Eagle Oak Opening Work Day

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Wildfire Report

With green-up nearing completion in the north and timely rains across the state, the spring wildfire season appears to be coming to a close and there will be no further wildfire reports this spring unless conditions change. - Joanne Ackerman, wildland urban interface coordinator, Madison

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Upcoming State Natural Area Workday

May 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. - Help Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund volunteers during our monthly workdays on the third Saturday and enjoy the beauty of this rich prairie in the process. We will scout for and remove garlic mustard and dame's rocket, which threaten to outcompete native plants. We will remove these using a variety of techniques including herbicides, shovels, and our hands. Bring a bag lunch to eat afterwards. No skills needed you will be trained onsite.

Check the State Natural Areas Volunteer Program page of the DNR website for details. - Jared Urban, conservation biologist, Dane. - Jared Urban, conservation biologist, Dane

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Northern Region

Superior DNR Service Center area

Brule River State Forest - With all the rain this week, the river flow is very high. Check the USGS flow rate data before you head out. The view from the Ranger Station has changed since last week. The view looking upstream from the Ranger Station has been photographed many times over the years. The view is different now, as the leaning white pine finally came down yesterday. The tree was likely about 200 years old and measured around 30-plus inches in diameter. With the recent significant rainfall amounts, the bank finally gave way. When the tree uprooted, it spanned the river. It took several hours to cut away the middle section of the tree to provide a passageway for canoes. Sunshine and warm temperatures at the end of last week and over the weekend got the leaves popping this week, changing the outside view as well. Marsh marigolds, wood anenomes and violets are in bloom. Ferns are unfurling, and the forest is greening up! More rain over the weekend is forecast, and then some sunshine and temperatures in the 60s will get additional flowers blooming. A snapping turtle was looking for a spot to lay her eggs near the hatchery this week. She weighed an estimated 35-40 pounds and her shell measured about 20 inches from front to back. It is turtle nesting time--watch out for turtles trying to cross roads to get to warm sandy spots in which to nest. - Diane Gobin, visitor services associate

May 11, 2017

May 17, 2017

Spooner DNR Service Center area

Crex Meadows State Wildlife - Most of the waterfowl have already migrated through the area, so the ducks seen on the property now are mostly our nesting populations. We should start to see some broods of young in the next few weeks. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the many broods of young Canadian geese that are on the properties. We should also start to see cygnets appearing soon. Songbird migration is in full swing in the Grantsburg area, and we added many new species to the list in the last few days! Some of the highlights for bird watchers have been pine warblers and blackpoll warblers. There was also an Indigo bunting spotted on Crex on May 12. The pair of Red-necked Grebes are nesting on Phantom, and have been seen many times either on the nest or swimming around near it. Highlights from the weekend were a red-headed woodpecker that was spotted, the sharp-tailed grouse that are still dancing in the early mornings, and the three different thrushes that are moving through (hermit, Swainson's and gray-cheeked). The Crex Meadows Spring Bird Festival will be held this Saturday, May 20 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This festival is an opportunity for bird enthusiasts of all levels to celebrate birds while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow birders at one of the largest state owned wildlife areas in Wisconsin. Enjoy guided bird tours through the property, songbird banding, presentations by avid birders, bird activities for kids, and a pancake breakfast in the morning! Also join area birders in documenting any birds seen on May 20 on our 270 bird species checklist! Some events require pre-registration; call Lauren at 715-463-2739 for more information. - Lauren Finch, assistant naturalist

Park Falls DNR Service Center area

Flambeau River State Forest - Fishermen have been having some success fishing the Flambeau River for walleye and bass. It sounds like the northern pike were biting on Connors Lake. Water is high from recent rain and storms. Anyone planning to paddle down the Flambeau River this weekend should keep in mind the water levels, it may be fast moving. Blooming plants are everywhere. Large flowered bellwort, trilliums, bloodroot, side oats, marsh marigolds, jack-in-the-pulpits, sessile bellwort, trout lily, early season violets, lilacs...the list goes on. Geese and ducks are nesting and groups of goslings have been seen. A family of woodcocks were seen and chicks were described as tan little ping pong balls with sticks for legs. Song birds are defending their territories where the females are already sitting on the nests. Robins, mourning doves, yellow finches, phoebes, tree swallows, house wrens, owls, wood cock, sandhill cranes, swans, red breasted grosbeaks, orioles and kingfishers have been seen. There even was a siting of a yellow warbler and Myrtle's warbler. Bear are trying to fill up on proteins. Elk cows have been making calf scouting moves looking for a safe quiet area to have their calves. Spring turkey Period E is open through May 23. The few forest logging operations have come to a standstill because of heavy precipitation we are having this week. The weather forecast for the weekend indicates Saturday will have showers likely with a high of 58 and low of 46, and Sunday mostly cloudy, with a high of 59 and low of 43. - Diane Stowell, forestry technician advanced and visitor services associate

Woodruff DNR Service Center area

Oneida County - Goslings have hatched and Canada geese can be found in open grassy areas feeding on new greens. A burst of warm weather and some rain has Aspen trees budding new leaves. Trillium flowers and Cherry and Juneberry trees are blossoming their white flowers throughout our woods. Woodcock, grouse and turkeys are setting on nests. May is the month to bring in your birdfeeders, Bears are out and about and looking for food. Prevent bears from getting into trouble by considering these few simple steps: never feed bears, bring in bird feeders, keep garage doors closed if you store garbage inside, don't feed pets outside and clean out the grease can on your grill. For more information visit our dnr.wi.gov website and do a key word search for "living with bears [PDF]". - Michele Woodford, wildlife biologist, Woodruff

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - The drenching rain of the last few days is helping everything growing to suddenly explode with lovely spring green colors. June and Pin cherry are blooming, adding to the pallet of green pastels. Regular and barren strawberries are blooming, trilliums are starting to bloom and wood anemones are on the downward cycle. Rose breasted grosbeaks and indigo buntings are joining the warblers and hummers that are starting to arrive. The woods are full of song! The hermit thrushes and loons are serenading into the night. What a lovely time of year to get out and enjoy the north. - Rosalie Richter, visitor services associate

Antigo DNR Service Center area

Council Grounds State Park - Camping season is picking up at the park. All sites are first-come-first-serve until May 25 when the reservation season starts. Showers and flush toilets are open. All sorts of wildlife species are out and about. Deer are beginning to drop their fawns. Turkeys are laying eggs and nesting. Turtles are starting to sun themselves on the exposed river rocks. Birds are making their way back to their warm habitats. It's looking a lot like spring at Council Grounds! - Dawn Bishop, property supervisor

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Northeast Region

Northern Lake Michigan fisheries team report

This report is for the week of May 7-13. Early in the week high water made fishing difficult on the Oconto, Peshtigo, and Menominee Rivers, but by the week end things were returning to normal. Most of the fishing activity was happening from the Oconto Breakwater Park to the Pensaukee River.

Marinette County - Fishing for walleye from the Peshtigo Harbor to the mouth of the Menominee River has been slow. Some pike, walleye and smallmouth are being caught trolling in 7 to 12 feet of water with crawler harness and stick baits. Browns are still being caught out of Little River using spoons and cranks in water 12 to 15 feet. Heavy current and the closure of the Hattie Street Bridge has cut down the number of anglers to a very low level. - Kevin King, fisheries technician, Peshtigo

Oconto County - A few panfish and smallmouth were being caught on the upper reaches of the Oconto River using live bait and artificial. Catch rates are low. At the mouth of the Oconto River smallmouth bass, pike and walleye were being caught in okay numbers using a variety of artificial and live bait. The walleye bite is best early morning and late afternoon. As for trolling, Pensaukee has been producing the best bite using stick baits and crawler harness in 7 to 12 feet of water. Anglers are reporting catching walleye and small mouth out of the Oconto Breakwater Harbor by keying on the rock piles and reefs jigging with live bait and Rip'n Raps. - Kevin King, fisheries technician, Peshtigo

Geano Beach anglers were targeting walleye with similar pressure and success to other launches in the area. Anglers have been seeing an increase in the catch of northern pike this year. Most anglers also caught many freshwater drum which is not uncommon. - Adam Garlie, fisheries technician, Green Bay

Brown County - Walleye fishing this week at Bayshore Park was very much up and down. High winds from the northeast kept fishing pressure low much of the week, but many anglers still ventured out. Anglers that braved the wind found the walleyes were looking for warmer water and wanted flicker shads trolled slowly. Most anglers were managing to catch 1 or 2 fish with a few anglers getting their limit. Other than walleyes, anglers reported catching white perch, yellow perch, freshwater drum, channel catfish, and northern pike. Water temperatures are hovering around 49 to 51 degrees. - Derek Apps, fisheries technician, Green Bay

Over the past week walleye anglers have seen improved success with most boats out of the Metro Launch harvesting at least one walleye for a half days effort. It was not uncommon for a group of anglers to harvest four or more walleye. At the Fox Point launch, similar success to metro launch, anglers were targeting walleye with increased success from previous weeks. Most anglers were catching multiple harvestable walleyes as well as white bass and freshwater drum. Few anglers were seen fishing from shore. Mostly walleye fishermen out of fairgrounds with a few shore anglers. Walleye anglers saw success catching fish comparable to other launches around the area. Shore anglers were catching white bass, freshwater drum, as well as the occasional smallmouth bass. Anglers were out at Voyager Park fishing for white bass over the past week. Most caught a wide variety of fish for a half of day's effort, including white bass, freshwater drum, and common carp. Some anglers even caught a few yellow perch. A couple anglers were seen wading of shore as well. At Suamico, success increased from previous weeks with some boats catching more than seven walleyes for three to four hours' worth of fishing. There has also been in increase in the number of northern pike being caught, with at least half the anglers interviewed catching at least one. - Adam Garlie, fisheries technician, Green Bay

Door County - At Chaudoirs Dock with many anglers were struggling to find warm water and active fish. Anglers were reporting that the best fishing is taking place right at dark and into the night. Water temperatures reported were in the upper 40s and water clarity is improving with the lack of precipitation. Fishing pressure on Little Sturgeon Bay has been high this week due to the tournaments that were held in Sturgeon Bay over the weekend. Anglers were primarily targeting smallmouth bass with a few anglers trying for some walleyes. Smallmouth anglers success varied widely, the key to catching good numbers of fish seemed to be staying mobile and finding the warmest water. Many anglers were using suspending jerk baits or soft plastics to catch the smallmouth. Other species that were caught by smallmouth anglers were walleye, northern pike, round gobies, and common carp. The report for Sawyer Harbor is much the same from Little Sturgeon Bay. High fishing pressure seemed to have spooked some of the bass, lowering overall catch numbers. Anglers reported seeing many more fish in Sawyer Harbor compared to Riley's, Sand, or Little Sturgeon Bay. This is likely due to the warmer waters in Sawyer, reportedly anywhere from 56-58 degrees. With the warm weather coming this week the water temperatures should only increase bringing in more fish driving them to bed up and spawn. - Derek Apps, fisheries technician, Green Bay

Smallmouth fishing has been picking up as temperatures increase. Although anglers are finding many fish in shallows, the bite it tough. Most had better luck catching the prespawn fish staging in 10-15 feet of water. Smallmouth and pike can be seen from shore in many places, but as you travel north, you will see fewer and fewer fish since water temperatures in the northern end of the bay are cooler. Pike action has been good in most places around the county. Live minnows have worked the best. Walleye action is fairly slow but consistent. Anglers are finding fish but catches remain small. The southern end of the bay seems to be more productive. Brown trout action has diminished since most anglers have shifted gears to fish for other species. Browns can still be seen cruising the shorelines and piers in many places. Rainbows are finishing up spawning but are still holding in some of the Door County streams, likely waiting for warm water to force them back into the lake. - Benjamin Thome, fisheries technician, Sturgeon Bay

Kewaunee County - Fishing is still slow throughout Kewaunee County. The rivers are low, warm, and clear, and no anglers were seen to interview about steelhead fishing, so it may be finished for the season. A few boats out this weekend caught a brown or a rainbow in passing, and reported water temperatures ranged from 47 to 52 degrees. Many anglers agree that the brown trout fishing is over for the spring and they are looking forward to salmon fishing picking up. - Jacob Steckmesser, fisheries technician, Sturgeon Bay

Manitowoc County - There were a few warmer and calmer weather days this past week, which allowed more anglers to get out and spend time in the rivers and lakeshore. Catfish have been caught in the Manitowoc River as well as trout. Anglers were out on the West Twin River preparing for the upcoming carp tournament and having a fair amount of success. With the warm weather on Mother's Day, many families took advantage of the lakeshore and Manitowoc River and were enjoying the day on boats, kayaks and jet skis. - Mallary Schenian, fisheries technician, Mishicot

Peshtigo DNR Service Center area

Marinette County - Warm wet weather has brought more gnats and mosquitos. It has also helped morels and other mushrooms to pop, given bats some food, and greened up the woods. Trilliums and marsh marigolds are in bloom. Whip-poor-wills are now commonly heard calling in the evenings. Hummingbirds, bluebirds, orioles and numerous other migratory birds are now back. Anglers report catching some bluegill and bass on inland lakes. Snakes and turtles are a more common sight now. Please watch for turtles crossing roads and help them to the side they are headed to when it is safe for you to do so. Fawns will be dropped soon, so a reminder that does will leave their fawns for what seems like an excessively long time. Give the fawn space and leave it alone as its mother will likely return to care for it. Do not pick up, corral, feed, or otherwise interfere with the fawn. If you have reason to believe the mother will not be back, then please contact your local DNR biologist. - Aaron McCullough, wildlife technician, Wausaukee

Peshtigo River State Forest -

Governor Thompson State Park - The forest floor is covered in wildflowers. Turtles are starting to migrate. Baby painted and snapping turtles that over-wintered in the nest are now starting to hatch on sunny days. We are hearing spring peepers, toads and tree frogs. It is a great time for hiking - not too hot, and the leaves are just starting to pop open. There are 16 miles of hiking trails waiting for your next adventure. - Maggie Kailhofer, park manager

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Southeast Region

Milwaukee DNR Service Center area

Southern Lake Michigan fisheries team report

Milwaukee County - Fishing pressure on the lakefront increased with a week of calm, stable weather and less than a quarter-inch of rain. Daytime temperatures increased to the 60s and 70s on the weekend. Large schools of alewives are starting to show up along the lakefront and on the lake side of McKinley Pier. Anglers on the pier had no trouble catching alewives on Saturday morning. Small coho 5- to 6-pound brown trout were caught on alewives. The surface water temperature on the lake side of the pier increased from 46 degrees last week to 49 degrees on Saturday. A 40-inch northern pike was caught and released recently in the Lake Shore State Park lagoons by an angler soaking shiners under slip bobbers on 3 fishing poles. Most of the brown trout landed recently in the harbor behind Summerfest were caught with live bait (fathead minnows and shiners). Activity at the McKinley and Riverfront ramps increased with limits of coho being caught on the weekend. The weather conditions were near perfect for trolling on Saturday morning with 5-15 mph west/southwest winds and a large number of boats went out from McKinley. A few nice size brown trout and small coho were landed in the current on the lake side of the Oak Creek Power Plant fishing pier. The majority of boats out of Bender Park targeted coho salmon with good success during the week. The Milwaukee River flow rate and water level decreased this week. Anglers at Kletzsch Park continue to land smallmouth bass, rock bass, largemouth bass, and suckers. A large number of smallmouth bass and rock bass were caught and released at Estabrook on Sunday afternoon. Large schools of alewives have been stacked up below the former North Avenue dam for the past two weeks. Large flocks of seagulls were diving on the alewives as they swam towards the North Avenue Bridge. The water level on the Menomonee River continues to fall. There's been very little fishing pressure at Miller Park since the rainbow spawning run came to an end. - Steve Nagel, fisheries technician, Milwaukee

Racine County - One boat angler fished out at 130 feet of water and caught two coho salmon on a dodger/fly combo. Another boat angler fished in 25 feet of water and caught one lake trout on a spoon. The Root River is currently flowing at 110 cfs and the water visibility is about 14 inches. No anglers reported catching steelhead this week. One sucker and two smallmouth bass were reported caught. The water temperature was 60 degrees above the Steelhead Facility and 61 degrees below. Only a couple of anglers were fishing upstream of the facility this week and none reported catching any fish. Not many anglers fished downstream of the facility this week. One angler reported catching two smallmouth bass on live worms at Lincoln Park. Another angler fishing near the 6th St. Bridge reported catching a sucker on live worms. - Dominic Cavalieri, fisheries technician, Sturtevant

Kenosha County - A boat angler reported fishing in 150 feet of water and catching a majority of the coho salmon on a dodger/fly combo, with blue and/or green flies working best. Another boat caught a two-person limit of coho salmon at 200 feet of water and most of their fish were caught on a dodger/fly combo. They said that green flies seemed to work best. Both boaters said that they caught most of their fish in the late morning to early afternoon hours. - Dominic Cavalieri, fisheries technician, Sturtevant

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South Central Region

Lower Wisconsin State Riverway - The water levels on May 18, at the Prairie Du Sac dam was 17,731 CFS. Please call 1-800-242-1077 for current river flow at the Prairie Du Sac dam. Please remember that camping is restricted to no more than three days on state-owned islands and sandbars. Camping at these locations is restricted to persons and their equipment arrived by watercraft only. A camping permit is not required. Portable toilets are in place at most DNR managed landings along the river and water is turned on at locations where available. - Matt Seguin, property manager

Weekly Riverway Report  - The River is still a little bit high but some sandbars are popping up. There may be an uptick in river flow depending on upriver precipitation this week. Rain is in the forecast for the weekend. Mosquitoes are out. - Mark Cupp, executive director Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board

Dodgeville DNR Service Center area

Wyalusing State Park -Just before you get to the Wyalusing State Park on Highway C there are a pair of trumpet swans in the back waters of the Wisconsin River. Birds that have been reported in the park are the following: American white pelican, double-creased cormorant, great blue heron, Canada goose, wood duck, bald eagles, broad-winged hawk, wild turkey, killdeer, spotted sandpiper, American woodcock, mourning dove, barred owl, chimney swift, ruby-throated hummingbird, belted kingfisher, eastern wood pewee, Acadian flycatcher, willow flycatcher, least flycatcher, great crested flycatcher, northern rough-winged swallow, bank swallow, barn swallow, black-capped chickadee, tufted titmouse, brown creeper, veery, gray-cheeked thrush, brown thrasher, blue-winged warbler, golden-winged warbler, Tennessee warbler, Nashville warbler, northern Paula-yellow warbler, chestnut-sided warbler, magnolia warbler, Cape May warbler, yellow-rumped warbler, black-throated green warbler, Blackburnian warbler, yellow throated warbler, bay-breasted warbler, Cerulean warbler, black and white warbler, Prothonotary warbler, northern water thrush, Louisiana water thrush, Kentucky warbler, Canada warbler, scarlet tanager, rose-breasted grosbeak, indigo bunting, Vesper sparrow, Henslow's sparrow, Lincoln's sparrow, red-winged blackbird, eastern meadowlark, Baltimore oriole, house finch, house sparrow. Trails are open. And in good condition. Treasure Cave is now open. It is the time of the year to watch the road sides for the doe deer and their young. Campers have sighted one near Whitetail Meadows Trail. Water has been high at the boat landing. This last weekend, there were canoers canoeing the back waters and capturing the view of lots of wildlife. Concession stand is now open Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday mornings and are renting canoes and kayaks. The concession stand will open during the week days starting May 26. Starsplitters will be having a Public Program Saturday May 27 at 8:30 p.m. at the Paul Lawrence Interpretive Center. Wild Flowers are starting to bloom in the Native Prairie at the Park office. Shooting star, cream false indigo and columbine. - Pam Dressler, visitor services associate

Horicon DNR Service Center area

Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - Migrating songbirds are finally arriving with a variety of vireos, warblers and flycatchers now moving through. Reports of hummingbirds at feeders are now more prevalent as they move into the area. It's definitely time to have your nectar and orange feeders out if you don't already! Trillium and wild geranium are in bloom. Visit the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center located off of Highway Z on Saturday May 20 from 9am-1pm for a Wildflowers for Wildlife native plant sale. Native wetland, woodland and prairie plants will all be available and proceeds will benefit the Friends of Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. Visit www.horiconmarsh.org for more details or call 920-387-7893. - Elizabeth Herzmann, natural resources educator

Fitchburg DNR Service Center area

Columbia County - Well, the mosquito season has officially kicked off, and they are out with a vengeance this year! If you are heading out to the woods, make sure to bring bug repellant. The ticks have been very bad this year too. Fourth season turkey hunters reported quite a bit of early success, but as the week went on it sounds like the birds have been pretty quiet. Fifth and sixth period hunters usually have more success with ambush techniques than with trying to call toms to them. Many geese, ducks and cranes have been noted with their young and the first reports of fawns being seen are starting to trickle in. Morels were still out this past week and wild asparagus is out. Lupine started to bloom as well. - Sara Kehrli, wildlife biologist, Poynette

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West Central Region

Eau Claire DNR Service Center area

Chippewa River State Trail - The trail is flooded between mile 5 and 6 near Jopke Road south of Eau Claire. Plan on using the Highway 85 rest area or Caryville to access the trail to the south. - Calvin Kunkel, ranger

Wausau DNR Service Center area

Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area

Buckhorn State Park - We have six non-reservable, first come-first served sites for Memorial Day weekend. All reservable sites have been filled. Boat launch repairs at the launch inside the park are completed. Showers at the south picnic shelter will be on soon after a repair is completed. Showers are open in the new campground. Drinking water is available throughout the park. - Heather Wolf, park manager

Roche-A-Cri State Park - We have three non-reservable campsites for Memorial Day weekend. All reservable sites are filled. - Heather Wolf, park manager

Outdoor Report for March 13, 2014

For current statewide information on statewide snow conditions, log onto the Wisconsin Department of Tourism's Snow Conditions Report .

General | Northern Region | Northeast Region | Southeast Region | South Central Region | West Central Region

Some very warm weather early in the week, reaching into the 50s statewide, has taken a toll on winter sports conditions, especially in the southern half of the state. The warm weather melted a lot of snow in a hurry leaving a muddy mess in far southern areas and water standing in many fields and yards. Many southern facing slopes in the south are now snow free, much to the delight of wildlife.

In the north, however, while snow settled some with the warm up, the deep snow persists. Snowmobile trails remain open and are still being reported as good to very good in many northern counties on the Department of Tourism's Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR). Most state park and forest properties are reporting that cross-country ski grooming is likely over for the season, unless the state receives another big snowfall. Trails in the south are generally in poor condition, and while trails in the north are snow-covered, they have been icy in the mornings and soft and slushy as temperatures warm throughout the day.

State wildlife officials continue to monitor the harsh winter's impact on deer and turkey. They continue to ask the public's help in reporting any dead deer or turkeys to local wildlife biologists. And responding to many hunters' concerns over turkey populations in the north, wildlife officials have announced that they will reduce the number of over-the-counter spring turkey permits available in some northern units.

Northern Wisconsin lakes are still solidly locked in ice, with 22 to 30 inches on most lakes with layers of slush on top, making travel very difficult. Lakes in southern Wisconsin have just begun to show signs of early break-up with some landings and shorelines having open water, especially near inlets and outlets. Wardens are cautioning people against driving any vehicles on river systems as they are also beginning to open up.

Ice fishing pressure has been pretty non-existent in the north, but this week's warm weather did trigger some good panfish action on southern and central Wisconsin lakes. The milder weather brought out more anglers last weekend on Green Bay, where anglers continue to fish though deep ice with success for whitefish and northern pike reported along the east and west shore. There is some more open water in southeastern Lake Michigan harbors, but most are still locked in ice and anglers continue to catch brown and rainbow trout through the ice.

Raccoon, skunk, muskrat, mink, and opossum activity has increased as temperatures are increasing and snow is receding. River otter sign along creeks and streams may be more evident this time of year as male otters increase their movements during the March to April breeding season. Fox and gray squirrels are feeding furiously on nuts and seeds that have remained buried all winter under snow and ice, and males are actively pursuing females.

The spring bird migration is off to a tempered start with arrival of small numbers of sandhill cranes, red-winged blackbirds, and American robins in the south. Waterfowl rank among the earliest migrants and a good diversity of birds are now on the move. However, this winter's extensive ice cover continues to take a toll on many diving ducks as numerous dead birds are showing up along the Lake Michigan shoreline as ice recedes.

Statewide Birding Report

Spring migration is off to a tempered start with arrival of small numbers of sandhill cranes, red-winged blackbirds, and American robins in the south. Horned larks are being reported in good numbers, occasionally mixing with migrant snow buntings and Lapland longspurs on their way north. Other arrivals include Eastern meadowlarks, killdeer, great blue herons, rusty blackbirds, northern flickers, and purple finches, though most are limited to the southern half of the state and are still in below-average numbers for this time of year. Waterfowl rank among the earliest migrants and a good diversity of birds are now on the move where open water can be found. However, this winter's extensive ice cover continues to take a toll on many diving ducks as numerous birds have been found dead in Lake Michigan counties. Most if not all of these birds appear to have starved because adequate food resources could not be reached. Some birds have also been found injured or stranded inland, having mistaken wet roads or other dark surfaces for water in their desperate attempt to find suitable habitat. Ice melt this past week may somewhat alleviate the problem but expect additional carcasses to surface for weeks ahead. If you find a stranded/sick/emaciated bird contact your local DNR office or wildlife rehabilitator. Elsewhere, some snowy owls are finally headed north. Many remain in the state, however, and chances of seeing one are still good through the end of the month. Great horned owls are laying eggs across south and central Wisconsin, red-tailed hawks are paired up, and northern saw-whet owls have begun their distinctive tooting call statewide. Expect a big influx of waterfowl, bald eagles, American woodcock, sandhill cranes, blackbirds, robins, and other short-distance migrants with each passing warm front. This is a great time to be a birder - get out there and enjoy the spectacle! And be sure to help us track the migration by reporting your sightings at www.ebird.org/wi.

Outdoor Report for January 10, 2013

General | Northern Region | Northeast Region | Southeast Region | South Central Region | West Central Region

An early January thaw and rain in the forecast for this week has conservation wardens cautioning people about thin ice and potentially dangerous conditions on lakes throughout the state. There have been a number of reports this week of vehicles and ice anglers going through the ice at various locations.

With no new snow since the late December snowstorm, snow levels have dropped statewide, and most counties have now closed snowmobile trails, according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR). Trails remain open in the most northern tier of counties but are in poor to fair condition. Cross-country ski trails were faring better as of Thursday, but rain in the forecast Thursday night could change that. Lake Kegonsa State Park in Dane County had cancelled a candlelight ski scheduled for Saturday night, but candlelight events at Kohler-Andrea and Wildcat Mountain state parks and the Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest were still scheduled. People interested in attending these events should contact the properties directly on Saturday to confirm if they will be held.

In the cold snap before the recent warm-up, ice had been forming on Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay with some people beginning to drive vehicles out, but extreme caution is needed as an ATV went through a pressure ridge with the operator getting out after a cold and wet wake up call. Ice was also forming on Lake Michigan’s Green Bay, but there was still open water off Oconto. Ice conditions along Door County are extremely poor at best, with ice only present on a sheltered bays. Several anglers had to be rescued this week when a section of ice they were fishing on near the southern end of Door County broke off and began floating away with the anglers still on it.

Inland, lakes in the Northwoods have ice depths up to 9 to 10 inches, with only about 2 to 3 inches of snow on top. Some undisturbed areas of the lakes may still only have 6 to 7 inches of ice and not enough to support larger vehicles.

Despite nice fishing weather, walleye action has continued a generally erratic trend into the new year. Northern pike success has been fair to good. Panfish action has been sporadic, with a few nice catches of crappie, bluegill and perch reported but anglers have had to move around quite a bit to find the active fish.

In the south, ice conditions vary greatly, with some larger lakes like Mendota still having open water, to smaller lakes having ice ranging up to 4 to 6 inches, but still highly variable. Anglers have been having some decent success in the south for panfish, and open water anglers have been fishing walleye and sauger below the Prairie du Sac dam.

While the warm-up is not favorable for human winter recreation, wildlife have been be enjoying the weather. Deer are somewhat grouped up and have been able to paw through the snow, or use exposed south-facing slopes. Raccoons have ventured out of their dens for a stretch and a snack. Squirrels are also out of their nests looking for a bite to eat. Otters have been running and sliding on the ice in the backwaters. Muskrat and beaver trappers were pretty active until the ice got too thick to easily chop through.

Bald eagles have begun to congregate along open water stretches of the Wisconsin, Baraboo, Fox, and Mississippi rivers. Visitors to backyard feeders have included juncos, chickadees, white-breasted nuthatches, goldfinches, cardinals, blue jays and red-bellied, downy and hairy woodpeckers. It's been a good season for varied thrushes in Wisconsin so far with no fewer than 10 reported. A female northern shrike first banded in March 2006 has returned to its winter territory near Ashland for at least an eighth consecutive year, making her at least 8.5 years old and by far the oldest northern shrike ever known in North America.

General | Northern Region | Northeast Region | Southeast Region | South Central Region | West Central Region

Outdoor Report as of February 17, 2011

A major warm-up in the last week has caused snow conditions to deteriorate rapidly across the state, but especially in the south. Some areas of the state saw a change in temperatures of more than 40 degrees in one day. Temperatures have been in the 40s to low 50s this week, and snow cover has dropped from 18 to 24 inches last week across the state, to a foot to 18 inches in the north, down to 3 inches in some areas of the south.

Snowmobile trails are now closed in roughly the southern two-thirds of the state and in just fair condition in the northern counties that remain open. Some counties closed trails in hopes of retaining snow on trails so they could be re-opened if temperatures drop as forecast for this weekend. Snowmobilers should check the Department of Tourism snow conditions report for updates or call ahead to their destinations for the latest conditions. Cross-country ski trail conditions have also deteriorated, and some parks and forests are asking skiers to voluntarily refrain from using the trails, again with hopes of retaining what grooming and snow remains.

Big fish and challenging travel conditions were the story during the first five days of the Lake Winnebago System sturgeon spearing seasons. Through the end of spearing hours Wednesday, 1,105 fish had been harvested, with 67 of them weighing more than 100 pounds, including a 185-pound, 80.2- inch female sturgeon was taken Feb. 14,

The Upriver Lakes were still open on Thursday, but could close if the harvest trigger is hit, otherwise the upriver season will be open at least through Friday. The Lake Winnebago closure is not in sight. There were reports of lots of water and very rough going on the roads off Oshkosh. Nine more fish over a hundred pounds were registered Wednesday, largest percentage of trophy fish on any single day in the history of the fishery. One spearer registered one of the infamous "white" sturgeon come on Wednesday. Not a true albino as the eyes were not pink.

Ice fishing on inland lakes remained slow, and travel became very difficult because of the melting snow and build up of slush. Ice conditions can change very rapidly in these warm temperatures, especially near inlets, outlets or natural springs, so people should be using extreme caution venturing out on ice.

Anglers with ice shacks still on the ice should consider removing them now or risk a big hassle getting them off if they sink into the slush and then cold temperatures re-freeze the ice later. The first ice fishing shanty removal deadline is next Sunday, Feb. 20 for Iowa-Wisconsin boundary waters.

Along Green Bay, the Peshtigo Harbor area saw an influx of northern pike anglers pre fishing for

a tournament next weekend. The Oconto breakwater saw a lot of activity this weekend, with some whitefish and a few perch caught along with some good numbers of smelt. Along Door County, Sturgeon Bay anglers had some success fishing perch but most have been small. Little Sturgeon Bay anglers were having success on whitefish.

After the warm weekend the ice conditions below the dams on the Mississippi River are becoming extremely dangerous. Run-off water is also entering many other rivers and the flowing water under the ice can rapidly deteriorate ice. Ice is also breaking up below dams on the Rock River and some decent walleye action was being reported.

Birds heard singing recently include tufted titmouse, house finch, cardinal, and white- breasted nuthatch. Waterfowl are getting more active with longer days triggering increased hormones, and bald eagles have been seen in the north carrying materials back to repair nests.

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Wisconsin Outdoor Report as of January 13, 2011

Areas of far northern Wisconsin have received up to a foot of snow in the last week, with much of it being very light lake-effect type snow. Most of the rest of the state has only received about 3 to 5 inches of snow, with the southeastern portion of the state once again receiving the least amounts. Snowmobile trails are open in roughly the northern half of the state, with conditions reported on the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR) from good in the northwest to poor in the northeast and more southern counties.

The additional snow has improved cross-country ski conditions, especially in the north, with Brule River State Forest and Willow River State Park reporting the best conditions of the year. The Greenbush trails in the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest received enough new snow for conditions to be good for the Northern Kettle Moraine Nordic Ski Club race on Sunday. The loop at Lapham Peak with man made snow is in very good condition, but all other trails there and at the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine have just a light covering of snow and are skiable but in poor condition. Mirror Lake, Blue Mound and Wildcat Mountain state parks all continue to report good to very good ski conditions.

Ice conditions continue to be good on lakes across the state, with ice thickness ranging from 12 to 14 inches on northern waters and 8 to 10 inches on southern waters, although some southern lakes still have areas of very thin ice. There have been reports of at least four vehicles going through the ice of Lake Koshkonong, which as some ice heaves with very thin spots. Most river systems in the state are now also frozen over, but recreational safety specialists urge people to stay off river ice, which can be highly variable and unpredictable.

Walleye activity picked up a bit on northern lakes with quite a few anglers reporting decent catches, with perch also added to the bag for many anglers. Panfishing has been fairly consistent statewide, and northern pike action has picked up a bit with the low amount of snow cover on the ice increasing light penetration and bumping up feeding activity. Ice is firming up on the lower Green Bay and fishing pressure has been heavy in some areas. Along Door County, anglers have been targeting perch and whitefish with some success. Northern pike anglers were out in full force out of Oconto.

Lake Michigan harbors and ports are icing over and some anglers have been venturing out but people should use extreme caution ice as conditions can change rapidly. Some open water anglers were having luck with brown trout and steelhead near the Port Washington power plant. The Mississippi River continues to be at unseasonably high levels and was at over 10 feet at Prairie du Chien this week. With the high water, sloughs have moderate to strong current flowing under the ice that can can create rapidly changing ice conditions. Ice fishing has been pretty good with nice sized bluegills, perch and crappie reported.

Bald eagles have begun congregating along with Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. A mid-winter aerial survey last week observed a very high number of bald eagles along the Lower Wisconsin River corridor. Biologists counted 473 eagles from the Petenwell Dam downstream to the confluence with the Mississippi River. This should bode very well for the 24th annual Bald Eagle Watching Days this weekend at Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. There will be eagle tours and other events throughout the day Saturday. Check the Eagle Bluff Fairy Council website for a complete list of events (exit DNR).

NORTHERN REGION

Superior DNR Service Center area

Brule River State Forest – The After Hours cross-country ski trail system was groomed and tracked Jan. 12 and is in excellent condition for classic and skate skiing. The conditions are the best so far this season.

Ashland DNR Service Center area

Slush Ice is no longer a problem on Southern Bayfield County area lakes. The slush on most lakes has frozen solid since the rain over the New Year. Ice fishing has picked up with walleye being taken on both the Upper and Middle Eau Claire lakes at dusk and just after sunset; minnows working best on both tip ups and jig poles. Crappie were biting on Lake Namekagon with most people catching their limits in a days time. Panfishing has been fair to good on many of the smaller inland lakes. Snowmobile trails in Bayfield County are in " good" to "excellent" condition. Cable/Namekagon ungroomed trails are fair, groomed trails north and west of Drummond are in "very good" condition, with excellent trails being found north of Delta and Iron River. Snowshoeing conditions are "good" to "very good" in the Drummond, Delta and Iron River areas.

Park Falls DNR Service Center area

Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Ice conditions continue to be good on lakes across the Northwoods and ice thickness is ranging from 12 to 14 inches on most waters. There is 2 to 4 inches of light fluffy snow on top of the ice and there have been no report of slush problems on any of the lakes. An increased number of vehicles have been seen out on the ice, but caution is still urged as there have still been small open-water areas observed around springs, inlets and off of some points. Walleye and panfish have been the main target for anglers in the past week and action could be termed fair. Walleye activity seemed to pick up a bit with the start of the new year and quite a few anglers were reporting some decent catches. The best action has been near dark on the cloudy and milder days, with small suckers or large fatheads fished over the mud flats in 5 to 10 feet of water. Most of the walleye have been in the 12- to 16-inch size, but fish up to 22 inches have also been reported. An added benefit of using the smaller bait this winter has been the catch of perch, which have added a few extra fish to the bag for many anglers. The panfish anglers have seen some fairly consistent action, with some nice crappie and perch being caught 1 to 3 feet off bottom in 15 to 25 feet of water. Northern pike have been seeing increased interest from anglers as action has picked up a bit with the low amount of snow cover on the ice. This has increased light penetration and seems to have bumped up feeding activity for northern. Large golden shiners or sucker minnows fished near deeper weed beds or the med-depth break lines have produced some nice fish, with a few pike up to 32 inches being caught.

Flambeau River State Forest – Both the north and south forks of the Flambeau River appear to be froze over. Local lakes are reporting approximately 10 inches of ice. The Flambeau Hills cross-country ski trail is in good to very good condition. Recent light snow has provided an opportunity to resume classic track grooming. The entire trail was groomed and tracked on Wednesday, with a 4-inchaverage base, with less on a few open hilltops. Pinery Grade's classic track may be icy on short segment along river, otherwise the trail is in good shape. Light snow dusted in recent grooming and will likely slow trail some.

Woodruff DNR Service Center area

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - Cross-country ski trails are in fair to good condition. Escanaba Trail is in good condition, with about 4 inches new fluffy lake snow, with 10 to 12 inches on the woods floor. Full track was set throughout Jan. 12. Still firm under new snow but groomers were able to mix snow and have full formed fast track. Trail is very scenic and the beautiful woods are a "must see." Madeline Trail was groomed Jan 7, with all loops tracked and in good condition. Raven Trail was groomed and tracked Jan. 8 tracked and is in fair to good condition. McNaughton Trail skaters loop was groomed Jan. 10 and all other loops tracked and has fair conditions. A section of the skaters loop from the parking lot to the first intersection is closed due to logging. An alternate parking area at the McNaughton boat landing will be kept open for this reason.

Antigo DNR Service Center area

Council Grounds State Park - Cross-country ski trails are groomed, tracked and in fair condition.

NORTHEAST REGION

Cold weather has helped create some good ice conditions for anglers, couple this with sunny days and the fishing pressure has been moderate to heavy in places. As always caution should be used when venturing out on the ice.

Peshtigo DNR Service Center area

Marinette County - Perch, walleye, and whitefish were being caught on the Menominee River in the area of Sixth Street Slip Landing. Anglers report ice conditions on the river at about a foot. Jigging with Moonshines tipped with minnows has been working for walleye while small jigs tipped with wax worms is the bait producing best for panfish.

Oconto County – Northern pike anglers were out in full force from Oconto Breakwater Park to Oconto Park I, using large shiner minnows suspended a foot off bottom and dead smelt in the round fished on bottom. Some perch were being caught in and around Oconto Breakwater Park proper using jigs and perch minnows. There was also the occasional smelt and whitefish reported.

Green Bay DNR Service Center area

Brown County - Voyageur Park anglers have been targeting walleye and perch in 6 to 12 feet of water using jigs and the appropriate size minnow for the fish they are after. Sunset Beach has been producing some perch with sizes running on the small size, along with the occasional white fish and smelt.

Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area

Door County - Stone Quarry anglers have been targeting perch and whitefish with some success. Most anglers have been staying closer to shore due to poor but ice conditions have been improving. Anglers have been fishing along Potawatomie State Park for perch with limited success. Most have been using live minnows for bait. Anglers have been venturing off Bullhead Point for perch as well. Fishing has been sporadic at best with some perch being caught around mid-week, but it has since slowed. A few anglers have been catching numbers of bluegill around the docks at the yacht club. Waxworms and a small ice jig seem to be working the best. Sugar Creek anglers have been venturing off the park with snowmobiles and ATVs. Anglers have been targeting whitefish and perch. Most of the angling pressure has been in 15-25 feet of water. Anglers have been venturing out to deep water off Chaudoir’s Dock in search of whitefish. Anglers that are finding whitefish have reported fishing being on the slow side. Also a few perch are being caught with most being of respectable size. Dykesville anglers have been finding it tough fishing due to all the fishing pressure over the last few days. Most anglers have to move well outside the main group of anglers to catch fish. Anglers that are finding fish are catching perch and whitefish. Fishing pressure has been light at Volks Landing. Most anglers are catching perch with the occasional whitefish or smelt mixed in.

Whitefish Dunes State Park - A number of birds have been sighted on Lake Michigan over the weekend. They include: common and red- breasted merganser, common goldeneye, Canadian goose, and bufflehead. In the forest, downy, hairy, and pileated woodpeckers, white breasted nuthatches, and chickadees are being seen.

Point Beach State Forest - Since the storm on Dec. 12, all the trails at Point Beach State Forest have been cleared of downed trees. The cross country ski trails are currently in poor condition with only a 2 inch base at this time. We still need about 6 inches of new snow in order to groom trails. Some accumulation is in the forecast for Thursday and Friday. Best advise is to call for current conditions. Point Beach State Forest (920) 794-7480.

SOUTHEAST REGION

Milwaukee DNR Service Center

Kettle Moraine State Forest - Lapham Peak Unit – The area received a little more than 2 inches of snow on Tuesday. All of the ski trails have been groomed. The ski loop covered with man-made snow has a double classical track set and is in excellent condition for skating and classical skiing. Beyond the man made snow loop the trails are generally snow covered and skiable with some areas pretty good for skating. However the snow cover is thin and there is glare ice and other obstacles beneath the surface and exposed in some spots - caution is advised and overall conditions are poor to fair. The lights are on Monday through Saturday until 10 pm. Ski rentals Tuesday, Wednesday nights and on the weekends during the day.

Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit - Recent light snowfall added up to about 2 to 3 inches resulting in sufficient snow to groom the cross-country trail systems. All Zillmer trail loops have been combed producing a generally good product for skating. Skate lanes will be soft for a couple of days. Keep in mind, because of the limited base, we are still fighting forest litter - trigs and some leaves. Classical tracks were set on the green and red loops with marginal success. The recent snowfall really helped the Greenbush trail system. All trails are open and in good condition with a nice base. The course is in great shape for the Northern Kettle Moraine Nordic Ski Club race on Sunday. Crews will be grooming every day in preparation for the weekend. Another snowfall is expected Friday night so the weekend will be great.

Kettle Moraine State Park - Pike Lake Unit - Cross country ski trails are in fair to poor condition. Trails were groomed on Tuesday, Jan. 11, but there is not enough snow to set a classical track at this time. Snow coverage is very thin, with lots of twigs and leaves poking through. Call 262-670-3400 for the most current trail conditions. Trail passes are not required for cross country skiers at Pike Lake this winter. When trails are snow covered hikers, snowshoers, and dogs are not allowed on trails east of Powder Hill Road (groomed ski trails).

Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit - All three cross-country ski trail systems at the Southern Unit received about 2 inches of snow on Tuesday. Scuppernong, McMiller and Nordic are all generally snow covered and skiable, but with the thin snow base no classical track has been set and there are places dirt or rocks are exposed. It would be wise to not use your best skis. Nordic seemed to have more ice covering the trails and the snow packed nicely over the ice, but may not adhere well. McMiller did not have as much ice and while it is snow covered it is has more debris exposed. Scuppernong conditions are similar to Nordic. With this layer of snow setting up - it will not take a significant amount of snow on top of it to improve conditions above the poor to fair rating that they have now. Snowmobile trails are not open.

Lake Michigan fisheries team report

Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan, much of the marina around the Deland boat launch is iced over. Ice anglers have been working the areas around the docks, but fishing has been generally slow. Please use extra caution out on the ice as conditions can change rapidly.

Ozaukee County - In Port Washington, the area near the power plant discharge provides good winter open water fishing opportunities. The discharge is currently pumping, and the west slip also has open water. Brown trout and steelhead have both been caught near the power plant on spawn fished on a three-way rig. The north slip is iced over, but it is not safe for foot travel.

Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee open water can be found in the lower stretches of the Menomonee River and canals, and there is some limited open water under the Hoan Bridge near Jones Island. The Milwaukee River mouth and harbor are covered in some broken up ice floes, but Riverfront Ramp is currently open. The lagoon behind Lakeshore State Park and McKinley Marina are iced over, but fishing in both of those locations has been relatively slow.

Racine County - In Racine, much of the Root River is iced over. There has been evidence of anglers ice fishing downstream near the 6th Street and Marquette Street bridges, as well as in the Racine harbor. Use extra caution, as conditions can change quickly, and there are some open spots close to shore in the marina. Fishing has been relatively slow in the harbor, but some steelhead have been caught further upriver on spawn set close to the bottom.

Kenosha County - In Kenosha anglers in Simmons Island Marina have been catching occasional brown trout on spawn. Anglers have been fishing through the ice near the docks, as well as in the open water near the railing on shore.

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

Dodgeville DNR Service Center area

The holiday gun deer hunt wrapped up this past weekend with many hunters kept out of the woods due to freezing cold temperatures. Hunters who did take to the woods reported seeing quite a few deer in the area. Shed hunting around the area is in full swing and many shed hunters are reporting finding some large antler sheds on both public and private property. Ice anglers on Blackhawk Lake report great crappie fishing using glow jigs. Anglers also reported the perch bite picking up on Long Lake while the bluegill catch remained sluggish. The snowmobile trails in the area remain closed due to lack of snow. Just as a reminder, if you see a deer that appears to be sick please contact the DNR Tip Line at 1-800-TIP-WDNR.

Blue Mound State Park - All cross-country ski trails were groomed Jan. 12 with a new classic track set. All trails are in very good condition for classic skiing (no skating now). Only "problem" areas are a few thin spots on the Pleasure Valley trail where a track was not set due to thin snow cover. The rest of the trail system is 100 percent covered, generally with at least a 5-inch or more solid base. Good skis will be fine.

Fitchburg DNR Service Center area

The lack of snow has closed the snowmobile trails in Dodge, Columbia, and Sauk counties. Area snow enthusiasts are hoping for enough snow this week to re-open the trails. Ice fishing has been slow. Some reports of northern pike being caught are coming out of Fox Lake in Dodge County. Coyotes have been seen frequenting the fields in the daytime in search of a mate.

Jefferson County - Anglers are having fair success on Rock Lake catching some legal sized northern pike throughout the lake. Small perch were being caught as well as bluegill in the 5-7 inch range mostly by Elm Point. Some 14-inch largemouth bass were also being seen. The northern were biting on shiners while spikes and wax worms were the preferred bait for the perch and bluegill. Ice thickness on Rock Lake is in the 14-15 inch range and trucks are being driven across the entire lake. One driver recently drove up to the Glacial Drumlin trail trestle on the south end where there is some flowing water and found that the ice was not thick enough to support the front of his SUV. Ice conditions on the other lakes in Jefferson County are good with ice fishing going on but success is slow overall. . The ice conditions on Lake Koshkonong vary greatly from one area to the next. There have been at least 4 vehicles that have gone through the ice so far this season on Koshkonong alone. Lake Koshkonong also has several ice heaves that have thin ice. Drivers are cautioned to know the conditions of the ice before they venture out especially at night as it is always at your own risk on the frozen waters. On the Rock and Crawfish rivers there is some snowmobiling activity occurring now that a blanket of snow has covered the ice aiding traction. The ice on the rivers is very thin. County law enforcement and rescue agencies are urging the public to stay away from the river ice. This includes keeping a watchful eye on pets to prevent them from falling into the frigid waters. The county snowmobile trails are unfortunately closed due to little snow. The snowmobile trail hotline number for Jefferson County is 920-699-7669(SNOW). A few bald eagles are being spotted along the Crawfish River in the Milford area feeding on whatever they can find. Recently a barn owl (an endangered species) was found dead in the city limits of Watertown after it apparently hit a power line and was found lying dead by the building.

Mirror Lake State Park - Cross-country ski trails are in good to very good condition with a 3 to 8 inch base. Trails are groomed and tracked for skate and classical skiing. Remember, pets and hiking on groomed ski trails is prohibited. Trails open for snowshoeing and hiking include Echo Rock, Lake View, Sandstone and Wild Rice.

Janesville DNR Service Center area

Rock County - Snowmobile trails remain closed despite the snowfall this week. More snow in the forecast for the upcoming weekend could help trail conditions. Ice has thickened up on area lakes, but there are still some thin spots on Lake Koshkonong where there are seams and ice heaves. Fishing success remains low on Lake Koshkonong with reports of abundant bait fish affecting the bite. Storr's Lake continues to produce undersized northern pike and small bluegills. The gun deer season closed on January 9 in the CWD zones, but landowner's can still get permits to harvest deer throughout the winter. Trappers have been having success otter trapping in Rock County. Otter are abundant in Rock County and can be trapped with a valid permit. Several individuals had been checked fishing backwaters of the Sugar River and the ponds in Janesville. Ice seems good in those areas and even a few perch were being caught.

WEST CENTRAL REGION

Baldwin DNR Service Center area

Willow River State Park – Recent snowfall has added about 3 inches to the trail system. Cross-country ski trails were groomed and tracked late Wednesday afternoon. Skiing conditions are excellent, however, the down hills were very fast. The flying S turn on the Brown was "in" and very fast. The entry is marked with a caution sign. This sequence is a fast downhill, a small up hill to enter the turn, the S turn is over the peak of the small hill, and then down another hill. It is typically out of track skiing for the S turn and second downhill. The roller coaster at the bottom of the Brown was a real zoomer in the track. Today's conditions dictate that you bring solid intermediate or better skills to ski the Brown. More snow is predicted which might slow things down. Overall, the excellent conditions should hold up all of Thursday and into Friday. Weekend skiers should find very good conditions. Ice fishing continues with slower panfish action. With all the snow, there are a number of snowshoers that have broken their own trail off trail. Skiers should be aware of the Minnesota Youth Ski League class that meets on Sundays from 2-4pm at the Nature Center. MYSL has around 70 kids this year. Expect to see a lot of younger skiers about during that time frame.

La Crosse DNR Service Center area

According to Dr. Charles Long in his book "The Wild Mammals of Wisconsin," the meadow vole is one of the most abundant mammals in the state and is found throughout the state. Because of these two factors, in addition to its high reproductive rate, this small rodent is an important member of many food chains, supplying a major food item for various raptors, cranes, gulls, snakes, and carnivorous mammals. Meadow vole populations typically exhibit dramatic tree to five year cycles, influenced by breeding rates, litter size, number of litters, predation, and food. About 90 percent of meadow voles die before they are a month old, and few live beyond a year. Look for evidence of voles such as tiny teeth marks low on shrubs and trees, snow tunnels about half an inch in diameter, or short, tubular earth deposits called trail castings or eskers.

Perrot State Park - The cross-country ski trails are in good condition. The Bay Trail and Wilbur Trail have been groomed and tracked. The skate lane in the campground has been groomed and is in very good condition. The upper trails have been groomed but snow conditions would not allow a track to be set.

Wildcat Mountain State Park – The park received enough snow for crews to groom and track cross-country ski trails, making for good ski conditions. A few campsites have been plowed for winter camping with water available at the park office. There is no hunting going on in the park at this time.

Crawford County - All snowmobile trails in Crawford County are closed. For current snowmobile trail conditions please check TravelWisconsin.com. The Mississippi River stabilized around the 10 foot mark for more than a week. As of January 11, the river was at 10.05 feet. Open water exists below the Lynxville dam due to the high water. The Wisconsin River is falling and creating dangerous conditions in some areas. In many areas on the Wisconsin there is an “air gap” between the ice and the water below. This phenomenon exists mainly in the timbered lowlands. Ice conditions remain pretty good even though caution must be used when traveling on the ice. With the Mississippi River being unusually high for early winter many back water sloughs have moderate to strong current flowing under the ice. The current can create rapidly changing conditions. Generally speaking the ice averages around 2 to 14 inches of ice in the backwaters of the Mississippi River and Wisconsin River. Access to most ice fishing locations is much better now that cold weather froze the “sloppy” spots and the river levels have stabilized. Ice fishing has been pretty good at times. In the Prairie du Chien area nice sized blue gills were being caught on Gremore Lake along with some really nice perch. Anglers will have to move around to find them however. Ice conditions on Gremore Lake are pretty good with a foot or more ice. Crapppie action in Gremore has been slow. Anglers have been venturing across the Ambro Slough to Mud Slough and Tilmont Lake. Most anglers are using the DNR boat landing on Ambro Road. The USFWS boat landing was being used to access the upper portions of the Ambro Complex, however Mill Coulee Creek enters there and creates dangerous ice conditions. Caution must be used in this area. This past week Mud Slough has been slow as there appears to be some current flowing through it. Tilmont Lake has produced a few bluegills and perch however it is kind of slow. Those venturing out to Tilmont Lake should use caution as they cross over the Ambro and Black Sloughs as current exists under the ice. Anglers have been venturing up to the Upper Doubles and Big Missouri. Action there has been spotting with a few nice crappie and bluegill being taken. The Lower Doubles, Fish Lake and Big Missouri have produced some fish but they have been very spotty. Spring Lake and the Fennimore Cut have been slow. There is current entering the upper end of Spring Lake and flowing out through the Fennimore Cut. Action there has been poor. Some anglers are fishing in the back waters of Spring Lake and finding action spotty. Sturgeon Slough has been very slow primarily due to the high water. Current is flowing through that area which causes bluegills and crappie to avoid that area. Some anglers have ventured south to McGregor Lake. Action on McGregor Lake has been spotty too. Cold Spring has been slow this week. The best access to Cold Spring is from the handicapped parking area on the south end. The boat landing access is a bit tricky as open water still exists there. Open water shore fishing at the boat landing has been very slow. Largemouth bass action has been good. Most bluegill anglers report catching many bass incidental to their primary target. Some anglers are setting tip up in Gremore, Tilmont, the Upper Doubles and Cold Spring and are having some success. Anglers are reminded that while fishing on the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi River boundary waters only three (3) hooks, baits or lures can be used. No report on small mouth bass action. Northern pike action has been spotty. Rabbit, squirrel and coyote hunters are finding hunting conditions pretty good. After the rain and warm temperatures a while back access to the fields and woods is better. A pretty solid crust of snow exists. Bald eagles have been moving inland in search of food. Some birds are still hanging around open water on the Mississippi, Wisconsin and Kickapoo rivers. Song birds are actively coming to bird feeders and bird baths. Please keep bird feeders clean and full of food.

Black River Falls DNR Service Center area

Black River State Forest – The forest received an additional 2 inches of snow Monday. Snowmobile trails were groomed Tuesday and are in good condition for sledding. There are some areas in the open that have less snowfall on them so please use caution. When snowmobile trails are open we ask ATVs to stay off the trail whenever the temperatures are 32 degrees or above. This protects the base for future use. Cross-country ski trails were groomed Tuesday and conditions were very good for skating and traditional. Skiers will notice that there has been a fair amount of timber sale activity along the trails this year.

Eau Claire DNR Service Center area

Brunet Island State Park – The cross country ski trail system has a very nice base on the trails. The track was reset on Friday Jan. 7 and is in great shape. Species of birds seen or heard include: ravens, black capped chickadees, northern juncos, piliated and red headed woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles. Anglers are reporting generally good ice conditions in the backwater areas. The park does not monitor ice conditions. The Cornell flowage water levels fluctuate throughout the year and we urge caution when venturing onto the ice.

Red Cedar State Trail and Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area - The Red Cedar State Trail has been groomed and tracked and is in good condition. Hoffman Hills Recreation Area trails have not been recently groomed or tracked but were packed about a week ago. Recent light snows have provided some level of traction but the trails are still icy.

Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area

Buckhorn State Park - Cross-country ski trails are packed, tracked and are in excellent condition! Walking on trails when groomed is not allowed. Snowshoers must stay off to the side of trails and not on the groomed trails. Two bald eagles flew over the nature trail by the lake while out grooming the ski trails.

Roche-A-Cri State Park - The campground and main gate are now closed for the season. Parking is available at the winter lot on Czech Ave and that pit toilet is still open. Volunteers will be keeping the winter lot restroom open, plowing the parking lot, and grooming ski trails.