Lake Winnebago Fishing Report: Jigs, Minnows, and Late-Season Opportunities

# Lake Winnebago Fishing Report – December 2, 2025

Well folks, it's Artificial Lure here with your Lake Winnebago update on this chilly December morning. We're looking at early winter conditions across Wisconsin's premier walleye and panfish destination, and I've got some intel to share.

First, the fundamentals. We're in the First Quarter Moon phase right now, which typically means decent bite windows. Your major bite times are hitting around 5:13 to 7:13 in the morning and again from 5:29 to 7:29 in the evening. Minor bites are showing up around 1:05 to 3:05 in the afternoon. Visibility is sitting at about 40 percent, which is workable for the end of fall conditions.

Here's what's been happening on the water. According to recent reports across Wisconsin, muskie activity has picked up nicely as the water cools down, with most follows and catches happening near green weedlines. On Lake Winnebago specifically, we're seeing excellent opportunities with jigging setups. The Winnebago System technique using striped bass and walleye jigging lures is producing solid results for whitebass as well.

Your best bets right now are jig and minnow combinations—keep them working the edges and current breaks around deeper holes. The lake's transitioning into prime late-season conditions where fish are consolidating in specific structure. Minnows remain your go-to live bait, but don't overlook small hair jigs either. Panfish can be found in 15 to 20 feet of water and are actively feeding as we head into winter.

For hot spots, focus on Miller's Bay and the various channels connecting to Lake Butte des Morts. Island Park and Willow Harbor are also producing. These areas hold structure and current that concentrate fish this time of year.

Fishing pressure remains light across the region, which is your advantage. Get out there early during those morning bite windows and work your jigs methodically.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI