For freshwater anglers who are always craving fast fishing action, the Salmon fishing Wisconsin has to offer is just what the doctor ordered. The Badger State is every angler’s dream, with over 15,000 lakes to explore and two Great Lakes right at its doorstep.
About 25% of Wisconsinites fish regularly and over half a million non-resident anglers visit the state every year in search of their next trophy catch. If you’re an avid Salmon chaser looking for the next destination to explore, then Wisconsin has more fishing grounds than you can explore in a lifetime.
What to Catch
Up until the late '60s, Salmon didn’t exist in Wisconsin. That’s until the Department of Natural Resources introduced Coho (Silver) and Chinook (King) Salmon to the Great Lakes. This was a win-win decision, because it helped control the alewife population (a species of bait fish) and it set the grounds for an outstanding new sport fishery.
Coho Salmon came to the lakes in 1968, and Chinook followed one year later. Thanks to their taste in alewives, these silvery fighters thrive to this day in different bodies of water all over the state and they’re one of the locals' favorite catches.
When to Go
The best time to go Salmon fishing in Wisconsin depends on the body of water where you decide to cast your line. Summer months are usually the most productive ones, so May, June, and July are great times to hit the water.
In late July, Salmon are getting ready to spawn, which means that they’re voracious and come in formidable sizes. As fall rolls around, Salmon from the coastal areas are migrating into the lakes and tributaries, and at the same time, local Salmon hit the rivers and streams to spawn.
September is the best month to catch massive Chinook, and October still offers great Chinook fishing. Because the Salmon’s migration upstream is limited due to many dams, they congregate in large numbers in smaller bodies of water and come closer to land. This is great news for shore anglers, who can target them in the shallow waters and from the piers.
The Salmon bite is excellent when it's overcast and visibility is reduced. If you get on the water before sunrise and cast your line as the sun comes out, you’ve got a good chance of reeling in a good-sized catch.
Where to Go
Whether you’d like to hunt your Salmon in the Great Lakes or on the rivers and tributary streams, you’re in for an unforgettable day on the water.
Lake Michigan and Lake Superior are premier fisheries that offer a wide range of freshwater species, and Salmon is at the very top of that list. Spend a summer day going after the King and Silver Salmon on either of these lakes, and chances are, you’ll have constant action on the rod.
The Root River in Racine County is famous for its top-notch Salmon bite, especially in the fall months, when the fish head upstream for spawning. The Pike River in Kenosha County also has a lot of Salmon to offer, despite its name. Milwaukee River and Menomonee Rivers hide the best bite in the Milwaukee County, and if you’re in Sheboygan County, test your line in the Sheboygan River, you won’t be disappointed.
What to Expect
One thing you can certainly expect when fishing in Wisconsin is fast and furious angling action. You can hook Chinook and Coho Salmon in various sizes during the season. They can weigh from 2–20+ pounds, and even 30 or 40 lb lunkers are in the cards during the fall months.
Because Salmon usually dwell in deeper water (except when on their way to the spawning grounds), trolling is the best way to tempt them. During the spring, you’ll find them in the top 30 feet of water, and this is where you should be trolling with a variety of spoons and flies.
If you don’t have a lot of experience on these waters, Wisconsin Salmon fishing charters are there to take you out. Local captains make it their business to pursue Salmon and find the best bite, and you can find half day fishing trips in the $500–$700 price range.
If you want more time on the water, full day expeditions in the $900–$1,100 ballpark are available. The more time you have on the boat, the greater the chances of catching your new personal record, and in this case it could be a 40 lb Wisconsin Salmon.
How to Prepare
The Salmon fishing Wisconsin is known for doesn’t need much preparation on your part, and that’s what makes it convenient and exciting. Bear in mind that Salmon runs are seasonal here, so ask your captain about the best time to go out.
You’ll need a valid Wisconsin fishing license with a two-day Trout and Salmon stamp, which you can buy in tackle shops. The weather can be fickle, so if you’re fishing in September or October, make sure to bring rain gear and dress in layers. After that, there’s only the matter of drinks and food, and your Salmon extravaganza can begin!
