Smallmouth bass season began this weekend in Wisconsin’s northern zone which will apply to local anglers. With the season open, you can now harvest smallmouth bass rather than only being allowed to catch and release. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources northern zone designation includes tributaries to Lake Michigan north of Highway 29 in Kewaunee and Door County. Also in the zone are Wisconsin-Michigan boundary waters. Smallmouth bass are considered strong fighters and good fishing for all anglers. Tips from the DNR include:
- Getting out in June during and just after the spawning season, as well as early fall.
- Using artificial baits on the surface
- Fishing quietly and casting toward rocks and/or logs.
- Keeping line tight and rod tip up.
The map from the DNR that shows the state’s entire northern zone can be found below.
