Thinking about casting a line in La Crosse this July? You’re in the right place. The Mississippi River and surrounding waters are full of fish, sunshine, and good vibes this time of year. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just out to enjoy a day on the water, here are some laid-back tips to help you make the most of your July fishing trip in La Crosse, WI.
Fish to Keep on Your Radar
- Bass (Smallmouth & Largemouth): July’s a great time for bass fishing. Smallmouth love hanging out near rocky spots and wingdams in the main river, while largemouth prefer the quieter backwaters with weeds and logs.
- Walleye & Sauger: Still hitting in the heat. You’ll find them deeper, around sloughs and tailwaters. Crankbaits and live bait rigs get the job done.
- Panfish (Bluegill, Crappie): These guys are fun and easy to find. Check out brush piles, fallen trees, and weed lines in 6–15 feet of water.
- Northern Pike & Catfish: Pike like the grassy and weedy areas, especially near spillways. For catfish, target deeper river holes and tailwater currents.
Where to Drop a Line
- Lake Onalaska: A go-to for all kinds of fish—bass, walleye, pike, panfish—you name it. Try shallow in the morning or evening, and head deeper when the sun’s high.
- Mississippi River Wingdams & Tailwaters: Lock & Dam No. 7 and the French Island spillways are solid picks.
- Goose Island & Pettibone Park: Great for fishing from shore. Expect bluegills, bass, and the occasional hungry pike.
Simple Tactics That Work
- Fish the Structure: Fish love cover in summer. Target wingdams, brush piles, logs, weed mats, and those deeper river holes for your catfish.
- Mix Up Your Bait: Crankbaits and spinners for the aggressive ones. Jigs, worms, or live bait if they’re playing hard to get.
- Timing is Key: Early mornings and evenings are your best bet in the heart of summer. Bonus tip: Cloudy and rainy days are actually good days to be on the water as fish can be active all day long.
Gear Checklist
- Rod & Reel: Medium/Medium Heavy gear works great for bass and walleye. Go light for panfish, heavier for pike and catfish.
- Tackle: Bring a mix—topwaters, frogs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, live bait like suckers, minnows, willow cats, or worms.
- Must-Haves: Don’t forget your polarized shades, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, water, and of course, your Wisconsin fishing license.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fishing Seasons: July is wide open for bass, panfish, pike, and walleye. Check the Wisconsin DNR for the latest rules.
- Access Points: Lake Onalaska, Pettibone Park, and Riverside Park all offer solid public access.
- Stay Safe: The river current can surprise you. Check water levels before heading out, especially if you’re on the Mississippi.
Wrapping It Up
Fishing in La Crosse in July is all about enjoying the water, soaking up the scenery, and hooking into some great fish. Whether you’re casting from shore or cruising in a boat, focus on structure, adjust your tactics to the weather, and have fun out there.
Tight lines and good times!