November is that exciting in-between month on the Mississippi River—open water is still in play, but the chill in the air has us thinking hard about ice season. Water temps continue to drop, and fish are feeding up before winter fully sets in. It’s been a productive late fall bite for those willing to dress warm and put in the time, and we’ve been seeing great results across the board.
Perch have really started to group up in the main river backwaters, especially in areas with a mix of soft bottom and vegetation. They’re keying in on small minnows, red worms, and plastics worked just off the bottom on a drop shot rig. The best action has been in 5–10 feet of water, where the current slows down. Perch size has been solid this fall, with plenty of eaters and some jumbos mixed in. As we move into late November, expect these schools to get tighter—prime scouting info for the early ice season ahead.
Crappies are stacking up in their typical cold-water haunts—deep backwater sloughs, side channels, and submerged timber. Electronics have been key to locating them, as they’re often suspended several feet off bottom in 10–14 feet of water. A small jig tipped with a minnow or plastic has been producing consistently. When you find one, there’s usually more—these schools have been running thick, and the bite can turn fast once you get dialed in. Look for them to hold in these same areas well into early ice.
Bluegills continue to provide steady action for anyone willing to work shallow weed edges and isolated wood. They’ve been favoring red worms and finesse plastics on drop shots. The quality this fall has been impressive, with plenty of 8–9 inch ‘gills showing up. As vegetation dies off, they’ll push deeper toward wintering holes, making for excellent opportunities once the ice forms.
Sturgeon fishing is still going strong, and the late-season bite has been nothing short of exciting. These Mississippi River giants are actively feeding as water temps cool, putting on their final push before winter. Anglers are hooking into fish ranging anywhere from 40 to over 60 inches, with plenty of action for those willing to soak a nightcrawler or cut bait in the deeper river holes. There’s nothing quite like feeling that slow, heavy pull of a true river dinosaur this time of year. The action will continue right up until ice-up, making now one of the best times of the year to chase these prehistoric fish.
Looking ahead, ice fishing season is right around the corner. We’re gearing up for another busy winter of guided trips across the La Crosse area and beyond. River Bent Outfitters will be offering guided perch and panfish trips on backwaters and smaller lakes, along with new Lake Pepin walleye ice adventures this season. Whether you’re looking to learn new ice tactics, chase trophy fish, or just enjoy a day on the ice with friends, we’ve got you covered with all the gear, expertise, and heated shacks to make it happen.
Bundle up, stay safe on the water, and start sharpening those auger blades—ice season is coming fast, and the bite looks promising. Contact River Bent Outfitters to reserve your spot for early-ice trips today!