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April kicks off a true transition period on the Mississippi River around La Crosse, WI. Recent snowmelt from up north has kept water levels elevated and cold, which has made the fishing tougher, but we’re now seeing the river slowly begin to drop and stabilize. As clarity improves, temperatures rise, and current slackens in backwaters…
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I had the chance to spend some time this spring putting the Piscifun Carbon X III Spinning Reel through its paces while chasing walleyes and smallmouth, and I came away pretty impressed with how it performed on the water. Right out of the box, the first thing I noticed was how incredibly light the reel…
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Ice-out has already taken place across much of the Mississippi River backwaters around La Crosse, signaling the transition into early spring fishing patterns. Many shallow areas throughout the Mississippi River Backwaters have opened up, and more water will continue to become fishable as temperatures gradually warm. One of the main patterns developing right now is…
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River Bent Outfitters | La Crosse, Wisconsin February ice fishing on the Mississippi River backwaters has settled into a true mid-winter grind, shaped by extended frigid temperatures and stable ice conditions. Cold weather has dominated the region, creating solid ice across most protected backwaters while simultaneously pushing fish into a classic mid-winter pattern. Anglers are…
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River Bent Outfitters Ice fishing is underway on the Mississippi River near La Crosse, Wisconsin, but anglers should remain cautious as ice conditions continue to vary across the system. Current ice thickness ranges from approximately 6 inches up to 11 inches, depending on location. Backwater areas, protected sloughs, and shallow basins away from current are…
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As December arrives, we are off to a good start for ice fishing on the Mississippi River, and anglers across Wisconsin and Minnesota are gearing up for another exciting winter season. While the Midwest transitions into colder weather, the backwaters of the Mississippi River is forming the first safe ice of the year. At River…
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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…
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October on the Mississippi River around La Crosse is one of the best times of year to be on the water. Cool nights and crisp mornings have the fish feeding heavily in preparation for winter, and the scenery with fall colors along the bluffs makes it hard to beat. Here’s what’s been happening on the…
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When you spend as much time on the Mississippi as I do, you learn real quick that your gear either holds up—or it doesn’t. Big river catfish and sturgeon don’t care about price tags, brand names, or shiny boxes. They’ll chew through weak drags, strip line off cheap reels, and make you regret every shortcut…

