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Cisco

Cisco

Cisco are native coldwater fish found in relatively few Wisconsin lakes - only about 188 lakes or roughly 1. 3% of the state's inland waters. These fish are highly sensitive environmental indicators - their presence signifies excellent water quality.

Scientific Name: Coregonus artedi

Also known as lake herring, tullibees

Physical Characteristics:
  • These silvery, elongated fish typically measure 9-18 inches and weigh ¼ to 1.5 pounds, though some Wisconsin lakes produce giants up to 19.5 inches.
  • Cisco have small mouths.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Cisco are most common in Wisconsin's northern inland lakes, particularly in deep, clear waters with maximum depths over 40 feet and well-oxygenated bottom waters year-round.

Key Locations

  • Elkhart Lake (Sheboygan County), Spencer Lake (Waupaca County), Pike Lake (Iron County), Okauchee Lake (Waukesha County), and Lake Geneva (Walworth County).

Specific Spots

  • Target deep, soft-bottomed holes adjacent to drop-offs, looking for mud flats in 30-40 feet of water.
  • In northern Wisconsin cisco lakes, look for areas near the deepest basins where cisco schools roam open water.

Cisco FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Cisco in Wisconsin?

VMC Pro Series Rattle Spoons with VMC Octopus Dr.opper Chain tipped with waxworms, or small jigging Rapalas in UV bright colors.

When is the best time to fish for Cisco in Wisconsin?

Best fishing occurs during winter months for ice fishing. Avoid fishing during their late fall spawning runs from late October through early November when they move into shallow, rocky spawning areas.

How do you catch Cisco in Wisconsin?

Use small presentations due to cisco's small mouths. Be prepared to change depths quickly when schools appear on electronics. Target suspended schools anywhere from 3 feet off bottom to halfway between surface and bottom.

What do Cisco eat?

Cisco are planktivores that feed primarily on zooplankton, microscopic crustaceans, aquatic insects, and algae.

Where do Cisco live in Wisconsin?

Cisco are most common in Wisconsin's northern inland lakes, particularly in deep, clear waters with maximum depths over 40 feet and well-oxygenated bottom waters year-round.

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