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Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are Wisconsin's most widely distributed gamefish, found in 4,151 lakes covering 865,331 surface acres and occurring in all three drainage basins (Lake Michigan, Mississippi River, and Lake Superior).

They're least common in the driftless area of southwestern Wisconsin. Wisconsin sits near the northern limit of their range, with northern populations likely established through historical introductions.

These warmwater predators are ambush predators with exceptional intelligence - studies show they're highly wary and capable of distinguishing colors in shallow water.

Scientific Name: Micropterus salmoides

Physical Characteristics:
  • Have a bucket-like mouth.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Prefer shallow, weedy lakes and ponds, calm river backwaters, and rarely venture deeper than 20 feet.

Key Locations

  • Lake Winnebago, the Madison Chain of Lakes, Mississippi River backwaters, Pelican Lake in Oneida County, the Flambeau River system, Trout Lake, Mississippi River backwaters, Pelican Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Target structure including inflowing/outflowing streams, points, reefs, submerged trees, docks, rafts, stumps, vegetation beds, sunken islands, rock and rip-rap, and drop-offs.

Largemouth Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Largemouth Bass in Wisconsin?

Live baits (minnows, worms), surface plugs, underwater plugs, streamers, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics.

What flies work for Largemouth Bass in Wisconsin?

Popping bugs in bumblebee, frog, and chartreuse patterns worked with a 'bloop' sound followed by 2-3 second pauses. During transition seasons, use baitfish patterns like Clousers, Deceivers, or shad/bream patterns fished 1-4 feet deep.

When is the best time to fish for Largemouth Bass in Wisconsin?

Best from early May through late June and again from early September to mid-October when water temperatures range between 55-75°F. They spawn from late April to early July when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. In winter, they become relatively inactive in deeper water until shallow areas warm in spring.

How do you catch Largemouth Bass in Wisconsin?

Use weedless baits due to their association with vegetation. In cattails, cast near pockets or points rather than uniform areas. Fish slowly in summer heat and winter cold. Match lure colors to local forage - use contrast and incorporate green shades.

What do Largemouth Bass eat?

Their diet includes minnows, bluegills, crayfish, frogs, large insects, and even other largemouth bass - essentially anything that fits in their bucket-like mouth.

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