Fishing in Oshkosh, WI

Pat and ‪Matthew are casting off on Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest inland lake, to discover why Oshkosh is an angler's paradise. Whether you're chasing walleye, northern pike, bass, or perch, you'll find endless opportunities to reel in your next big catch! Fish from the lake, the Fox River, a boat, a dock, or the shoreline - there's a spot for every angler in Oshkosh. Let's cast away and make your own fish tales in Oshkosh!

Pat’s Fishing Tips 🎣

Friends, you may not believe this, but Pat has not been fishing in 30 years... It was the thrill of a lifetime to fish with local Oshkosh angler-influencer Matthew Crawford. I wanted to share with you a few tips that I learned from spending the day with Matthew!

  1. Get your fishing license first.​​ 
    Yes, you can get one online through the Wisconsin DNR website, but Pat recommends stopping at Fleet Farm and buying it in person. Fair warning: you may accidentally spend an hour wandering the fishing aisles dreaming about new gear...

  2. Get up early.
    Lake Winnebago and the Fox River are absolutely magical at 5 a.m. The water is calm, the air is cool, and the fish are ready for breakfast.

  3. Use the right equipment.
    Matthew hooked me up with a 1/4 oz Kalin's Bucktail Jig and taught me how to cast: let the bait hit the bottom, give it a half crank, and emulate the small fish that bigger fish eat. I literally had a fish on the line within five minutes and let me tell you nothing beats the thrill of reeling in a giant walleye!!!

  4. Ask a local for the best fishing spots.
    Matthew took us to one of his favorite “honey holes” near the I-41 Lake Butte des Morts Bridge. Fish love the shade and structure there, and they were practically jumping into the boat!

  5. Après Fish!
    Something about a day on the water makes you twice as hungry. The good news is Oshkosh has a half dozen restaurants on the Fox River, with dock space so you can pull in tie up and eat! Check out Anchor & Port, Becket's, Dockside, and Fox River Brewing Company located on the Fox River. Heading out on Lake Winnebago? Stop by Ardy & Ed's Drive In, or TJ's Harbor!

 

I don't know why I waited so long to fish again, but now I'm HOOKED! Honestly the best part of the day was meeting other fishermen and all the amazing people out on the water in Oshkosh! I'll look for you on Lake Winnebago!

Check Out More with Pat!