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Best Beginner Fishing Trip in Forest County, WI
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- $400 price range
Summary
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Beginner's Catch
Fat walleye on deck!
Beastly walleye from shore!
Thick walleye, mid-morning action!
Unexpected sturgeon surprise!
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Massive walleye night bite!
Chunky walleye under moonlight!
Epic yellow perch haul on the ice!
Solid walleye in spring bite mode!
Fat walleye on deck!
Beastly walleye from shore!
Thick walleye, mid-morning action!
Unexpected sturgeon surprise!
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Massive walleye night bite!
Chunky walleye under moonlight!
Epic yellow perch haul on the ice!
Solid walleye in spring bite mode!
Fat walleye on deck!
Beastly walleye from shore!
Thick walleye, mid-morning action!
Unexpected sturgeon surprise!
Learn to Fish: Forest County's Beginner-Friendly Lakes
Looking to get your feet wet in the world of fishing? Forest County, Wisconsin is the perfect spot to cast your first line. This 4-hour trip with Alloway Outfitters is tailor-made for newbies, whether you're bringing the kids, the whole family, or just want to try something new. You'll be in good hands with Ryon, who'll show you the ropes on some of the most picturesque lakes in the Northwoods.
What to Expect on the Water
We'll meet bright and early at 7:00 AM, when the fish are biting and the lakes are calm. Don't worry about bringing any gear - we've got you covered with rods, reels, and all the lures you'll need. Ryon will walk you through everything from how to bait your hook to the perfect casting technique. We'll hit up spots like Lake Metonga and Pickerel Lake, known for their abundance of panfish and walleye. It's $400 for two people, with room for up to two more at $100 each. Just remember to grab your fishing license before we head out!
Fishing 101: Hooks, Lines, and Sinkers
If you've never held a fishing rod before, no sweat. We'll start with the basics - how to tie a knot, set up your line, and choose the right bait. You'll learn the difference between live bait and artificial lures, and when to use each. We'll practice casting in the shallows before heading to our secret spots where the big ones lurk. Ryon will show you how to read the water, spot likely fish hideouts, and the patience it takes to wait for that perfect bite. Before you know it, you'll be reeling in your first catch!
Top Catches This Season
Forest County's lakes are teeming with a variety of fish that are perfect for beginners to target. Here's what you might hook on your trip:
Brook Trout: These beautiful fish are a favorite among anglers for their vibrant colors and spirited fight. They prefer cool, clear waters and are most active in the early morning or late evening. Brookies in Forest County typically range from 8-12 inches, but catching a 14-incher is like striking gold!
Crappie: Often called "papermouths" for their delicate bite, crappies are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They school up, so where there's one, there's usually more. Spring and fall are prime times for crappie fishing, and you can often spot them hanging around submerged trees or brush piles.
Walleye: The crown jewel of Wisconsin fishing, walleyes are known for their tasty fillets and challenging nature. They've got eyes that shine in low light, which is why they're often caught at dawn or dusk. Walleyes in our lakes can grow up to 30 inches, but a 20-incher is considered a trophy catch.
Northern Pike: These toothy predators are the perfect fish for beginners who want some excitement. They hit hard and fight harder, often putting on acrobatic displays as you reel them in. Pike love to ambush their prey, so casting near weed beds or fallen trees can lead to some heart-pounding action.
Muskellunge (Musky): Known as the "fish of 10,000 casts," muskies are the ultimate challenge for any angler. While we probably won't target them on a beginner trip, it's not unheard of for a small one to grab a lure meant for walleye. If you're lucky enough to hook one, get ready for the fight of your life!
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Forest County isn't just about the fishing - it's about the whole experience. As we drift along, you'll soak in views of pine-fringed shorelines and maybe spot a bald eagle soaring overhead. The clean, crisp air and the gentle lapping of waves against the boat create a peaceful backdrop for learning. And there's nothing quite like the thrill of feeling that first tug on your line, knowing you're about to bring in a fish all on your own.
Ryon's been guiding these waters for years, and he's got a knack for making even the most nervous newbie feel like a pro. He'll share local legends, point out hidden landmarks, and maybe even let you in on a few secret fishing spots (as long as you promise not to tell). By the end of the trip, you'll have gained not just fishing skills, but a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of Wisconsin's Northwoods.
What's Biting When
Fishing in Forest County is a year-round affair, but knowing what's biting when can help you plan the perfect trip:
Spring (April-May): As the ice melts, hungry fish start feeding aggressively. This is prime time for walleye and northern pike, with crappies starting to bite as the water warms up.
Summer (June-August): The lakes come alive with all species active. Early mornings and evenings are best for walleye, while sunny afternoons are perfect for pan fishing for crappie and perch.
Fall (September-November): As the leaves change, the fishing heats up. This is trophy time for musky hunters, and walleye fishing can be spectacular.
Winter (December-March): Ice fishing is huge here. Drill a hole and drop a line for panfish, walleye, and northern pike. (Note: Our beginner trips don't include ice fishing - that's a whole different ballgame!)
Gearing Up for Success
While we provide all the fishing gear, there are a few things you'll want to bring to make your day on the water more comfortable:
1. Layers: Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers you can easily add or remove. 2. Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are musts, even on cloudy days. 3. Snacks and water: Fishing builds up an appetite! 4. Camera: To capture your big catch (and big smiles). 5. Positive attitude: The most important thing you can bring is enthusiasm and patience.
Time to Book Your Spot
Ready to dip your toes into the world of fishing? This 4-hour beginner trip with Alloway Outfitters is the perfect way to start. You'll get hands-on instruction, quality gear, and access to some of Forest County's best fishing spots. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or a new hobby, this trip offers a relaxed, educational experience that might just hook you for life.
Remember, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. With free cancellation up to 3 days before your trip, there's no reason not to lock in your date now. Who knows? You might just catch the big one on your very first try. So grab your hat, your sense of adventure, and let's go fishing in beautiful Forest County, Wisconsin!
Learn more about the animals
Brook Trout
Brook trout are a favorite among fly fishers, known for their beautiful colors and spirited fights. These small but feisty fish usually run 8-12 inches long in our local streams. You'll find them in cold, clean waters with rocky bottoms and plenty of cover. Brook trout love hanging out near fallen logs and undercut banks. Spring and fall are prime seasons, when water temperatures are cooler. Anglers enjoy targeting them for the challenge and their tasty meat. To improve your chances, try using small dry flies or nymphs and make stealthy approaches - these fish spook easily. A local trick is to fish early mornings or evenings when they're most active feeding on insects. Nothing beats the satisfaction of fooling a wild brookie with a well-presented fly.
Crappie
Crappie are a blast for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. These pan-sized fish typically run 7-12 inches and put up a nice fight on light tackle. You'll find them schooling around submerged brush, fallen trees, and weed edges in our lakes. Spring is prime time when they move shallow to spawn, but you can catch them year-round. Crappie are popular for their delicious, flaky white meat. They're also fun to catch - when you find one, you've usually found a whole bunch. To land more slabs, try using small jigs or live minnows under a bobber. Fish slowly and keep your bait at the right depth. A local tip: on sunny days, look for crappie suspending in the shade of docks or overhanging trees. Once you dial in their pattern, the action can be non-stop.
Muskellunge
Muskies are the ultimate freshwater trophy, known as the "fish of 10,000 casts." These apex predators can grow over 50 inches long in our waters. You'll find them patrolling weed edges, rocky points, and sunken islands. Fall is prime time when they feed heavily before winter. Anglers pursue muskies for the thrill of the hunt and their impressive size. To up your odds, use large lures like bucktails or jerkbaits. Cover lots of water and be ready for follows - muskies often trail lures without striking. A local secret: focus on "spot on the spot" areas where multiple types of structure intersect. Persistence is key with these elusive giants. When a big muskie finally hits, hold on tight - it's an experience you won't soon forget.
Northern Pike
Northern pike are aggressive predators that'll test your skills and gear. These long, torpedo-shaped fish average 24-30 inches but can grow much larger. You'll find pike lurking in weedy bays, along drop-offs, and near submerged timber. They're most active in cooler water, making spring and fall prime seasons. Anglers love targeting pike for their vicious strikes and powerful runs. To land more northerns, try casting large spoons or crankbaits near weed edges. Live bait under a bobber can also be deadly. Watch those teeth when unhooking - they're razor sharp! A local tip: focus on shallow bays in early spring right after ice-out. Pike move in to spawn, and the fishing can be red hot. Just be prepared for some serious battles - these "water wolves" don't give up easily.
Walleye
Walleye are prized for both their fight and their fantastic taste on the table. These golden-olive fish average 15-20 inches in our waters, with trophy fish pushing 30 inches. You'll find walleye hanging near drop-offs, rocky points, and weed edges. They prefer cooler, deeper water during the day and move shallow to feed at night. Spring and fall are peak seasons when they're most active. Anglers love targeting walleye for their hard strikes and delicious fillets. To improve your odds, try jigging with minnows or nightcrawlers along the bottom. Trolling crankbaits can also be effective. A local secret: focus on wind-blown shorelines, especially in the evening. The waves concentrate baitfish, which in turn attract hungry walleye. Be patient - when you hook into one of these toothy predators, it's well worth the wait.
About the Alloway Outfitters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Evinrude
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 200
