Full Day Ice Fishing Wisconsin Reddy Guide

Full-Day Ice Fishing – Southeastern Wisconsin

When you're looking to spend serious time on the ice and really dial in your technique, this seven-hour guided trip with John Reddy delivers exactly what dedicated anglers want. We're talking about a full day of productive fishing on some of southeastern Wisconsin's best inland waters, where you'll target multiple species while staying warm and comfortable in heated shelters. Whether you're new to ice fishing or looking to step up your game, this trip gives you the time and guidance to make it happen.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't your typical quick morning on the ice – we're putting in a full seven hours to maximize your time and give you the best shot at consistent action. I'll pick our spot based on current ice conditions and where the fish are most active, choosing from proven waters like Pleasant Lake, Como Lake, Turtle Lake, Geneva Lake, Delavan Lake, and several smaller glacial and kettle lakes that produce solid results year after year. Each location has its own character and holds different species, so part of the fun is adapting to what each lake offers. The heated ice shelters keep everyone comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws at us, and with all rods, reels, and tackle provided, you can focus entirely on fishing instead of worrying about gear.

Gear and Techniques

Efficiency on the ice makes all the difference, and that starts with fast, clean hole drilling using Jiffy ice drills. This lets us stay mobile and move quickly when we find productive areas or need to adjust based on fish activity. When we're targeting larger predators like northern pike, I rely on proven Beaver Dam tip-ups paired with Clam Ice huts and HT hook-setting devices – this combination increases your hook-up ratio significantly and keeps your presentations exactly where they need to be. For panfish and walleye, we'll use lighter tackle and more finesse approaches, teaching you how to read your electronics and respond to what the fish are telling you. Everything you need is provided, including warm gear if you need it, so you're fishing with professional-grade equipment that's matched to the conditions and species we're targeting.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Walleye are the gold standard of ice fishing in southeastern Wisconsin, and these lakes hold some beautiful fish. They're typically most active during low-light periods, but a full day on the ice gives us multiple opportunities to find them feeding. Walleye average 14-18 inches in these waters, with occasional fish pushing into the 20+ inch range. What makes them so rewarding is their fight – they'll make strong runs under the ice and test your drag, plus they're absolutely delicious on the table. The key is staying patient and letting them take the bait fully before setting the hook.

Northern pike are the aggressive predators that keep things exciting throughout the day. These fish are ambush hunters that lurk around weed edges and structure, and they'll absolutely hammer a tip-up when they decide to feed. Pike in these lakes commonly run 24-32 inches, with occasional fish over 36 inches that'll give you a real battle. They're active throughout the day, especially when we're moving between spots, and their explosive strikes on tip-ups create some of the most memorable moments of any ice fishing trip. The key with pike is having your drag set properly and being ready for that initial run.

American Yellow Perch provide consistent action and are perfect for building confidence, especially for newer ice anglers. These schools of fish move through the lakes actively feeding, and when you find them, the action can be steady for extended periods. Perch typically run 8-12 inches in these waters, with occasional jumbos pushing 13+ inches. They're aggressive feeders that respond well to small jigs and live bait, and they're excellent eating. What makes perch fishing so engaging is the active presentation required – you need to keep your bait moving and pay attention to subtle bites.

Largemouth Bass add another dimension to the day, especially around structure and deeper weed lines. While they're less active in winter than other seasons, when you connect with a bass through the ice, it's always memorable. These fish average 12-16 inches with occasional fish reaching 18+ inches, and they fight harder in cold water than many people expect. Bass fishing through the ice requires patience and the right presentation, but they're a rewarding species that many anglers overlook during the ice fishing season.

Time to Book Your Spot

A full day of guided ice fishing gives you the time to really understand the techniques, learn to read the water, and enjoy consistent action across multiple species. With heated shelters, professional equipment, and a guide who knows these waters inside and out, you're set up for success from the moment we step on the ice. The rate covers up to two anglers for $650, with room for larger groups when needed. This is hands-down one of the best ways to experience southeastern Wisconsin's ice fishing at its finest, and the seven-hour format means you'll come off the ice feeling like you really accomplished something. Ready to spend a proper day on the ice?