Musky Shop Northwoods Lake of the Month: Pickerel Lake
Prime Ice Fishing Right Now: Thick Ice & Strong Bites
Mid-January 2026 has brought improving ice conditions across Oneida County lakes, with reports of solid 12-14 inches (some areas pushing thicker) after recent cold snaps and slush freeze-downs. Pickerel Lake's shallower profile means quicker safe ice formation, and with one public boat landing providing easy access, it's a go-to for portable shelters, tip-ups, and jigging setups. Currently thick enough for heavy vehicles, this is a great place to launch your ice fishing endeavors in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.
Panfish lead the charge here—they're plenty common, with bluegills and perch hitting jigs tipped with wax worms, spikes, or small plastics over weed edges, flats, or basins in 8-15 feet. Bass provide bonus excitement; target them with larger jigs or tip-ups near structure or drop-offs. Northern pike are common cruisers—use bigger baits or large shiners on tip-ups in shallower zones for aggressive strikes. This is a great lake for those looking to tangle with their first icy Northern. Walleye offer quality evening bites, but only if you're patient. They tend to hide in the dark water for the unsuspecting angler.
The lake's one public boat landing serves as a prime ice entry, keeping things uncrowded and serene. Bring your gear for a full day of variety—this lake rewards targeting edges, drops, and subtle structure. Depending on the day, you can be fishing all alone or among friends, but Pickerel Lake is never super crowded, and there's plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
After the Ice: Explore the Minocqua Area
Wrap up your ice session and head to nearby Minocqua (just minutes away) for more Northwoods winter fun. Snowmobiling reigns supreme with hundreds of groomed miles via trails through town—rent in town and cruise through pine forests and frozen landscapes. Recent grooming has trails in good shape despite variable snow.
For quieter outings, hit cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Minocqua Winter Park (over 50 miles of trails, plus tubing hill thrills) or nearby systems like Bearskin State Trail. Check out Camp 10 Ski Area for downhill skiing/snowboarding if you crave slopes. The area’s snowy scenery is stunning—keep an eye out for wildlife or even Hodag tracks!
Whether you're stacking panfish, battling pike, or chasing the wind on a snowmobile, Pickerel Lake delivers prime ice fishing in January 2026 amid the peaceful Northwoods. Pack up, check ice reports, and make the trip—tight lines, stay safe, and enjoy the magic of Wisconsin winter!