How do I get to Delavan Lake?

 

From Northern Illinois/Chicago:

Take Rt 94 North/West into Wisconsin to Rt 50. Take Rt 50 West. Go through Lake Geneva. 11 miles west of Lake Geneva you will come to a stoplight (S. Shore Dr.) Turn Left onto S. Shore Dr., and then an immediate right into the park/boat launch area. The person at the guard shack will direct you where to park.

From the west burbs of Chicago:

Take Rt 53 north to Rt 12. Take Rt 12 west (after Fox Lake, watch the signs for Rt 12---you will have to make a turn to stay on Rt 12) into Wisconsin, to Rt 50. Take Rt 50 west, through Lake Geneva, then follow the directions above from Lake Geneva.

From the Madison area:

Take Rt 39/90 East/South to Rt 43. Go North/East on Rt 43 to Rt 50. Take Rt 50 east. Go past Lake Lawn Resort. You will start to pass the lake. At S. Shore Dr. (stoplight), turn right, and then another right into the park/boat launch area. The person at the guard shack will direct you where to park.

From the Milwaukee area:

Take Rt 43 South/West to Rt 50. Take Rt. 50 East. Follow the directions above from Rt 50 East.

GPS Users:

Enter intersection of S. Shore Dr. & Rt 50, Delavan, WI

 

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Where Can I find a Wisconsin Fishing License?

 

The easiest way to get a Wisconsin Fishing License is on-line at: www.dnr.state.wi.us You can print it off at your own printer anytime (and make as many copies as you wish). They have a four-day license available, as well as a yearly license if you prefer. Please, however, wait until at least the night before your trip---when I have confirmed with you (if you get anything other than a yearly license). There are no refunds on the licenses, so if the trip gets cancelled due to say, very high winds, you'll be stuck with a worthless piece of paper! Licenses are also available at Wal-Marts (in Delavan and Lake Geneva), and even at the gas station across the street from the boat launch.

 

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What do I need to bring with me?

 

You will need a Wisconsin Fishing License. Also, wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions. Bring rain gear in case of inclimate weather (we will fish in the rain). You may bring a small cooler w/ snacks/sandwiches/beverages. I will provide bottled water.

DON'T FORGET YOUR CAMERA!!

 

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Can I bring my own fishing rods/lures?

 

Although I provide rods, reels and all tackle and bait, you may bring your favorite rod if you wish! I use medium/heavy rods with 40lb to 60lb braided line, and 80lb fluorocarbon leaders.

 

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Can I keep the fish I catch?

 

The size limits on Delavan Lake are fairly strict. You may keep one pike 32" or longer, one bass 18" or longer. I prefer to practice 'CPR' (catch, photo, release). The lake holds a sizeable population of huge bluegill and crappie, so if you wish to take home some panfish, we can fish for those as well! ( I do not clean fish, so bring a cooler w/ice for your catch).

 

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What is the best time of year for fishing?

 

Gamefish season opens on Delavan Lake the first Saturday in May. Pike can be caught throughout the spring, summer and fall on spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jigs/plastics, and live bait. I generally end my fishing season in October/November. Pike are big sight-feeders, so we catch them mostly during daylight hours. Many factors can influence how good or bad the fishing will be, i.e., weather, water temps, fishing pressure, etc.. I do have a 'No Pike-No Pay' guarantee on my 6 hour guided fishing trips--If you don't hook a pike, that day's trip is on me!

 

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