Regional Outdoors Report

Colder weather in the last week has continued to build up ice on lakes around the state, says the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Anglers on northern lakes are reporting a foot or more of ice, while ice is also starting to form off the south shore of Lake Superior where the "ice caves" are located, though the DNR says it will not be safe to walk out to them until the National Park Service gives the okay.

Recent cold temperatures put a damper on fishing pressure around the state -- and fish activity seems to be at its mid-winter low point. Panfish have been providing the best action with a few fair catches perch, bluegill and crappie being reported along with some of northern pike. Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay ice has been firming and the DNR has received reports of perch, brown trout, coho salmon, and whitefish.

DNR wildlife staff have been conducting deer counts with fixed wing aircraft and report many whitetail bucks are still retaining their antlers. Bobcat hunters were taking advantage of the fresh snow conditions to locate bobcat. Deer, fox, coyote, otter and raccoon tracks are also showing up in the fresh snow. Coyote and fox, which are in their breeding season, are responding to calls. Large flocks of turkeys have been spotted foraging where crop residue is available. Great horned owls are being heard calling at night as they are in their breeding season. Snowy owls also continue to be seen around the state.