OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Thousands of ice fishermen and sturgeon spearers will be sharing the ice on the Lake Winnebago system for Battle on Bago, the biggest ice fishing tournament in the Midwest. But before anglers take to the lakes this year, they are asked to be extra careful. Austin Fields says even with recent cold weather, he’s playing it safe.
“The snow makes it a little bit harder. So you want like four wheel drive, or wheelers, but it’s getting better,” said Austin Fields of Neenah.
Fields says he’s taking part in the weekend ice fishing competition, which covers the Upriver Lakes, and Winnebago.
Battle on Bago President Glenn Curran says ice conditions have varied all season.
“We do on average have about 12-13 inches on Lake Winnebago. But the truck bridges are not out there. There are vehicles out on Lake Winnebago, but this year, we’re just not promoting driving trucks out. Just UTV and ATV traffic only on Lake Winnebago,” said Curran.
About 9,000 people are expected to attend the 13th Battle on Bago at Menominee Park in Oshkosh, which features food, raffles, and music inside three heated tents. Battle on Bago Founder Todd Reuss says the event is also a fundraiser for outdoors-based efforts in the area.
“We’ve been able to give away about $1.3 million back to local clubs, kids, conservation, DNR projects, other legitimate things that fall into our mission statement, kids and conservation.”
