What Pettibone Lagoon offers anglers

Pettibone Lagoon is a shallow, weedy backwater connected to the Mississippi River just south of La Crosse. It runs roughly 2 miles long and averages 4 to 6 feet deep, with extensive marsh vegetation and soft bottom—the kind of water that holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in abundance. The lagoon is best fished from spring through fall, when the vegetation is established and the fish are actively feeding in the shallows.

The lagoon's real character comes from its connection to the main river channel. Water levels fluctuate with the Mississippi, which means the best fishing windows often align with stable or rising water. When the river is dropping fast, the lagoon can become stagnant and the bite slows. The vegetation—cattails, coontail, and arrowhead—creates natural structure that concentrates fish, but it also demands careful boat handling and a willingness to fish tight to the weeds.

Key Takeaways

  • Pettibone Lagoon holds walleye and northern pike in shallow, weedy water that requires weedless or semi-weedless presentations.
  • Spring and early summer are peak seasons; water levels tied to the Mississippi River affect the bite significantly.
  • The lagoon is accessible by boat launch at nearby public ramps; a shallow-draft boat or canoe works better than a deep-V hull.
  • Live bait (shiners, crawfish) and soft plastics rigged weedless outfish hard baits in this vegetation-heavy environment.
  • Wisconsin fishing license required; check current regulations for walleye and pike seasons before you launch.

Best seasons and water conditions

Spring (April through May) is when Pettibone Lagoon comes alive. Walleye move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively in the warming water. Pike are also active, cruising the weed edges and open pockets. Water temperatures in the low 50s to mid-60s trigger the best feeding windows, usually in the hour before sunset and the first two hours after sunrise.

Early summer (June through July) remains productive, though the vegetation becomes thicker and the fish move deeper into the weed structure. Midday fishing slows considerably; focus your effort on dawn and dusk. By mid-summer, the lagoon can become choked with algae and floating vegetation, which can make navigation difficult but also concentrates fish in clearer pockets.

Fall (September through October) offers a second peak. Water cools, fish become active throughout the day, and the vegetation begins to thin. This is often the most consistent season for numbers and size. Winter closes most of the lagoon to fishing due to ice and access issues, though some anglers fish through the ice in January and February if conditions allow.

Tackle and technique for shallow weeds

Weedless presentations are essential. Soft plastics rigged on weedless jig heads—4-inch shads or creature baits in natural colors (green pumpkin, watermelon, black)—work well for both walleye and pike. Cast tight to the weed edges and work the bait slowly through open pockets. A 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jig head is usually sufficient in 4 to 6 feet of water.

Live bait under a slip bobber is equally effective, especially for walleye. Use 3- to 4-inch shiners or small crawfish, set the bobber to suspend the bait just above the weed tops, and let the current and wind move you along the vegetation. This method covers water efficiently and allows you to fish multiple depths without constant casting.

Spinnerbaits and buzzbaits work for pike, particularly early in the season when water is cooler and pike are more aggressive. Throw them parallel to the weed line and retrieve steadily. Avoid getting hung up by keeping your rod tip up and maintaining tension on the line. If you do snag, a quick slack-line technique often frees the lure without breaking off.

Access and boat launch information

Pettibone Lagoon is accessed via the Mississippi River. The nearest public boat launch is at Riverside Park in La Crosse, located on the main channel about 2 miles north of the lagoon entrance. The launch has paved ramps, parking, and facilities. From there, you motor south on the main river channel and enter the lagoon through a marked opening in the dike system.

A shallow-draft boat is ideal—a 16- to 18-foot aluminum boat with a 25 to 40 horsepower outboard works well. Avoid deep-V hulls; they draw too much water and limit where you can fish. A canoe or small jon boat is also effective and allows you to navigate the narrowest channels and shallowest pockets. Always check water levels before launching; extremely low water can make the entrance channel impassable.

Fish species and size expectations

Walleye are the primary target. Fish in the 12- to 16-inch range are common; 18- to 20-inch fish are caught regularly, especially in spring and fall. The lagoon's shallow, weedy character produces more numbers than trophy size, but a 22-inch walleye is not unusual for an angler who fishes consistently.

Northern pike are abundant and often larger than walleye. 18- to 24-inch pike are routine; fish over 28 inches show up several times each season. Pike are less selective than walleye and will chase larger baits and lures. Panfish—bluegill, crappie, and pumpkinseed—are also present and provide good action for anglers targeting smaller species or bringing children.

Regulations and licensing

Wisconsin fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods retailers, and at some bait shops in La Crosse. A three-day license is available if you are not a resident and want to fish short-term.

Walleye and pike seasons vary by year and by specific water body. Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you launch—seasons, daily bag limits, and size restrictions change. Pettibone Lagoon is part of the Mississippi River system, so it follows the river's regulations rather than inland lake rules. The DNR website has a searchable tool for specific water bodies and current rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Pettibone Lagoon year-round?

Open-water fishing runs spring through fall. Winter ice fishing is possible in January and February if ice is thick enough, but access can be limited and conditions vary. Check with local bait shops or the Wisconsin DNR for current ice conditions before attempting winter fishing.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and evening (two hours before sunset through dusk) are most productive. Walleye bite aggressively during low-light periods. On overcast days, the bite can extend through midday, especially if the water is stained or vegetation is thick.

Do I need a guide to fish Pettibone Lagoon?

No, the lagoon is straightforward to navigate once you know the entrance. Local bait shops in La Crosse can point you to the launch and describe current conditions. If you are unfamiliar with the Mississippi River system, a guide can save time and show you productive spots, but many anglers fish it successfully on their own.

What should I bring for mosquitoes and bugs?

Insect pressure is high in summer, especially in early morning and evening. Bring insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants if possible, and consider a head net. The wind on the water helps; fishing during windier periods reduces bug exposure.

Is the water safe to eat fish from?

Wisconsin issues fish consumption advisories for certain waters and species. Check the current advisories on the Wisconsin DNR website before keeping fish from Pettibone Lagoon. Advisories vary by species and size, so read the specific guidance for walleye and pike in this water body.