The Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament runs each winter on the backwater lake between Wisconsin and Minnesota

The Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament is an annual winter event held on Lake Onalaska, the large backwater impoundment of the Mississippi River near Onalaska, Wisconsin. The tournament typically takes place in late January or early February, though the exact dates shift each year depending on ice conditions. Anglers fish from the ice for walleye, northern pike, and panfish, with prizes awarded in multiple categories.

The tournament draws both local and visiting anglers because Lake Onalaska holds a strong population of walleye and northern pike, and the backwater system offers relatively protected fishing compared to the main channel. The event is organized by local fishing clubs and the Onalaska area tourism board, and it serves as both a competitive tournament and a community gathering for people who fish to eat.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament takes place in late January or early February each year, with exact dates announced by the Onalaska Chamber of Commerce or local fishing clubs.
  • You can fish for walleye, northern pike, and panfish from the ice, and prizes are awarded in separate categories for different species.
  • Registration typically happens in the weeks before the tournament at local bait and tackle shops or through the tournament organizers.
  • Wisconsin fishing licenses and current regulations apply; check the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for ice fishing rules and any species-specific restrictions.

When the tournament happens and how to register

The Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament is held annually, but the specific dates depend on safe ice thickness. Most years the event runs in late January through early February, when the ice is typically thick enough for foot traffic and fishing shelters. The Onalaska Chamber of Commerce and local fishing clubs announce the exact dates several weeks in advance, usually by early January.

Registration for the tournament opens in the weeks leading up to the event. You can register at local bait and tackle shops in the Onalaska area, or directly through the tournament organizers if they maintain an online registration system. Some tournaments charge a small entry fee per angler or per team, though fees vary by year. Check with the Onalaska Chamber of Commerce or search for "Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament" online to find the current year's registration details and contact information.

What fish you can catch and where to fish on the lake

Lake Onalaska is known for walleye, which are the primary target for most tournament anglers. The lake also holds northern pike and panfish including bluegill and crappie. Walleye tend to hold in deeper water and along structure during winter, while pike can be found in shallower bays and weed edges. Panfish school in moderate depths and are often the most consistent catch for newer ice anglers.

The backwater system has multiple basins and bays. The main lake area near the boat launch at Onalaska offers good access and is popular with tournament participants. The upper and lower pools of the backwater also hold fish, though access depends on ice conditions and parking availability. Scout the area before tournament day if you are unfamiliar with the lake, or ask local anglers at bait shops where fish are being caught in the weeks before the event.

Ice safety and what to bring

Before heading onto Lake Onalaska, check ice thickness. Safe ice for walking is generally 4 inches or more; 5 to 7 inches is safer for small groups and fishing shelters. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and local bait shops post ice condition updates as winter progresses. Never fish alone on unfamiliar ice, and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Bring a spud bar or ice auger to test ice as you walk and to drill holes. Dress in layers and bring a wind-resistant jacket, insulated boots, and gloves rated for extended cold exposure. Pack a headlamp or flashlight, as winter days are short. Bring your fishing rod, tackle, and bait appropriate for the species you are targeting. A small shelter or windbreak makes a long day on the ice much more comfortable. Bring water and high-calorie snacks, as fishing in cold burns energy quickly.

Wisconsin fishing license and regulations

You must have a current Wisconsin fishing license to participate in the tournament. Licenses are available from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at bait and tackle shops, and at many sporting goods stores. A daily license costs less than a seasonal license if you only plan to fish the tournament day.

Wisconsin has specific regulations for ice fishing, including daily catch limits and size restrictions that vary by species and by area. Lake Onalaska falls under specific DNR management zones, so check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations guide before you fish. Some species may have slot limits (a range of sizes you can keep) or may be catch-and-release only during certain times. The tournament organizers may also have their own rules about which species count toward prizes, so read the tournament rules when you register.

How to prepare your catch for the trip home

If you catch fish during the tournament, keep them on ice immediately. Bring a cooler with ice or snow to preserve your catch. If the air temperature is well below freezing, you can use the natural cold, but ice in a cooler is more reliable. Keep fish whole and ungutted until you are ready to clean them at home; this preserves quality and makes transport easier.

When you get home, clean your fish promptly. For walleye and pike, scale or skin the fish, remove the head and guts, and rinse the cavity with cold water. Pat dry and store in the coldest part of your refrigerator if you plan to cook within a day or two, or freeze for longer storage. Panfish can be cleaned the same way, though many anglers prefer to fillet them. A sharp fillet knife and a clean cutting board make the work faster and safer.

Cooking fish from Lake Onalaska

Walleye from Lake Onalaska has mild, flaky white meat that works well for pan-frying, baking, or poaching. Clean walleye fillets, pat them dry, season simply with salt and pepper, and pan-fry in butter or oil over medium-high heat until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily. A squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley finish the dish. Walleye's delicate flavor means it does not need heavy sauces; let the fish shine.

Northern pike has a stronger flavor and more bones than walleye. Many anglers prefer pike prepared as a whole fish, roasted in the oven with aromatics, or as a fish cake or chowder where the bones can be strained out. Panfish like bluegill and crappie are best pan-fried whole or filleted, depending on size. Their sweet, tender meat is excellent simply seasoned and cooked in a cast-iron skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced ice angler to enter the tournament?

No. The Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament welcomes anglers of all skill levels. Many tournaments have categories for different experience levels or allow teams so newer anglers can fish with experienced ones. Check the tournament rules when you register to see what divisions or team options are available.

What if the ice is not thick enough on the scheduled dates?

The tournament organizers monitor ice conditions closely and will postpone or reschedule if ice thickness is unsafe. They announce delays or cancellations through the Onalaska Chamber of Commerce and local media. Sign up for email updates from the tournament organizers so you hear about any changes before you drive to the lake.

Can I fish Lake Onalaska for free outside the tournament?

Yes. You can fish Lake Onalaska year-round with a valid Wisconsin fishing license. Winter ice fishing is open throughout the season as long as ice is safe. The tournament is one event, but the lake is open to all licensed anglers during the winter season.

What should I do with fish I catch if I do not want to keep them?

You can release fish unharmed if you handle them gently and return them to the water quickly. Some tournament anglers practice catch-and-release for species they do not plan to eat. Check the tournament rules to see whether released fish count toward your score or whether you must keep your catch.

Where can I find current information about this year's tournament?

Contact the Onalaska Chamber of Commerce, search online for "Lake Onalaska Ice Fishing Tournament," or ask at local bait and tackle shops in Onalaska. They will have registration details, dates, and any rule changes for the current year.