Fishing at Bugle Lake, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin

• Overview

  Trempealeau County in Wisconsin is where Bugle Lake sits. The land about it is lake country bush. It measures about 25 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. Ground here is low by Wisconsin standards. Nearest place of any size is Independence, 0.2 miles away. Whitehall lies 5.3 miles off, Arcadia another 8.4 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Bugle Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Species logged across Trempealeau County include brown trout, rainbow trout, common carp and bluegill. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. At Bugle Lake the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 13°F in January up to 71°F in July. Winter closes the water for a while, and the reopening is worth catching. Ice is part of the season here, ending near early April. Going by climate averages, expect open water from about early April until roughly early December. Early summer and early autumn carry the open-water season. It holds true on Bugle Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Parking is mapped about half a mile from the bank. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Lake Henry sits 11 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Bugle Lake before loading the car.