Fishing Wing Dams from the Bank.

Hi Anglers,

I’m fairly new to fishing and want to bag a Walleye. I live on the Mississippi in La Crosse, Wi. There are a few wing dams near me, but I don’t have a boat. What are the best approaches to fishing wing dams from the bank?

I’d get on the upstream side where you have current and cast into the current. Let the bait sweep downstream and start to slowly retrieve as you make contact with the dam.

I would cast perpendicular to shore and as the bait hits 45 degrees start to work it back.

This method would work with pretty much any presentation from raps to plastics to live bait. Be prepared to lose some gear to snags, though.

Some guys will throw upstream and let baits work over the top of the dam…not sure that’s an option where you are.

I’d just start casting and use the current and structure to your benefit.

Welcome aboard.

Matt gives good advice. I’ll add that if you have issues with snagging I’d add a float so your bait is just ticking the rocks it comes in contact with the dam.

Thanks guys. That really helps.

As said, be prepared to loose lots of gear. The fish will be there.
catching them from the bank won’t be easy.

If using jigs, try Draggin Jigs. Their narrow profile helps prevent snagging, at least reducing it over standard jig heads.

http://www.4seasonsports.com/products/draggin-jigs-2-pack.html

Shore fishing the river isn’t always easy but it’s super rewarding when you get in some good fish. I used to shore fish pool 2 all the time with pretty good success. Best time is spring and fall when fish will come up right to shore but there are fish on dams year round.

Don’t overlook non conventional baits. I used to catch walleye with beetle spins dragging them slowly along the bottom. I believe that most of the fish you catch on the river are reaction strikes. Just keep covering water and switch presentations often.

Good luck.

use the lightest jig you can cast and still be close or on bottom.

Can’t wait to apply my new knowledge. It is greatly appreciated.

If you see fish busting the surface, I’d throw a popper across, above, and below the dam. I’ve had success with smallies doing this.