LAKE WINNEBAGO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – What do you get when you combine thousands of ice anglers on the Lake Winnebago System with a fundraiser benefitting conservation efforts?
The 15th annual Battle on Bago.
The two-day event kicked off Friday morning in Oshkosh.
On the frozen landing at the end of Merritt Avenue, groups of fishing friends are heading out. One group has made Battle on Bago a destination for their annual winter break from life in suburban Chicago.
“It’s kind of hard to do stuff together. So this is the time to get together, and see each other. It’s nice to get away from the city,” said Mike Ferrarini, Lombard, Illinois.
“It’s beautiful. The friends you come up with, and the fish hopefully we catch,” said Gary Berkshire, Lombard, Illinois.
“I’ve been coming up here for like 10 years, and I haven’t caught a fish. But I’m still here every year, just because it’s a fun time,” said Alex Pace, Lombard, Illinois.
Battle on Bago bills itself as the biggest ice fishing tournament in the Midwest.
“Fishing’s been pretty good. Ice conditions have been fantastic. There are a couple of ice shoves from the warm weather on Wednesday. Just make sure you’re being careful and navigate those,” said Todd Reuss, Battle on Bago Board Member.
Reuss says Friday morning traffic on the part of Lake Winnebago near Oshkosh was steady.
“You always have to exercise caution. Drive slow, look out there. We have sturgeon spearing. The holes should be marked, but you need to pay attention,” said Reuss.
Battle on Bago is more than an ice fishing contest, it doubles as a fundraiser. Over the last 15 years, the event has generated net proceeds of nearly $2 million.
“Giving money back to our community, with DNR projects, other special fishing clubs, youth, Kids & Conservation Fisherees. That’s really a great cause,” said Reuss.
And as one group makes its way toward its fishing spot, hopes are high for a successful outing.
“That’s it. I’m just trying to get that fish. That’s all,” said Pace.
Battle on Bago features a fish fry and music Friday night at Menominee Park.
Prizes for the fishing tournament and raffles will be awarded Saturday.
