Areas/bodies of water that Gary frequents the most: Northern WI Lakes, and Chequamegon Bay in Ashland WI
Gary would venture to say that his “soft water” exploits are pretty well known, but many don’t know that ice fishing has always been a main winter pastime for him. Gary grew up on Lake Winnebago in Wisconsin, and ice fished for walleyes almost non stop during those years. It was common for him to drill 30 holes at a time back when it wasn’t talked about, as most of the fishing was done in the basin of the lake. Ice fishing also taught Gary the understanding that “flats or basin” fish often school in very tight pods, and finding them is the key…a philosophy that he later carried to open water fishing to win loads of money in walleye tournaments. Jigging strokes, electronics, and the ability to figure out fish attitudes were also learned during a lifetime of ice angling. One of Gary’s passions is joining friends like Jim Hudson and exploring new ice waters…Doesn’t get better than that!
Gary’s strengths are the fundamental knowledge of just how adaptable walleyes and other species are to fish location….because of their food. That being said, moving to find fish, relying on his electronics and GPS mapping, and mastering the jig stroke and lure of the day are second nature. Gary loves to fish for walleyes (go figure), but crappies come a very close second, neck in neck with perch.
Hometown: Denmark, WI
Following in his father’s footsteps, Chase Parsons has made an impressive imprint on the fishing industry throughout his short career. Currently at 28 years old, Chase maintains the title as the youngest full-time walleye angler in the world. Throughout his 7 year career, Chase has been involved with many national television and commercial spots for several powerful fishing companies. He works extensively with sponsors in many aspects of the fishing industry, including product development and seminar/video promotions. Chase is a frequent host of “The Next Bite” television show, which airs on NBC Sports.
Has hosted or appeared on television shows such as: In-Fishermen (PWT), FLW Walleye Tour, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and The Next Bite
One of Chase’s favorite things to use for ice fishing are large rattle baits to call in big walleyes…many times once you get the fish to come in, you need to use something more subtle, like a simple jig and minnow to get these fish to commit. It’s one of the most fun ways to catch big walleyes!
Areas and Bodies of water: Lake Winnebago, Bay of Green Bay and any northern Wisconsin Lakes
Capt. Troy Peterson –Mr.Bluegill
Hometown – Menasha, WI
Lakes Fished – Lake Winnebago System, Wolf River, Green Bay, Fox River, Waushara & Waupaca County Lakes
Primary Species – Walleye, Panfish, Pike, Smallmouth Bass
Pro Staff- Eskimo, ION, Striker ICE, Custom Jigs & Spins, Humminbird, Minn Kota, Aqua-Vu, BFishin, DH Custom Rods
Troy Peterson owns and runs Mr.Bluegill Guide Service out of Oshkosh, WI. Troy grew up on Lake Winnebago and has been fishing the system his entire life. Troy has appeared on multiple fishing television shows including Midwest Outdoors Television, Fishing the Midwest with Bob Jensen, Outdoors Wisconsin, In-Fisherman and Angling the Great Lakes Television along with local news stations. Troy has also been featured in publications such as Midwest Outdoors Magazine, Fishin Facts, Wisconsin Outdoors News, Great Lakes Angler and other local publications. You can view his weekly reports with instructional videos on his website www.mrbluegill.com as well as a weekly column on Gannet Newspapers website, Wisconsinoutdoorfun.com. Troy is also a member of the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers and performs seminars across the Midwest.
Troy’s specialty is ice fishing and he would tell you he would rather be on the hardwater than fishing out of a boat any day. His run and gun techniques while chasing fish on the ice have helped him become one of the better known guides on the Winnebago System. Jigging is something he does best and can surely teach anyone the basics to help put more fish on the ice.
“’I’m not a huge tip up fisherman but using the Bite Me Box Tip Ups has changed how I fish with clients. These things are a blast to fish with and better yet they definitely put more fish on the ice. They are especially deadly for Winnebago perch!” – Troy Peterson