Each winter, Razorback Lake in Woodruff, Wisconsin, wakes to the gnawing hunger of ice and adventure during the Annual Fisheree. This event is a deliberate dance between anglers and a lake fiercely alive beneath its frozen surface. Here, the ice dares you to challenge its thickness as you carve holes through, while the wind pushes relentlessly across the surface, sharpening focus and testing endurance.

The Fisheree draws both casual fishermen and dedicated ice anglers to Razorback’s expansive frozen expanse, roughly covering 850 acres. The ice typically reaches a safe thickness of 12-15 inches by February, offering a stable platform for tents, drills, and hopeful casts. Expect temperatures that range from the crisp low teens to slightly warmer afternoons, where sunlight dances weakly on the ice but never loses its bite.

Participants stake claims on the ice early, often arriving before sunrise to escape crowds and catch more active fish. The primary target, panfish species like crappie and bluegill, require a strategic approach: shallow bays layered with brush and submerged structures become prime spots. Waders and insulated boots keep the cold at bay, while thick gloves allow steady hands to set hooks and pull in wary fish that feel the pressure beneath the ice.

Beyond fishing, the landscape holds quiet thrill—snow swirls like a restless spirit across the frozen sheet, and the pines along the shoreline stand firm, their boughs heavy but patient. The community atmosphere is palpable; local vendors provide hot drinks and hearty meals, while stories of the one that got away echo with a knowing smile. This event demands respect for shifting weather, icy terrain, and the lake itself—never predictable, always fiercely authentic.

For newcomers, key prep includes outfitting with layered clothing, high-quality ice cleats for traction, and reliable ice fishing gear like augers and portable shelters. Hydration remains crucial despite cold; hot liquids must be replenished often, wards off fatigue that the sharp Wisconsin winter can sneak upon you.

Arriving in Woodruff means more than accessing Razorback Lake—it’s stepping into a winter ritual where nature retains control. Every crack heard through the ice is a reminder: this isn’t conquest, but engagement with a force alive and untamed. With preparation, respect, and a willingness to test your limits amid biting cold and patient fish, the Annual Fisheree offers an adventure both practical and unforgettable.