Not all fishing spots have to be a secret. Here in Northwest Wisconsin, we’re generous enough to give you a few ideas to get you on the water and catching the big one. The best part? With so many lakes lakes in our area, you’ll never run out of open water to cast a line into.
Ashland County
Reeling in a big one is just the beginning of your adventure in Ashland County! Whether you’re an avid angler or a casual fisherman, the lakes and rivers here are teeming with game fish waiting for your line. It’s also a great place for newbies to try out their luck at fishing.
Ashlanders have lots of favorite fishing holes, but there is a really easy place to fish where you can just stop in right after work and catch yourself a big one!
The Hot Pond is the inlet next to the Ashland Xcel Energy Bayfront plant. This area is great for fishing because there are a variety of game fish available, including walleye, smallmouth bass, northerns, and perch. You don’t even need a boat to fish here; you can simply cast your line off the shore and see what you can catch! Plus, if you’re in need of bait or gear, River Rock Inn and Bait is conveniently located right on the highway and across from the plant. They can even offer you a place to stay!
The Hot Pond gets its name from the 50-foot pipe that runs out of the energy plant. Thanks to that, this area never freezes in the winter — making it a prime fishing destination during the coldest season. The Hot Pond also produces some seriously good fish. Folks have even seen a sturgeon pulled from this area!
The “Head of the Lake” is right nearby, as well! This fishing destination is teeming with a wide variety of fish species just waiting for you! If you find yourself on the other end of town, you can come by Angler’s All, another awesome bait shop that can hook you up with the best fishing spots and help you find your own favorite spot to fish.
Don’t miss out on the chance to discover your own favorite fishing spot and reel in a big catch from Ashland County. Our abundant fish-filled waters and helpful local fishermen are here to help no matter the season. Whether you’re a pro angler or simply want to enjoy the experience, there’s certainly something for everyone here. Visit us today and delight in the amazing memories waiting for you!
Washburn County
Located in the heart of Wisconsin, Washburn County is an absolute haven for fishing enthusiasts! Whether you’re up for a leisurely boat ride or aiming to catch your limit of walleye, Washburn County is the ultimate destination.
With nearly 1,000 lakes surrounding the county, you are sure to find the perfect one to make those jaw-dropping fishing stories a reality! Grab your gear, hop on a boat, and get ready to reel in a good time as we take you on a trip to the best fishing spots in our neck of the woods.
Washburn County is home to Birchwood, known as the Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin. This county is also home to Long Lake, known as the Walleye Capital of Wisconsin. Just a short 18-mile drive south of Spooner, Long Lake is a haven for musky, panfish, largemouth or smallmouth bass, and more!
With nearly 50 miles of natural, clean water and a variety of underwater habitats flowing through Washburn County, the Namekagon River in Wisconsin’s Moving National Park is a great place to catch all types of fish. You can reel in lake sturgeon, trout, largemouth or smallmouth bass, catfish, white and yellow bass, and panfish!
If you don’t plan on bringing your boat, don’t worry! There are several outfitters ready to get you on the lake.
Need help getting fish to bite? We got you! Our local fishing guides cover Birchwood, Long Lake, Minong, Shell Lake, Spooner, Stone Lake and Trego.
Maybe you’re looking for a good shore or pier to teach your kids to fish. In that case, be sure to check out Washburn County’s designated Kids’ Fishing Areas!
In short, Washburn County is like a playground for fishing enthusiasts and newbies alike! We’ve got a wealth of species to catch and a diverse range of locations to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or introducing your kids to the joy of fishing, our local guides and outfitters are ready to help you make the most of your experience. Come and cast your line in Washburn County today!
Chippewa County
Chippewa County is an angler’s paradise, renowned for its abundant freshwater bodies teeming with diverse fish species. Here you will find an unmatched fishing experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about the sport.
Come and experience the tranquility of trout fishing in one of the 24 pristine classified trout streams, stretching across 77 miles of Class 1 trout water. You can even bring your kids to the dam in downtown Chippewa Falls, set up your camp chairs, and patiently wait for that exciting strike.
Many people enjoy the natural beauty found in Chippewa County, but it’s the thrilling feel of reeling in that line that truly makes the moment unforgettable!
The joy of fishing often starts at a young age; learning from your parents or grandparents stays with you for your entire life. It can be as simple or complex as you’d like it to be. Whether you’re casting from shore or cruising on a boat, it’s all about deciding what you’re craving for dinner — or for a snack!
In Chippewa County, anglers often reel in bluegills, crappies, northern pike and bass. You can also find a lot of walleye, catfish, musky, and panfish.
Here are a few suggested fishing spots around Chippewa County!
The Cornell Flowage near Cornell and Brunet Island State Park has musky, northern pike, walleye, large and smallmouth bass, catfish, panfish, boat landings and swimming spots for a day of nonstop fishing fun!
Venture over to Lake Wissota State Park for two fishing piers, a boat landing, swimming area and convenient restrooms. There you can try your luck in these abundant waters for walleye, bluegill, crappie, musky, catfish and bass.
Old Abe Lake, located off of State Hwy 178, has a boat landing, fishing stations and restrooms for you when you venture out to snag a walleye, some smallmouth bass, a musky and plenty of panfish.
Last but certainly not least, Otter Lake, located of 365th Street, has boat access and a fishing pier for a variety of fish including bluegill, crappie, northern pike and bass.
Spending time by the water and fishing is always a calm and relaxing time. Each fishing experience is different — from the time of day and the weather to the fishing spot and the bait used. It’s a great learning time to practice patience and develop a successful fishing strategy at the same time.
Whether you’re casting a line on one of the 449 lakes or exploring the miles of rivers in Chippewa County, you’re up for a special and memorable day.
Download the Chippewa County Lakes and Waterways information document to learn about all our favorite fishing spots and fish listings for each one!
Sawyer County
Nestled in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, Sawyer County is a natural paradise — especially for fishing fanatics! Tucked away in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, visiting Sawyer County is like stepping into a dream filled with lush forests, sparkling lakes, and stunning landscapes that will take your breath away.
This breath-taking county is an angler’s dream, boasting over 55,000 acres of lakes! The area is renowned for all the walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskellunge just waiting to be caught.
The Hayward Area is definitely the place to visit for a fishing vacation! With its crystal-clear lakes, you’ll find plenty of amazing sight fishing opportunities. The area is home to a diverse species of fish, ranging from walleye and crappies to jumbo perch and panfish.
Hayward Area also has plenty of trusty bait-and-tackle shops to equip you with all the tools, bait, and beer you’d need for a relaxing fishing trip. We also have trusty guides to help show you the way to the best spots to set up camp and cast your lines.
If you’re a fan of smallmouth bass, Grindstone Lake, Lac Courte Oreilles, and Sand Lake are some of the best places to fish in Northern Wisconsin.
Looking for panfish? Then check out Round Lake, Sissabagama Lake, and the many smaller lakes dotting the area.
Finally, if you’re up for some heart-pounding, clear-water musky action, you can’t miss Spider Lake and the Tiger Cat Chain.
Sawyer County is a paradise for fishing fanatics, with endless fishing opportunities in its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned angler or a complete newbie; the Hayward Area has something for everyone to enjoy!
Pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Sawyer County. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this outdoor fishing paradise.