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Minocqua Area Water Sports

Vilas and Oneida counties have one of the largest concentrations of water bodies in the world. So, take your pick of lakes and rivers and head out to view the Northwoods from an entirely different angle.

Hundreds of area lakes offer endless opportunities for water-lovers to swim, paddle, water ski, boat and pontoon. And, if you don’t have your own water transportation, rentals are readily available.

Many area lodging options offer direct access to docks and swimming areas. Public beaches are also plentiful in the area, including Torpy Park in downtown Minocqua, Brandy Lake Park in Woodruff and nine designated swimming beaches in the Northern Highland - American Legion (NH-AL) State Forest.

The majority of area lakes have public boat landings, but some do not, or are no-motor lakes. Check with the Visitors Center or your lodging hosts before you make plans.

Due to the increasing threat to our natural water resources by the spread of aquatic invasive species, please plan to inspect, clean and disinfect your boat, trailer and equipment before you launch to ensure you are not transporting invasive plants or animals.

Must Try Water

Sports

Canoeing & Kayaking

Welcome to the Minocqua area with 2,300 bodies of fresh water, the highest concentration in the world.

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Fishing Reports & Guides

Minocqua’s waterways offer pike, musky, bass, trout & walleye. With easy public access, they’re popular...

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Boat Rentals

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Boat Rentals & Tours

All the gear you'll need to enjoy the water & woods of the Minocqua area. Want an expert experience? Book a tour.

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Boat Lauch

Permit

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Boat Launch Fees

All tow vehicles accessing the following boat launches from April 1 through November 30 must purchase a daily or annual use permit. Thirsty Whale Boat Landing - 453 E. Park Ave, Minocqua, WI Schoolhouse Bay Boat Landing - 429 E. Park Ave, Minocqua, WI Cedar Street Boat Landing - 968 Cedar Street,...

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All About The Water

Can't get enough of the water? There's more to do than boating. 

All About the Min-Aqua Bats Waterski Club

Get ready to enjoy one of Minocqua’s best summer traditions—for more than 70 years,...

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Restaurants with Water Views Around Minocqua, Wisconsin

If you enjoy spending long summer evenings relaxing by the lake, get to know the waterfront

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Outdoor & Waterfront Dining in the Minocqua Area

When you visit the Minocqua Area in the summertime, you’ll want to spend as much time outside...

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How to Explore Minocqua’s Great Lakes & Waterways

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4 Waterfalls to Discover This Spring

Spring has started its arrival in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, so it’s a great time to get...

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Great Waterways to Paddle in the Minocqua Area

Looking at a map, the area around Minocqua is so blue it could be mistaken as a sprawling lake with

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