Minocqua • Arbor Vitae • Woodruff • Hazelhurst
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Northern Wisconsin Fishing

Seasoned anglers and novices alike enjoy testing their skills in the Minocqua area’s lakes, rivers and streams. Most support a variety of fish, such as Northern Pike, Muskellunge, Large and Smallmouth Bass, Trout and Walleye, and most have public access.

Fishing

Report

Minocqua Area Fishing Report  10/29/2024

by Kurt's Island Sport Shop

Winding out the month of October 2024 water temperatures did not fall as much as I would’ve expected. Lows of 48° with the average around 52 to 53 and warmer temps on Tuesday and Wednesday from October 29 through October 30 will hold these temps up for now!

Attention is on musky with some walleye anglers still jigging about.

Musky; good to very good

Certain days and time periods obviously better than others! More of a sucker bite than previous week, though with a tip from fellow Guide Jason Heindl, tossing a Fat Bastard back in the boat, netted a 47 inch beaut on Tuesday with another 47 incher on a sucker just 20 minutes later. Gliders, Jerks and Twitch baits moved the fish , but suckers by far stuck the most!

Walleye; good

Windy days were tough for boat control, but all anglers finding walleyes deep along gravel/mud transitions, in 24 to 32 feet using typical jig and Minnow or chub combinations. Overall, with lakes turned, fish can be found anywhere, including any bright green weeds or shallow water bites on low light level days or low light level times.

Not fishing, nor getting other reports for other species, it’s just that time of year.

Targeting musky is still a good bet. As waters cool (Thursday’s high on October 31 forecasted to be 39°)suckers and slow moving gliders and big plastics will be the best. Following the last day of October drop, highs will average in the mid 50s again for another nice week of fishing. Coinciding with New moon should be a winner!

Fishing

Guides

Fishing

Resources

Popular Fishing Lakes

Some of the more popular fishing lakes favored by visitors and locals include, Big Arbor Vitae, Clear Carrol, Madeline, Squirrel and Squaw. Bassmaster recently named the Minocqua chain one of the 25 best bass lakes in America’s central region and one of the top 100 in the nation. There are numerous wilderness sites for a quiet escape. Some good bets are the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area and the many lakes dimpling the Northern Highlands-American Legion State Forest.

Mid Lake, which has shallow water that warms quickly, is the place to be in spring, when Musky and Northern swim here to spawn.

 

Bass Fishing

The Minocqua Chain has been named one of the top 25 Bass fishing hotspots by Bassmaster. Find the Fish

Musky Fishing

Looking for that ‘one for the wall'? The musky is the ultimate trophy & Minocqua area lakes are the right place to find... Find the Fish

Walleye Fishing

One of the most sought fish in the Minocqua area, Walleye are ideal for trying your hand at making a shore lunch. Find the Fish

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FISHING BOAT RENTALS

Beacons of Minocqua

The Beacons of Minocqua Lakefront Resort and Suites is the northwoods year round vacation destination. Nestled within 13 acres of pine-scented trees and peaceful shores, The Beacons provides a relaxed, serene haven for our guests. With its remarkable... Read More

Lakeside Rentals & Storage

Lakeside Rentals, Storage has everything you need for great fun in the sun! From boat rentals to other water toy needs, we have you covered! Lakeside is also a certified full service marina. Our mechanics are Marine Mechanics Institute Certified so... Read More

Boat Launch 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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Fish Recipes

The fish are caught. They are all cleaned and ready for cooking. Now, how are you going to prepare them? What will you use to complement the flavors of the fish? Here are some tasty ideas...

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Ice Fishing

If you enjoy fishing, don't let the snow and ice slow you down. Ice fishing in the Minocqua area is a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the winter months.