7 Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s really cool for catching bass, what with all its lakes, rivers, and places full of those big and small bass fish. 

Whether you’re all about fishing and chasing big wins, or just starting out and keen for a fun time catching fish, Wisconsin’s the place to be. 

We’re gonna take a look at the 11 best spots for bass fishing here, pointing out what’s special about each, the best places to throw in your line, and some tips to make sure you have a great time fishing.

1. Pelican Lake:

Right by Rhinelander, there’s this big lake called Pelican Lake that’s super good for bass fishing. 

This place isn’t just about small bass; it’s also home to big bass, perch, those colorful bluegills, crappie, the sharp northern pike, walleye, and even musky. 

If you’re trying to catch bass, aim for the spots where the weeds meet the open water and around bits sticking out of the water like docks. 

You could try wiggling a plastic worm on your hook or tossing your line close to the docks. 

Pelican Lake is a cool spot for anyone who likes to fish, no matter if you’re just starting or you’ve been at it for ages.

Why You Should Choose Pelican Lake for Bass Fishing:

Diverse Fish Population: Pelican Lake is a cool spot with loads of bass, both the big-mouthed and small-mouthed kinds, giving fishers all sorts of fun ways to catch fish. But that’s not all – there are plenty of other fish types swimming around, making every catch a surprise.

Abundant Structure and Cover: The lake’s got all these awesome spots under the water like weed lines, old logs, and heaps of rocks where bass love to hang out. These spots are great for trying out different fishing moves, whether you’re letting your bait sink down deep or skimming it across the top of the weeds.

Size and Accessibility: Pelican Lake is pretty big, so there’s a lot of room to fish, but it’s still easy to get into the water with any size boat. There are plenty of places to launch your boat and get going.

Natural Beauty: Plus, fishing here is about more than just the fish; it’s also super pretty, making it a sweet spot to chill and take in the view while you’re waiting for a bite.

Limitations:

Fishing Pressure: Because Pelican Lake is known as a great place for fishing, it gets pretty crowded, especially when the fishing’s supposed to be the best. This means the fish can get a bit shy and harder to catch.

Navigational Challenges: If you’re not used to the lake, finding your way around can be tricky. There are lots of spots under the water and shallow places that need you to be careful driving your boat and really knowing the lay of the lake.

Variable Weather Conditions: The weather around Pelican Lake can switch up a lot, like many places in Wisconsin. This changes how the fish act and what they feel like eating. Figuring out how to deal with this is part of what makes fishing here exciting.

Benefits of Pelican Lake for Anglers:

• Learning Opportunity: Pelican Lake is like a classroom for fishers. It’s perfect for getting better at all sorts of fishing tricks, whether that’s being super gentle with your lure or going all out with big moves.
• Community and Tournaments: There’s a bunch of folks who love fishing here, and they often get together for competitions. It’s a cool way to meet other people who fish, swap stories, and see who can catch the biggest one.
• Conservation Awareness: Plus, fishing in such a clean and pretty lake makes you think about how important it is to look after our water and fish so kids in the future can enjoy them too.

Catching a big smallmouth bass at Pelican Lake is super exciting, but just being out there, surrounded by nature, is pretty awesome too. Sure, the lake can be a bit tricky sometimes, but the cool fish you can catch and how much you learn and grow as someone who loves fishing make it one of the best places in Wisconsin to throw in a line.

2. Trout Lake:

Trout Lake, sitting pretty in Vilas County, is known for its super clean water and awesome spot for bass fishing. Even though it’s famous for its lake trout and big muskies, it’s also a great place to catch hefty smallmouth bass. If you’re fishing here, look for bass near the shore and around underwater stuff, but remember, the water’s so clear you gotta be sneaky. With its stunning views and peaceful vibes, Trout Lake is a hit with bass fishers.

Why You Should Choose Trout Lake for Bass Fishing:

Exceptional Water Clarity: Trout Lake’s water is so clear, it’s like fishing in a giant fish tank. This means you can actually see the bass before you try to catch them, which is pretty cool and makes fishing feel like a game where you’re trying to outsmart the fish.

Large Smallmouth Bass: The smallmouth bass in this lake are not just any fish; they’re big and full of energy. Catching one of these is like going on a mini adventure, as they really put up a fight.

Natural Beauty and Tranquility: It’s not all about the fishing, though. Trout Lake is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering a quiet spot to just breathe in the fresh air and relax among the tall trees.

Low Fishing Pressure: Since not as many people fish here as in other places, it’s usually more chill and quiet, which might even make it easier to catch fish since they aren’t spooked by lots of activity.

Limitations:

Challenging Access: Getting to Trout Lake isn’t the easiest, which is partly why it’s so quiet and pristine. This might put off some fishers, but if you’re up for the adventure, it means you get a more peaceful spot to fish.

Boat Restrictions: The lake has some rules about boats, like how big the motor can be, to keep the water nice and clean. Make sure you look up the latest rules before you head out.

Advanced Skill Level Required: Because the water’s so clear and the bass are pretty clever, you’ll need to be good at fishing to have success here. If you’re new to bass fishing, Trout Lake might be a bit tough, but it’s also a great place to get better and feel really proud of your catches.

Benefits of Trout Lake for Anglers:

• Skill Development: Fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Trout Lake means you’ve got to up your game, like learning to spot fish and making your bait look as real as possible. It’s a great way to get better at fishing.
• Conservation Ethos: Being in such a clean and untouched spot makes you think about how important it is to fish in a way that doesn’t mess up the lake. It’s all about making sure this cool place stays awesome for people in the future.
• Memorable Catches: Catching a really big smallmouth bass here is something you won’t forget. It could be the best part of your fishing year, or even the story you tell for years to come.

Trout Lake really shows us why fishing is awesome: it’s about testing ourselves, feeling close to nature, and chasing those special moments that make us happy. Even though it might have some tricky parts, fishing here is something else. It makes you better at fishing and helps you see how amazing nature is.

3. Long Lake:

Long Lake in Chippewa County is a super nice place to fish for big largemouth bass. It’s got all sorts of places for bass to hang out, like underwater plants, logs, and rocks. You can try all kinds of fishing tricks there, like flipping jigs, tossing crankbaits, or using soft plastic baits to catch bass all over the lake. With its peaceful vibes and loads of bass, Long Lake is a top spot for anyone who loves fishing for bass.

Why You Should Choose Long Lake for Bass Fishing:

Diverse Habitats: Long Lake is a cool mix of deep and shallow spots, weedy areas, and underwater stuff like logs and rocks, making it a perfect home for both big and little bass. This variety means you can try out all kinds of fishing moves.

Abundant Fish Populations: There’s plenty of fish here, thanks to good care and nature doing its thing. This means you’ve got a really good chance to catch something anytime you visit.

Scenic Beauty: Plus, the place is super pretty. Chippewa County’s lovely views make hanging out at Long Lake about more than just fishing; it’s also about enjoying a peaceful day outside.

Accessible for All Anglers: Getting to the lake is easy, with nice spots to put your boat in the water and get to fishing. It’s a hit with everyone, from folks who live nearby to visitors, and it’s especially great for families.

Limitations:

Can Get Crowded: Because Long Lake is such a popular spot and easy to get to, it can get pretty busy, especially when everyone’s off work or on holiday. Finding a quiet place to fish can be tough at these times.

Competition with Other Species: There are lots of different fish in Long Lake, not just bass. This means the bass have to share their snacks and spots with other fish. While it’s cool to have so many types of fish, it can make the bass act a bit differently.

Variable Water Conditions: The water in Long Lake can change a lot, depending on the weather and time of year. This means the fish might not always act the same way, which can make fishing here a bit of a puzzle.

Benefits of Long Lake for Anglers:

• Opportunities for Trophy Catches: Long Lake is a great place if you’re dreaming of catching a really big bass. If you know the best spots on the lake and when to fish, you might just land a whopper.
• Community and Events: There’s a fun vibe here, with fishing competitions and community events that get everyone together. It’s a chance to learn new tricks, see who can catch the biggest fish, and just enjoy being around people who love fishing as much as you do.
• Conservation Awareness: Fishing at Long Lake also makes you think about taking care of the lake and the fish. By catching and releasing fish and sticking to the rules, anglers help keep the lake healthy and full of fish for everyone to enjoy.

Long Lake is a perfect example of what makes fishing in Wisconsin so special. It’s got everything: cool fishing spots, beautiful nature, and a friendly vibe. It’s a place where you can really test your fishing skills, soak up the outdoors, and help look after an amazing natural spot. Sure, it might have a couple of downsides, but the good stuff about fishing in Long Lake is so good, it’s definitely a place you should check out if you want the best bass fishing in Wisconsin.

4. Mississippi River:

The Mississippi River runs along the edge of Wisconsin and is a great place to fish for both big-mouth and small-mouth bass. This famous river stretches more than 250 miles and has all sorts of spots where bass like to hang out, from quiet backwaters to deep spots. If you’re after big-mouth bass, try the backwater areas, and if you’re looking for small-mouth bass, go where the water moves faster. The Mississippi River is easy to get to and you can fish there any time of the year, making it a favorite spot for fishers no matter how much experience they have.

Why You Should Choose Mississippi River for Bass Fishing:

Diverse Habitats: The Mississippi River is like a big playground for bass, with all sorts of cool spots like quiet backwaters, side channels, and places where little rivers join in. This means fishers can try lots of different ways to catch bass, like flipping jigs into thick spots or using crankbaits where the current is strong.

Abundant Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass: You’ll find plenty of both smallmouth and largemouth bass in the river, so you can go after your favorite type or try for both, depending on where you are and what the water’s like.

Year-Round Fishing: Another cool thing is you can fish here any time of the year. Even when it’s super cold, parts of the river keep flowing and don’t freeze up, so you can keep fishing.

Scenic Beauty and Wildlife: And it’s not just about the fish. The Mississippi River is a beautiful place, full of amazing views and wildlife, making every fishing trip feel like a mini adventure in the wild.

Limitations:

Navigational Challenges: The Mississippi River’s size and flow can present navigational challenges, especially for less experienced boaters. Hazards such as floating debris, wing dams, and variable water levels require attention and care.

Water Clarity and Conditions: The river’s water clarity and conditions can change rapidly due to rainfall, runoff, and industrial activity upstream. These changes can affect bass behavior and make fishing unpredictable at times.

Fishing Pressure: Certain sections of the Mississippi River, especially those known for exceptional bass fishing, can experience significant fishing pressure. Finding secluded spots or fishing during less popular times can be key to success.

Benefits of the Mississippi River for Anglers:

• Endless Exploration: The vastness of the Mississippi River means that anglers can always find new spots to explore, ensuring that every fishing trip can offer something different.
• Learning and Growth: The variety of fishing environments and conditions on the Mississippi River encourages anglers to become versatile and skilled in multiple fishing techniques, contributing to personal growth and expertise.
• Community and Competitions: The river hosts numerous fishing tournaments and events, offering anglers the chance to engage with a community of fellow fishing enthusiasts and test their skills in a competitive setting.

Fishing on the Mississippi River embodies the essence of adventure and challenge that draws many of us to the sport of angling. While it presents certain challenges that require respect and preparation, the rewards in terms of both the fishing experience and the personal satisfaction are immense. Whether you’re casting for smallmouth in the rocky currents or hunting largemouth in the backwater lily pads, the Mississippi River stands out as a premier destination for bass fishing enthusiasts

5. Flambeau River:

The Flambeau River, located in Rusk County, is renowned for its healthy population of smallmouth bass and scenic beauty. Anglers can expect to encounter robust and colorful smallmouth bass in both wide and narrow sections of the river. While fishing for smallmouth bass, anglers may also hook into muskies, adding an element of excitement to their fishing experience. The Flambeau River hosts a catch and release competition annually, attracting anglers from across Wisconsin.

Why You Should Choose Flambeau River for Bass Fishing:

Diverse Environments: The Flambeau River spans a variety of environments, from serene, slow-moving sections to rapid, challenging waters. This diversity allows anglers to experience different types of bass fishing, from targeting smallmouth bass in fast currents to seeking largemouth bass in quieter backwaters.

Healthy Smallmouth Bass Population: The river is renowned for its abundant smallmouth bass population. These fish are known for their aggressive fight, making them a favorite target for anglers seeking a challenging and rewarding fishing experience.

Natural Scenery: The Flambeau River flows through some of Wisconsin’s most picturesque landscapes, offering anglers not just a fishing trip but an escape into nature. The surrounding forests and wildlife enhance the overall experience, providing a peaceful backdrop to a day of fishing.

Access to Remote Areas: For those willing to explore, the Flambeau River grants access to less-pressured, remote areas where one can enjoy solitude and potentially better fishing. Paddling or floating down the river can lead to discovering hidden spots teeming with bass.

Limitations:

Navigational Challenges: The river’s varying flow rates and the presence of rapids and shallow areas can pose navigational challenges, especially for those unfamiliar with its waters. Proper preparation and local knowledge are key to a safe and successful fishing trip.

Seasonal Variability: Water levels and fishing conditions in the Flambeau River can vary significantly with the seasons and weather, affecting bass behavior and accessibility. Anglers need to stay informed about current conditions and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Mosquitoes and Black Flies: Especially during early summer, the banks of the Flambeau River can be home to swarms of mosquitoes and black flies, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the fishing experience. Adequate protection and preparation are essential.

Benefits of the Flambeau River for Anglers:

• Skill Development: The variety of fishing scenarios offered by the Flambeau River challenges anglers to refine their techniques and become more versatile fishermen, improving skills such as casting accuracy, lure selection, and reading water currents.
• Conservation Ethos: Fishing in the relatively pristine environment of the Flambeau River fosters an appreciation for conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations of anglers.
• Memorable Experiences: The combination of challenging fishing, breathtaking scenery, and the potential for solitude makes fishing in the Flambeau River a memorable experience that goes beyond simply catching fish.

The Flambeau River, with its unique combination of natural beauty, abundant bass population, and diverse fishing environments, stands out as a premier destination for bass anglers in Wisconsin. While it presents certain challenges, the rewards it offers in terms of both fishing success and the overall experience make it a highly recommended spot for those looking to explore the best of what Wisconsin’s waterways have to offer.

6. Lake Mendota:

As one of the largest lakes in Wisconsin, Lake Mendota offers excellent bass fishing opportunities along with stunning views of Madison’s skyline. Largemouth bass thrive in the lake’s weed beds and shallow bays, providing anglers with ample opportunities to target trophy-sized bass. Techniques such as topwater fishing, flipping jigs, and fishing around submerged structures are effective for catching bass in Lake Mendota. Anglers can enjoy a day of fishing while taking in the beautiful scenery and vibrant atmosphere of the lake.

Why You Should Choose Lake Mendota for Bass Fishing:

Healthy Bass Populations: Lake Mendota is known for its healthy populations of both largemouth and smallmouth bass. The lake’s diverse habitats support robust bass numbers, providing anglers with plentiful opportunities for catches.

Accessible Urban Fishing: One of Lake Mendota’s biggest advantages is its location within Madison. Its urban setting makes it highly accessible while still offering quality fishing experiences. This ease of access is a boon for those looking to fit fishing into a busy schedule.

Research and Management: As part of the Yahara chain of lakes, Lake Mendota benefits from active research and management efforts aimed at maintaining its ecological health. This focus on conservation translates to better fishing conditions and sustainable fish populations.

Diverse Fishing Experiences: With a variety of underwater structures, depths, and shoreline features, Lake Mendota offers diverse fishing experiences. Anglers can experiment with different techniques and locations, making every trip to the lake a new adventure.

Limitations:

Water Quality Issues: Like many urban lakes, Lake Mendota faces challenges with water quality, including algae blooms and runoff pollution. These issues can affect fish behavior and habitat, as well as the overall fishing experience.

Recreational Pressure: Being a popular recreational destination, Lake Mendota can get quite busy with boaters, swimmers, and other water users during peak times. This competition for space may impact the quality of fishing and the ability to find quiet spots.

Fishing Pressure: Given its reputation and accessibility, Lake Mendota experiences significant fishing pressure. High angler activity can make bass wary, potentially requiring more sophisticated fishing tactics.

Benefits of Lake Mendota for Anglers:

• Educational Opportunities: The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s presence on its shores means that Lake Mendota is often a site for educational outreach and angler education programs. This access to knowledge can enhance your fishing strategy and conservation awareness.
• Community and Competitions: Lake Mendota hosts various fishing tournaments and community events, offering anglers a chance to engage with a like-minded community and test their skills in a competitive environment.
• Multi-Species Fishing: Besides bass, Lake Mendota is home to a wide range of fish species, providing anglers the chance to target different types of fish in a single location. This multi-species potential adds an extra layer of excitement to fishing trips.

Lake Mendota stands out as an excellent choice for bass fishing in Wisconsin, offering a mix of accessibility, diverse fish populations, and the thrill of urban fishing. Despite its challenges, the lake provides a rich angling experience that can satisfy both the pursuit of trophy catches and the enjoyment of a day spent on the water. Whether you’re refining your bass fishing techniques or simply enjoying the lake’s scenic beauty, Lake Mendota offers a memorable backdrop for your fishing adventures.

7. Lake Winnebago:

Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin’s largest inland lake, is a premier bass fishing destination known for its abundant populations of largemouth and smallmouth bass. With its expansive waters and diverse shoreline, Lake Winnebago offers endless opportunities for anglers to explore and discover new fishing hotspots. Anglers can target bass along weed lines, rocky shoals, and submerged structures using a variety of lures and techniques. Whether fishing from shore or boat, Lake Winnebago provides an exhilarating bass fishing experience.

Why You Should Choose Lake Winnebago for Bass Fishing:

Extensive Habitat: Lake Winnebago’s large area and diverse habitats, including rocky reefs, weedy bays, and submerged structure, provide excellent opportunities for both largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. This variety allows anglers to employ a wide range of techniques.

High Fish Populations: The lake supports robust populations of bass, making it a productive fishing destination. Its size helps maintain these populations, even with significant fishing pressure.

Accessibility: Lake Winnebago is highly accessible, with numerous boat launches and public access points around its perimeter. This makes it easy for anglers to explore different parts of the lake.

Fishing Community and Events: The lake hosts numerous fishing tournaments and events throughout the year, creating a vibrant community of anglers. These events offer a great way to compete, learn from others, and share experiences.

Limitations:

Fishing Pressure: As one of the most popular fishing destinations in Wisconsin, Lake Winnebago can experience high levels of fishing pressure. This can make bass more cautious and harder to catch at times.

Weather and Water Conditions: The lake’s size makes it susceptible to rough conditions, especially on windy days. This can make fishing challenging and potentially dangerous for those in small boats.

Water Clarity Variability: Water clarity in Lake Winnebago can vary significantly due to algae blooms and runoff, affecting fish behavior and the success of certain fishing techniques.

Benefits of Lake Winnebago for Anglers:

• Multi-Species Opportunity: Beyond bass, Lake Winnebago offers the chance to catch a variety of other species, such as walleye, perch, and sturgeon, making every trip a potentially new fishing adventure.
• Skill Development: The lake’s diverse conditions and habitats provide an excellent training ground for anglers to hone their skills and try out new techniques, from deep water jigging to topwater fishing along the weeds.
• Recreational Amenities: The area around Lake Winnebago is well-equipped with amenities, including campgrounds, resorts, and tackle shops, enhancing the overall fishing trip experience.

Lake Winnebago’s vast expanse and varied aquatic environments make it a premier destination for bass fishing in Wisconsin. While it presents certain challenges, such as potential for rough waters and fishing pressure, the rewards in terms of fish abundance, community engagement, and the sheer beauty of the lake make it a worthwhile venue for any angler looking to experience the best of Wisconsin’s freshwater fishing. Whether you’re in pursuit of a trophy bass or simply enjoying a day on the water, Lake Winnebago offers a memorable backdrop for your fishing adventures.

Conclusion

Wisconsin’s diverse landscape and abundance of lakes and rivers make it a paradise for bass fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer targeting largemouth bass in tranquil lakes or pursuing trophy-sized smallmouth bass in scenic rivers, Wisconsin has something to offer for every angler. By exploring the 11 best bass fishing lakes in Wisconsin highlighted in this guide, anglers can experience thrilling fishing adventures and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Midwest. So pack your gear, plan your trip, and get ready to reel in some trophy bass in the Badger State!