With its grand expanse of waters that come mostly in the form of lakes, Wisconsin is a dream destination for any fisherman. Let’s not forget about the more than 1,000 miles of shoreline belonging to the Great Lakes that offer a plethora of opportunities for the seasoned angler, as well as the novice one, including fishing from a canoe. There are more than 150 different species of fish living here, which should be enough reason for you to embark on a trip to Wisconsin.
Lake Michigan
If you want to learn about the best Wisconsin fishing spots, you should opt for Lake Michigan first, as your top of the list destination. A wide variety of fish species call these rivers home, which means that anglers will be regaled with a fantastic range of choices when it comes to the fish they want to catch.
Rainbow trout, as well as other varieties of the same species, bass, both smallmouth and largemouth, walleye, and salmon, are among the many species found here. Whether you want to fish from your boat, or from the shore, you will find plenty of ways to catch all the fish you want.
Lake Superior
Lake Superior is another fantastic fishing destination in Wisconsin, and it should be on your list as much as the first spot mentioned earlier. Not only the shoreline is exciting regarding how much fishing you can engage in, but the inland lakes and tributaries make for equally challenging and rewarding experiences.
Various types of salmon are available, and trout is ever present. Walleye is another fish species you can catch here. Smallmouth bass, perch, and pike are at home on the inland lakes. Shore fishing is allowed, and there are plenty of state parks and areas opened to the general public where you can head over for an excellent fishing experience.
Lake Monona
In case you don’t mind traveling to one of the other lakes in Wisconsin, Lake Monona is a perfect choice for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is part of the Dane County, and it is accessible by boat. There are plenty of public beaches, from where you can cast your line, without being bothered.
You will find a wide variety of fish species here. Catfish, northern pike, musky, smallmouth bass, as well as many others, are plentiful. Bear in mind that the waters are far from being clear, so get prepared to cast your line in muddy waters.
Lake Mendota
Lake Mendota is the largest in the so-called Madison Chain of Lakes. One of the main advantages offered by this destination is that it is close to urban areas, which makes it more reachable than other destinations. If you go there, don’t go just for fishing, although it is everyone’s pastime here.
There are plenty of opportunities for swimming and exploring the lake by boat. Large specimens of walleye, smallmouth, and northern pike can be caught here. The lake has a certain reputation since it is the most researched lake in the US. That also means that you will have to pay particular attention to the regulations in place.
The fish population needs to be kept under control, seeing how popular this destination is. You should check all the local regulations before heading over to this lake, as you surely do not want to find yourself breaking the law because of lack of knowledge.
Lake Geneva
Another fishing destination in Wisconsin that is right in the middle of things is Lake Geneva. Its popularity makes it a top spot for many anglers who travel here year after year. That means that you should expect the waters to be crowded by pleasure boats in the middle of the summer. Anglers who prefer to avoid all the ruckus opt for fishing during weekdays.
Brown trout are plentiful here. The efforts of restocking the fish population seem to equal the interest manifested by tourists coming to the area. You will find ample opportunities for casting a line here, and the smallmouth bass you can catch here are known to be high quality. If you prefer, you can fish largemouth and northern pike, too.
Lake Winnebago
If you’re heading over to Calumet County, you will find Lake Winnebago, a large expanse of water but whose depth is only 21 feet, at best. A public beach allows you to reach the lake, and there are many public boat landings, which means that there is no shortage of possibilities for the passionate angler.
You will find here a wide variety of fish, from the ever present northern pike to catfish and smallmouth. Of course, these are all species found all over Wisconsin, but, you will also find walleye, sturgeon, panfish, and musky.
The intersection between Chippewa and Flambeau rivers
It would not be a good idea to separate these two streams and treat them as different fishing destinations. The best spot for casting your line is right where the rivers intersect. There is plenty of smallmouth bass here, and you don’t have to travel too far from Park Falls, Winter, or Loretta, which are all within close distance.
Altoona Lake
For another off the beaten path location, head over to Eau Claire County, where Altoona Lake awaits with a large variety of fish to catch. When looking for the best fishing places in Wisconsin, hidden gems like this one should make it on your list.
Close to Altoona, the lake offers the possibility to catch panfish, smallmouth, walleye, and muskie, to name a few of the species most widespread in these waters. The area is also known for the Eaux Claire music festival that takes place in the summer. If you don’t like crowds, you may want to stay away from this spot during festival days.
Kettle Moraine State Forest
If you like to go camping, the Kettle Moraine State Forest is one of the best places to go in Wisconsin. Here, you will find many fishing spots, such as small ponds, and even a lake. The Long Lake is ideal for novice fishermen, as you can easily catch some fish while being on vacation here. The proximity to campsites is perfect.
Kickapoo River
This river offers beautiful scenery, and its crooked corners make it an exceptional destination for anglers who do not mind a unique adventure. The cold waters are home to many fish, and you will find plenty of things to do here.
Delavan Lake
Delavan Lake is the perfect spot for someone who is bored with the top tier resorts in the area. Not far from Lake Geneva and its crowds, you will find this low key destination where you can catch muskie to your heart’s content.
Fox Lake
Located close to a very small town, Fox Lake is home to largemouth, walleye, muskie, and panfish populations that are enough for tourists to catch and still preserve the local stocks. Travel here during winter, and enjoy some awesome ice-fishing.
Lower Menominee
Here you will find plenty of trout, whitefish, smallmouth, salmon, and muskie, to mention several species thriving here. This is also a good spot for hot rafting, so make sure to schedule a new adventure the next time you go fishing.
Coon Creek
Shore fishing is an actual thing here, as is wade fishing. For those who enjoy both fishing and hunting, there is hardly a better destination than this one. Bear in mind that there are fishing areas accessible by wheelchair here.
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