Fishing At Petenwell Lake

AKA: Petenwell Flowage

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch, musky, northern pike, sauger, sturgeon and tiger muskie at Petenwell Lake in Wisconsin.

Boasting a wide range of fish species, Petenwell Lake has something for all anglers who enjoy catching fish. This 23,000-acre lake, in the central part of the state, at Necedah, has populations of both warm-water and cold-water species. In summer anglers catch bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch, muskie, sauger, northern pike, tiger muskie and sturgeon.

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Petenwell Lake is located in central Wisconsin, in Adams County. As the second-largest inland lake in Wisconsin, it offers excellent fishing opportunities and is known for its diverse range of popular fish species.

Walleye is one of the prized fish species in Petenwell Lake. Anglers can target walleye throughout the year using various techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or live bait rigs, jigging with minnows or artificial baits, or casting with swimbaits or jigs. The lake's structure, including points, rock piles, and drop-offs, provide ideal habitats for walleye.

Muskie, the elusive and challenging apex predator, is another highly sought-after species in Petenwell Lake. Anglers who pursue muskie can experience thrilling battles and the chance to catch a trophy-sized fish. Casting large jerkbaits, bucktail spinners, or topwater lures are common methods used to entice muskie.

Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are also popular game fish in Petenwell Lake. Anglers can find largemouth bass near weed beds, submerged structures, and shoreline cover, while smallmouth bass tend to relate to rocky areas and drop-offs. Techniques such as casting plastic worms, crankbaits, or topwater lures can be effective in enticing these bass species.

Sauger, a close relative of the walleye, can be found in Petenwell Lake. Anglers target sauger using similar techniques as walleye, particularly in areas with moderate current or near river channels.

Flathead catfish and channel catfish provide exciting angling opportunities in Petenwell Lake. These catfish species can be targeted using live bait such as cut bait, live minnows, or nightcrawlers. Fishing near submerged structures, deep holes, or along the channel edges can yield success in landing these powerful fish.

Black crappie, white crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill are other popular fish species found in Petenwell Lake. Anglers can target these species using a variety of techniques, including jigging with small jigs or minnows, casting with spinners or crankbaits, or using live bait rigs. These fish can often be found near submerged structures, weed beds, or drop-offs.

Petenwell Lake in central Wisconsin offers fantastic fishing opportunities for a variety of popular fish species, including walleye, muskie, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, sauger, flathead catfish, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill. With its scenic beauty, diverse fishing options, and opportunities for boating and camping, Petenwell Lake is a favorite destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable fishing experience.

During winters, when there is safe ice, anglers target perch, walleye and muskie - but are often surprised by catching other fish species. Over 100 miles of shoreline with over a dozen boat landings for public use. In addition to the boat ramps, there are parks, beaches and other areas with access to areas for fishing from the bank. Pontoon boats are available for rent at Barnum Bay Marina. Use the boat landing areas for pleasure boats, canoes, kayaks and fishing boats. Lodging, camping, dining and shopping are all close by to enhance your vacation or weekend fishing trip.

Primary fish species residing in Petenwell Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Petenwell Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Petenwell Lake is a popular destination for boating and camping. Its expansive waters provide ample space for boaters to explore, fish, and enjoy recreational activities.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Barnum Bay Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
715 325-6555

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

10th Street Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off 10th Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Adams County Petenwell Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 20th Avenue, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Juneau County Wilderness Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off 21st Avenue N, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Small Boat Access Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off County Road Z, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Marinas

Barnum Bay Marina
1735 Archer Lane
Nekoosa, WI 54457
715 325-6555

Click here for a Wisconsin Fishing License.

Campgrounds and resorts are available around the lake, offering opportunities for camping, RV parking, and amenities for a comfortable stay.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Petenwell Wilderness Park Campground - 608 565-7285

Moonlite Trails Campground - 608 565-6936

Adams County Parks & Recreation Campground - 608 564-7513

Lake Arrowhead Campground - 715 325-2941

Pineland Camping Park - 608 564-7818

Petenwell Lake WI Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Petenwell Lake
Petenwell Wilderness Park Campground
N14054 21st Ave N
Necedah, WI 54646
608 565-7285

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