Fishing At Shawano Lake

AKA: Lake Shawano

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch, musky, northern pike and sturgeon at Shawano Lake in Wisconsin.

With an airport adjacent to the lake, Shawano Lake is a great place to fly and fish. Lodging, boat rentals, fishing guides and tackle shops are all easy access at the lake. Populating this 6,100-acre lake are a variety of fish species.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Shawano Lake is located in Shawano County, in northeastern Wisconsin. It is a popular fishing destination known for its diverse fishery and beautiful surroundings. Anglers are drawn to Shawano Lake for its abundance of popular fish species and the variety of fishing opportunities it offers.

Largemouth bass is one of the prized species in Shawano Lake. The lake's structure, including weed beds, submerged timber, and shoreline vegetation, provides excellent habitat for these bass. Anglers can target largemouth bass using a variety of techniques, including flipping and pitching plastic baits, topwater lures, or crankbaits near the weed edges and structure.

Muskie, often referred to as the "fish of 10,000 casts," is another sought-after species in Shawano Lake. Known for their aggressive nature, muskie present an exciting challenge for anglers. Trolling with large crankbaits, casting with bucktails or jerkbaits, and fishing near prominent weed beds or underwater structures are popular methods for targeting muskie.

Walleye is a popular game fish in Shawano Lake, known for its delectable flavor. Anglers can find walleye in the deeper areas of the lake, near drop-offs, points, or other submerged structures. Jigging with minnows or using trolling techniques with crankbaits or worm harnesses can be effective for catching walleye.

Black crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill are also abundant in Shawano Lake. These panfish species offer enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Fishing near weed beds, submerged timber, or using live bait or small jigs can yield success in catching these popular panfish species.

Shawano Lake not only provides excellent fishing opportunities but also offers a variety of recreational activities. Boating is a popular way to explore the lake and access various fishing spots. The lake features public boat ramps and is suitable for various types of watercraft. Additionally, the lake's shoreline provides camping facilities, allowing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy extended stays and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Shawano Lake in Shawano County, Wisconsin, offers a diverse fishery, including popular species such as largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, black crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill. With its scenic surroundings, accessible boat ramps, and camping facilities, Shawano Lake provides a memorable fishing experience for anglers of all levels of expertise and an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in northeastern Wisconsin.

Popular species include walleye, perch, muskie, northern pike, sturgeon, bass, crappie and sunfish. The Lake is located at Shawano, WI, in the east-central part of the state. There are 18 miles of shoreline with at least ten places to launch a boat or fish from the bank. Ice fishing for walleye, perch and panfish is a local pastime in winter, once there is safe ice. Rental of luxury, speed and fishing boats are offered by American Marine & Motorsports on Shawano Lake. Use the public ramps for launching pontoon boats, kayaks, canoes and fishing boats.

Primary fish species residing in Shawano Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Shawano Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

American Marine & Motorsports Rental
Rentals: Fishing boats, pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks
715 526-4300

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Cedar Avenue Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, south side, off Cedar Avenue, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Freeborn Street Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Freeborn Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Shawano County Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off E Sunset Circle, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Washington Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, at the mouth of the channel to Washington Lake, off Stark Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Wisconsin Fishing License.