Fishing At Lake Wisconsin

AKA: Wisconsin Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, yellow perch, muskie, northern pike and sturgeon at Lake Wisconsin in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin River flows into Lake Wisconsin bringing fertile water, creating a healthy fishery for bass, walleye, perch, crappie, sunfish, muskie, northern pike, catfish and sturgeon.

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

Lake Wisconsin is located in south-central Wisconsin and spans across Columbia and Sauk counties. Nestled along the scenic Wisconsin River, it offers a variety of fishing opportunities and is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. The lake boasts a diverse fishery, making it an enticing spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Walleye fishing is a major draw on Lake Wisconsin. Anglers target these prized gamefish using various techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or spinner rigs, jigging, or casting with live bait or artificial lures. The lake's structure and depth variations provide excellent habitat for walleye, and they can be found near rocky points, drop-offs, and submerged structures.

Muskie, the apex predator of Lake Wisconsin, lure anglers seeking a thrilling fishing experience. Known as the fish of 10,000 casts, muskie fishing requires patience and skill. Anglers typically use large, flashy lures or live bait to entice these powerful and elusive fish. The lake's weedy areas, rock structures, and deeper channels serve as prime muskie habitats.

Black crappie, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass are also popular species among anglers on Lake Wisconsin. These fish can be found in shallower areas near weed beds, submerged structures, and brush piles. Anglers often use jigs, soft plastics, or live bait to target these species, with early morning and late evening being particularly productive times.

Bluegill, a staple panfish, is abundant in Lake Wisconsin. Anglers targeting bluegill often fish near weed beds, brush piles, or submerged structures using small jigs, worms, or crickets. These feisty fish provide excellent action and are a favorite among anglers of all ages.

Flathead catfish, channel catfish, northern pike, and yellow perch are also present in Lake Wisconsin. Flathead catfish can reach impressive sizes and are typically targeted using live bait, such as large minnows or cut bait. Channel catfish, known for their fighting ability, can be caught using stinkbaits or nightcrawlers. Northern pike and yellow perch provide additional opportunities for anglers looking for a variety of fishing experiences.

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Wisconsin, with several boat launches and marinas available for easy access. Anglers can explore the lake's various fishing spots, access deeper waters, and cover more ground. Camping facilities are also available nearby, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the fishing and outdoor experience.

In conclusion, Lake Wisconsin offers an array of fishing opportunities for anglers. With its abundance of walleye, muskie, black crappie, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, flathead catfish, channel catfish, northern pike, and yellow perch, the lake provides a diverse fishery and ensures there's something for every angler's preference. Combined with its scenic beauty, boating options, and camping facilities, Lake Wisconsin is a fantastic destination for fishing and outdoor recreation in Wisconsin.

The dam at Prairie du Sac creates this 9,500-acre reservoir in the south-central part of the state, at Merrimac, WI. Whether you prefer to fish from a boat, or from the bank, there are 57 miles of shoreline to explore. Around the lake there are more than a dozen boat launch ramps, parks and public access areas. Boat rental outlets on the water offer pontoons, canoes, kayaks, power boats and fishing boats for rent by the day or the hour.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Wisconsin

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Wisconsin Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Burhop's Lakeside Lodge
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
608 592-4802

Lake Wisconsin Watersports
Rentals: Pontoon boats
608 493-4044

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Aleway Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, south side, off Lake Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with street parking.

Anderson Novak Memorial Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, west side, off VFW Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fingers Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Park Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and limited, street parking.

O'Kee Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the southeast side of the lake, off Old Sauk Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Whalen Grade Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off County Road V, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Wisconsin Fishing License.