The Eagle River Chain of Lakes in Vilas County, Wisconsin features nine interconnected lakes with nearly 3,600 acres of spring-fed water. This Northwoods destination is perfect for anglers and families, with plenty of resorts, lodges, cabins, and bait shops along the shoreline. Local fishing guides are available to help you find success on the water.
The chain is especially well known for its strong walleye and muskie populations, but also offers good fishing for other species such as northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, perch, rock bass, and bluegill. The fishing is definitely better in the spring and fall months as the summer draws plenty of recreational boaters to these lakes. If you’re visiting here during the summer months, prioritize the early morning, evening and nighttime hours for fishing these lakes.
Catfish Lake
At 1,012 acres and 30 feet deep, Catfish Lake (map) is one of the top-producing lakes in the chain. It’s especially known for trophy walleye and muskie, with strong bass and panfish action too.
Cranberry Lake
Cranberry Lake (map) is a large, diverse fishery with strong walleye and muskie numbers. Largemouth, smallmouth, and panfish are also plentiful.
Duck Lake
Though just 108 acres, Duck Lake (map) offers solid multi-species action. Expect walleye, muskie, pike, bass, and panfish—especially early and late in the season.
Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake (map) spans 572 acres and is one of the most productive lakes in the chain. It holds excellent numbers of walleye and muskie, along with quality panfish and both bass species.
Peaceful Pines Resort Playlist
Check out the Peaceful Pines Resort on Eagle Lake. Kevin from “Out There With Kevin Adventures,” spent some time visiting their resort and fishing the Eagle River, Wisconsin area. There is a full playlist with a bunch of YouTube Shorts featuring the fishing, the resort and even some wildlife for you to watch!
Lynx Lake
At just 31 acres, Lynx Lake (map) is a quiet option in the chain. Though smaller, it has fishable populations of muskie, walleye, bass, and panfish.
Otter Lake
Otter Lake (map) covers 174 acres and reaches 30 feet deep. Walleye and muskie are the main draw, with solid bass and panfish opportunities as well.
Scattering Rice Lake
Scattering Rice Lake (map) (267 acres) is known for less boat traffic and good fishing. Walleye and muskie are abundant, and it’s a great option for panfish and bass anglers looking for quieter water.
Voyageur Lake
Voyageur Lake (map) is 130 acres with shallow, weedy structure that’s ideal for spring and fall walleye and muskie. Largemouth bass and panfish are active here as well.
Watersmeet Lake
At 100 acres, Watersmeet Lake (map) is shallow and current-driven, making it a unique spot for walleye, bass, and muskie. Largemouth bass thrive in the abundant cover.
Yellow Birch Lake
Yellow Birch Lake (map) is centrally located with 202 acres of accessible fishing. Walleye and muskie are popular targets, but it also holds panfish, northern pike, and both bass species. Expect more traffic during peak summer months.
Each lake offers something different, making the Eagle River Chain an awesome destination for Northwoods fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation.
