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Wisconsin · Fishing
Eureka, Wisconsin sits in Waushara County, a part of the state known for its glacially carved lakes and sandy-bottomed water. The fishing around here centers on three lakes: Knife Lake, Tuttle Lake, and Manitou Lake.
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Eureka, Wisconsin sits in Waushara County, a part of the state known for its glacially carved lakes and sandy-bottomed water. The fishing around here centers on three lakes: Knife Lake, Tuttle Lake, and Manitou Lake. These are classic central Wisconsin lake fisheries, the kind where you can reasonably expect largemouth bass, panfish, and northern pike depending on the time of year and where you're casting. None of these lakes are large destination fisheries with boat launches you'll find on a state tourism brochure, which is part of the appeal — crowds are thin, especially on weekdays. Tuttle and Manitou are small enough that a kayak or canoe gives you a real advantage over a bigger boat, letting you work the weedy shallows where bass and bluegill stack up in summer. Knife Lake is worth checking for northern pike along the weed edges in early morning. Access points vary by lake, so confirming public launch or shore access before you drive out is worth the five minutes it takes. Wisconsin fishing regulations apply across all three, and a valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
These are typical central Wisconsin glacial lakes, so largemouth bass, bluegill, perch, and northern pike are the most likely catches. Crappie show up in lakes like these as well, particularly around any submerged structure. None of these lakes are designated trout or gold-medal waters, so don't plan a trip around trout.
Late May through early July is generally the most productive window for bass and panfish, when water temperatures are rising and fish are active in the shallows post-spawn. Northern pike fishing holds up well in early spring right after ice-out, often into April. Summer midday heat pushes fish deeper, so early morning and evening hours produce better results from June onward.
Knife Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Manitou Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Tuttle Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Bullhead Lake
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Long Lake
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Lone Pine Lake
~15 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Pioneer Lake
~19 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MN.
Antler Lake
~20 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Sunrise Lake
~21 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MN.
Round Lake
~25 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Wood Lake
~28 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Dahl Lake
~28 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WI.
Shore fishing is possible but limited depending on how much public shoreline is accessible at each lake. A kayak or canoe opens up significantly more water, especially on smaller lakes like Tuttle and Manitou where you can reach weedy coves that shore anglers can't. Confirm public access points before your trip using the Wisconsin DNR's online lake finder.
A medium-light spinning rod in the 6 to 7 foot range handles most situations across all three lakes. For bass, soft plastics and weedless rigs work well in the vegetation-heavy shallows. For panfish, a simple bobber-and-worm or small jig setup is all you need. If you're targeting northern pike, bring a wire leader to avoid bite-offs.
Yes, a valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older. You can purchase one online through the Wisconsin DNR website, at most sporting goods retailers, or at bait shops in the region. Annual resident and non-resident licenses are available, as are short-term options if you're just visiting for a few days.
