Hay Lake Fishing Guide, Washburn County, Wisconsin

• Overview

  Hay Lake is one of the Washburn County listings for Wisconsin. It stands 1,106 feet above sea level. Roughly 77 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. With about 1.9 miles of edge, you can try several depths in one session. Hayward is the closest place, 9.3 miles off. It is 100 miles to Saint Paul, the nearest city. The nearest boundary is a fair way off.

• Where to Fish on Hay Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Fish documented in Washburn County include largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike, yellow perch and walleye. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Hay Lake repays a walk before the first cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 67°F and January near 9°F. Winter puts a hard lid on this one. Once it clears, about mid April, the fishing comes on quickly. Climate figures give an open season running mid April to late November. The open run goes from the thaw to the freeze, and April through October covers most of it. It holds true on Hay Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Tranus Lake sits 1.1 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position at Hay Lake before loading the car.