High Lake Fishing in Vilas County, Wisconsin

• Overview

  Set in Vilas County, High Lake is a Wisconsin water. Height above sea level is 1,634 feet. This is sizeable water at about 757 acres, and a boat opens up most of it. It ranks high for size among our Vilas County listings. The closest town, Lac du Flambeau, is 21 miles distant. Green Bay is the closest city, 135 miles away. The nearest boundary is well away, so one set of rules covers the water.

• Where to Fish on High Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Fish documented in Vilas County include bluegill, yellow perch, walleye, largemouth bass and rock bass. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Anyone new to High Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 65°F, the coldest about 9°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Firm cover through the cold months, then open water from late April. Going by climate averages, expect open water from about late April until roughly late November. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. The season on High Lake rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. There is a campsite half a mile from the water. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. Bambi Lake sits 0.5 miles off and takes the overflow. Rules at High Lake are worth checking on the day.