Fishing Little Horsehead Lake in Vilas County, Wisconsin

• Overview

  Vilas County in Wisconsin is where Little Horsehead Lake sits. Elevation runs to 1,634 feet. The water covers some 55 acres, so pick a bank rather than trying to cover it all. The whole outline is near 1.1 miles, and most of it is walkable. Compared with other Wisconsin water on our list, it sits high. The closest town, Wakefield, is 19 miles away. The nearest city of size is Green Bay, 145 miles away. The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Little Horsehead Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Species logged across Vilas County include bluegill, yellow perch, walleye, largemouth bass and rock bass. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Anyone new to Little Horsehead Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 9°F and July at about 65°F, the water has a wide range to work through. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough late April. In an average year the thaw lands around late April and the freeze near late November. Fish feed hardest at the start and the close of the open season. Little Horsehead Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. A jetty or pier is mapped about half a mile from here. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Failing this one, try Horsehead Lake, 0.8 miles away. Treat access at Little Horsehead Lake as something to verify.