Merrill Lake Fishing near Eagle River, Wisconsin

• Overview

  Merrill Lake belongs to Vilas County, Wisconsin. Elevation runs to 1,706 feet. About 24 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It sits higher than most water we list in Wisconsin. The closest town, Eagle River, is 18 miles away. Lac du Flambeau is 29 miles and Iron River 35 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Merrill Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Species logged across Vilas County include bluegill, yellow perch, walleye and largemouth bass. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. Fish Merrill Lake where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 9°F in January and 65°F in July. Cold winters and warm summers give a wide working range. Look for the thaw near late April; the fishing lifts straight after. The water is typically free of ice between late April and late November. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Time your trip to Merrill Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. There is recorded parking some half a mile off. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Should this one be busy, Wood Lake is 0.4 miles off. Signs at Merrill Lake carry more weight than any list.