What You'll Find at Comus Lake

Comus Lake is a small, shallow inland lake in Vilas County in far northern Wisconsin, roughly 20 miles south of the Michigan border. The lake runs about 150 acres and holds a solid population of walleye, northern pike, and panfish — bluegill and crappie especially. The water is relatively clear for the region, and the shoreline is a mix of residential property and undeveloped forest, which keeps the lake from feeling crowded even during peak season.

The lake sits in classic Wisconsin shield country: rocky bottom, moderate depth in the basin, and plenty of weed growth along the shallows. That structure makes it productive for both summer and fall fishing. Spring walleye runs can be strong, and the panfish bite holds steady through summer if you know where to look. The lake does not have the reputation of some of the larger Vilas County lakes, which means fewer boats and less pressure on the fish.

Key Takeaways

  • Comus Lake holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in about 150 acres of relatively clear water with good weed structure.
  • Public boat access is available at a Wisconsin DNR landing on the north shore, and the lake is open year-round for both open-water and ice fishing.
  • Spring and fall are peak seasons for walleye; summer panfish fishing is reliable if you fish the deeper weed edges and drop-offs.
  • A Wisconsin fishing license is required, and walleye have a daily bag limit of five fish with a 15-inch minimum length.
  • The lake sits in a region with several other productive waters within 30 minutes, so it works well as part of a multi-lake trip.

Public Access and Boat Launching

The Wisconsin DNR maintains a public boat landing on the north shore of Comus Lake, accessible via County Road M. The landing has a single-lane concrete ramp, parking for roughly 15 vehicles, and a small pier. It is a no-frills facility, but it is well-maintained and rarely crowded. The parking area is not gated, so launching is possible at any hour.

The lake is shallow enough that a small boat or canoe works well, though a 16- to 18-foot fishing boat with a 40- to 60-horsepower motor is common and handles the water comfortably. Gas stations and bait shops are in nearby Conover and Eagle River, both about 15 to 20 minutes away by car. There are no resorts or rental cabins directly on Comus Lake itself, but the Vilas County area has numerous lodging options in surrounding towns.

Walleye Fishing Seasons and Techniques

Walleye are the primary target for most anglers on Comus Lake. The spring bite — April through early June — is strongest in the shallower bays and along the weed edges as fish move into spawning areas. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well during this period. Early morning and late evening are most productive, though overcast days can produce steady action throughout the day.

Summer walleye fishing slows compared to spring, but fish move to deeper structure — the edges of weed beds, drop-offs, and the deeper basin. Night fishing with live bait or crankbaits can be effective when daytime action is slow. Fall, from September through October, brings another strong bite as walleye move back into shallower water to feed before winter. Jigs and live minnows are again the standard approach.

Winter ice fishing for walleye is popular on Comus Lake. The season typically opens in mid-December, and fish can be caught through February. Jigging with live minnows or spoons in 15 to 25 feet of water is the most common method. The ice is usually safe by late December, but always check current conditions with the DNR or local bait shops before heading out.

Panfish and Pike Opportunities

Bluegill and crappie are abundant on Comus Lake and often overlooked by anglers focused on walleye. Summer is the best season for panfish, particularly in June and July. Fish the deeper edges of weed beds in 8 to 15 feet of water, or look for drop-offs near the main basin. Small jigs, live minnows, and even crickets or waxworms produce steady action. A light spinning rod and 4- to 6-pound line are ideal for panfish and make for enjoyable fishing when walleye are slow.

Northern pike are present but less abundant than walleye or panfish. They are most active in spring and fall, and larger pike often hunt in the shallower weed beds early and late in the day. Larger lures — spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or live baitfish — are more effective for pike than the small presentations used for panfish. Pike have no minimum length on Comus Lake, though the daily bag limit is five fish.

Regulations and Licensing Requirements

A current Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are sold online through the Wisconsin DNR website, at bait and tackle shops in the area, and at sporting goods retailers. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you are visiting for just a few days.

Walleye on Comus Lake have a daily bag limit of five fish with a 15-inch minimum length. Northern pike have a five-fish daily limit with no minimum length. Panfish — bluegill, crappie, and other sunfish — have a 25-fish daily limit combined. The lake is open year-round for both open-water and ice fishing. Always check the current Wisconsin DNR fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change seasonally or by water body.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are the most reliable seasons for consistent walleye action. Summer is slower for walleye but excellent for panfish. Winter ice fishing is popular and productive if you are comfortable fishing in cold weather and have proper safety equipment.

Comus Lake does not experience the heavy boat traffic of larger Vilas County lakes like Lac du Flambeau or Trout Lake, so you will have more solitude and less competition for fish. The trade-off is that the lake is smaller and shallower, so fish can be more scattered and harder to locate on slow days. Early morning and late evening are always more productive than midday, regardless of season.

Nearby Waters and Multi-Lake Trips

Comus Lake works well as part of a broader fishing trip in Vilas County. Trout Lake, Lac du Flambeau, and Anvil Lake are all within 30 minutes and offer similar species with larger surface areas and more developed infrastructure. If Comus is slow or you want to explore, these nearby options give you flexibility without a long drive.

The region also has several smaller lakes — Kentuck Lake, Catfish Lake, and others — that are less crowded and can produce excellent panfish and walleye fishing. Local bait shops in Conover and Eagle River can point you toward current hot spots and conditions on any given week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Comus Lake?

No. The public landing allows shore fishing as well as boat launching. You can fish from the pier or along the shoreline near the landing, though a boat gives you access to deeper structure and more water. Canoes and kayaks are also popular and work well on this smaller lake.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer the most consistent walleye fishing. Summer is better for panfish. Winter ice fishing is productive but requires proper equipment and safety precautions. Choose based on what species you want to target and your comfort level with the weather.

Can I rent a cabin or stay overnight nearby?

Comus Lake itself has no resorts or rental cabins on its shore. However, Conover and Eagle River — both 15 to 20 minutes away — have motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. The Vilas County tourism website lists lodging options throughout the region.

What should I bring for ice fishing?

An ice auger, jigging rod, live minnows or spoons, a bucket for fish, and warm clothing are essential. A portable shelter or ice house is not required but makes the experience much more comfortable. Always check ice thickness with locals or the DNR before going out — safe ice is typically 4 inches or thicker for walking and fishing.

Are there bait and tackle shops near the lake?

Yes. Bait and tackle shops are located in Conover and Eagle River, both within 20 minutes of the Comus Lake landing. They stock live minnows, lures, and fishing gear, and staff can provide current fishing reports and advice on what is working that week.