What High Lake Offers

High Lake is a shallow, weedy impoundment in central Wisconsin that holds walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. The lake sits roughly 15 miles south of Rhinelander and covers about 1,200 acres, making it large enough to fish seriously but small enough to learn in a season or two. The shallow depth — most of the lake runs 8 to 12 feet, with a maximum around 20 feet — means weed growth dominates the structure, and that weed growth is what makes the lake worth your time.

The walleye bite here is strongest in spring and fall, when cooler water pushes fish into slightly deeper weed edges and transition zones. Summer fishing is possible but requires early morning or late evening work, since the shallow water warms quickly and walleye retreat to the deepest available cover. Pike are present year-round and grow large in this fertile system; expect fish in the 24- to 36-inch range to be common, with occasional fish pushing 40 inches.

Key Takeaways

  • High Lake is a shallow, weedy system best fished in spring and fall when walleye move to weed edges and are most active.
  • Summer fishing requires early morning or evening hours, since daytime water temperatures push walleye into the thickest cover.
  • Northern pike thrive in the weed growth and are catchable year-round, with 24- to 36-inch fish common.
  • Access is via a public boat launch on the north shore; the lake is open to general Wisconsin fishing seasons and regulations.

Seasons and Best Times to Fish

Spring (April through May) is the most reliable season on High Lake. Walleye move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively as water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s. Jigs tipped with live minnows or crawlers work well along the weed edges and in the transition zones between shallow flats and slightly deeper water. Early morning and late evening produce the most consistent bites, but midday fishing is still possible in spring.

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring in many ways. Water temperatures drop back into the 50s and 60s, walleye become active again, and the same jig-and-minnow approach works. The added benefit in fall is that weed decay opens up some of the dense cover, making navigation easier and giving you more water to work.

Summer (June through August) is the hardest season. Daytime water temperatures climb into the 70s, and walleye retreat into the thickest weed mats or the deepest holes. If you fish summer, plan on 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. starts and 7:00 p.m. to dark finishes. Pike remain active throughout the day and are a solid alternative target during summer hours when walleye are dormant.

Winter fishing is possible through the ice, though High Lake's shallow depth means ice-out can be unpredictable. Check local reports before committing to a winter trip.

Access and Launch Information

High Lake has a public boat launch on the north shore, accessible via County Road M. The launch is a single-lane concrete ramp with parking for roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. There is no fee to launch, and the facility is maintained year-round, though winter access depends on snow removal and ice conditions.

The launch is the primary access point for motorized boats. Canoes and kayaks can also launch here, and the shallow, weedy nature of the lake makes it suitable for small craft, though you will want to watch for submerged stumps and thick weed mats that can snag paddles or propellers.

No resorts or rental facilities operate directly on High Lake, but Rhinelander — 15 miles north — has motels, restaurants, and tackle shops. Bring fuel and supplies with you, as there are no on-water services.

What Fish Live Here and How to Target Them

Walleye are the primary target. They respond to live-bait presentations, particularly jigs (1/4 to 3/8 ounce) tipped with shiners, chubs, or nightcrawlers. Cast along weed edges and work the jig slowly, letting it tick the bottom and the weed tops. In spring and fall, focus on the transition zones where shallow flats meet slightly deeper water — typically 6 to 12 feet. Summer walleye are in the thickest weed mats or in the deepest holes; if you find 18- to 20-foot water, work it thoroughly.

Northern pike are abundant and aggressive. They hunt in and around weed mats, so casting large swimbaits (4 to 6 inches), spinnerbaits, or soft plastics along weed edges produces strikes. Pike are less sensitive to time of day than walleye, so you can fish them throughout the day. Expect to lose some lures to snags in the weeds; bring extra tackle.

Largemouth bass are present but less abundant than pike. They occupy similar weed-heavy habitat and respond to the same presentations — soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures in low-light hours.

Regulations and Licensing

High Lake falls under Wisconsin's general statewide fishing regulations. You must have a valid Wisconsin fishing license, available through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at any authorized vendor. Licenses are sold as daily, annual, or multi-year options.

Walleye have a minimum size limit of 15 inches and a daily bag limit of five fish. Northern pike have a minimum size limit of 24 inches and a daily bag limit of one fish. Largemouth bass have a minimum size limit of 12 inches and a daily bag limit of five fish. These limits are current as of 2024, but regulations can change; verify the current rules through the Wisconsin DNR before you fish.

The lake is open to year-round fishing, though winter access depends on ice conditions and launch maintenance. Check local conditions before a winter trip.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

For walleye, a 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod paired with 8- to 10-pound braided or monofilament line is standard. Jigs in the 1/4 to 3/8 ounce range are the workhorse; tip them with live minnows or crawlers and work them slowly along structure. Slip-sinker rigs with live bait also work, particularly in spring when walleye are shallow and aggressive.

Pike fishing calls for heavier tackle — a 7- to 8-foot medium-heavy rod with 15- to 20-pound line. Swimbaits, spinnerbaits, and large soft plastics are the primary lures. Cast along weed edges and work the lure with a steady retrieve or with pauses and jerks to trigger strikes. Expect to lose tackle to snags; bring wire leaders to prevent bite-offs.

Early morning and late evening are the most productive times for both species. If you fish midday, focus on the deepest available water and the thickest weed cover. Sonar helps you locate structure and weed edges, particularly in summer when finding the right depth is critical.

What to Expect and Common Challenges

High Lake's shallow depth and heavy weed growth mean navigation can be tricky, especially in summer when weed mats are at their thickest. Propeller damage is common; run slowly and watch for submerged stumps and dense weed beds. A trolling motor is nearly essential for precise positioning along weed edges.

The lake's fertility — which makes it productive — also means algae blooms are possible in summer. These blooms can reduce visibility and affect fish behavior. If you encounter a bloom, focus on early morning hours when water clarity is usually better.

Mosquitoes can be heavy, particularly in early summer and in areas with standing water near the shoreline. Bring insect repellent and consider long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to fish High Lake for walleye?

May and September are typically the most consistent months. Water temperatures are in the 50s to 60s, walleye are active throughout the day, and weed growth is established but not yet at its thickest. April and October can also be excellent, depending on weather and water temperature.

Can I fish High Lake in winter?

Yes, the lake is open to winter fishing through the ice. However, the shallow depth means ice-out can be unpredictable, and the launch may not be maintained during heavy snow. Check local conditions and ice reports before planning a winter trip.

Do I need a boat to fish High Lake?

A boat is the most practical way to reach productive water, but shore fishing is possible along the north shore near the launch. Wading is difficult due to the soft bottom and weed growth. A canoe or kayak works if you are comfortable navigating around weed mats and submerged obstacles.

What size pike can I expect to catch?

Pike in the 24- to 36-inch range are common. Fish pushing 40 inches are caught regularly, though less frequently. The lake's fertile weed growth supports good pike growth, so you have a reasonable chance at a trophy fish if you spend enough time on the water.

Is there a tackle shop near High Lake?

Rhinelander, 15 miles north, has tackle shops and sporting goods stores. There are no shops directly on the lake, so bring all the tackle and supplies you expect to need before you launch.