Shawano Lake

Shawano County - Wisconsin

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Shawano Lake is a 6,215-acre freshwater lake located in northeastern Wisconsin, in Shawano County. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

The lake has a maximum depth of 40 feet and is surrounded by several residential neighborhoods, public parks, and forests. It is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species available, including walleye, northern pike, musky, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. The lake has several public fishing piers and fishing tournaments are held throughout the year.

Shawano Lake is a popular spot for boating, with several public boat launches and marinas located along the shore. Visitors can enjoy water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and other water sports, as well as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

In addition to water activities, the area around Shawano Lake offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and golfing. The city of Shawano, located on the shore of the lake, has several parks, restaurants, and shops, and is home to the Shawano County Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the area.

Overall, Shawano Lake is a great destination for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a scenic setting in northeastern Wisconsin.

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The wild is calling. This is the place to experience something new, even a bit edgy, perhaps something that's been on your bucket list. It's a getaway where you can feel comfortable getting out of your comfort zone. Rent a paddle board. Hunt for wild mushrooms. Ride the whitewater rapids or let it ride at one of three casinos. Hop on a bike or snowmobile to take in the sights. Rent a jet ski, kayak or take those flying lessons you've always wanted to. No matter what time of year it is, you'll find some wildly scenic and incredibly exciting activities around every corner. It's time to get lost in Shawano Country and find your wild side.

For more information on things to do and see check out shawanocountry.com

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Frequently Asked Questions About Shawano Lake, WI

How big is Shawano Lake?

Shawano Lake is approximately 6,215 sq acres (25.2 sq km) in size.

How deep is Shawano Lake?

Shawano Lake is approximately 40 feet (12.2 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 9 feet (2.7 m).

What kind of fish can you catch in Shawano Lake?

Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Lake Sturgeon, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Panfish and Walleye in Shawano Lake.

Are there fishing guides or charters for Shawano Lake?

Yes! There are fishing guides and charters for Shawano Lake and/or the surrounding area. Might we suggest Alexander's Sport Fishing?

What are the closest cities to Shawano Lake?

Nearby cities and towns include Cecil, WI, Shawano, WI and Keshena, WI.

Are there places to stay in the Shawano Lake area?

Are you craving a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Or maybe you're an avid angler in search of the perfect fishing spot? Look no further! Shawano Lake and its surrounding area offer an abundance of options to suit your needs. If you're in need of accommodation, check out our area map which highlights some of the best places to stay. And if you're looking for even more options, head on over to our Travel section. But why settle for a traditional hotel or resort when you can take your adventure to the next level by renting a RV? The open road awaits you!
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Lake-Link Featured Lodging

Pro Savings

Super 8 Shawano

Shawano, WI

(715) 526-6688

about 3 miles away

Are there topographical lake maps available Shawano Lake?

We have an topograpical map for online viewing near the top of this page. Lake-Link Pro users can download an print a topograpical map of Shawano Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.

Shawano Lake (east)

Shawano Lake (west)

Are there boat launches on Shawano Lake?

We know of 7 public boat launches on Shawano Lake. Please observe any specific lake regulations posted by the boat launch and please help keep the launch area free of litter.

Shawano Lake area businesses:

Please check out these local businesses in the Shawano Lake area:

Pro Savings

Super 8 Shawano

Shawano, WI

(715) 526-6688

about 3 miles away

Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce

Shawano, WI

(715) 524-2139

about 5 miles away

Are there places to eat and drink near Shawano Lake?

Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.

What are the fishing regulations for Shawano Lake?

There are specific fishing regulations Shawano Lake that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 847-9367 or cell #367. Need a Wisconsin fishing license?

General Restrictions

Catch and release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted.
Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler.

What is the bottom composition of Shawano Lake?

Shawano Lake's bottom composition is comprised of sand (88%) and muck (12%).

Explore the Shawano Lake area in a RV

Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.

2021 Forest River Vibe

36 ftSleeps 9
Bonduel, WI

$130/nightMORE

2019 Keystone RV Cougar for glamping needs!

36 ftSleeps 6
Shawano, WI

$175/nightMORE

"Upscale Overland" - 24 foot / 10 Passenger / Luxury Sprinter

24 ftSleeps 1
Oshkosh, WI

$469/nightMORE

Sleeps 6-8 Pet Friendly 2021 Crossroads RV Zinger Lite

29 ftSleeps 8
DePere, WI

$140/nightMORE

More RV Options

What aquatic invasive species are found in Shawano Lake?

There are some aquatic invasive species found in Shawano Lake including Banded Mystery Snail, Chinese Mystery Snail, Curly-Leaf Pondweed, Eurasian Water-Milfoil, Faucet Snail, Hybrid Eurasian / Northern Water-Milfoil, Phragmites (non-native), Purple Loosestrife, Rusty Crayfish and Zebra Mussel.

Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.

What is the average air temp for Shawano Lake?

Looking forward to your next adventure at Shawano Lake? Don't forget to plan ahead! Weather can be unpredictable, but we've got you covered. On average, air temperatures during this time of year range from a high around 54°F (12°C) to a low around 34°F (1°C). Of course, these are just historical averages, so be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. For the most up-to-date weather information, be sure to check out our Weather Bar located at the top of this page.

Shawano Lake Reviews

Below is the word on street about Shawano Lake.
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dill c.

Shawano, WI

Overfished, too many people, milfoil problems,

Reviewed Mar 30, 2021

andy b.

Newlondon, WI

Been fishing country park area few crops small gills

Reviewed Jan 25, 2019

derek m.

Seymour, WI

Fished out of cecil bay saturday night. Caught 2 6" gills and a 10"Crappie. No flags. Ice was 13"-14" Thick

Reviewed Jan 20, 2019

derek m.

Seymour, WI

Fished out of cecil bay saturday night. Caught 2 6" gills and a 10"Crappie. No flags. Ice was 13"-14" Thick

Reviewed Jan 20, 2019

ryan s.

Arkdale, WI

Worst lake in Wi that doesnt have any potential.Too much pressure and people keep anything here

Reviewed Jan 6, 2017

jim w.

Green Bay, WI

Just started fishing this lake 3 years ago, more good sized pan fish than I thought. Nice to see all the boats, all the personal craft stuff flying by when I'm trying to fish, it keeps me awake. I hit this lake only in the spring time as this lake gets way too weedy for me.

Reviewed May 26, 2016

derek m.

Seymour, WI

Just wanted to see if new motor worked properly and the hour of fishing was a bonus. Did not catch anything in 6-8ft cecil bay cabbage weeds. Water temp was 49-51.

Reviewed May 15, 2016

jason t.

Too much boat activity. Way too many small fish.

Reviewed May 11, 2015

nathan f.

I catch big northerns in here with spoons in about 5-8 ft of water. bass fishing is good but not great. lots of nice panfish in 3-5 ft of water, they hit worms better then anything else.

Reviewed Dec 9, 2013

dan b.

Been fishing Shawano for 16 years , used to be more northern than bass but that seems to have changed to more bass than northern. Weed flats on the South and west ends of the lakes are can't miss. The lake is also loaded, I mean loaded with bluegills, perch and sunfish. You have to throw back a lot of small ones to get some eaters but they are there. All in all it is an awesome lake because of it's sheer size. Everyone can have fun on this lake, recreational boaters as well as fisherman

Reviewed Apr 3, 2013

ryan n.

I found that right around sundown the crappies start to hit on waxies about 2 feet from bottom in 12' of water

Reviewed Dec 29, 2010

kaleb s.

Way too many people for the few fish that are there

Reviewed Dec 8, 2010

aj r.

Fished for three days. Wasn't too bad, a few small pan fish, but some keepers. Faught the rain all weekend. Still a good place to fish.

Reviewed Jun 14, 2010

austin b.

Good fishing even though we have some trouble in the spring. Enough room for fisherman and recreational boaters.

Reviewed May 27, 2009

jason b.

been fishing there for years and never had a bad day out there

Reviewed Dec 8, 2008

terry h.

Shawano was in a Cabela's magazine for really big northerns.

Reviewed May 1, 2008

terry h.

Big bass around the weed edges

Reviewed Feb 26, 2008

richard s.

Been fishing this lake since i was little havent always caught alot but hey thats why they call it fishing. But this lake has really good panfish and plenty of pike to go around.

Reviewed Feb 21, 2008

richard s.

I've been fishing this lake since i was around 7 yrs old and it is still one of my favorite lakes lots of bluegill and especially lots of pike to but they are all in the twenties to thirties no real huge ones but good eater size ones.

Reviewed Feb 8, 2008

terry h.

If you are at the island go northeast and if your boat has a depthfinder look for the edge of a dropoff. It goes from 3 feet to 15 feet deep. This is where all of the big muskie and walleye are.

Reviewed Feb 3, 2008

terry h.

This lake is my favorite fishing spot. It hosts great fishing for pike, largemouth, and muskie. While I was fishing in about 4 feet of water, i caught a 24" musky!!! I was using a whole nightcrawler like a lure, and the fish bit it at the edge of the boat. It landed on my friend, and he started freaking out. The best time to fish for pike and muskie is around 9 oclock a.m. around three to nine feet because they come in to feed. To catch some nice sized bass go around the docks and in the few bays. Use the Gary Yamamoto 5" Hula Grub, a Bill Lewis Rattle Trap, and in the weedy bays and points use a floating 4" Yo-Zuri Crystal minnow. The Yo-Zuri catches everything in this great lake!

Reviewed Feb 3, 2008

matt v.

Lots of little panfish and lots of snakes

Reviewed Jan 5, 2008

ben v.

This Lake Has Always Been Great, Though It Does Seem To be Declining In Panfish Size And Amount.

Reviewed Dec 11, 2007

caleb c.

Great lake,lots of different structure to fish.Great ice-fishing for panfish,northerns,and walleyes.Good numbers and size with the northerns if you know where to look as well as a ton of snakes to get you a lot of flags.

Reviewed Dec 29, 2006

justin

Great lake to fish for bass, and panfish. Winter or summer doesnt matter.

Reviewed Jun 12, 2006

chris j.

I have been coming to shawano lake for five years' now and every time i come i am never disappointed.

Reviewed Mar 26, 2006

timothy f.

Never thought of Shawano Lake as a perch lake, but this winter they seem to be back. Large numbers of good size perch if you know where to look. Northern and bass hitting well during day with lots of good eaters and a few monster pike. A few buddies have been slaying the eyes at night with good numbers and size.

Reviewed Jan 12, 2006

adam r.

this is a very excellent lake for gills. herd theres a lot of walleye in there. never been able to pick on up tho. never caught a muskie here ethier. the nothern are very small and i herd people say them are nice nothern. wait till they catch 40 + incher. would love to know where the muskie and walleye are in this lake please inform me.

Reviewed Dec 26, 2005

brian w.

I have been coming here from Milwaukee almost every weekend from late spring to early fall for many years. Huge lake with tons of fish. Can be tough when its windy or when there is too much recreational activity. Great beach and campground at the county park.

Reviewed Jul 14, 2005

dan b.

I am heading to Shawano lake in three weeks. I've always had good luck with panfish and last year my brother in law limited out on Northern every day. I've heard from several sources that there is a good population of walleyes in the lake,I have never been able to find any. Does anyone who fishes Shawano know where the 'eyes might be?? Any info would be helpfull.Thanks

Reviewed Jul 2, 2005

rich h.

Shawano lake is the best lake ever. I come up here every weekend and every weekend i dont wanna go home. Shawano lake big enough to go boating, clean enough to go swimming, good enough to go fishing, and beautiful enough to look at. Shawano lake always provides fun and fortune to every family visiting.

Reviewed Mar 2, 2005

jim z.

A great lake to fish Monday - Friday.Windy days presents a lot of challenges. Fish hard and you will get good results.

Reviewed Dec 30, 2003

kurt k.

awesome lake for tip up fishing, ussually fish off of county park and just hammer the northern and jumbo perch this is the first lake i've fished tip ups on where the perch swallow your large golden shiner and run with it

Reviewed Dec 2, 2003

mike d.

Fished the lake for a long time. Killed off some weeds this summer hopefully it won't be so weedy for ice fishing. Not as good as 5 yrs. ago or so but still big fish to be caught. Pulled some big walleyes and bigger fish out this summer.Maybe the ice will be good this year and we can not have to worry about shacks this year so bad.

Reviewed Nov 14, 2003

greg s.

The great thing about this lake is that you can go basically anywhere and catch fish!!!!!!!!!! Like patches of bulrushes where the Bass are.....

Reviewed Nov 21, 2002

jay c.

Fished there for the first time! My son and I caught our limit of huge gills, 6 2-4 pound bass, and on my very first cast on the lake a nice 8 pound norhtern. And we didn't even get out there until after 4 pm. I'm in love.

Reviewed Jun 3, 2002

andy s.

Hammered the Northerns on 1-26-02 with large minnows and tip-ups. Average size about 25 inches with the largest at 33. Set your minnow just below the ice but above the weeds. Duh.

Reviewed Jan 29, 2002

one m.

Forgot to modify rating. For peace and harmony you need to find a lake like Kentuck-with rock hazards 6" under the surface where you can escape personal watercraft, etc. Shawano's a playground. Wish I didn't have only weekends off.

Reviewed Jan 25, 2002

one m.

Wolinski must love personal watercraft and the like! Fished her for 25 yrs-eyes, bass, big gills-it was a lot better 5 yrs ago and prior to that. Don't see numbers of big northerns like we used to (10+ pounders). A lot more weeds than there used to be-need to be controlled.

Reviewed Jan 25, 2002

mike w.

Decent lake that will usually produce panfish if you know where to fish. Large body of water that will take awhile to learn. Walleyes are there but experience is needed to catch them regularily.

Reviewed Jan 24, 2002

john m.

Fished here at least twice a year all my life.Best bass lake in the area especially in early May.Great panfish,walleye getting better every year.Lots of northerns to keep you on your toes.Hard to fish if its your first time so ask alot of questions at the bait shops or bars there all around the lake.One of the most peaceful lakes around in May and June September and October.

Reviewed Jan 6, 2002

tyler b.

Sweet lake good walleye and bass. Good lake overall.

Reviewed Dec 9, 2001

roger k.

My father lives on the lake and I have fished and boated it for over 40 years. Great fishing - always some action, especially northerns and panfish. Close to a thriving town with lots of shopping and restaurants - and only 35 miles from Green Bay!

Reviewed Aug 5, 2001

michael w.

Shawano Lake is the definition of peace and harmony.

Reviewed Jul 16, 2001

josh s.

A great BASS lake lots of northern some muskie good learning lake.

Reviewed Jul 15, 2001

panfishprince

Awesome Lake For All Walks Of Fishing, Tons Of Panfish Caught A 20inch Smallie Of Our Dock

Reviewed Jun 8, 2001

tyler a.

Good Lake For Walleyes And Bluegills

Reviewed May 15, 2001

chad o.

Good Place To Take You Husband And You Crabs.

Reviewed May 15, 2001

dusty r.

Lots Of Small Pike. Great For Big Largemouth. Try Using Beetle Spins

Reviewed May 8, 2001

chad j.

If You Like To Catch A Lot Of Small Fish, This Is The PLACE.NEVER Caught So Many Lil Pike

Reviewed Feb 2, 2001

josh s.

Great For Walleyes Early Ice Off The Island

Reviewed Dec 15, 2000

sean m.

Awesome Lake Caught 9 Gills 6 Bass All Over 15 Inc And Awesome Muskie 2, 34inc And 30inc

Reviewed Oct 6, 2000

larry h.

Fishing Is Fantastic, But You Have To Know What Bait Use And Where To Find Them.

Reviewed Sep 24, 2000

s.b

Best Bass Lake Lake I Have Ever Fished

Reviewed Jun 26, 2000

james b.

Great Largemouth Fishing With 4 - 5 Pounders Common

Reviewed Jun 18, 2000

silverado

Best Damn Lake I Have Ever Fished! Great Panfish, Walleye, Pike, And Bass Lake

Reviewed Jun 5, 2000

josh s.

This Lake Is Awesome! Lots Of Fish From Bluegill To Muskies, Great Lake For The Fams.

Reviewed Jun 5, 2000

slick 5.

This Is The Best Lake I Ever Fished! All Year Around, Lots Of Fish.

Reviewed Jun 5, 2000

bass t.

This Lake Has Lots Of Fish. Bring The Youngsters And Catch The Fish.

Reviewed Jun 2, 2000

big m.

Lots Of Fish To Be Caught But, Mostly Smalls - Caught A Great Fish Sandwich From The Local Wendy´s

Reviewed May 13, 2000

matt k.

Their Are Some Huge Gills In This Lake But A Lot Of Other Species A Lot Of Northern Too

Reviewed Feb 6, 2000

brad m.

This Lake Is Awesome!!!! I´ve Made Several Trips To This Lake This Year And Every 1 Was Exellent !

Reviewed Sep 3, 1999

hoogen

Muskies Are Frequent On The River, Small Northern, Good Bass

Reviewed Sep 2, 1999

jkp

Great Lake For Both Kids And Adults! Beginers Or Advanced Fishermen!

Reviewed Jul 17, 1999

billy g.

Good

Reviewed Jul 7, 1999

mark

Shawano Lake Is Full Of Fish! From Walleye To Bass, Northerns To Panfish, You Won´t Be Let Down!

Reviewed May 20, 1999

More Nearby Lakes To Explore

There's more lake's to explore around Shawano Lake...

	DISTANCE	ACRES	MAX DEPTH
Loon Lake	1.8 mi	327	22 ft
Washington Lake	1.9 mi	74	18 ft
Lulu Lake	2.3 mi	37	13 ft
Deer Spring Lake	2.7 mi	19	2 ft
Lily Lake	3.0 mi	26	13 ft
Rice Lake	3.9 mi	43	4 ft
Mud Lake	4.0 mi	35	2 ft
Korth Lake	4.4 mi	22	48 ft
Warington Lake	4.4 mi	32	20 ft
Coon Lake	4.5 mi	30	5 ft

DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Shawano Lake. Although we strive to provide the most accurate information as we can the information contained in this page is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.

WISCONSIN

WISCONSIN

Shawano Lake

Shawano County - Wisconsin

inches

°F

Today's Best Fishing Times

Get the best fishing times for Shawano Lake with Lake-Link's Fishing Forecast. SEE MORE

Explore More In Shawano County

Share Your Catch & Win!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shawano Lake, WI

How big is Shawano Lake?

How deep is Shawano Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Shawano Lake?

Are there fishing guides or charters for Shawano Lake?

Lake-Link Featured Guides:

Walleye Patrol Guide Service

N.E.W. Adventures

Alexander's Sport Fishing

Top Gun Charter Service

What are the closest cities to Shawano Lake?

Are there places to stay in the Shawano Lake area?

Lake-Link Featured Lodging

Super 8 Shawano

Are there topographical lake maps available Shawano Lake?

Are there boat launches on Shawano Lake?

Shawano Lake area businesses:

Super 8 Shawano

Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce

Are there places to eat and drink near Shawano Lake?

What are the fishing regulations for Shawano Lake?

General Restrictions

What is the bottom composition of Shawano Lake?

Explore the Shawano Lake area in a RV

2021 Forest River Vibe

2019 Keystone RV Cougar for glamping needs!

"Upscale Overland" - 24 foot / 10 Passenger / Luxury Sprinter

Sleeps 6-8 Pet Friendly 2021 Crossroads RV Zinger Lite

What aquatic invasive species are found in Shawano Lake?

What is the average air temp for Shawano Lake?

Shawano Lake Reviews

dill c.

andy b.

derek m.

derek m.

ryan s.

jim w.

derek m.

jason t.

nathan f.

dan b.

ryan n.

kaleb s.

aj r.

austin b.

jason b.

terry h.

terry h.

richard s.

richard s.

terry h.

terry h.

matt v.

ben v.

caleb c.

justin

chris j.

timothy f.

adam r.

brian w.

dan b.

rich h.

jim z.

kurt k.

mike d.

greg s.

jay c.

andy s.

one m.

one m.