Musky Shop Lake of the Month: High Lake

Nestled in the heart of Vilas County, Wisconsin, High Lake is a pristine 741-acre gem that beckons anglers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Known for its moderately clear waters, diverse fishery, and serene Northwoods setting, High Lake is our Lake of the Month for July 2025. With a maximum depth of 36 feet and a bottom composition of sandy gravel, this drainage lake offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether chasing the elusive muskellunge or seeking a tranquil retreat, High Lake delivers on beauty and exciting angling.

High Lake is part of the High-Fishtrap-Rush Lakes Association, which works to preserve the lake’s ecological health. Classified as a mesotrophic lake, it supports a balanced ecosystem with a robust fish population, including musky, panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. The lake’s single public boat landing and adjacent public park make it accessible for visitors. However, anglers should be mindful of invasive species like Chinese mystery snail, purple loosestrife, rusty crayfish, and yellow iris, which are present in the lake.

Musky Fishing on High Lake

High Lake is a haven for musky anglers, offering a thrilling challenge in a relatively unpressurized environment. It features one public boat landing, located off Haskins Road near the lake’s northwestern shore. The landing is well-maintained and offers ample parking for vehicles and trailers. Anglers report good musky action, particularly in the bay off the boat landing channel, where fish are often seen cruising the banks. The lake’s structure, including deep weed edges, islands, rock humps, and cabbage beds, provides ideal musky habitat. Focus on the following areas and techniques for success:

• Key Structures: Target the deep weed edges in 8-14 feet of water, where muskies ambush prey in cabbage beds. The lake’s rock and gravel humps, especially in 14-20 feet, are prime spots during mid-morning and afternoon. The bay near the boat landing channel is a hotspot, as muskies congregate in this transitional area.
• Baits and Colors: Light bucktails like Smity Wizards, #500 Buchertails, or Figure 8 Andurils in natural colors (black, brown, or white) work well, especially during cooler mornings. Smaller twitchbaits, such as #7-#9 Floating Rapalas or Smity Twitch Baits, in perch or firetiger patterns, are effective along weedy reed edges in 3-6 feet. Try flashy spinnerbaits like Mepps Musky Killers in silver or chartreuse for warmer days to trigger strikes.
• Techniques: Cast shallow-running stickbaits along dark-bottomed, weedy edges for active fish. Slow-rolling bucktails or twitching crankbaits near deep weedlines can entice follows. Early morning and evening topwater presentations with Whopper Ploppers can yield explosive strikes.

Nearby Activities

Beyond fishing, High Lake’s location in Vilas County offers a wealth of activities. The surrounding Land O’ Lakes area, part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, boasts scenic trails for hiking and biking, such as the Land O’ Lakes Bike Trail.  Nearby Boulder Junction can accommodate your traveling family with dining, gas, shopping, and even overnight stays.  It’s a lovely small town on the edge of some of the most beautiful forested lake country.

High Lake in Vilas County, Wisconsin, is a must-visit destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its musky fishing opportunities, bolstered by strategic structure and effective baits, make it a standout in the Northwoods. With accessible boat launching, clear regulations, and a plethora of nearby activities, High Lake offers something for everyone. Whether you’re casting for a trophy musky or soaking in the serene beauty of the region, this lake promises memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your trip today, and discover why High Lake is a true Northwoods treasure.