Wisconsin Forums

[AlumniClub]

At over 2,000 acres with a maximum depth of 37 feet, this clear-water lake qualifies as big water. It’s located at the Village of Balsam Lake in central Polk County and it’s home to a nice warm-water fishery. Says Rick Cornelius, area DNR fisheries manager, “Balsam Lake is one of the better all around lakes in northern Wisconsin.” It’s fished heavily, he says, for Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike and Panfish, and it gets more fishing pressure in the summer than in winter, although it’s known as a pretty good winter producer of Walleyes, Northerns, and Bluegills. It greens in August, but not to a problem level, says Cornelius. Nevertheless, Balsam can be difficult to fish in the summer. Since a multitude of jetskis and waterskiers turns these waters into one big boat wake on nice weekends, think in terms of a mid-week outing if you’re planning to fish Balsam Lake. Avoid, at all costs, those long summer holidays. But during the week, a nice experience awaits you. For early season Walleyes, work the shallow rock bar which partially obstructs the entrance to the main lobe of East Balsam, and give equal attention to the rocky shoreline at the far southwest. Jig/minnow combinations will work best. Later in the year, shift your attention to the small islands in the eastern lobe. Genny Carlin, owner of Gen’s Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715 )268-6231, says a trolled crankbait or live bait rig should get some action. For Bass, Carlin recommends the weedbeds in the narrow southwest bay, above the dam, and the area between the islands and the south shore at the lake’s center. The north-side shallows on East Balsam attract Northerns, Largemouth and Bluegills, and the shallow bay on the side of the main lake also deserves a good look. Another "hot spot" for Walleyes and Bass is the area near the high-tension lines, says Carlin. The north bay is also known as a good winter producer for Pike and ‘gills, as is the west bay above the dam. At this writing in early 1998, there was a 26-inch minimum length limit on Northerns, with a 2-bag. Of course, you'll want to check current Wisconsin fishing regs for up-to-date information. Three resorts with rental boats, a marina, and a supperclub serve this lake. Groceries and other supplies are available in Balsam Lake. You'll find four public access sites; the one in the Village of Balsam Lake on the southwest side, features a boarding pier, swimming beach, restrooms and parking. Thanks to Genny Carlin, owner of Gen's Bait and Sport Shop, Highway 46 North, Amery, (715)268-6231.


GB2