The Path Less Taken

In the mood to explore the path less taken? You’re in the right place. A primary reason visitors return to Manitowish Waters year after year, is that there is space to roam and plenty of room to stretch your legs.

Fishing

There are few activities more serene, and yet more exciting, than fishing our incredible waterways. It’s an all-season sport, drawing thousands of anglers to our pristine waters, chasing monster muskie, scoping out where the walleye are hitting, and hunkering down over an 8-inch hole drilled in the lake ice. You might even spot a slow-moving fisherperson, stealthily making their way along the water’s edge, hoping to not spook that record trout. Scores of lakes, rivers, and streams await you—4,265 acres of water to be exact, including our “Legendary 10-Lake Chain.” Most lakes have either state- or town-owned public fishing piers and landings for easy access. Remember to purchase a fishing license before you hit the water and brush up on the rules and regulations for water safety.

If you’re fishing our waters for the first time, or if you’ve fished for some time and gotten skunked, chances are you might need a little help from an expert. Contact one of our experienced guides and let them do the heavy lifting for you.

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A lean, hard-muscled fighter that reaches a maximum length of over 5 feet and a weight of almost 70 pounds.

NORTHERN PIKE

Pike attain lengths of as much as 50 inches and the record Wisconsin fish weighed 38 pounds.

WALLEYE

The largest member of the perch family grows to lengths over 30 inches and the record Wisconsin fish weighs 18 pounds caught in High Lake.

LARGEMOUTH BASS

This largemouth grows to a weight of 11 pounds and a length of about 24 inches.

SMALLMOUTH BASS

An average smallmouth weighs between 1 and 2 pounds, measures about 12 inches and is considered the scrappiest fish of all.

BROOK TROUT

This brightly colored fish is native to Wisconsin’s streams and feeds on stream insect larvae but will readily take baits such as worms, minnows and chub tails.

YELLOW PERCH

They move about in schools, often numbering in the hundreds. The perch is primarily a bottom feeder and has a slow, deliberate bite.

BLACK CRAPPIE

An excellent game fish when taken on light tackle, the crappie may grow to a length of 18 inches.

BLUEGILL

Photo Credit: Kristen Keeler

Labeled a “panfish,” the bluegill is almost as deep as it is long. Length sometimes reaches 10 to 12 inches and weights up to 2 pounds.

Birding

One of the greatest things about Manitowish Waters is that you don’t have to go anywhere to spot a variety of birds — just sit quietly on your patio and listen carefully. Chances are you’ll be rewarded with the enjoyable sights and sounds of the Northwoods, right at home.

To increase your odds of spotting some iconic species such as eagles, ducks, cranes, and warblers, start at the North Lakeland Discovery Center. Twelve miles of wooded trails and a lake provide excellent birding habitat and views. Interpretive signs, a nature center, and naturalists on staff can help you learn about what you’re hearing and seeing.

South of town, Powell Marsh State Wildlife Area is an exceptional bird viewing area, and is unique in its wide open, wetland habitat. It’s a stark contrast to the towering pine trees of much of the rest of the area. North of town, the Van Vliet Hemlocks State Natural Area offers a beautiful and serene walk for birders and non-birders alike. Little Turtle Waterfowl Management Area is another good option for viewing.

All of these trails are easily hikeable during the summer, and are accessible during winter months with snowshoes or cross country skis.

Road Trips

While very few things are available 365 days a year, one exception is taking a road trip. Pack some snacks and plan to make a couple of stops along the way for photos, food, or beverages at a local watering hole. Driving the winding country roads is fun and beautiful any time of year, but is especially breathtaking during the fall. For peak color tours, plan a visit in late September or early October — you will not be disappointed!

Sample driving tour - 44 miles From downtown Manitowish Waters, head north on County W through Winchester and into Presque Isle. When County W meets County B, turn right on B and travel to County M. Turn right (south) on M and travel into Boulder Junction to County K. Continue left on M if you wish to explore the community of Boulder Junction, or turn right on County K to return to Manitowish Waters. County K ends at County W. Turn left on W to return to downtown Manitowish Waters and US Hwy. 51.

Somewhere between relaxation and adventure is a must-do in the Northwoods — visiting some of the Midwest’s most beautiful waterfalls. Below area a few popular falls to get you started, but there are dozens more to explore within an hour or two of Manitowish Waters.

Biggest bang for your buck The five waterfalls along the Black River near Bessemer, Michigan, are tough to beat. Ample parking and short trails (less than a mile) welcome visitors of all ages and abilities. While most access paths have quite a few stairs, Potawatomi Falls is stroller and wheelchair accessible. To get there, follow signs from Route 2 in Bessemer to the Black River Scenic Byway. The waterfalls and parking areas are well marked.

Biggest and wildest Potato Falls in Gurney, Wisconsin, is huge and roaring, dropping a total of 90 feet into the Potato River. Visitors can explore the rapids from multiple viewpoints, and during times of lower flows, might even explore in the gorge itself. Gurney is on Hwy 169, about 12 miles northeast of Copper Falls State Park and about 3 miles south of US 2.

photo by Rylie Cibelle