Fishing Willow Reservoir

AKA: Willow Flowage

Popular Fish Species
Willow Reservoir Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
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Willow Reservoir, WI

Popular Fish Species Willow Reservoir, WI

Walleye Fishing

Willow Reservoir is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very rewarding. Use GPS to locate fishing spots you normally fish during other times of the year. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Muskie Fishing

Fishing for muskellunge in Willow Reservoir could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for musky can be very exhilarating. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find muskie during summer.

Willow Reservoir Popular Fish - Bluegill

Bluegill Fishing

Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Willow Flowage. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, musky and northern pike at Willow Reservoir in Wisconsin.

Willow Reservoir Fishing Video

Remote solitude and great fishing make Willow Reservoir a nice getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. This 6,400-acre lake is located in the north-central part of the state, 6 miles southwest of Hazelhurst.

Willow Reservoir is located in northeastern Wisconsin, specifically in the Menominee County. This serene reservoir offers anglers a peaceful fishing experience with its tranquil surroundings and abundant fish population. Anglers of all skill levels are attracted to Willow Reservoir for its diverse fishery and the opportunity to catch a variety of popular fish species.

Black crappie is a sought-after species in Willow Reservoir. These panfish are known for their tasty fillets and are often targeted by anglers using live bait such as minnows or small jigs. Willow Reservoir has plenty of submerged structures and brush piles where black crappie tend to congregate, providing anglers with ample opportunities for a successful day of crappie fishing.

Smallmouth bass and largemouth bass can also be found in Willow Reservoir. These bass species are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Anglers often use techniques such as casting with crankbaits, spinners, or soft plastics to entice these prized gamefish. Willow Reservoir's rocky shorelines, submerged logs, and weed beds offer ideal habitats for bass, making it a prime destination for bass anglers.

Bluegill is another popular fish species found in Willow Reservoir. These panfish are known for their willingness to bite and are often targeted by anglers using small hooks tipped with worms or insects. Willow Reservoir has plenty of shallow areas with weed beds and submerged vegetation, which provide excellent habitat for bluegill. Anglers, especially those seeking a family-friendly fishing experience, can enjoy catching bluegill throughout the reservoir.

Muskie, the apex predator of freshwater, can also be found in Willow Reservoir. These elusive fish require patience and dedication to catch. Anglers targeting muskie often use large bucktails, jerkbaits, or live bait such as suckers or large shiners. Willow Reservoir's clear waters and ample structure provide suitable conditions for muskie, making it an attractive destination for anglers seeking the thrill of pursuing these formidable fish.

In addition to the aforementioned species, Willow Reservoir is home to channel catfish, walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. These fish offer additional angling opportunities and add to the diversity of the reservoir's fishery. Anglers can employ various techniques such as bottom fishing, trolling, or jigging to target these species.

Willow Reservoir provides a rewarding fishing experience with its diverse fish population and picturesque surroundings. Anglers can enjoy pursuing black crappie, bass, bluegill, muskie, and other popular species while relishing the peacefulness of the reservoir. With its boating opportunities and nearby camping facilities, Willow Reservoir offers a well-rounded outdoor experience for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike in northeastern Wisconsin.

Over 70 miles of undeveloped shoreline welcome anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty and the fishing. Smallmouth bass, walleye, perch and musky fishing is popular here, but don't overlook the crappie, sunfish, largemouth and pike. Boat launch ramps are available on the southeast or southwest side of the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Willow Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Willow Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Willow Reservoir, and anglers can enjoy exploring the tranquil waters while searching for their favorite fishing spots.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Sandy Landing Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Willow Dam Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Willow Flowage Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Willow Dam Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.