
Chain Lake
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Rusk and Chippewa Counties, Chain Lake is a captivating body of water that beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its abundant recreational opportunities and breathtaking natural beauty. Spanning an impressive 454 acres and boasting a maximum depth of 74 feet, this scenic lake provides a haven for anglers seeking an exhilarating fishing experience. With its diverse fish population that includes musky, panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye, Chain Lake offers an enticing playground for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. For those in pursuit of the elusive musky, Chain Lake presents an exciting challenge. Known as the king of freshwater gamefish, the musky requires patience, skill, and a bit of strategy. Anglers can explore the depths of the lake, trolling or casting oversized lures in hopes of enticing this majestic predator. The adrenaline rush that comes with a musky strike and the ensuing battle is an experience that avid anglers dream of and cherish. Panfish enthusiasts will also find their paradise in Chain Lake. Bluegill, crappie, perch, and other panfish species abound in the lake's abundant waters, providing endless opportunities for anglers to test their finesse and skill. Whether fishing from the shore or a boat, using light tackle and delicate presentations, such as small jigs or live bait, can entice these feisty fighters to bite. The joy of reeling in a vibrant bluegill or a slab-sized crappie is a testament to the allure of panfishing in Chain Lake. Bass fishing enthusiasts will be delighted by the presence of both largemouth and smallmouth bass in Chain Lake. Largemouth bass seek refuge near submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and other structures, providing ample opportunities for anglers to showcase their casting skills and lure presentations. Smallmouth bass, on the other hand, gravitate towards rocky areas, points, and drop-offs, where they put up a spirited fight against those who dare to challenge them. Anglers can experiment with various artificial lures, such as soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater baits, to entice these prized gamefish. Northern pike and walleye, two highly sought-after species, also inhabit the waters of Chain Lake. Northern pike, known for their aggression and explosive strikes, are often targeted using spinnerbaits, spoons, or large live baits. Walleye, prized for their delectable flesh and stealthy nature, can be caught by jigging, trolling with crankbaits, or drifting with live bait along the lake's structure and drop-offs. Anglers will find themselves immersed in the thrill of the chase as they pursue these coveted species in Chain Lake. While the water clarity of Chain Lake is categorized as low, this characteristic adds to the mystique and allure of the lake. The slightly stained water offers a natural camouflage for fish, making them more likely to strike at the well-presented lures and baits. Furthermore, the low water clarity lends a sense of mystery to the underwater world, inviting anglers to explore its depths and unravel its secrets. Access to Chain Lake is made convenient through a public boat landing, ensuring that visitors can easily launch their vessels and embark on their fishing adventures. Whether you prefer to navigate the tranquil waters in a boat, cast a line from the shoreline, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings, Chain Lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In conclusion, Chain Lake in Rusk and Chippewa Counties stands as a testament to the wonders of Wisconsin's natural landscapes. With its sprawling waters, diverse fish population, and breathtaking scenery, this 454-acre gem invites anglers to embark on unforgettable fishing excursions. Whether targeting musky, panfish, bass, pike, or walleye, the thrill of the chase and the tranquility of the lake's surroundings create an unrivaled outdoor experience. Discover the allure of Chain Lake and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Chain Lake
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Rusk and Chippewa Counties, Chain Lake is a captivating body of water that beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its abundant recreational opportunities and breathtaking natural beauty. Spanning an impressive 454 acres and boasting a maximum depth of 74 feet, this scenic lake provides a haven for anglers seeking an exhilarating fishing experience. With its diverse fish population that includes musky, panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye, Chain Lake offers an enticing playground for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. For those in pursuit of the elusive musky, Chain Lake presents an exciting challenge. Known as the king of freshwater gamefish, the musky requires patience, skill, and a bit of strategy. Anglers can explore the depths of the lake, trolling or casting oversized lures in hopes of enticing this majestic predator. The adrenaline rush that comes with a musky strike and the ensuing battle is an experience that avid anglers dream of and cherish. Panfish enthusiasts will also find their paradise in Chain Lake. Bluegill, crappie, perch, and other panfish species abound in the lake's abundant waters, providing endless opportunities for anglers to test their finesse and skill. Whether fishing from the shore or a boat, using light tackle and delicate presentations, such as small jigs or live bait, can entice these feisty fighters to bite. The joy of reeling in a vibrant bluegill or a slab-sized crappie is a testament to the allure of panfishing in Chain Lake. Bass fishing enthusiasts will be delighted by the presence of both largemouth and smallmouth bass in Chain Lake. Largemouth bass seek refuge near submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and other structures, providing ample opportunities for anglers to showcase their casting skills and lure presentations. Smallmouth bass, on the other hand, gravitate towards rocky areas, points, and drop-offs, where they put up a spirited fight against those who dare to challenge them. Anglers can experiment with various artificial lures, such as soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater baits, to entice these prized gamefish. Northern pike and walleye, two highly sought-after species, also inhabit the waters of Chain Lake. Northern pike, known for their aggression and explosive strikes, are often targeted using spinnerbaits, spoons, or large live baits. Walleye, prized for their delectable flesh and stealthy nature, can be caught by jigging, trolling with crankbaits, or drifting with live bait along the lake's structure and drop-offs. Anglers will find themselves immersed in the thrill of the chase as they pursue these coveted species in Chain Lake. While the water clarity of Chain Lake is categorized as low, this characteristic adds to the mystique and allure of the lake. The slightly stained water offers a natural camouflage for fish, making them more likely to strike at the well-presented lures and baits. Furthermore, the low water clarity lends a sense of mystery to the underwater world, inviting anglers to explore its depths and unravel its secrets. Access to Chain Lake is made convenient through a public boat landing, ensuring that visitors can easily launch their vessels and embark on their fishing adventures. Whether you prefer to navigate the tranquil waters in a boat, cast a line from the shoreline, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings, Chain Lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In conclusion, Chain Lake in Rusk and Chippewa Counties stands as a testament to the wonders of Wisconsin's natural landscapes. With its sprawling waters, diverse fish population, and breathtaking scenery, this 454-acre gem invites anglers to embark on unforgettable fishing excursions. Whether targeting musky, panfish, bass, pike, or walleye, the thrill of the chase and the tranquility of the lake's surroundings create an unrivaled outdoor experience. Discover the allure of Chain Lake and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Saturday, May 10
Clear
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
5:00 AM - 5:00 AM
3:50 PM - 6:20 PM
11:17 PM - 12:47 AM
9:01 AM - 10:31 AM
Outlook for Saturday at Chain Lake
Expect temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 7 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 24 mph. The maximum UV index will be 8 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 5:00 AM and 3:50 PM, or try the minor windows near 11:17 PM and 9:01 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Chain Lake.
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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Chain Lake
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
37°F
On Mar 9
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
54°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (75°F).
- Coolest avg: February (38°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+13°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-12°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
6°
Pressure
1021 mb
Cloud Cover
0%
Visibility
37 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Chain Lake
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