What You'll Find at Tenmile Lake

Tenmile Lake is a shallow, 1,200-acre impoundment in Oneida County in northeastern Wisconsin, known for walleye and northern pike in a heavily vegetated system. The lake averages 8 to 10 feet deep with extensive weed beds, making it a strong choice for anglers who understand shallow-water structure and don't mind working around aquatic plants. Largemouth bass and panfish are also present but secondary to the walleye and pike fishery.

The lake's character changes with the season. Spring and early summer bring active walleye in the shallows as they move to spawning and post-spawn areas. By midsummer, the weed growth thickens and fish move to deeper pockets and weed edges. Fall can be excellent as vegetation dies back and fish become more aggressive before winter.

Key Takeaways

  • Tenmile Lake is a shallow, weedy 1,200-acre lake best known for walleye and northern pike in northeastern Wisconsin.
  • Spring and early summer walleye fishing focuses on shallow spawning areas and weed edges; midsummer requires finding deeper pockets within the weed structure.
  • Public boat access is available at the Tenmile Lake public landing on the north shore, with parking and a concrete ramp.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations require a current license and separate inland trout stamp if targeting trout; walleye and pike have specific daily bag limits and size restrictions that vary by season.
  • The lake's heavy vegetation demands weed-tolerant lures and techniques — spinnerbaits, jigs, and soft plastics work better than open-water presentations.

Access and Boat Launch Details

The primary public access point is the Tenmile Lake public landing on the north shore, operated by Oneida County. The facility includes a concrete boat ramp, parking area, and basic amenities. The ramp is maintained year-round, though winter access depends on ice conditions and county road maintenance.

From Highway 51 near Rhinelander, take County Road M north; follow signs to the public landing. The drive from Rhinelander is roughly 15 minutes. Trailer parking is available, and the lot typically accommodates 20 to 30 vehicles. During peak summer weekends, arrive early — the lot can fill, especially on Saturdays.

No private residential access points are open to the public. Shore fishing is limited to the public landing area and a small public beach adjacent to the ramp. Most anglers fish from boats.

Walleye Fishing: Seasons and Techniques

Walleye are the primary draw. Spring (April through May) is peak season as fish move into shallow water to spawn and feed. Focus on weed edges, shallow flats in 4 to 8 feet of water, and any hard-bottom transitions you can locate. Live bait — shiners or crawlers — under a slip bobber works well in calm conditions. Jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics are effective when you can work structure precisely.

Early summer (June) remains productive as post-spawn walleye feed aggressively. By mid-June, weed growth accelerates and fish retreat to deeper pockets and the edges of dense vegetation. Switch to weed-tolerant presentations: spinnerbaits with single blades, jigs in the 1/4- to 3/8-ounce range, and soft plastics rigged weedless. Work the outside edges of weed beds in 8 to 12 feet of water.

Midsummer (July and August) is slower. Fish are deeper and less active during the day. Early morning and evening produce better results than midday. Fall (September and October) improves as water cools and vegetation begins to die back, opening access to shallow areas again.

Wisconsin's walleye regulations on Tenmile Lake allow a daily bag limit of five fish, with a 15-inch minimum size. Check the current Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) fishing guide for any seasonal closures or special restrictions that may apply.

Northern Pike and Other Species

Northern pike thrive in Tenmile's weedy environment. Pike fishing is often incidental to walleye efforts — the same jigs and soft plastics that catch walleye will attract pike, especially in spring and fall. Dedicated pike anglers use larger lures: spinnerbaits with double blades, crankbaits, and swimbaits in the 4- to 6-inch range. Pike are less wary in shallow, weedy water than in clear lakes, so don't hesitate to cast close to vegetation.

Pike daily bag limit is five fish with a 24-inch minimum size. Largemouth bass and panfish (bluegill, crappie) are present but receive less fishing pressure. Bass fishing can be productive in spring and early summer around weed edges and shallow structure. Panfish are reliable throughout the season in shallow bays and around vegetation.

Seasonal Conditions and What to Expect

Spring (April to May) brings unpredictable weather — water temperatures range from 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Walleye are most active in low-light conditions (early morning, evening, overcast days). Weed growth is minimal, making navigation easier but fish location less obvious.

Summer (June to August) means warmer water (65 to 75 degrees), dense vegetation, and longer daylight. Midday fishing is slow; focus on dawn and dusk. Mosquitoes and biting flies are heavy — bring insect repellent. The lake can become crowded on weekends.

Fall (September to October) offers cooler water (55 to 65 degrees), dying vegetation, and aggressive fish. This is often the best overall fishing period. Winter (November to March) brings ice fishing for walleye and pike, though ice thickness and safety vary year to year. Check local ice reports before heading out.

Regulations, Licenses, and What to Bring

Wisconsin requires a current fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the WDNR website, at sporting goods retailers, and at some bait shops near Rhinelander. A license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Walleye and pike are regulated under Wisconsin's statewide inland fish regulations. Tenmile Lake has no special restrictions beyond the standard daily bag limits (five walleye at 15 inches minimum; five pike at 24 inches minimum). However, regulations can change, so review the current WDNR fishing guide before your trip.

Bring weed-tolerant tackle: spinnerbaits, jigs in 1/4- to 3/8-ounce sizes, soft plastics rigged weedless, and a good weed rake or net to clear vegetation from your lure. A depth finder helps locate deeper pockets within the weed structure. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat are essential, especially in summer. Water levels can fluctuate; check conditions at the landing before launching.

Nearby Services and Lodging

Rhinelander, about 15 minutes south, is the nearest town with gas, groceries, restaurants, and lodging. Several motels and resorts operate year-round. Bait and tackle shops in Rhinelander stock live bait (shiners, crawlers) and local knowledge about current conditions on Tenmile and nearby lakes.

Camping is available at state and private facilities in the area. The Oneida County Parks Department manages several public campgrounds within 20 to 30 minutes of Tenmile Lake. Summer weekends fill quickly, so reserve ahead if you plan to camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Tenmile Lake?

Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are most productive for walleye and pike. Spring offers active fish moving into shallow water; fall brings cooler water and aggressive feeding as vegetation dies back. Midsummer is slower, especially during the day, though early morning and evening can still produce.

Can I fish from shore at Tenmile Lake?

Shore fishing is limited to the public landing area and a small adjacent beach. Most of the shoreline is private residential property. A boat is strongly recommended to reach productive weed edges and deeper structure.

What size boat do I need?

Any boat that floats works — kayaks, canoes, small aluminum boats, and larger recreational boats all fish Tenmile successfully. The lake is shallow and weedy, so a boat with a shallow-draft hull and a trolling motor is ideal for navigating around vegetation and positioning precisely on structure.

Do I need a trout stamp to fish Tenmile Lake?

Tenmile Lake is not a trout lake, so a trout stamp is not required. You need only a standard Wisconsin fishing license. If you plan to fish other lakes in the region that contain trout, a separate inland trout stamp is available from the WDNR.

How deep is Tenmile Lake?

Tenmile Lake averages 8 to 10 feet deep with a maximum depth around 25 feet. The shallow, weedy character means most productive fishing happens in 4 to 12 feet of water. Deeper pockets exist but are less common than in other Wisconsin lakes.