The Hayward, Wisconsin area is home to over 600 lakes larger than ten acres and over 400 spring-fed ponds. With all the Hayward area lakes and rivers, there are over 50,000 acres of water you can fish at. The Hayward lakes area were formed by glaciers and many of the the lake bottoms consist of a sandy gravel mix that helps keep the lakes clear even in the heat of summer. In the Hayward lakes area, you'll be able to fish for:
If you like fishing Brook Trout, be sure to visit the over 1,400 miles of classified trout streams in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Summer Fishing Opportunities in Hayward:
During the summer months, anglers can enjoy open water fishing on the many lakes in the area. The lakes in Hayward are home to a variety of fish, including musky, northern pike, walleye, bass, and panfish. Anglers can fish from shore, docks, or boats, depending on their preference. It is also possible to fish on the Namekagon River, which is a popular spot for fly fishing.
Winter Fishing Opportunities in Hayward:
In the winter, ice fishing is a popular activity in Hayward. Anglers can find fish in the many lakes in the area, such as Round Lake, Grindstone Lake, and Lac Courte Oreilles. Ice fishing can be done from a stationary ice shelter or while moving around the lake. Anglers can catch a variety of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and panfish.
Finding a Good Fishing Guide:
For those who are new to the area or want to increase their chances of catching fish, hiring a fishing guide can be a great option. Many fishing guides in Hayward specialize in certain types of fishing, such as musky or walleye, so it's important to find a guide that can meet your specific needs. The Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau can provide information on local fishing guides.
Best Times of Year to Fish in Hayward:
The best times of year to fish in Hayward depend on the type of fish you want to catch. Generally, the best time to fish for musky is from late May to early June and from late September to early November. The best time to fish for walleye is from mid-May to mid-June and from mid-September to mid-October. Bass fishing is good from mid-May to mid-June and from mid-September to mid-October. Panfish can be caught throughout the year.
Fishing Tournaments and Events:
Hayward hosts several fishing tournaments and events throughout the year. The annual Musky Festival, which takes place in June, features a fishing contest, as well as other activities such as a parade, live music, and a flea market. The Lumberjack World Championships, which take place in July, also feature a fishing tournament. Additionally, several fishing tournaments are held throughout the summer and fall, such as the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame's "Fishing Has No Boundaries" event in August.
In conclusion, Hayward, Wisconsin offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round. Anglers can enjoy open water fishing in the summer and ice fishing in the winter, with a variety of fish to catch. Hiring a fishing guide can help increase your chances of catching fish, and there are several tournaments and events held throughout the year for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy.