Fishing Grindstone Lake
AKA: Grindstone Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Grindstone Lake, WI
Walleye Fishing
When fishing for walleye in Grindstone Lake, May and June tend to be the best months, especially at night. 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. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. 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. 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.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Grindstone Lake is well known to locals as a good bass lake. Both weekend and tournament anglers have been catching bass in good numbers, and fish over 4 pounds are not uncommon. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass which reside here in decent numbers as well. Fishing for largemouth bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being caught. In Grindstone Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can also be caught while ice fishing.
Northern Pike Fishing
Northern pike are currently thriving in the cool waters of Grindstone Lake. They are voracious feeders and have the tools necessary to catch and eat pretty much any food source in the lake. Northerns are very agile and powerful, plus they have big mouths with very sharp teeth. his year they are being caught in good quantity and some mighty big sizes. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes. When the lake has safe ice in winter, ice fishing for northern pike can be quite thrilling. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find northern pike holding during summer. Portable fish finders can also be a big help.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, musky and northern pike at Grindstone Lake in Wisconsin.
Grindstone Lake Fishing Video
Surrounded by homes and developed land, Grindstone Lake is a boating enthusiasts haven in summer. Two boat ramps are available to the public. Bank fishing is limited, but this 3,100-acre lake in the north-central part of the state, has plenty to offer anglers fishing from a boat, canoe or kayak.
Grindstone Lake, located in Sawyer County in northwest Wisconsin, is a beloved fishing destination known for its abundance of fish species and scenic beauty. Anglers flock to this lake to test their skills and reel in some impressive catches.
Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are popular targets for anglers in Grindstone Lake. The lake's structure, including weed beds, rocky points, and submerged structures, provides excellent habitat for these bass species. Anglers can use a variety of techniques such as casting with plastic worms, crankbaits, or topwater lures to entice strikes.
Walleye fishing is also prominent in Grindstone Lake. These prized game fish can be found near drop-offs, weed edges, and rocky areas. Anglers often use live bait rigs, jigging with minnows or leeches, or trolling with crankbaits to entice walleye bites.
Black crappie, white crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill are other popular species in Grindstone Lake. These panfish provide excellent angling opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. From using small jigs or live bait for crappie and bluegill to targeting northern pike with spinnerbaits or large minnows, there are various techniques to enjoy a productive day on the water.
Grindstone Lake in Sawyer County, Wisconsin, is a prime fishing destination, known for its abundant fish species including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, black crappie, white crappie, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill. With its scenic beauty and recreational activities such as boating and camping, Grindstone Lake offers a memorable experience for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
There is more than 10 miles of shoreline to explore in search of bass, sunfish, perch and pike. Trolling is a good tactic for walleye. The lake also has big muskies and northern pike.
Primary fish species residing in Grindstone Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Grindstone Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Grindstone Lake offers not only great fishing but also opportunities for boating and camping. Boaters can explore the lake's many bays, coves, and open waters while enjoying the serene surroundings. Camping facilities around the lake provide convenient accommodations for those looking to extend their fishing trip and immerse themselves in nature.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Grindstone Lake Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Grindstone Landing Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Grindstone Lake
Mike Best Fishing Guide Service - walleye, bass, musky
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Wisconsin Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Sand Lake Pines Resort & Campground - 715 865-2309
Stone Haven RV Park - 715 558-5172
Grindstone Lake WI Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Grindstone Lake
WI DNR Grindstone Lake
Hayward, WI 54843
888 936-7463
Fishing lakes in each state.
082824
Grindstone Lake in WI
WISCONSIN
Fishing for smallmouth and walleye in north-central WI.