The Chain of Lakes
Lower Eagle River Chain of Lakes
The Eagle River Chain of Lakes consists of 10 lakes connected by the Eagle River, and encompasses 14 miles between the two endpoints that includes 70 miles of shoreline for the system.
The two endpoints are known as the Burnt Rollways Dam at the top to the lower end where everything goes into the Wisconsin River through the Otter Rapids Dam. Since both ends consist of dams, the Chain's water level is controlled by Wisconsin Valley Improvement Corporation at Burnt Rollways and Wisconsin Public Service at Otter Rapids where the Chain feeds the Wisconsin River.
Additional tributaries are the Deerskin River, Mud Creek, Rice Creek and the Wisconsin River.
Because the Chain is located in a busy tourist area of Wisconsin, the Chain is arguably the most high profile system in northern Wisconsin and highly sought after among recreationists and anglers. It is an integral part of Vilas County, and along the shores you will find many boat landings, public parks, motels and resorts and campgrounds.
Click on the image to view a PDF of the map.
| Lake Name | Acreage | Max. Depth | Municipality Location | Public Landing Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catfish | 978 acres | 30 feet | Lincoln & Washington | Yes |
| Cranberry | 924 acres | 23 feet | Lincoln & Washington | Yes |
| Duck | 106 Acres | 20 feet | Lincoln & Washington | No |
| Eagle | 575 Acres | 34 feet | Lincoln & Washington | Yes |
| Lynx | 31 Acres | 20 feet | Lincoln & Washington | Yes |
| Otter | 174 Acres | 30 feet | Lincoln & Washington | No |
| Scattering Rice | 263 Acres | 17 feet | Lincoln & Washington | No |
| Voyageur | 143 Acres | 16 feet | Washington | Yes |
| Watersmeet | 107 Acres | 12 feet | Cloverland & Lincoln | Yes |
| Yellow Birch | 192 Acres | 23 feet | City of Eagle River & Lincoln | Yes |