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 1,012 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 14 feet Washington Yes
Watersmeet 107 Acres 12 feet Cloverland & Lincoln Yes
Yellow Birch 192 Acres 23 feet City of Eagle River & Lincoln Yes