Wisconsin’s Hottest Body of Water

There’s a lot of information on how to maintain a healthy body out there. Each day, the Drink Wisconsinbly Week in Review Editorial Board sees dozens of posts about stretching, consuming ungodly amounts of protein, and maximizing gains in the gym as we scroll during our three-bratwurst lunch. But how do you maintain a healthy body of water?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources knows. In fact, they have named Wisconsin’s Healthiest Lake. 

Lake Owen is our water equivalent of a fitness bro. Found 30 minutes north of Hayward, it covers 1,323 acres, has 24 miles of shoreline, and a depth that bottoms out at 95 feet. But it’s the crystal-clear water that makes the DNR smash that like button. It’s fed by a spring that helps it maintain a healthy glow.

It’s a great choice for boating and, as you might expect, fishing, with species like northern pike, walleye, panfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and smallmouth bass, below the surface. It’s also known as the “birthplace of the world’s largest musky.”

Lake Owen makes a fine destination for landlubbers, too, with access to the North Country Trail, where hikers can see deer, eagles, loons, and river otters. That’s not all though. Part of the lake is within the Chequamegon National Forest, which boasts over 800 miles of trails.

So, it’s easy to see why Lake Owen was singled out by the DNR. But we can’t all go there at once. The good news is that there are over 15,000 likes in Wisconsin. And while we’re not experts on lake health, we’re confident you can find another attractive, robust option to enjoy, no matter what part of the state you call home. Pack a cooler and get out there.

Well, once the ice melts.