Big Lake (PI)

Aerial view of Big Lake (PI), a 850 acre lake in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin

Big Lake near Presque Isle is an 850-acre public lake known for its deeper, more open-water character and moderately clear water. Its larger basin gives it a true big-lake feel compared to many smaller nearby waters.

The shoreline blends wooded stretches with developed pockets, preserving a classic Northwoods look without feeling overly built up. Located about 20 minutes from Manitowish Waters, it offers distance from town traffic while remaining practical for regular trips in for dining and supplies.

Owners use the lake for fishing, cruising, and exploring its open basins, valuing the sense of space that comes with a larger footprint.

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Big Lake (PI) Specs:

Clarity:
Avg. Depth: 26 Feet
Size: 850 Acres
Max Depth: 60 Feet
Shoreline: 9.04 Miles
Water Source:
Lake Access: Public
Water Color: Deep Blue
Trophic State: Mesotrophic
Time to Town: 20 Minutes
Acres Per Owner: 18.89
Owners Per Mile: 4.98

Homes for Sale:

No Current Listings
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Lots for Sale:

No Current Listings
Bottom:
Boat Traffic: Below Average
Noise Level:
High Speed: None
Natural Gas: None
Lake Roads:
Cell Coverage: Weak
Boat Launch: Yes (1)
Lake Grade: Great
Rentals on Lake: Yes
Township: Presque Isle
School District: North Lakeland
Tax Rate: $5.12 / $1000
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Big Lake (PI) contour map

This is a summary based on available information.

Fishing information points to a multi‑species fishery with walleye, musky, pike, bass, and panfish all present, typical of larger Vilas County lakes. The moderate clarity and depth invite a mix of tactics, from classic live‑bait rigs and jigs on points and humps to casting spinnerbaits and crankbaits along weedlines. Summer patterns often push gamefish deeper during bright conditions, so many anglers work mid‑lake structure, breaks, and wind‑blown shorelines early and late in the day. The lake’s size also makes trolling passes practical for covering water when targeting suspended fish or roaming muskies.

I had AI give me the coordinates for the launches I had on file. They are not super accurate, but should give a rough idea of where you can find the landings. If no coordinates were available at all I didn't link to the map.

Big Lake (PI) public access
No information available for a distinct public boat landing on Presque Isle’s Big Lake; access to this border-area lake appears to be limited to local or private launch sites.

How big is Big Lake (PI)?

Big Lake (PI) is 850 acres with 9.04 miles of shoreline.

How deep is Big Lake (PI)?

Big Lake (PI) has an average depth of 26 feet and a maximum depth of 60 feet.

Does Big Lake (PI) have a boat launch?

Yes, Big Lake (PI) has a public boat launch.

How far is Big Lake (PI) from Manitowish Waters?

Big Lake (PI) is 20 minutes from Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin.

What is the water clarity of Big Lake (PI)?

Big Lake (PI) has a water clarity of 13.0 feet.

How long is the shoreline on Big Lake (PI)?

The shoreline of Big Lake (PI) is about 9.04 miles.

What type of lake is Big Lake (PI)?

Big Lake (PI) is a Drainage lake.

What is the trophic status of Big Lake (PI)?

Big Lake (PI) is a Mesotrophic lake.

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