Thunder Lake

Aerial view of Thunder Lake, a 172 acre lake in Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Thunder Lake is a very shallow, roughly 170‑acre lake on the Rhinelander Chain just a few minutes from town, with moderately clear water and a compact, cabin‑friendly shoreline. It feels more intimate and weed‑oriented than the larger chain lakes, making it a good match for smaller boats and pontoon cruisers.

It works well for small boats and everyday chain access, though it is not one of the premier basins in the region.

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Thunder Lake Specs:

Clarity:
Avg. Depth: 6 Feet
Size: 172 Acres
Max Depth: 12 Feet
Shoreline: 3.90 Miles
Water Source:
Lake Access: Public
Water Color: Tanned
Trophic State: Eutrophic
Time to Town: 7 Minutes
Chain:Rhinelander

Homes for Sale:

No Current Listings
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Lots for Sale:

No Current Listings
Bottom:
Boat Traffic: Above Average
Noise Level:
High Speed: Yes
Natural Gas: Yes
Lake Roads:
Cell Coverage: Good
Boat Launch: Yes (1)
Rentals on Lake: Yes
Township: Pine Lake
School District: Rhinelander
Tax Rate: $10.04 / $1000

This is a summary based on available information.

Thunder Lake participates in the Rhinelander Chain’s multi‑species fishery, with panfish, bass, pike, walleyes, and muskies moving through its shallow basins. Anglers often target weedbeds, channels, and transition areas with jigs, spinnerbaits, and small crankbaits, treating it as both a destination and a travel corridor. The shallow depths and moderate clarity keep fish accessible close to shore in many conditions. For many owners, Thunder functions as a cozy home lake with easy runs to the rest of the chain.

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.

Thunder Lake public landing (Oneida)
Public boat landing on Thunder Lake west of Rhinelander, with a typical hard-surface ramp and modest parking used by anglers and local boaters.

How big is Thunder Lake?

Thunder Lake is 172 acres with 3.90 miles of shoreline.

How deep is Thunder Lake?

Thunder Lake has an average depth of 6 feet and a maximum depth of 12 feet.

Does Thunder Lake have a boat launch?

No, Thunder Lake does not have a public boat launch.

How far is Thunder Lake from Rhinelander?

Thunder Lake is 7 minutes from Rhinelander, Wisconsin.

What is the water clarity of Thunder Lake?

Thunder Lake has a water clarity of 5.0 feet.

How long is the shoreline on Thunder Lake?

The shoreline of Thunder Lake is about 3.90 miles.

What type of lake is Thunder Lake?

Thunder Lake is a Drainage lake.

What is the trophic status of Thunder Lake?

Thunder Lake is a Eutrophic lake.

Is Thunder Lake on a chain of lakes?

Yes, Thunder Lake is on the Rhinelander chain of lakes.

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