What McCrossen Lake offers anglers
McCrossen Lake is a shallow, weedy warmwater lake in Waupaca County that holds walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. The lake runs roughly 200 acres and averages 15 to 20 feet deep, with extensive weed beds and muck bottom that create ideal habitat for pike and bass but require different tactics than the deeper coldwater lakes nearby. If you're coming from the Waupaca chain expecting clear water and steep drop-offs, McCrossen plays by different rules—and that's what makes it worth the trip.
The lake sits about 10 miles southeast of the main Waupaca chain and draws fewer anglers than its more famous neighbors, which means less pressure on the fish and more room to work. Spring and early summer are peak seasons here, when the shallower water warms faster and pike move into the weeds to feed. Fall can be productive too, though the weed growth can make navigation tricky by late August.
Key Takeaways
- McCrossen Lake is a 200-acre shallow lake best known for northern pike and walleye, with extensive weed beds that require heavier tackle and weed-guard lures.
- Spring through early summer is the most productive season, when pike move shallow and walleye feed actively in low-light periods.
- The lake has a public boat launch on the south shore and limited shoreline access, so a boat is nearly essential for effective fishing.
- Weeds dominate the structure here, so focus on weed edges, holes within the vegetation, and deeper pockets rather than traditional rock or wood cover.
- Local bait shops in Waupaca carry live shiners and crawfish, which outperform artificial lures for walleye on this lake.
Where to launch and how to access the water
McCrossen Lake has a public boat launch on the south shore, accessible via County Road K. The launch is small—a single-lane concrete ramp with limited parking—so arrive early on weekends or plan for a weekday trip if you want to avoid the squeeze. There is no designated shoreline public access beyond the launch area, which means wading or bank fishing is not practical here. You'll need a boat to fish this lake effectively.
The launch fee is minimal and covers both launching and parking for the day. The ramp is maintained year-round, though winter access depends on ice-out timing and road conditions. If you don't own a boat, several rental operations in Waupaca rent aluminum fishing boats by the day or half-day, and they can point you toward the most productive areas based on current conditions.
Pike and walleye in the weeds
Northern pike are the dominant predator here and the most reliable target. They hunt in and around the weed beds, especially in the morning and evening hours. Early summer (May through June) is when pike are most aggressive—they've finished spawning and are feeding hard to rebuild condition. Fish the weed edges with 6- to 8-inch soft plastics rigged on 1/2-ounce jig heads, or throw spinnerbaits with weed guards to avoid constant snagging. Casting parallel to the weed line rather than into it reduces hangups and keeps your lure in the strike zone longer.
Walleye are present but less abundant than pike. They prefer the deeper pockets within the weed beds and the transition zones where shallow weeds meet open water. Live shiners fished on a simple slip-sinker rig work better here than artificials—the lake's murky water and heavy vegetation favor the vibration and scent of live bait. Fish these rigs during low-light periods: dawn, dusk, and overcast days. Largemouth bass are also here and will hit the same weed-edge presentations as pike, though they tend to be smaller and less numerous.
Seasonal patterns and timing
Spring (April through May) brings the first strong bite as water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s and 60s. Pike move into the shallower weeds to feed, and this is when you'll have your best chance at numbers and size. Walleye begin moving shallower as well, though they remain more scattered than pike.
Summer (June through August) can be productive early in the season but slows as water temperatures climb into the 70s and the weed growth becomes dense. The weeds provide cover and oxygen, so fish remain active, but they move deeper within the vegetation and become harder to locate. Late evening and night fishing can be effective during the heat of the day. By late August, weed growth can make the lake nearly unfishable in some areas.
Fall (September through October) offers a second window of opportunity as water temperatures drop and pike become aggressive again. The weed beds begin to thin, making navigation easier and fish more visible. This is also when walleye move shallower in preparation for winter, making them more catchable on live bait.
Tackle and lure choices for shallow, weedy water
Bring heavier tackle than you might use on clearer lakes. A 6.5- to 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod paired with 15- to 20-pound braid handles the dense weeds and allows you to horse pike out of the vegetation without losing them. Braid cuts through weeds better than monofilament and gives you better feel for what's happening on the bottom.
Weed-guard spinnerbaits in sizes 3/8 to 1/2 ounce are workhorses here. Chartreuse, white, and black blades all produce, but chartreuse tends to draw strikes in the murky water. Soft plastics rigged on jig heads—6- to 8-inch shads or crawfish patterns—let you work the weed edges methodically. Topwater lures can be effective early in the morning when pike are hunting in the shallows, but they produce fewer fish than subsurface presentations on this lake. For walleye, keep live shiners and crawfish on hand; a simple slip-sinker rig with a 1/0 to 2/0 hook is all you need.
What to know before you go
McCrossen Lake is not a destination for trophy hunting or high numbers of large fish. It's a solid local fishery that rewards patience and weed-specific tactics. The water is stained to murky, so bright lures and live bait work better than natural colors. Bring a good depth finder—it's essential for locating the deeper pockets and weed edges that hold fish.
The lake can be windy, especially in the afternoon, so plan your trip for early morning if possible. Respect the weed beds; they're the reason fish are here. Avoid running through shallow weedy areas at high speed, which damages the vegetation and disturbs fish. A trolling motor is more effective than a main engine for working the weeds anyway.
Wisconsin fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 and older. Current regulations allow two pike per day and a daily walleye limit that varies by season—check the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website for the current rules before you fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McCrossen Lake good for beginners?
It can be, but the heavy weed growth and need for a boat make it better suited to anglers with some experience. If you're new to fishing, start on the Waupaca chain's clearer lakes, then come back to McCrossen once you're comfortable with boat handling and weed-fishing techniques.
Can I fish McCrossen Lake in winter?
Yes, the lake is open to ice fishing. Pike and walleye remain active under the ice, and the shallow depth means you don't need to drill as deep as on larger lakes. Check ice thickness before venturing out, and follow current Wisconsin regulations for winter fishing.
What's the best time of day to fish here?
Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and evening (two hours before sunset through dusk) are most productive. Overcast days are better than bright, sunny days. Pike are most active during these low-light periods, and walleye feed more aggressively when light levels drop.
Do I need a boat to fish McCrossen Lake?
Effectively, yes. There is no public shoreline access beyond the boat launch, and the weed beds make wading impractical. A rental boat from a Waupaca outfitter is an affordable option if you don't own one.
What size pike and walleye does McCrossen Lake produce?
Pike typically run 18 to 28 inches, with occasional fish in the 30-inch range. Walleye average 15 to 20 inches. This is not a trophy lake, but it's a solid fishery for consistent action and keeper-size fish.