The Best Ways to Get on the Water in Hodag Country

Beautiful weather? Check. Awe-inspiring Northwoods scenery? Indeed. Abundant lakes? Yup, those too. The Rhinelander Area has all the ingredients you need to get out on the water this summer. Here are four ways you can explore Hodag Country’s wonderful lakes and rivers.

Take a swim

Even Hodags need to cool down, so on those hot summer days, head to one of the Rhinelander Areas public beaches to take a dip. Hodag Park, which sits on the shores of Boom Lake just north of downtown Rhinelander, is home to a sandy swimming beach with a lifeguard on duty. Head to nearby Buck Lake to find Almon Park, a facility operated by Oneida County that has a picnic area and swimming beach (note: no lifeguard on duty), as well as nature trails and a disc golf course.

Dip your paddle

Rhinelander’s location in the heart of the Northwoods means you’ll discover beautiful lakes, flowages and rivers to explore via canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Head to Mel’s Trading Post to pick up a rental or check with local resorts and cabins to see if they have watercraft available for use.

Once you’ve got a boat, there are lots of great routes to explore. Take a leisurely paddle on Lake Thompson or explore the Pelican or Wisconsin rivers.

Cast a line

Did you know the Rhinelander Area offers outstanding fishing, too? Hodag Country is home to dozens of famous fishing lakes, whether you’re looking for bass, musky, walleye or panfish. Popular lakes in the area include Boom Lake, Lake George and the Willow Flowage. Find more fishing info here.

See a ski show

Once a week, visitors can head to Hodag Park on Boom Lake to marvel at the Hodag Water Shows, a waterski team that’s been offering free shows every summer since the early 1970s. Shows are held at 7 pm Sundays throughout the summer, and concessions are available on site. See more Rhinelander events here.

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