O'Neil Creek

Nestled in the northwestern portion of Wisconsin, Lake Wissota is located just east of Chippewa Falls, WI and north of Highway 29. The reservoir was created in 1915 to provide flood control and provide a source of hydroelectric power along the Chippewa River. The lake offers a number of shore fishing sites along Highway X and provides anglers many opportunities throughout the year. Lake Wissota State Park on the northeast end of the lake provides great camping facilities along with day-use areas. Boaters unfamiliar with the Chippewa River between Lake Wissota and Jim Falls Dam should exercise caution when navigating this area. Stumps, flooded timber and shallow rock bars pose serious navigational hazards.

Yellow perch, emerald shiners and a variety of other minnow species provide excellent forage for most species, especially walleye. Redhorse and suckers are heavily utilized by larger gamefish species, like the muskie and northern pike.

Starting in late fall, walleye move up the Chippewa River and congregate below the Jim Falls Dam. Yellow River, Paint Creek and Stillson Creek experience a similar migration. During early spring, muskie and northern pike move into the major tributaries to spawn. A smaller, less-noted migration of walleye and muskies occurs in spring when muskie and walleye move downstream into the Chippewa Falls Flowage.