Top 15 Lakes around Guttenberg

The lakes around Guttenberg are primarily backwater lakes of the Upper Mississippi River. These include well-known spots like Bussey Lake and Frenchtown Lake, as well as others such as Ferry Lake, Long Slough, Bertom Lake, Glen Lake, and McCartney Lake. They are generally known for their tranquil waters and natural settings.

Bussey Lake is a prime destination for fishing, with a two-lane boat ramp and a public fishing dock. It's also excellent for walking and running, featuring well-maintained trails, rest areas, and water fountains. The lake is a significant overwintering area for fish and a key access point for tournament fishing on the Mississippi River.

Yes, Bussey Lake is highly regarded as a sport fishery. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species including Black Crappie, Bluegill, Bowfin, Channel Catfish, Freshwater Drum, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, White Crappie, and Yellow Perch.

Frenchtown Lake is a large, shallow backwater north of Guttenberg, covering 270 acres. It's popular for fishing, especially in the spring and fall, offering a good mix of fish species. Amenities include a picnic area, a gravel boat ramp, and an accessible shoreline, making it a convenient spot for a day out.

The Guttenberg Waterfowl Ponds, old hatchery ponds behind Pool 10 dam, cover 65 acres. While specific recreational details are less abundant, their designation suggests they are valuable for birdwatching and supporting local wildlife, offering a peaceful natural setting.

For outdoor activities like walking, running, and fishing, the milder weather of spring or fall is generally ideal. During these seasons, the trails are pleasant, and fishing is often at its best. Summer can see some lakes, like Frenchtown Lake, become quite vegetated.

Yes, lakes like Bussey Lake with its well-maintained trails and Frenchtown Lake with its picnic area and accessible shoreline offer family-friendly environments for leisurely strolls, picnicking, and fishing. The natural settings are great for enjoying time outdoors with loved ones.

Given their location within the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge and their designation as 'waterfowl ponds,' you can expect to see a variety of bird species, especially around the Guttenberg Waterfowl Ponds. The lakes also support diverse fish populations and other aquatic wildlife.

Yes, Bussey Lake features a two-lane boat ramp, and Frenchtown Lake has a gravel boat ramp, providing access for boaters. These facilities make it convenient to launch boats for fishing or exploring the backwaters.

While specific trails directly around every lake may vary, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore a range of running trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails in the broader Guttenberg area, many of which offer scenic views of the natural landscape, including the river and backwater areas.

Frenchtown Lake offers an accessible shoreline, making it easier for visitors with mobility considerations to enjoy the lake. Bussey Lake also features a public fishing dock, which can provide easier access for anglers.

Beyond Bussey Lake and Frenchtown Lake, other backwater lakes in the region popular for fishing include Ferry Lake, Long Slough, Bertom Lake, Glen Lake, and McCartney Lake. McCartney Lake, for instance, is a larger body of water spanning 952 acres with diverse fishing opportunities.