Things To Do In Mercer, Turtle-Flambeau Flowage
Canoe, Kayak, & Water Activities
Canoeing and kayaking opportunities abound. Paddling on the Flowage is a flat-water experience. A voluntary quiet area has been established on approximately the eastern 1/5 of the Flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary which is near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Rivers. The purpose of this designation is to promote an atmosphere of quiet solitude for those seeking a “wilderness” type experience.
To experience more of a thrill while paddling, try the Flambeau, Turtle, Manitowish or Bear Rivers which have a current and whitewater adventure. Area outfitters provide services for paddling, rafting and tubing.
There are an abundance of sandy beaches available for swimming and relaxing on many of the 195 islands scattered throughout this pristine body of water to make your own personal paradise oasis.
There are six boat landings in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area providing boat and canoe launch facilities on the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage.
ATVing & UTVing
The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is located on the southern end of the largest ATV/UTV trail system in Wisconsin. Approximately 250 miles of trails take you deep into the heart of Iron County. Along these scenic routes and trails you will find direct access to businesses offering food, beverages, gas and lodging. Contact the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce for a printed map 715-476-2389.
During the winter season ATV/UTV riders are welcome on most Iron County Snowmobile trails. Any snowmobile trail posted with both ATV/UTV and snowmobile signs are open to ATV/UTV riders as long as the average daily temperature is less than 30 degrees. ATVs/UTVs have the potential to do much greater damage to the trails during warm conditions. ATVs/UTVs are welcome to ride on the ice, however, before venturing out make sure that conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can create uneven ice conditions.
Iron County trails are closed for the spring breakup period to protect the trail base from major damage. During this time trail maintenance occurs.
Dirt bikes and motorcycles are NOT permitted on the trails.
ATV Rentals:
Eagle All Sports
32 Wisconsin Ave.
Hurley, WI 54534
715-561-2593
Snowmobiling
The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is located in the Town of Mercer in south eastern Iron County; the “Snow Capital of Wisconsin” deemed so because it receives an average snowfall of over 200 inches of snow each year. Iron County has over 500 miles of scenic trails winding through forests and across frozen lakes that are groomed by three dedicated clubs. With the most reliable snow in the Midwest, plus quick access to additional miles of trail in adjoining counties and Michigan’s UP, the Flowage is the ultimate destination for both families and the more serious snowmobile rider. You’ll find trailside accommodations, pit stops with food and beverage and other services staffed by friendly and knowledgeable local hosts. There are also 175,000 acres available for off-trail Boondocking, where at your own risk, you may ride on County Forest logging roads and skid trails that are not gated, signed or bermed. Snowmobiles are welcome to ride on the ice, however, before venturing out make sure that conditions are safe and you know where you are going. In addition, fluctuating water levels can create uneven ice conditions.
Snowmobile Rentals:
SS SPORT STORE
5168N Hwy 51
PO Box 346
Mercer, WI 54547
715-476-2468
Fishing
The Flowage provides the ultimate northwoods fishing experience. It supports a diversified fishery including walleye, muskellunge, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, perch and bluegill.
The Flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant gamefish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. The abundance of catchable size walleye is outstanding.
Crappie have proven to provide some exceptional panfishing during the early summer, fall and through the ice. Jumbo perch and big bluegills provide action year’ round.
Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Annual stocking is used to supplement the limited natural reproduction.
Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing throughout the year. “Smallies” in the flowage are exceptionally heavy fish for their length and are commonly referred to as “footballs”. This is why it has become a trophy smallmouth fishery.
Hundreds of fish cribs have been installed through-out the Turtle Flambeau Flowage in 10-15 feet of water. The cribs provide cover for the smaller fish to hide and grow. They also provide excellent structure for larger fish to congregate.
Lake of the Falls County Park offers the largest amount of shore fishing opportunities on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. On West Popko’s Circle, just south of the county park, there is a dike that shore anglers frequent. Also on West Popko’s Circle, where Trude Lake empties into the flowage, there is a culvert and shore fishing area. Anglers may also go to the boat landings and work the shoreline from there.
There are six boat landings in the Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area providing boat and canoe launch facilities on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage.
Ice fishing on the Flowage is a favorite pastime. Winter brings about another dimension of fishing opportunities. Ice anglers will find plenty of action between tip-up fishing for walleye and bass to jig pole fishing for slab crappies, jumbo perch and big bluegills. Check out our events page to find information about ice fishing tournaments. Caution should always be used on the ice so check with the local bait shops and resorts about current ice conditions before venturing out. You’ll find that this is where the locals fish for fun and success!
Biking
The Mercer Bike and Hike Trail is the northern-most portion of the 52-mile Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail system that winds through lakes, rivers and forests to connect Mercer with Manitowish Waters, Boulder Junction, Sayner, and St. Germain. Our 7.8 mile trail is a mix of paved trails and rustic roads with beautiful bridges crossing rivers and wetlands.
Hiking
Silent sports enthusiasts visit the Turtle Flambeau Flowage region seeking a sense of adventure. There are 5 non-motorized trails to choose from in the Turtle Flambeau Flowage Scenic Waters Area. Close by are the MECCA Trails in Mercer, the Pines and Mines Trail System in Iron County and the Ottawa National Forest and many more miles of logging roads and public lands in Iron County to explore. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain or tour biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or skijoring, you are sure to find a trail or road route to suit your needs. Some woods trails are also designated as hunter walking trails. For your safety trail users should be aware of current hunting seasons. During the 9-day rifle deer hunting season in November silent sports enthusiasts should not venture out on the trails or in the woods.
The Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 5 trails, Big Island Trail, Deadhorse Trail, Hidden Rivers Nature Trail, Little Turtle Trail and the Wilson Hills Trail.
Snowshoeing & X-Country Skiing
The Mecca Trail system consists of 21 kilometers (13 miles) of routinely groomed cross-country ski trails and three miles of snowshoe trails. In the spring, summer and fall these trails are used by hikers, runners and wildlife watchers. The trails are moderately challenging as they traverse glacial features of eskers, drumlins and kettles.
The terrain was created by the glaciers thousands of years ago. The forest has stands of hemlocks and pines. There are hardwood uplands of maple and oaks, and wetlands of black spruce, cedars, and tamarack. The trails have great views at the Little Turtle Wildlife Area.
Downhill Skiing
Just a short drive north to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan you will find Lake Superior Lake Effect snowfall that provides the natural snow that keeps skiers and snowboarders coming back again and again. Combine this with the Northwoods Flowage View cabin and you have the makings for an unforgettable winter getaway!