Big Bass Lake

On the LakeGrade scale Big Bass Lake grades a B, with clarity at 6.0 ft and 19 µg/L of phosphorus placing it above the Wisconsin median. Secchi readings are the weakest of the scored parameters, suggesting suspended sediment or algal biomass dominates the optical signal.

Mesotrophic conditions dominate at Big Bass Lake: enough nutrients for a healthy fishery, not so much that algal blooms become a chronic problem. At only 13 ft deep, Big Bass Lake is shallow — wind keeps the water column mixed and sediment resuspension drives phosphorus levels harder to manage. At 177 acres, Big Bass Lake fits the Wisconsin median for monitored lakes, with partial shoreline records. Among the 5 graded lakes in Marathon County, Big Bass Lake ranks 1 — in the top quartile locally.

Eurasian watermilfoil is established at Big Bass Lake, which can dampen recreational access and pressure the native plant community. Bass fishing is part of the appeal: the species list runs to 3, anchored by largemouth and/or smallmouth bass. The grade is based on limited monitoring — fewer than three independent measurement years contribute, so future updates may shift the letter.