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Brandenburg Lake

The Deepest Hidden Lake

Brandenburg Lake is the deepest of the five canal-connected lakes at 25 feet maximum depth and 75 acres, making it the largest and deepest of the lesser-known Chain lakes. Its surprising depth creates diverse fishing opportunities and cooler summer water temperatures.

Lake Size

75 acres

Average Depth

14 ft

Maximum Depth

25 ft

Body Type

Natural Lake

Map & Quick Facts

  • County
    lake
  • Connection Type
    Channel Connected
  • Nearby Communities
    Fox Lake, Ingleside, Antioch
  • Speed Limit
    No wake – canal access only
  • Swimming Allowed
    Yes

Boating & Lake Access

Boat Launches

0

Marinas

0

Access Points

1
Access through connecting canals from main Chain O’Lakes system. Limited public parking options.
Fox Waterway Agency sticker required. Limited direct access.

Activities & Rentals

Activities Available

Fishing, Kayaking / Canoeing

Equipment Rentals Available

Brandenburg Lake

White Sucker, Freshwater Drum, Carp, Warmouth, Pumpkinseed, Sauger, Flathead Catfish, Bullhead, Rock Bass, Hybrid Bass, White Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass

Fishing Information

Fishing Quality

Good – Reliable Catches

Best Fishing Seasons

Spring (March-May), Summer (June-August), Fall (September-November)

Fishing License

Fishing Tips

Brandenburg Lake’s 25-foot depth creates structure and thermoclines that hold fish year-round. Deeper water means walleye and bass hold to drop-offs in summer. The lake offers surprisingly good fishing for its size due to lower angling pressure.

Fishing Regulations

Bass: 6 daily/14in min. Walleye: 4 daily/14-18in slot. Muskie: 1 daily/48in min. Northern Pike: 3 daily/24in min.

History & Features

Historical Information

Brandenburg Lake is the largest and deepest of the five canal-connected lakes in the Chain O’Lakes system, formed by the retreat of the Wisconsin glacier thousands of years ago.

Its unusual depth of 25 feet is notable given its relatively small 75-acre size, likely the result of a deeper glacial depression in this section of the Fox River Valley.

One of five lakes connected by small canals and channels (Duck Lake, Long Lake, Spring Lake, Dunns Lake, and Brandenburg Lake) rather than the main Fox River channel. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes including the Miami, Mascouten, and Potawatomi.

Notable Features

Deepest Canal Lake β€” At 25 feet max depth, Brandenburg is significantly deeper than the other four canal-connected lakes, creating unique fishing structure.

Thermal Refuge β€” The deeper water stays cooler in summer, attracting species that avoid the warmer shallow lakes.

Largest Hidden Lake β€” At 75 acres, Brandenburg is substantially larger than the other canal lakes, offering more room to explore.

Low Pressure Fishing β€” Receives far less angling pressure than the main Chain lakes, meaning fish populations are healthy and less wary.

Safety Information

Deeper than expected for a small lake – 25 foot max depth. Canal access only with small to mid-size boats recommended. Fox Waterway Agency sticker required.

Lake Gallery

Connected Lakes

Duck Lake

Long Lake

Spring Lake

Dunns Lake

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