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The South boat ramp at Otter Lake provides mid-lake access on the north side of Emmerson Airline Road in Stanley. This 602-acre lake in Chippewa County is designated for **non-motorized boats only**, making it ideal for kayakers and canoeists. The ramp is part of the Otter Lake Recreation Area, which sits about 12 miles southeast of Tomahawk and includes a park office/bait shop (located on the south side of the road), picnic areas, grills, nature trails, water pump, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors.
Paddlers should be aware that many of Otter Lake's banks are steep-sided and lined with riprap, so exercise caution near shore. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 43 feet and offers good fishing opportunities for panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. A **no-wake zone is enforced from 7:30 PM to 11:00 AM**, which benefits paddlers seeking quieter water conditions during early morning and evening hours. A sandy swimming beach is also available for recreation and rest.