If Lake Winnipesaukee is the big, boisterous elder brother of the New Hampshire boating family, Lake Winnisquam is the laidback younger sibling. While the “Big Lake” can be exciting, with cigarette boats and cabin cruisers zipping all around, Winnisquam is mellower—a more likely spot for pontoon boats, kayaks, and small fishing skiffs.

Our photographer captured a bit of magic on the water.

Sitting in the middle of the Lakes Region, the 4,000-acre Winnisquam has its own unique character. “You don’t get the chaos here,” says one longtime boater. “People here go tubing and waterskiing, but it’s not as busy [as Winnipesaukee]. If other boaters see you out there with little kids, they’ll stay away from the area.”

Winnisquam’s bucolic charm is likely related to its geography. The lake is 10 1/2 miles long but only 1 1/2 miles wide, which makes it ideal for quiet daytrips. There are three islands at the very northern end of the lake, plus one small island [Pot Island] in the center, but otherwise it’s smooth sailing.

One especially popular and peaceful spot is the loon sanctuary at the northern end of the lake. Maintained by the Loon Preservation Committee of Moultonborough, the area is roped off, but boaters and paddlers can still get close enough to get a good look at these iconic birds and hear their haunting calls.

The lake is pet friendly, in oh so many ways.

Another special place among Winnisquam boaters is the “sandbar,” just north of the Winnisquam Bridge (a.k.a., the “Mosquito Bridge”), which separates the northern part of the lake from the smaller southern basin. This shallow sand patch, which once connected to the mainland, has attracted social boaters for generations. Depending on the time of day and the season, folks may be anchored up, swimming, playing volleyball, enjoying a meal, or simply partying. On the July Fourth weekend, there can be as many as 50 boats gathered on the bar.

As important as boating is, many people are drawn to Winnisquam for the fishing. Rainbow trout, salmon, large and smallmouth bass, pickerel, and yellow perch are all found in the lake. However, Winnisquam is best known for its whopper lake trout, some topping 20 pounds. Salmon are also popular, and the New Hampshire Fish & Game Department stocks the lake with rainbow trout.

Of course, there’s plenty to do onshore around Winnisquam. The towns of Tilton and Laconia are home to numerous shops and restaurants catering to all kinds of tastes. Plus, there are museums, golf courses, state parks, farm stands, a walking/biking trail, and an educational nature center to explore.

So, whether it’s great fishing, a love of loons, or a more peaceful type of boating experience you seek, Winnisquam stands ready to deliver. It’s easy to see why so many boaters keep coming back to this lovely lake.