• The Three Lakes Shootout 10th Anniversary

    Supporting High Performance Boating While Supporting Our Veterans

    The Three Lakes, Wisconsin area has a rich history and legacy of performance boating going back to the late 1930’s and 40’s. Many performance wood boats cruised the waters of the chain, which is located in north-central Wisconsin. As recent as the 90’s the APBA raced on Maple Lake right in downtown Three Lakes.


    The Three Lakes Shootout began 10 years ago with the mission of drawing tourists to this small town to help the local businesses that struggle during the short, ten week, summer season when visitors are attracted to this unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind vacation destination called the “Northwoods.” The Three Lakes Shootout Officials have worked hard to bring back performance boating to the waters of Three Lakes. They are grateful to share this special place with so many great people that truly respect and enjoy the gifts the Northwood’s offers.


    The Three Lakes chain consists of 20 connected lakes ranging from 123 to 1012 acres in size. Additionally, the chain connects to the Eagle River chain of lakes via a boat hoist. Together they form the largest chain of freshwater lakes in the world according to Wikipedia. This results in endless boating in what the locals refer to as “shared water,” meaning that water skiers, tubers, fishermen and women, pontoons, PWC’s, antique woodies and yes, performance boats can all enjoy their respective hobbies on the waterway while respecting the fact that others want to enjoy their hobby or sport. This delicate balance is achieved by locals and visitors who understand that sharing the resource also means everyone has personal responsibility to make sure that they do their part in “making it work” for everyone. The chain offers performance boaters several open areas to run fast, so long as they respect the no wake areas and navigate quietly through the narrow zones.


    Because the Shootout has become such an important summer event, it now supports one of the oldest Veteran’s service organizations in America. AMVETS was the first WWII organization to be chartered and signed into law by President Truman, on July 23, 1947. AMVETS’ stated purpose is to support America’s defenders, in particular because they continue to keep our country and people safe. The Three Lakes Shootout could not be more proud of using this event to benefit those in the local AMVETS Chapter supporting those have given so much without ever asking for thanks or recognition. “Freedom is never free!” We encourage you to visit www.AMVETS.org to learn more.


    Please consider this your personal invite to come and see the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. No matter how far you come from, it will be worth your while. The Shootout has had repeat participants from as far as New York and Florida. The event itself starts on Friday, June 23 with a boat parade and tour of the lakes in the afternoon. Friday evening there is a static boat show at Bonnie’s Lakeside Resort. Saturday is the Shootout which is a 1000’ radar run that goes most of the day. There are numerous classes where everyone can fit in and have a good time. Many have made a long weekend vacation out of this. Please come and join us at the Three Lakes Shootout, we hope to see you there!

    Three Lakes Shootout Photos by Janna Knueppel




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    Comments 1 Comment
    1. xcheesehd's Avatar
      xcheesehd -
      Thanks Greg for posting this.... And a BIG THANKS to Janna for the great pics as always.... Mark
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