May 2, 2024

Green Bay Fishing & Boating: Popular Destinations in Green Bay, WI

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Popular Boating and Fishing Destinations in and around Green Bay, WI

Welcome to Green Bay: A Boater’s Paradise

Nestled along the majestic Lake Michigan, Green Bay, WI, holds a treasure trove of waterborne adventures and a vibrant community where the boating and fishing culture runs deep. With its extensive waterways, this picturesque city offers something for every angler and adventurer. It’s a place where the sunrise doesn’t just signal a new day; it beckons everyone to make lasting memories on the water. 

Named by Boating Magazine as one of the top 10 places to live and boat, the “...innermost point of the Lake Michigan bay… offers splendid fishing [and a safe harbor for] adventuring boaters.” (Boating Magazine, May 9, 2021). Every season in Green Bay offers a new palette of experiences, from the icy adventures of winter fishing to the serene beauty of summer sailing. Whether you’re a seasoned pro trolling for trophy walleye or a family seeking a relaxing holiday on the water, Green Bay's delightful blend of experiences makes it an ideal destination for every traveler.

Top Fishing Spots in Green Bay

The waters of Green Bay are teeming with life, offering some of the best fishing spots in the Midwest. Renowned for its diverse fish population, anglers can expect to reel in everything from walleye and northern pike to smallmouth bass and the coveted musky. 

Here are some of the most popular spots to cast your line:

• Fox River: With its famed trophy walleye population, the Fox River is a must-visit for serious anglers. Every year, this legendary waterway produces impressive catches, with many exceeding the 20-inch mark during the spring spawning season. 
• The Bay of Green Bay: The Green Bay’s vast expanse offers year-round fishing opportunities. In early spring and fall, walleye congregate near the river mouths, while summer brings them to deeper waters. You’ll also find excellent populations of smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and even the elusive muskellunge in deeper areas. 
• Sturgeon Bay: Separating Door Peninsula from the rest of Wisconsin, Sturgeon Bay serves as a gateway to the waterways of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. This unique geographic location provides diverse habitats for various fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers. Its reputation for large smallmouth bass, in particular, makes it a bucket-list destination for bass fishermen.

Remember, fishing in any state waters without a Wisconsin fishing license, stamp privilege, or tag is illegal. Be sure to check local regulations to have an enjoyable and hassle-free fishing experience (eRegulations, n.d.).

Guide to Green Bay’s Boat Launches

Water access is easy, with numerous boat launches available throughout the city. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular launches in Green Bay, WI:

• Metro Boat Launch: Conveniently located downtown, this launch is surrounded by the picturesque shores of Green Bay. It also offers ample parking and multiple ramps, making it an ideal starting point for your journey on the bay. 
• Suamico Village Boat Launch: Situated north of Green Bay, this launch is a gateway to the quieter parts of the bay, making it an ideal jump-off point for those seeking a peaceful day on the water.  
• Oconto Breakwater Park & Harbor: This one-acre park is joined by the mouth of the Oconto River and the Bay of Green Bay. In addition to boat launches, the park offers fishing areas, dining options, and relaxing scenery.  

Remember, these are just a few of the many public boat launches in and around the Green Bay area. Check launch websites, search for “boat docks near me,” or contact local authorities for the latest information on fees, hours of operation, and launch regulations. 

Local Insights: Green Bay Fishing Guides

While the waters of Green Bay offer abundant fishing opportunities, navigating its vast expanse can be daunting for the uninitiated. Fortunately, Green Bay boasts a community of experienced and passionate fishing guides who can elevate your experience. 

Here are a couple of reputable Green Bay fishing guide services to consider:

• Epic Guide Service: Their fishing services include walleye, muskie, and smallmouth bass fishing on Green Bay and surrounding areas throughout the spring and summer. During the winter, they offer Great Lakes trout fishing charters near the Milwaukee area. 
• Alexander’s Sport Fishing: This fishing guide service offers the unique opportunity to fish with professionals with over 25 years of experience in the local waters of northeast Wisconsin. Whether you want to tick trophy fish off your bucket list or simply have a fun day on the water, these guys will ensure you have a great time. 

These local experts have an intimate knowledge of the area’s waterways, fish populations, and seasonal patterns. Hiring a guide can significantly increase your chances of catching your target fish while providing valuable insights into the local ecosystem. 

Boating Essentials: Where to Gear Up

To fully enjoy your Green Bay boating and fishing experience, you need the right equipment. Luckily, the area is home to several top-notch shops and dealers that can cater to all your boating needs. 

Here are a few shops to consider:

• Smokey’s on the Bay: This fishing tackle shop offers a full line of live bait and tackle for all species, including a wide selection of musky tackle. It’s also the only place in town where you can get lures in any color pattern. 
• Mr. Outboard’s Watersports Marine: This shop has been serving the Green Bay and Fox Valley areas for 60 years, carrying high-quality boat brands. Visit them before your fishing expedition for preventive maintenance, repairs, and other services.
• Swamp Donkey Bait & Tackle: This is your go-to bait shop if you’re walleye fishing on the Fox River. Customers rave about their solid combination of good prices and excellent service. You can find them on Broadway Street in De Pere, WI. 

If you’re thinking of going all in on the Green Bay boating lifestyle, building your dream waterfront with ShoreMaster is a no-brainer. From floating dock systems and drive-on personal watercraft ports to boat lifts and dock accessories, our innovative products combine safety, reliability, and convenience, allowing you to focus on enjoying what you love about Green Bay’s waters. 

Visit boat lift dealers near me, or contact us today, and we’ll connect you with one of our local dealers in the Green Bay area. 

References:

• Boating Magazine (May 9, 2021). The 10 Best Places to Live and Boat. Retrieved from https://www.boatingmag.com/10-best-places-to-live-boat/ 
• eRegulations ( n.d.). Statewide Fishing Restrictions (Wisconsin). Retrieved from https://www.eregulations.com/wisconsin/fishing/general-information