One word to describe a Green Bay fishing experience? Unforgettable. It functions as an arm of Lake Michigan, which means it’s home to just as many fantastic species as the Great Lake itself. Stretching almost 120 miles from Big Bay de Noc to the mouth of the Fox River, there’s an impressive number of departure points to choose from, as well as additional waterways to explore. Time to grab your rods and reels and pay a visit to “La Baie Verte”!
Its proximity to Lake Michigan, as well as the Fox River, means that a whole host fish call Green Bay’s waters home. The bay itself is a world-famous Walleye fishery, especially during mid-spring, when they school up on the offshore reefs. There’s also a brag-worthy population of Muskies, and Smallmouth Bass can be found in shallow waters in early summer. Salmon and Trout occasionally make an appearance. And when winter comes, and the bay freezes? Time to ice fish for Walleye and Whitefish!
As well as the main bay, you can also explore Sturgeon Bay. Walleye, Musky, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, and Perch can all be found here at different times of the year. Then there’s the Fox River, Green Bay’s principal tributary and a real fishing hotspot. Every spring, it turns into a spawning ground for Walleye, but that doesn’t mean that the angling action is limited to this season only. You can test your skills against these fish all year round!
You’ll find a whole host of Green Bay fishing charters dotted all around the shoreline of this body of water, with the city of Sturgeon Bay being a popular starting point. Local guides offer a variety of trips, from shorter adventures that are the perfect taster for newbies, to full day excursions for anglers looking to hit their Walleye limit.
Rules & Regulations
You’ll need to purchase a Wisconsin fishing license in order to enjoy these prolific waters. Some species such as Trout and Salmon require an additional stamp, and your guide will be able to tell you more about this.