Fishing in Door County
Enjoy Some of Wisconsin’s Best Fishing Spots
Flanked on either side by Green Bay and Lake Michigan, the Door peninsula and Washington Island offer some the best fishing in the country. Sturgeon Bay, recently named by Bassmasters as one of the world’s best spots for bass fishing, is the hub of the angler community, but towns throughout the county have developed their fishing industries to make sure you land your best lunker.
5 Good-to-Knows About Fishing
- Fishing in Door County: While Sturgeon Bay may have been named the number one spot for bass fishing in the country, the rest of the county waters feature trout, salmon, whitefish, walleye, northern pike, and perch.
- Green Bay Fishing: The calmer waters of Green Bay will ensure a good harvest of brown trout and walleye in the spring and even more walleye in the fall. The Sturgeon Bay Canal and surrounding waters into Green Bay are where smallmouth bass are rampant.
- Lake Michigan Fishing: Launching from the east side of the peninsula, you can expect to find record trout and salmon. Gills Rock has frequently been the site of chinook salmon stocking by the DNR, and the open season for lake trout is March 1–October 31.
- Ice Fishing: In just the past few years, ice fishing in Door County has added to the winter appeal of the county. Whether you need a charter service to set you up out on the ice or want to launch your own boat onto the frozen water, this is your year-round fishing destination.
- Inland Lakes: At many of the county’s inland lakes you'll find panfish such as bluegill and perch. The calmer inland waters are some of the best fishing lakes in Wisconsin and allow anglers to fish from vessels as simple as kayaks.
Leave No Trace: Fishing Basics
Know Before You Go
Safety comes first when you’re on the water. Wear a life jacket when fishing on any water vessel. Use caution when baiting or removing hooks. Handle fish carefully, and, if using a knife, be sure your blade is sharp and probably stored when not in use.
When ice fishing in winter months, be aware of changing weather and ice conditions. Avoid going onto the ice if it has melted away from the shore. This indicates melting is underway, and ice can shift position as wind direction changes.
Trash Your Trash
Inspect your fishing area for leftover trash before leaving. Pack out all monofilament fishing line, leftover live bait, and bait cups. Monofilament fishing line in particular can be dangerous or potentially fatal for local wildlife who may swallow or become tangled in it.
Leave What You Find
After taking your boat out of the water and before storing it at a new location, be sure to clean, drain, and dry your vessel. This will help stop the spread of damaging invasive species, such as Zebra Mussels or Eurasian Water-Milfoil, from being introduced into new bodies of water in Door County and beyond.
Fishing Licenses
Most bait shops and fishing charters sell fishing licenses, which are required for all Wisconsin residents and out-of-state visitors over the age of 16. Depending on resident status and the license duration, a license can cost anywhere between $8–65. The state offers family licenses as well as multi-day licenses for anglers on a long weekend.
Fishing Charters, Guides, & Rentals
The county’s robust fishing industry is complemented by professional-level charter services and boat rentals that operate throughout the year, offering a no-hassle way to fish the waters of Door County. Most companies provide a guide and all the gear required to to catch, harvest, handle, process, and package your catch.Fishing & Water Guides
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Watch: Fishing in Door County
Fishing from a picturesque dock, casting a line from a local charter boat or spending the day in a shanty over the frozen lake, Door County is a perfect location for the avid fisherman or fisherwoman.
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