Fishing Fun: 5 Wisconsin State Parks to Reel in the Big One

From glacier-carved formations to serene lakes and ancient forests, Wisconsin’s state parks showcase some of the Midwest’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking rugged adventure or peaceful scenery, the state’s diverse state parks offer unforgettable outdoor experiences. Here are some of the best to explore from a private boat slip for rent or a local marina.

1. Devil’s Lake State Park

The crown jewel of Wisconsin’s park system, Baraboo’s Devil’s Lake State Park is famous for its dramatic quartzite bluffs rising high above a deep and mirror-like lake. The lake is about 360 acres and 40 feet deep. Brown trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and panfish. There’s a boat launch for kayaks and electric boats on the North Shore.

Rock climbers flock to its sheer cliffs, while hikers enjoy over 29 miles of trails, including the iconic Balanced Rock and East Bluff routes. Swimming beaches, campgrounds and vibrant fall colors make it a year-round favorite for anglers to check out from a boat slip for rent near me, marinas and private boat lifts for rent.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, panfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, kayak, electric boats (gas motors are prohibited)

2. Peninsula State Park

Located on Door County’s Green Bay shoreline, in Fish Creek, Peninsula State Park offers sweeping water views, historic sites and excellent recreation. Enjoy cycling along the Sunset Trail, exploring the century-old Eagle Bluff Lighthouse or casting for rock bass, smallmouth bass and brown trout.

The park offers two accessible piers — one at Nicolet Bay and one at Weborg Point — making it perfect for pier fishing. Kayaking, golf and scenic campsites add to the park’s appeal. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, brown trout, rock trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, pier

3. Governor Dodge State Park

Stretching across the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, the 5,000-acre Governor Dodge State Park, in Dodgeville, features rugged terrain, sandstone cliffs and two lakes perfect for paddling, swimming and fishing. Reel in largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike and trout in its two lakes (Cox Hollow and Twin Valley).

The park offers scenic hills, valleys, and accessible water for boating and fishing. You can launch electric-motor boats or kayaks/canoes, since gas motors are prohibited. Ice fishing is popular in the winter. In addition to fishing, it’s an ideal spot for hikers and nature lovers seeking varied scenery. Highlights include the picturesque Stephens Falls and numerous horse-friendly trails.

• Water: Fresh 
• Key Species: Bluegill, northern pike, trout, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Electric boats (gas motors are prohibited), shore, kayak, canoe, ice

4. Kohler-Andrae State Park

Situated along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, Kohler-Andrae State Park in Sheboygan is known for its beautiful sand dunes, boardwalk trails and peaceful beaches. The park’s small fishing pond doesn’t have a formal boat launch, which makes it perfect for a peaceful day with the family. Enjoy pier, shore and canoe fishing. The Dunes Cordwalk provides a unique trek through shifting landscapes, while birdwatchers can enjoy abundant migratory species. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, salmon, bass, yellow perch, rainbow trout
• Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak, pier

5. Copper Falls State Park

One of Wisconsin’s most striking natural treasures, Copper Falls State Park features cascading waterfalls, deep gorges and lava-formed rock. Located in Mellon, the park offers anglers the chance to fish for brook, brown and rainbow trout in the Bad River and Tyler Forks River.

Loon Lake features shoreline access, an accessible fishing pier and a small boat launch (canoes, kayaks and electric motors only). The Doughboys’ Nature Trail showcases some of the state’s most dramatic scenery, making it a must-see for hikers and photographers.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Northern pike, largemouth bass, panfish, brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout
• Fishing Type: Shore, pier, electric boats, kayak, canoe

From forests and waterfalls to dunes and bluffs, Wisconsin’s state parks offer endless adventures and stunning natural beauty to grab a pole and cast a line. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a summer-long exploration, these parks provide the perfect invitation to experience the best of the Badger State’s great outdoors whether you’re visiting from private boat docks for rent or local marinas.