What You'll Find at Lake Noquebay

Lake Noquebay is a 1,400-acre inland lake in Florence County in northeastern Wisconsin, roughly 20 miles south of the Michigan border. The lake holds a solid population of walleye and northern pike, with some panfish mixed in. The water is relatively clear and moderately deep, with depths reaching into the 60-foot range in the deepest basins. Unlike some of Wisconsin's more crowded lakes, Noquebay stays quieter — you'll see other anglers, but not crowds, especially outside summer weekends.

The lake has two public boat launches: one at the north end near the town of Noquebay and one at the south end. Both are maintained by Florence County and offer parking and basic facilities. The surrounding landscape is typical of northern Wisconsin — mixed hardwood and conifer forest, with residential development scattered along the shoreline but not overwhelming. Shoreline access for bank fishing is limited; most productive fishing happens from a boat.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye and northern pike are the primary species, with walleye fishing best in spring and fall and pike available year-round.
  • Two public boat launches serve the lake, one at each end, with parking and basic facilities at both.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations apply; you need a current fishing license and must follow statewide bag limits and size restrictions.
  • The lake is accessible year-round, but ice-out typically occurs in late April, and ice forms again by late November or early December.

Walleye Fishing: Spring and Fall Peak

Walleye are the primary draw at Lake Noquebay. Spring fishing — from ice-out through May — is often the most productive period. As water temperatures rise from the low 40s to the mid-50s, walleye move from deep winter holes into shallower structure. Focus on the transition zones where deeper basins meet flats, particularly near rocky points and drop-offs. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well; cast toward structure and work the bait slowly along the bottom.

Fall fishing, from September through October, mirrors spring in many ways. Water temperatures cool from summer highs back into the 50s and 60s, and walleye again move into more accessible depths. Evening and night fishing often outperforms daytime during summer, but fall days can be productive throughout. Trolling crankbaits along breaklines — the edges where shallow flats drop into deeper water — is a reliable tactic. Summer walleye fishing is possible but slower; fish move deep and become less active in the heat.

Walleye in Wisconsin are subject to a statewide bag limit of six fish per day, with a 15-inch minimum size. Check the current Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change year to year.

Northern Pike and Panfish

Northern pike are present year-round and offer a different kind of fishing. Pike in Noquebay typically range from 18 to 28 inches, with occasional larger fish. They respond well to larger baits and lures — live shiners or suckers, or pike-sized crankbaits and spinnerbaits. Weed edges and shallow bays hold pike, especially in spring and early summer. Pike fishing remains decent through summer and into fall, though like walleye they become less active in the deepest heat.

Panfish — bluegill, crappie, and perch — are present but secondary to walleye and pike. They're scattered throughout the lake and can provide a quieter day of fishing or a good option if walleye aren't cooperating. Panfish regulations are more generous than walleye; check current WDNR rules for bag limits and size restrictions, which vary by species.

Seasons and Ice Conditions

Lake Noquebay is fishable from ice-out through freeze-up. Ice typically breaks up in late April, though the exact date varies by a week or two depending on winter severity. The lake is generally safe for ice fishing by mid-December and remains frozen through March. Winter fishing for walleye and pike is possible but requires proper equipment and safety precautions — always check ice thickness before venturing out, and never fish alone on unfamiliar ice.

Summer (June through August) is the busiest season on the lake, with more recreational traffic and more anglers. Water temperatures reach the high 70s, which pushes walleye deeper and makes them less active during the day. Fall (September through October) is often considered the best overall season — good walleye fishing, fewer crowds than summer, and pleasant weather. Spring (April through May) is also excellent for walleye and offers solitude, though weather can be unpredictable.

Access, Regulations, and What to Bring

Both boat launches are free and open to the public. The north launch is accessed from County Road N near the town of Noquebay; the south launch is off County Road M. Parking is available at both, though spaces can fill on summer weekends. The launches accommodate most trailer boats, though they're not elaborate facilities — expect a basic concrete ramp and parking lot.

You must have a current Wisconsin fishing license to fish Lake Noquebay. Licenses are sold online through the WDNR website, at sporting goods stores, and at many bait shops in the area. Bring a depth finder if you have one — it helps locate structure and the transition zones where walleye hold. A good quality rod and reel setup for walleye (medium-light to medium action) and another for pike (medium to medium-heavy) will cover most situations. Live bait — minnows and shiners — can be purchased at local bait shops in Florence or nearby towns.

Nearby Services and Lodging

The town of Florence, about 15 miles south, is the nearest hub for services. It has a few small motels, a grocery store, and a couple of bait and tackle shops. For more extensive lodging and dining options, Crandon (about 25 miles south) and Iron River, Michigan (about 20 miles north) offer more choices. Gas stations and convenience stores are scattered throughout the area but not immediately adjacent to the lake itself.

The lake is in a remote part of Wisconsin, so plan ahead for supplies. Cell service can be spotty, and the nearest hospital is in Florence or Crandon. If you're planning a multi-day trip, bring what you need or plan to drive to a larger town for resupply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Lake Noquebay?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most productive for walleye. Summer is busier with recreational traffic and slower fishing. Winter ice fishing is possible but requires proper safety precautions and equipment.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Noquebay?

A boat is strongly recommended. Shoreline access is limited, and most productive fishing happens from the water. Both public launches are free and accommodate trailer boats.

What size walleye can I keep?

Wisconsin's statewide minimum size for walleye is 15 inches, with a bag limit of six fish per day. Check the current WDNR regulations before you fish, as rules can change.

Is Lake Noquebay crowded?

It's quieter than many Wisconsin lakes, especially outside summer weekends. You'll encounter other anglers, but not the crowds found on larger, more famous lakes.

Can I fish Lake Noquebay in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible from mid-December through March. Always verify ice thickness before going out, and never fish alone on unfamiliar ice.