What You'll Find at Little Tail Point

Little Tail Point is a shallow-water fishery on the western shore of Green Bay, near the town of Sturgeon Bay in Door County. The point juts into the bay and creates a natural gathering place for walleye and northern pike, especially during spring and fall. The water here rarely exceeds 20 feet, and much of the productive area sits between 8 and 15 feet — conditions that make this a strong choice for anglers who prefer working shallow structure without long boat runs.

The point itself is a hard-bottom area with scattered rocks and some weed growth in summer. This combination draws feeding fish and holds them predictably. Because the water is shallow and the bottom is firm, you can work the area with confidence even in moderate wind, though the bay can chop up quickly when weather turns.

Key Takeaways

  • Little Tail Point holds walleye year-round, with peak activity in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October).
  • Access is by boat only; the nearest public launch is at Sturgeon Bay's city marina or at nearby Potawatomi State Park.
  • Walleye respond best to live bait (shiners or crawfish) and jigs tipped with minnows; pike will take larger presentations including crankbaits and spinnerbaits.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations require a current license and inland trout stamp; walleye and pike have separate daily bag limits that change by season.
  • The point is exposed to Green Bay's weather and can become rough quickly, so check conditions before heading out and carry a working radio.

When to Fish Little Tail Point

Spring (April and May) is the most reliable season. Walleye move shallow to spawn and feed heavily before and after the spawn, and the point becomes a natural staging area. Water temperatures in the low to mid-50s trigger aggressive feeding, and you can catch fish throughout the day, though dawn and dusk remain most productive.

Fall (September through October) offers a second strong window. As water cools in the 50s and 60s, walleye return to shallow structure to feed before winter. Pike are also active during this period and grow more aggressive as they prepare for cold months. Summer fishing is possible but slower — fish move deeper during midday heat, and you'll have better success early and late in the day.

Winter fishing is not practical here. Green Bay freezes, and the shallow water at Little Tail Point makes ice conditions unpredictable. Most anglers move to other Green Bay locations or switch to inland lakes during the ice season.

How to Reach Little Tail Point

You must fish this area by boat. The nearest public launch is at Sturgeon Bay's city marina, located on the bay side of town near the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. The launch has multiple ramps, parking, and facilities. From the marina, Little Tail Point is roughly 2 to 3 miles north — a short run in calm conditions but one that requires attention to weather.

Potawatomi State Park, also in Sturgeon Bay, has a smaller public launch and is another option if the city marina is crowded. Both launches charge a daily fee for non-residents; Wisconsin residents with a current fishing license may launch free at state park facilities.

Once on the water, use your GPS to locate the point itself. The structure is not dramatic — it's a gradual shoal rather than a sharp drop — so a quality fish finder is essential for identifying the productive zone. The point extends roughly north-south, and most fish hold on the western and northern edges where the bottom transitions from shallow to deeper water.

Tactics and Tackle for Walleye and Pike

Walleye at Little Tail Point respond well to live-bait presentations. Rig a 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jig head with a live shiner or small crawfish and work it slowly along the bottom. Cast toward shallower water and retrieve with a lift-and-drop motion, keeping the bait in contact with the bottom. Jigging works in any light condition and is especially effective when the sun is high and fish are less willing to chase.

Crankbaits and spinners also work, particularly in low-light conditions or when fish are actively feeding. A shallow-running crankbait (2 to 6 feet) allows you to cover water quickly and locate active fish. Spinners with a #3 or #4 blade create vibration and flash that pike find hard to ignore.

Pike will take the same presentations as walleye but often prefer larger offerings. If pike are your target, use bigger shiners (4 to 6 inches), larger jigs (1/4 to 3/8 ounce), and heavier spinnerbaits. Pike also respond to soft plastics — 4- to 6-inch swimbaits or paddle-tail shads worked on a jig head can produce strikes when live bait is slow.

Use a 6- to 7-foot medium-action rod with 8- to 12-pound braided line for jigging. Braided line provides sensitivity and allows you to feel the bottom and detect subtle bites. A fluorocarbon leader (12 to 15 pounds) reduces visibility in clear water. For pike, consider a short wire or heavy fluorocarbon bite leader to prevent break-offs.

Wisconsin Regulations and Licensing

You must carry a current Wisconsin fishing license. Licenses are available online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods retailers, and at many bait shops in Sturgeon Bay. A license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Walleye and pike have separate daily bag limits and size restrictions that vary by season and water body. For Green Bay walleye, the typical limit is 5 fish per day with a 15-inch minimum size, but limits can change. Pike have a 1-fish daily limit on Green Bay with a 24-inch minimum. Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you fish — limits and seasons change, and it is your responsibility to know the rules for the specific date and location.

An inland trout stamp is required if you plan to fish inland lakes during your trip, though it is not needed for Green Bay. The stamp costs a small additional fee and is purchased with your license.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Green Bay can change quickly. Little Tail Point is exposed to the open bay, and wind from the north or east can build waves in a matter of hours. Check the marine forecast before launching, and do not fish if conditions are forecast to deteriorate. Carry a working VHF radio or cell phone, wear a properly fitted life jacket, and let someone on shore know where you are fishing and when you expect to return.

The shallow water at Little Tail Point means you can run aground if you are not paying attention to your depth finder. Know your boat's draft and stay alert, especially when moving between the launch and the fishing area. In spring, debris from winter can be present in the water — keep your speed moderate until you are familiar with the area.

Nearby Alternatives and Services

If Little Tail Point is crowded or conditions are poor, several other Green Bay locations near Sturgeon Bay hold walleye and pike. The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal itself is a popular spot for walleye, especially in spring. Egg Harbor and Fish Creek, both north of Sturgeon Bay, have public launches and access to similar shallow-water structure.

Sturgeon Bay has multiple bait and tackle shops where you can buy live bait, tackle, and current fishing information. Local guides operate out of the city marina and can provide detailed knowledge of seasonal patterns and current conditions. A half-day or full-day guide trip is a practical way to learn the area if you are new to Green Bay fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day to fish Little Tail Point?

Dawn and dusk are most productive, but walleye bite throughout the day in spring and fall when water is cool. Summer fishing is slower during midday heat — focus on early morning and evening. Overcast days often produce better fishing than bright, sunny conditions.

Do I need a guide to fish Little Tail Point?

No, but a guide is helpful if you are unfamiliar with Green Bay. The point itself is not hard to locate with GPS, but understanding seasonal patterns and current conditions takes experience. A local guide can save time and increase your catch rate, especially on your first trip.

Can I fish Little Tail Point from shore?

No. The point is accessible only by boat. There is no public shoreline access at the point itself. If you do not have a boat, consider hiring a guide or renting one from a local marina in Sturgeon Bay.

What should I do if the weather turns bad while I'm on the water?

Return to the launch immediately. Do not wait for conditions to improve. Green Bay can become dangerous quickly, and the run back to Sturgeon Bay is short enough that you can reach safety in a few minutes if you leave early.

Are there restrictions on boat size or motor type at Little Tail Point?

No specific restrictions apply to the fishing area itself. However, check with the Sturgeon Bay city marina or Potawatomi State Park about launch facility rules, which may include horsepower limits or vessel registration requirements.