What Millers Bay Offers

Millers Bay is a shallow, protected embayment on the western shore of Green Bay, near the town of Oconto. The bay holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in water that rarely exceeds 15 feet deep. It is a working commercial fishing area and a popular spot for recreational anglers targeting walleye in spring and fall, and pike year-round. The bay's shallow structure, weed beds, and proximity to the Oconto River make it distinct from the deeper, rockier sections of Green Bay proper.

Access is straightforward: public boat launches exist at Oconto and nearby communities, and the bay is protected enough that small boats and even kayaks can fish it safely on calm days. The real appeal here is that you can fish walleye and pike without the long runs across open water that Green Bay's main basin demands. If you are new to the bay or to Wisconsin walleye fishing, Millers Bay is more forgiving than deeper offshore structure.

Key Takeaways

  • Millers Bay holds walleye and northern pike in shallow water (under 15 feet), making it accessible to small boats and anglers without offshore experience.
  • Spring and fall are peak walleye seasons; pike bite year-round but are most active in cooler months.
  • Public boat launches at Oconto and nearby towns provide direct access; no special permits are required beyond a Wisconsin fishing license.
  • Weed beds and the Oconto River mouth are the most productive areas; focus on structure rather than open water.
  • Wisconsin regulations require a current fishing license and set specific size and bag limits for walleye and pike that change annually.

Seasons and What Fish Are Biting

Walleye fishing in Millers Bay peaks in spring (April through May) and again in fall (September through October). During these windows, walleye move into shallower water to feed, and the bay's protected structure concentrates them. Spring fishing often begins as soon as the ice clears and water temperatures climb above 40 degrees. Fall fishing can be excellent through October, though it tapers as water cools below 50 degrees.

Summer walleye fishing is slower because fish move deeper and into cooler water; many anglers shift focus to pike or panfish during June, July, and August. Northern pike are present year-round and bite consistently in spring and fall, but winter (under the ice) and early summer are also productive if you are targeting them specifically. Panfish—bluegill, crappie, and perch—are available throughout the open-water season and offer a reliable option when walleye are sluggish.

How to Access Millers Bay

The primary public boat launch for Millers Bay is at Oconto, located on the Oconto River where it meets the bay. The Oconto launch is a concrete ramp maintained by the city and is free to use with a valid Wisconsin fishing license. From the launch, the bay is immediately accessible—no long run required. Parking is available, and the facility typically has restrooms.

Alternative launches nearby include facilities at Pensaukee (south of Oconto) and at various town landings along the bay's shoreline. Check with the Oconto County Parks Department or local town offices for current conditions and any seasonal closures. Most launches are open year-round for ice fishing as well, though winter access can be limited by snow removal schedules.

Regulations and Licensing

Wisconsin requires a current fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are sold online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, at sporting goods stores, and at many bait shops near Oconto. A daily license costs less than a season license if you fish only occasionally; season licenses are available for residents and non-residents at different rates.

Walleye and pike have specific size and bag limits that are set annually by the Wisconsin DNR. As of recent seasons, walleye typically have a 15-inch minimum size with a daily bag limit of five fish; northern pike have a 24-inch minimum with a daily limit of one fish. These limits can change, so check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you go. The DNR publishes a free regulation booklet available online and at license vendors.

Where to Fish Within the Bay

The Oconto River mouth is the most productive area in Millers Bay, especially during spring and fall walleye runs. Fish the current breaks where the river meets the bay, and work the deeper channel edges where walleye stage before moving into shallower feeding areas. Weed beds throughout the bay hold both walleye and pike; focus on the edges of vegetation rather than the dense center.

Shallow flats with sand and gravel substrate are good for walleye in spring; as water warms, fish move to deeper weed lines and channel edges. Pike are less predictable but often hold near structure—fallen trees, rock piles, and weed edges. If you are new to the bay, a local guide or bait shop can point you toward current hot spots, as seasonal conditions and water levels shift the productive areas year to year.

Tackle and Techniques

For walleye, live bait (shiners, minnows, crawfish) under a slip sinker rig is a reliable approach in Millers Bay's shallow water. Jigging with soft plastics or live minnows is also effective, especially in spring when fish are concentrated. Casting crankbaits and spinners can work during low-light periods (dawn, dusk, and overcast days).

Pike respond to larger baits and lures—live shiners or herring under a bobber, or casting large spinnerbaits and swimbaits. Trolling is less common in Millers Bay because the water is shallow and the bay is small, but casting and jigging are the standard methods. Panfish can be caught on small jigs, live minnows, or waxworms under a bobber in any of the shallow areas.

Nearby Services and Lodging

Oconto is a small town with basic services: gas, groceries, and a few restaurants. Several bait and tackle shops operate in and around Oconto and can provide current conditions, local knowledge, and supplies. Lodging options include motels and bed-and-breakfasts in Oconto; larger hotel chains are in nearby Green Bay (about 30 miles south).

If you are planning a multi-day trip, Oconto offers a quieter alternative to Green Bay's busier tourism infrastructure. The town is also close to other Green Bay fishing opportunities, so combining a Millers Bay trip with time on the main bay or the Fox River is practical. Check ahead for seasonal hours at local shops, especially in winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Millers Bay?

A boat makes fishing easier and gives you access to deeper structure, but shore fishing is possible at the Oconto River mouth and along some public shoreline. Kayaks work well in calm conditions because the bay is shallow and protected. Many anglers also fish from the Oconto River itself, which flows into the bay.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are peak seasons for walleye. If you target pike or panfish, summer is also productive. Winter ice fishing is popular but requires checking ice thickness and local conditions before heading out.

Can I fish Millers Bay in winter?

Yes. Ice fishing for walleye and pike is common once the bay freezes solid (usually by late December). Check ice thickness reports and local conditions before going. The Oconto launch and nearby access points remain available for ice anglers.

What size fish can I keep?

Walleye must be at least 15 inches; northern pike must be at least 24 inches. Daily bag limits are five walleye and one pike per person. Confirm current regulations with the Wisconsin DNR before fishing, as limits can change annually.

Where can I buy bait and tackle?

Bait shops in Oconto and nearby towns stock live minnows, shiners, and tackle. Larger sporting goods stores in Green Bay carry a wider selection. Call ahead during off-season to confirm hours, especially in winter.