Interfalls Lake is a small, shallow warmwater lake inside Pattison State Park near Superior, Wisconsin

Interfalls Lake sits within Pattison State Park, a 1,200-acre park in Douglas County about 10 miles south of Superior. The lake itself is roughly 23 acres, shallow (maximum depth around 20 feet), and holds warmwater species — primarily largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish including bluegill and crappie. The park is known for its waterfalls on the Bois Brule River, but the lake offers a quieter fishing option without the river current and crowds.

Access is straightforward: the park has a boat launch on Interfalls Lake, parking, and basic facilities. The setting is wooded and relatively undeveloped, which keeps pressure light compared to larger regional lakes. If you are targeting bass or pike in a small, manageable water body close to Superior, this is a practical choice.

Key Takeaways

  • Interfalls Lake holds largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish in shallow water that rarely exceeds 20 feet deep.
  • The park boat launch provides direct access; no portage is required, and parking is available near the water.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations apply, including a current fishing license and species-specific bag limits that vary by season.
  • Spring and fall typically produce the best fishing as water temperatures favor active feeding in shallow lakes.
  • The park charges a daily or annual vehicle admission fee separate from any fishing license cost.

Species, Seasons, and What Bites

Largemouth bass are the primary draw. They inhabit the shallow structure — weed beds, fallen timber, and the lake margins — and respond to topwater lures, soft plastics, and spinnerbaits, especially in spring (April through June) and fall (September through October). Summer fishing is possible but slower as fish move deeper and seek cooler water; early morning and evening produce better results.

Northern pike share the same habitat and are caught incidentally on bass lures, though dedicated pike anglers use larger presentations and live bait. Panfish (bluegill, crappie) are abundant in shallow bays and around vegetation; they bite consistently throughout the open-water season and are a reliable option if bass are slow.

Winter ice fishing occurs when the lake freezes solid, typically December through February. Panfish and pike are the target species under the ice; check current ice thickness with the park office before venturing out.

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 retailers, and at some bait shops near Superior. A three-day license is available if you do not want a full-year permit.

Bag limits and size restrictions vary by species and change annually. As of recent seasons, largemouth bass have a 5-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum size; northern pike allow 1 fish per day with a 24-inch minimum; panfish (bluegill and crappie combined) allow 25 fish per day. Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you fish, as these can shift. The DNR publishes a free regulation booklet available online and at license vendors.

Pattison State Park charges a vehicle admission fee (daily or annual pass). The park is open year-round, though facilities may be limited in winter.

Getting to the Lake and Launching

From Superior, take US 2 south approximately 10 miles to Pattison State Park. Follow signs to the park entrance and the boat launch area. The launch is a concrete ramp suitable for small to medium boats and canoes. Parking is available near the launch; the lot fills on weekends during peak season but rarely reaches capacity on weekdays.

The lake is small enough that a canoe, kayak, or small motorboat covers the entire water body in an hour. No horsepower restrictions are posted, but the shallow depth and weed growth mean trolling is less practical than casting from a drifting boat or stationary position.

If you do not have a boat, shore fishing is possible along the park's shoreline, though access points are limited. Ask at the park office for current shore-fishing locations.

When to Fish and What the Water Is Like

Spring (April through June) is prime time. Water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 60s, triggering aggressive feeding in bass and pike. Weed growth is moderate, making navigation and casting easier than mid-summer.

Summer (July through August) slows the bite. Weeds become thick, water temperatures exceed 70 degrees, and fish move to deeper holes or the shadiest cover. Early morning (before 8 a.m.) and evening (after 6 p.m.) are your best windows. Panfish remain active all day in deeper pockets.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring. Cooling water and shorter days trigger another feeding window. Bass and pike move shallower again, and the weed die-off opens up casting lanes.

Winter ice fishing runs December through February, depending on ice thickness. The park office can advise on current conditions.

Nearby Amenities and What to Bring

Pattison State Park has a picnic area, vault toilets, and a small visitor center. There is no on-site bait shop or rental facility. Bring your own boat, canoe, or kayak, or arrange a rental from a Superior outfitter before arriving.

The nearest town with services (gas, food, lodging, tackle shops) is Superior, about 10 miles north. Stock up on bait, tackle, and supplies before heading to the park.

Bring sunscreen, insect repellent (especially in summer), a life jacket, and weather-appropriate clothing. The lake is shallow and relatively protected, but wind can pick up quickly in spring and fall.

Why Interfalls Lake Works for Different Anglers

For beginners or families, the small size and abundance of panfish make this a low-pressure introduction to fishing. You can cover the whole lake in a few hours and catch fish consistently without advanced technique.

For bass and pike anglers, the shallow structure and light pressure mean fish are often aggressive and willing to bite. The weed beds and timber provide clear targets for casting. It is not a trophy lake, but it produces solid action.

For anglers based in Superior or Duluth, Interfalls Lake is a quick outing — no long drive, no crowded launch, and a genuine chance to catch fish in a few hours. The park setting also offers a quieter alternative to busier regional lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Interfalls Lake?

A boat makes the lake much more productive because you can reach the deeper holes and weed beds. Shore fishing is possible but limited to a few access points; ask the park office where anglers are permitted to fish from shore.

What is the best lure for largemouth bass here?

Topwater lures, soft plastic worms, and spinnerbaits all work. In spring and fall, topwater produces explosive strikes. In summer, work soft plastics slowly around weed edges and timber in early morning or evening.

Can I fish in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible when the lake freezes solid, typically December through February. Panfish and pike are the main target. Confirm ice thickness with the park office before going out.

How much does it cost to fish here?

You pay the park vehicle admission fee (daily or annual pass) and the cost of a Wisconsin fishing license. The license varies by type (one-day, three-day, or annual) and is sold online or at retailers statewide.

Is there a bait shop at the park?

No. Bring your own tackle and bait, or purchase supplies in Superior before arriving. The park has basic facilities but no fishing-specific services.