What You'll Find at Pershing Park

Pershing Park is a 23-acre urban park on Madison's east side that sits along the Yahara River, offering walk-in access to walleye, northern pike, and panfish without leaving the city. The park's shoreline and boat launch make it one of Madison's most accessible fishing spots, and the river here holds fish year-round, though seasons and regulations change what you can target and when.

The Yahara River at Pershing Park is part of a chain of lakes and river segments that runs through Dane County. The water is relatively shallow and weedy in many sections, which creates good habitat for pike and panfish but also means you need to know where the deeper holes and channels are to find walleye consistently. The park itself is free to enter, and there is no fee to fish — you need only a Wisconsin fishing license.

Key Takeaways

  • Pershing Park offers free walk-in and boat access to the Yahara River for walleye, pike, and panfish without a park fee.
  • Wisconsin fishing license is required; you can purchase one online at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at local retailers.
  • The river here is shallow and weedy, so pike and panfish are more reliable than walleye, which prefer deeper channels.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons; summer can be slow due to warm water and heavy weed growth.
  • Boat launch is available, but the river is narrow and winding — a kayak or small jon boat is more practical than a large rig.

Seasons and What to Fish For

Spring (April through May) brings the best walleye bite as fish move shallow to spawn and feed after winter. Jigs tipped with minnows or crawlers work well in the deeper holes near the park's boat launch and along the outside bends of the river. Pike are also active in spring and will hit larger lures and live baitfish.

Summer (June through August) slows considerably. Water warms, weeds thicken, and walleye retreat to the deepest holes. Panfish — bluegill, crappie, and sunfish — become the most reliable target. Early morning and evening produce better than midday. Pike remain present but are less aggressive in the heat.

Fall (September through October) is the second-best season. Walleye and pike feed heavily before winter, and cooler water pushes fish into shallower feeding zones. Jigs, crankbaits, and live bait all work. By late October, the bite can be excellent, though weather becomes unpredictable.

Winter (November through March) closes most of the Yahara River to fishing, but check current Wisconsin DNR regulations before planning a winter trip — some sections remain open under specific rules. Ice fishing is possible in some years, but ice conditions vary and should be verified locally.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

Pershing Park is located at 1202 East Main Street in Madison. Parking is available in a small lot near the river; the lot fills quickly on weekends, especially in spring. There is no fee to park or enter the park.

The boat launch is a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. The Yahara River is narrow and winding at this point, so large bass boats or pontoons are impractical. A kayak, canoe, or 16- to 18-foot jon boat is ideal. The launch can be muddy or slippery after rain.

Walk-in access is available along the park's shoreline. A paved path runs along part of the river, and you can fish from the bank in several spots. Restrooms are available in the park building, and there is a picnic area, but no bait shop or concessions on-site. Bring your own gear, bait, and supplies.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish at Pershing Park. Licenses are sold online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, at sporting goods stores, and at many grocery stores and gas stations. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is a good option if you are visiting for a short trip.

Walleye, pike, and panfish are all legal to keep, but size and bag limits apply. Walleye have a minimum size of 15 inches and a daily bag limit of five fish. Northern pike have a minimum size of 24 inches and a daily bag limit of one fish. Panfish (bluegill, crappie, sunfish) have no minimum size and a combined daily bag limit of 25 fish. These limits can change, so check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you go.

The Yahara River is open to fishing year-round in most sections, but some areas have seasonal closures. Verify the current status with the Wisconsin DNR or call the Madison Parks Division before planning a winter or early-spring trip.

What Gear to Bring

For walleye and pike, bring a medium-power spinning rod with 8- to 12-pound monofilament or braided line. Jigs (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) tipped with live minnows or crawlers are the most effective lures. Crankbaits and soft plastics also work. If you prefer live bait, shiners and crawlers are available at local bait shops in Madison.

For panfish, a light spinning rod and small jigs or bobber-and-minnow rigs are effective. Panfish are not picky and will bite small live bait, waxworms, or crickets. A net is helpful if you plan to keep fish.

Bring polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the shallow water. A headlamp or flashlight is useful for early-morning or evening fishing. Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) if you are fishing from a boat or wading. The river bottom is soft and muddy in places, so wading boots with good grip are safer than sneakers.

Nearby Alternatives and Similar Water

If Pershing Park is crowded or the bite is slow, the Yahara River continues upstream and downstream with other public access points. Tenney Park, also on Madison's east side, offers another boat launch and shoreline fishing on the Yahara. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, the two large lakes that frame Madison, have more developed boat launches and facilities, though they are larger and more exposed to wind.

For a quieter experience, smaller ponds and wetlands around Madison hold panfish and pike. The Wisconsin DNR website lists public fishing areas by county, which can help you find less-crowded alternatives if you are willing to drive 20 to 30 minutes outside the city.

When to Go and What to Expect

Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends. Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are the best times to fish, with the most active fish and the most comfortable weather. Summer mornings before 9 a.m. can be productive for panfish, but midday is often slow. Avoid midday in July and August unless you are targeting panfish in the shade of overhanging trees.

The park itself is family-friendly and popular with walkers and cyclists, so expect company on nice days. Fishing pressure is moderate, and the river is not heavily stocked, so success depends on timing and technique rather than sheer numbers of fish. A slow day at Pershing Park is still a day on the water in the middle of the city, which is the main draw for many anglers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Pershing Park?

No. Walk-in shoreline access is available along the park's paved path and at several bank-fishing spots. A boat gives you more water to cover and access to deeper holes, but it is not required. Many anglers fish successfully from shore, especially for panfish.

What is the best bait for walleye at Pershing Park?

Live minnows (shiners or chubs) and crawlers are most effective, especially in spring and fall. Jigs tipped with either bait work better than bait alone because the jig allows you to work the bottom and deeper holes where walleye hold. Crankbaits that mimic baitfish are also productive.

Can I fish at night?

The park closes at dusk, so night fishing is not permitted. Fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset. Early morning and late evening (before sunset) are the best times to fish and are when walleye and pike are most active.

Where can I buy a fishing license?

Licenses are sold online at the Wisconsin DNR website (dnr.wi.gov), at sporting goods stores like Cabela's and local tackle shops, and at many grocery stores and gas stations in Madison. A one-day license is the cheapest option if you are visiting for a single trip.

Is there a bait shop at Pershing Park?

No. Bring your own bait or stop at a local tackle shop in Madison before you arrive. Several shops are located near the park and can provide live minnows, crawlers, and other bait. Planning ahead saves time and frustration.