What You'll Find at Pokegama Lake

Pokegama Lake is a shallow, 1,100-acre impoundment in Ashland County in northern Wisconsin, formed by a dam on the Potato River. The lake holds walleye and northern pike as its primary gamefish, with panfish including bluegill and crappie throughout. Because the lake averages only 8 to 10 feet deep with extensive weed beds and soft bottom, it produces good numbers of pike in the 24- to 28-inch range and walleye that respond well to live bait presentations in spring and fall.

The lake's shallow character means water temperature swings quickly with the season. Summer heat can push fish into the deepest holes and weed edges; winter ice-out brings a brief but productive walleye bite. The Potato River inlet on the north end brings current and cooler water, making it a reliable spot when the main lake warms.

Key Takeaways

  • Pokegama Lake holds walleye and northern pike in a shallow impoundment where weed beds and soft bottom dominate the structure.
  • Spring and fall offer the most consistent walleye fishing; summer requires targeting deeper holes and weed edges as water warms.
  • Public boat access is available at the Pokegama Lake public landing on the south shore, managed by Ashland County.
  • Wisconsin fishing licenses and inland trout stamps (if applicable) are required; check current walleye and pike regulations before you fish.
  • The Potato River inlet on the north end provides current and cooler water that concentrates fish during warm months.

Access and Boat Launches

The primary public boat landing is the Pokegama Lake public access area on the south shore, off County Road M near the town of Bayfield. The landing includes a paved two-lane ramp, parking for roughly 20 vehicles with trailers, and a small pier. Launching is free and open year-round during daylight hours, though winter access depends on road conditions and ice thickness.

No other developed public landings exist on the lake. Private resorts and cabins dot the shoreline but do not offer public access. If you plan to launch, arrive early during weekends, as the lot fills quickly during summer and fall.

Walleye Fishing Seasons and Methods

Spring walleye (late April through May) respond to live bait presentations—shiners, chubs, or crawfish—worked slowly along the Potato River inlet and the shallow flats on the north and east shores. Jigs tipped with minnows fished in 4 to 8 feet of water produce steady catches. The water is still cool, and walleye are active in shallower zones before they retreat to deeper structure.

Summer walleye (June through August) concentrate in the deepest holes—typically 12 to 16 feet—and along the edges of dense weed beds. Vertical jigging with live bait or slip-sinker rigs worked along the weed lines produces fish, but the bite is slower and more selective than spring. Early morning and late evening offer better action than midday.

Fall walleye (September through October) move back into shallower water as temperatures drop. The same spring patterns—live bait on jigs, slow presentations along flats and inlet areas—become productive again. This period often rivals spring for consistency.

Northern Pike and Panfish

Northern pike thrive in Pokegama's weed beds and shallow bays. Pike in the 24- to 30-inch range are common; larger fish are possible but less frequent. Fish pike in spring and fall using large shiners (6 to 8 inches) or soft plastics worked along weed edges and in the deeper pockets within weed beds. Summer pike fishing is slower but possible early and late in the day around the thickest cover.

Bluegill and crappie are abundant in shallow bays and around downed timber. Panfish fishing is consistent throughout the open-water season, with spring and early summer offering the best action. Small jigs, live crickets, or waxworms work well in 3 to 6 feet of water.

Regulations and Licensing

Wisconsin fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website or at local bait shops near Bayfield. Licenses are available as daily, annual, or multi-day options.

Walleye and pike are subject to Wisconsin's statewide regulations, which vary by season and size. Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations guide before you fish—rules change annually and may differ from neighbouring lakes. The DNR website lists specific bag limits, size restrictions, and season dates for Ashland County waters. Pike have no size restriction on Pokegama, but walleye typically have a 15-inch minimum size and a daily bag limit (check current rules). Ice fishing is permitted in winter under the same regulations as open-water fishing.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring (late April through May) brings the most reliable walleye bite and is the best time for a first visit. Water temperatures are cool, fish are active in shallow zones, and the weather is generally stable. Expect to fish from a boat; shore fishing is limited by shoreline development.

Summer (June through August) is busier with recreational traffic and warmer water that pushes fish deeper. Fishing is possible but requires more precise location work and patience. Early morning and dusk are most productive.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring for walleye fishing and offers cooler, more comfortable conditions. Pike fishing also improves as water cools. This is an excellent secondary season if spring dates don't work.

Winter (December through February) allows ice fishing for walleye and pike. Ice thickness varies; check local conditions before heading out. The bite can be good, but access depends on safe ice and road conditions to the landing.

Nearby Services and Lodging

The town of Bayfield, roughly 10 miles south, offers lodging, restaurants, bait and tackle shops, and fuel. Several resorts and cabins are located directly on Pokegama Lake, though most do not offer public access. Ashland, about 20 miles east, has additional services and is the nearest town with a hospital.

Bait shops in Bayfield stock live shiners, chubs, and crawfish. Tackle selection is limited; bring your own jigs, soft plastics, and terminal tackle if you have specific preferences. Gas stations and small groceries are available in Bayfield.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Pokegama Lake in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is permitted under Wisconsin's winter regulations. Check ice thickness and road conditions before launching; the public access area may be difficult to reach during heavy snow. The walleye and pike bite can be good through the ice, particularly in January and February.

What's the best bait for walleye on Pokegama?

Live shiners and chubs work best, fished on jigs or slip-sinker rigs in spring and fall. Crawfish are also effective. In summer, vertical jigging with live bait along weed edges produces more fish than casting.

Are there size limits on pike?

No size restriction applies to northern pike on Pokegama Lake under current Wisconsin regulations. However, walleye have a 15-inch minimum size. Always check the current Wisconsin DNR regulations guide before fishing, as rules can change year to year.

How deep is Pokegama Lake?

Pokegama averages 8 to 10 feet deep with a maximum depth around 16 to 18 feet. The shallow character means weed beds and soft bottom dominate; fish concentrate in the deepest holes and along weed edges during summer heat.

Is there a fee to launch at the public access area?

No, launching at the Pokegama Lake public access area is free. The landing is open year-round during daylight hours, though winter access depends on road conditions and ice safety.