What to expect at Rolling Stone Lake
Rolling Stone Lake is a shallow, weedy walleye and pike lake in northwestern Wisconsin, roughly 20 miles south of Superior. The lake runs about 1,200 acres and averages 15 to 20 feet deep, with extensive weed beds and a soft bottom that hold fish year-round. Walleye are the primary draw — they respond well to live bait and jigs along the weed edges — but northern pike run large here and take both live baitfish and crankbaits. The lake sits in a quiet area with modest development, making it a solid choice for anglers who want steady action without the crowds of better-known Wisconsin lakes.
The weed growth is heavy enough that you'll need to work around it rather than through it. Early summer and fall are the most productive seasons, though winter ice fishing for walleye draws a steady crowd. Spring can be slow until the water warms past 50 degrees. Summer fishing requires patience during the heat of the day — dawn and dusk produce better results, and night fishing with live shiners can be excellent.
Key Takeaways
- Rolling Stone Lake holds walleye and northern pike in a shallow, weedy system where live bait and jigs work better than casting.
- Access is by public boat launch on the north shore; the lake has no resorts or rental facilities, so you must bring your own boat or rent elsewhere.
- Walleye season runs year-round, but the lake is most productive from May through October and during winter ice fishing.
- Wisconsin fishing regulations apply, including a daily walleye limit of five fish and a northern pike limit of three fish.
- The weed beds that hold fish also require careful navigation — a shallow-draft boat or canoe works better than a deep-V hull.
Access and boat launch
Rolling Stone Lake has one public boat launch, located on the north shore near the town of Maple. The launch is maintained by the Douglas County Parks Department and is open year-round. The parking area is small — roughly 10 to 12 spaces — so arrive early on weekends, especially during walleye season in May and June.
The launch itself is concrete and in decent repair, though the approach can be muddy in spring. There is no fuel dock, no bait shop, and no rental equipment on the lake. The nearest town with supplies is Maple, about 5 miles away, which has a small grocery and a gas station but no dedicated tackle shop. Plan to bring everything you need or stop in Superior, 20 miles north, where you'll find full-service tackle shops and bait suppliers.
Canoes and kayaks work well on this lake given the shallow depth and weed cover. If you're towing a trailer, the road to the launch is paved but narrow in places. Winter access for ice fishing is the same launch area — locals cut a path across the ice once it's safe, usually by late December.
Walleye fishing: seasons and techniques
Walleye are the bread-and-butter fish here. They spawn in spring and move into deeper weed beds by early summer. The best walleye fishing runs from mid-May through June, when they're actively feeding after the spawn. Live shiners or crawlers on a jig head work consistently — cast along the weed edges in 8 to 15 feet of water and work the jig slowly along the bottom.
July and August can be slow during the day because walleye retreat into the thickest weed cover to escape the heat. Night fishing with live bait under a lantern is a proven tactic during summer. Fall, from September through October, brings another strong bite as walleye move shallower again and feed heavily before winter.
Winter ice fishing is popular here. Jigging with live minnows in 12 to 18 feet of water produces steady catches from January through February. The ice is typically safe by late December, but always check local conditions before heading out. Many anglers fish the deeper holes on the south side of the lake where the bottom drops to 25 feet.
Northern pike and other species
Northern pike in Rolling Stone Lake average 24 to 28 inches, with occasional fish pushing 35 inches. They're aggressive and will hit large live baitfish, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Early morning and late evening are best, and casting along the weed edges produces more strikes than trolling. Pike fishing peaks in May and June, then again in September and October.
Largemouth bass are present but not abundant. Bluegill and other panfish live here too, especially in the shallower, weedier bays on the east and west ends. They're easy to catch on small jigs or live crickets and make a good option if walleye aren't cooperating or if you're fishing with children.
Regulations and licensing
Wisconsin fishing regulations apply to Rolling Stone Lake. You must have a valid Wisconsin fishing license, available online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at any bait shop. A daily license costs less than a full-season license if you're visiting for just a few days.
Walleye daily limit is five fish with a 15-inch minimum length. Northern pike daily limit is three fish with a 24-inch minimum length. Largemouth bass have a five-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum. Check the current Wisconsin fishing guide before you go, as regulations can change year to year. The DNR website has a searchable guide specific to each lake and species.
Best times to fish and what to bring
May through June and September through October are the most productive months for both walleye and pike. Water temperature matters more than calendar date — walleye bite best when water is between 55 and 70 degrees. Winter ice fishing runs from late December through February, weather permitting.
Bring live bait: shiners, crawlers, and minnows all work. A jig assortment in 1/8- to 1/4-ounce weights covers most situations. If you're pike fishing, pack larger crankbaits and spinnerbaits. A depth finder is useful for locating the weed edges and deeper holes. Because the lake is shallow and weedy, a boat with a shallow draft or a canoe gives you access to more productive water than a deep-V hull would.
Sunscreen, bug spray, and rain gear are essential — the lake sits in open country with little shade, and weather can change quickly. If you're ice fishing, bring a hand auger, an ice skimmer, and a shelter or windbreak. The wind can be fierce in winter.
Nearby lodging and services
Rolling Stone Lake itself has no resorts or cabins. The nearest lodging is in Maple, about 5 miles away, where a few small motels and vacation rentals are available. Superior, 20 miles north, has more options including hotels, restaurants, and tackle shops. Many anglers stay in Superior and make the drive to the lake for the day.
Camping is available at nearby state parks and county parks, though none sit directly on Rolling Stone Lake. The closest option is Pattison State Park, about 15 miles away, which has campsites and day-use facilities. Check availability and reserve ahead during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish Rolling Stone Lake year-round?
Yes. Walleye and pike season runs all year in Wisconsin. Summer and fall are most productive for open-water fishing. Winter ice fishing is popular from late December through February, though you should always verify ice thickness locally before heading out.
Do I need a boat to fish here?
A boat is the most practical option, but canoes and kayaks work well given the shallow depth and weed cover. The public launch accommodates trailers. If you don't have your own boat, rent one in Superior and make the 20-mile drive, or fish from shore along the north side near the launch.
What's the water clarity like?
Rolling Stone Lake is stained to murky, typical of shallow Wisconsin lakes with heavy weed growth. Visibility is usually 2 to 4 feet. This actually favors walleye fishing — they're more aggressive in low-light conditions — and means live bait and jigs outperform lures that rely on visibility.
Is there a bait shop at the lake?
No. The nearest tackle shops and bait suppliers are in Superior, 20 miles north. Maple, 5 miles away, has a small grocery but no dedicated fishing supply. Bring bait with you or plan to stop in Superior before heading to the lake.
What size boat works best?
A shallow-draft boat or canoe is ideal. The lake averages 15 to 20 feet deep with extensive weed beds, so a deep-V hull designed for big water will run aground or get tangled in weeds. A 16- to 18-foot aluminum boat with a 9.9- or 15-horsepower motor is typical for local anglers.