What You'll Find in University Bay

University Bay is a shallow, weedy arm of Lake Mendota on Madison's north shore, separated from the main lake by a narrow channel. It holds walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and panfish—mostly perch and bluegill. The bay averages 15 to 20 feet deep, with extensive weed beds and soft bottom that make it distinct from the clearer, deeper water of the main lake. Most of the shoreline is public or university-owned land, and the bay is accessible by boat launch and by foot from several parks.

The bay's shallow, productive character makes it reliable for panfish year-round and a strong walleye fishery in spring and fall. Summer can be slow because of heavy weed growth and warm water, though early morning and evening trips still produce. Winter ice fishing is popular for perch and bluegill. The main drawback is that the bay can get crowded on weekends, especially during the spawn and in fall.

Key Takeaways

  • University Bay is best in spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) for walleye; summer is slow due to weeds and warm water.
  • The bay is accessible by public boat launch at the University of Wisconsin boathouse and by shore access at several parks along the north shore.
  • Panfish (perch and bluegill) are reliable year-round, especially in winter under the ice.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations apply; you need a current fishing license and must follow season and size limits for each species.
  • Weed beds are thick from June through September, so use shallow-running crankbaits, spinners, or live bait rigs rather than deep presentations.

Spring Walleye Run and Spawning Season

April and May bring the most consistent walleye fishing in University Bay. Fish move into the shallows to spawn, and they feed heavily before and after the spawn window. Target depths of 6 to 12 feet along the channel edges and around the deeper holes in the center of the bay. Live minnows (shiners or chubs, 3 to 4 inches) under a slip bobber work well, as do jigs tipped with minnow or crawfish.

Early morning and dusk are most productive, but walleye will bite throughout the day during the spawn. The bay's weed beds are still sparse in spring, so you can work deeper structure without constant snagging. Expect crowds on weekends; weekday mornings are quieter. By late May, water temperature climbs and fish move deeper or toward the main lake, making the bay less reliable.

Summer Conditions and Weed Growth

June through August is the slowest season in University Bay. Water temperature reaches the low 70s, and dense weed beds cover most of the shallow structure. Walleye move to the deepest holes or leave for the main lake. Bass fishing can be decent in the weeds early and late in the day, but most anglers skip the bay during summer or fish only at dawn.

If you do fish summer, focus on the channel between University Bay and the main lake, where current and deeper water keep conditions cooler. Use shallow-running crankbaits or topwater lures to avoid fouling weeds. Panfish remain active in deeper pockets and around weed edges, so bluegill and perch are a more reliable target than walleye.

Fall Bite and September Through October

September and October rival spring as the best time to fish University Bay. Water cools, walleye move back into the shallows to feed before winter, and weed beds begin to thin. Target the same depths and structure as spring—channel edges, deeper holes, and the transition zones between weed beds and open water. Live minnows and jigs are again the most effective presentations.

Fall fishing often lasts longer into the day than spring does; you can catch walleye from mid-morning through dusk. Pike also become more active in fall, and the bay's weed beds still hold enough cover to make pike fishing productive. By November, water temperature drops below 50 degrees and fish move deeper or toward the main lake again.

Winter Ice Fishing for Panfish

University Bay typically freezes by late December and remains fishable through February. The bay is popular for ice fishing because it is shallow, close to Madison, and holds abundant perch and bluegill. Drill holes in 8 to 15 feet of water, away from the thickest weed beds (which can create soft ice). Use small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 ounce) tipped with waxworms, maggots, or small minnows.

Perch often school in specific areas, so move holes frequently until you find active fish. Bluegill bite best in the afternoon and early evening. Check ice thickness before you go out—the bay's shallow depth means ice forms quickly, but soft bottom and springs can create thin spots. The University of Wisconsin boathouse area and the bay's eastern shore near Tenney Park are popular launch points for ice anglers.

Access Points and Boat Launches

The primary public boat launch is at the University of Wisconsin boathouse on the north shore, accessible from University Avenue. The launch is free and has parking, but it fills quickly on weekends. A second option is Tenney Park, on the bay's east side, which has a smaller launch and is less crowded. Both are maintained by the City of Madison Parks Division.

Shore access is available at Tenney Park, which has a shoreline path and open water access. Babcock Park, also on the north shore, offers limited shore fishing. The University of Wisconsin owns much of the north shoreline but does not restrict public fishing from the water. Parking is available at both Tenney and Babcock Parks; arrive early on weekends.

Regulations and Licensing

Wisconsin fishing regulations apply to University Bay. You must have a current Wisconsin fishing license, available online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources or at sporting goods retailers. Walleye have a 15-inch minimum size limit and a daily bag limit of five fish. Northern pike have a 24-inch minimum and a daily limit of two. Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum and a five-fish daily limit.

Panfish (perch and bluegill) have no minimum size but a daily limit of 25 fish combined. Seasons are year-round for most species, though walleye and pike have specific spawning closures in spring—check the current Wisconsin fishing guide before you go. Ice fishing follows the same regulations as open-water fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish University Bay from shore?

Yes, Tenney Park and Babcock Park both offer shore access. Tenney Park has the best shoreline for casting and is less crowded than the boat launch. Shore fishing is most productive for panfish and bass; walleye are easier to reach by boat in deeper water.

What is the best bait for walleye in University Bay?

Live shiners or chubs 3 to 4 inches long under a slip bobber are most effective, especially in spring and fall. Jigs tipped with minnow or crawfish also work well. Avoid large baits; walleye in the bay tend to be selective and prefer smaller presentations.

Is University Bay good for pike fishing?

Pike are present but not the primary target. Fall is the best season, when pike move into shallower water to feed. Use larger lures (4 to 6 inches) or live baitfish in the weed beds and channel edges. Spring can also be productive during the spawn.

When does the ice fishing season start?

Ice typically forms by late December, but it varies by year. Check local reports and ice thickness before you go out. The Wisconsin DNR website and local bait shops post ice conditions. Early season (January) usually offers the best fishing before fish become less active in deep winter.

Can I use a trolling motor in University Bay?

Yes, electric trolling motors are allowed. Gas motors are permitted but less common because the bay is shallow and close to residential areas. Most anglers use trolling motors or oars to move quietly and avoid spooking fish in the clear water.