What You'll Find at Upper Nemahbin Lake

Upper Nemahbin Lake is a 265-acre lake in Waukesha County, about 30 miles west of Milwaukee, known for walleye, northern pike, and panfish. The lake sits in a residential area with public boat access at the town landing on the north shore, making it accessible without owning waterfront property. The water is moderately clear and reaches depths of about 45 feet, with a mix of shallow bays and deeper holes that hold different species at different times of year.

The lake draws both locals and visitors from the Milwaukee area because it offers solid fishing without requiring a long drive. Walleye are the primary target, especially in spring and fall when they move into shallower water. Pike fishing is productive year-round, and bluegill and other panfish provide reliable action for families or anglers looking for consistent catches.

Key Takeaways

  • Upper Nemahbin Lake has public boat access at the town landing on the north shore, with parking available for vehicles with trailers.
  • Walleye fishing peaks in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) when fish move into 8 to 15 feet of water.
  • Northern pike are present year-round and respond well to live bait and large crankbaits, especially around weed edges and deeper structure.
  • Wisconsin fishing regulations require a current fishing license and inland trout stamp if you plan to fish; check current daily bag limits and size restrictions before you go.
  • The lake is surrounded by residential property, so respect posted signs and use the public landing; no gas motors are permitted on the lake.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is the most productive time for walleye. As water temperatures climb from the 40s into the low 50s, walleye move from deep winter holes into shallower bays and along the shoreline to spawn. Fish the north and east bays in 8 to 15 feet of water using live shiners, crawlers, or small jigs tipped with minnow. Early morning and evening produce the best bites, though overcast days can extend the bite throughout the day.

Summer (June through August) is slower for walleye because fish retreat to deeper water and the thermocline. Pike and panfish remain active, especially in early morning and late evening. Focus on deeper structure—drop-offs, holes, and weed edges—where walleye hold during the day. Panfish bite steadily in shallow bays and around docks, particularly bluegill and crappie in 6 to 12 feet of water.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong walleye bite as water cools and fish move back into shallower feeding zones. This period often rivals spring for consistency and size. Pike are also aggressive as they prepare for winter. By late October, the bite slows as water temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

Winter (November through March) is closed to fishing on Upper Nemahbin Lake under Wisconsin regulations, so plan your trips during the open season.

Access and Boat Launching

The public boat landing is located on the north shore of Upper Nemahbin Lake, accessible from County Road N. The landing has a single-lane concrete ramp, parking for vehicles with trailers, and a small pier. Arrive early on weekends during spring and fall, as parking fills quickly. The landing is maintained by the Town of Waukesha and is open during daylight hours.

No gas motors are permitted on the lake—only electric motors and paddle-powered craft. This restriction keeps the lake quiet and limits wake, which benefits both fishing and the residential character of the shoreline. If you do not have a boat, you can fish from the public landing pier or ask about shore access at nearby parks, though most of the shoreline is private residential property.

The nearest services—gas, bait, tackle, and food—are in the town of Waukesha, about 5 to 10 minutes away depending on your location. Stock up before you arrive at the lake.

Walleye Tactics and Best Spots

Walleye on Upper Nemahbin respond best to live bait presentations. Use a slip sinker rig with a live shiner or crawler in 8 to 15 feet of water during spring and fall. Cast along the drop-offs on the north and east sides of the lake, where shallow bays transition into deeper water. Work slowly and keep your bait near the bottom, where walleye hunt at dawn and dusk.

Small jigs (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) tipped with a minnow or crawler are also effective, especially if you prefer active fishing. Vertical jigging over deeper holes (25 to 35 feet) can produce in summer when walleye retreat from shallow water. Crankbaits that reach 8 to 12 feet work well in spring when fish are aggressive and feeding in shallower zones.

The north bay and the area near the public landing hold consistent populations. The east side of the lake, where a small inlet enters, can be productive during spring spawning runs. Fish low-light periods—early morning, late evening, and overcast days—for the most reliable action.

Pike and Panfish Opportunities

Northern pike are abundant and aggressive on Upper Nemahbin. They respond to large crankbaits (3 to 5 inches), live baitfish (shiners or small bluegill), and spinnerbaits. Target weed edges, drop-offs, and the deeper holes where pike hunt. Pike bite year-round, though spring and fall are most consistent. Fish early and late in the day for the best results, but pike will bite throughout the day if you work structure.

Bluegill and other panfish are reliable throughout the open season, especially in shallow bays and around docks. Use small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) with live crickets or waxworms, or simple bobber-and-worm rigs in 4 to 8 feet of water. Panfish bite steadily in summer when walleye are slow, making them a good option for families or anglers looking for consistent action.

Regulations and Licensing

Wisconsin requires a current fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at bait and tackle shops, or at sporting goods retailers. Licenses are available as daily, annual, or multi-year options.

Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations for Upper Nemahbin Lake before you fish. Bag limits and size restrictions vary by species and change periodically. Walleye, pike, and panfish each have their own rules. The DNR website lists these limits clearly, and most bait shops have printed regulation summaries. Respect posted signs around the lake and do not fish private property without permission.

The lake is closed to fishing from November through March under Wisconsin's inland water closure rules. Plan your trips during the open season, which runs April through October.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a fishing license, a current Wisconsin regulation guide, and appropriate tackle for walleye, pike, and panfish. Live bait (shiners, crawlers, crickets) is more productive than artificial lures on this lake, so plan to purchase bait locally or bring your own. A depth finder is helpful for locating structure and deeper holes, especially in summer.

Dress for the season—spring and fall mornings are cool, and wind can pick up quickly on the water. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot fish in shallow water. A small cooler with water and snacks keeps you comfortable during a full day on the water.

The no-gas-motor rule means you will be using an electric motor or paddle power. Make sure your battery is fully charged if you are using an electric motor, and bring a spare if you plan a long day. Paddle power is quiet and effective for fishing, especially in the shallow bays where panfish and spring walleye congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish from shore at Upper Nemahbin Lake?

The public landing has a small pier where you can fish, and it is the only reliable shore access open to the public. Most of the shoreline is private residential property. If you do not have a boat, the pier is your best option, though it is more limited than fishing from a boat.

What is the best time of day to fish Upper Nemahbin?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late evening (late afternoon to sunset) are most productive for walleye and pike. Overcast days extend the bite throughout the day. Panfish bite steadily in shallow water during midday when other species are slow.

Do I need a boat to fish Upper Nemahbin Lake?

A boat gives you access to more water and structure, but you can fish from the public landing pier without one. The pier is small and crowded on weekends, so a boat—even a small kayak or canoe with an electric motor—greatly improves your chances and comfort.

Are there any restrictions on motors at Upper Nemahbin Lake?

Yes, gas motors are not permitted. Only electric motors and paddle-powered craft are allowed. This keeps the lake quiet and protects the residential shoreline, but it means you need an electric motor or paddle power to fish effectively.

What should I do if I catch a fish that is undersized or over the bag limit?

Release it immediately and handle it gently to improve its survival. Wisconsin regulations set specific size and bag limits for each species, and they change periodically. Check the current rules before you fish so you know what to keep and what to release.