A Paradise for Anglers
With its sparkling waters, peaceful harbors, and abundant fish populations, Door County is a premier fishing destination in the Midwest. Located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this peninsula offers a diverse mix of freshwater fishing experiences that make it ideal for seasoned anglers and curious beginners alike. Whether you’re casting from the shore or heading out on a charter boat, summer fishing in Door County is a memorable adventure that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Where to Fish in Door County
One of the biggest draws of fishing in Door County is the variety of environments available. Green Bay provides warm, shallow waters ideal for bass and walleye, while Lake Michigan’s deep, cooler waters offer excellent trout and salmon fishing.
Start your trip at Peninsula State Park, where Nicolet Bay is known for smallmouth bass, rock bass, and perch. Shore fishing is easy here, and the views make it a peaceful experience even if the fish are slow to bite.
Baileys Harbor is a go-to location on the Lake Michigan side for anglers targeting rainbow trout and chinook salmon. The deeper, colder waters in this area provide ideal conditions for trolling and offshore fishing.
For those looking to fish inland, Kangaroo Lake in the heart of the peninsula is stocked with panfish, largemouth bass, and northern pike. This is a great option for families or those looking for a more laid-back experience.
What You’ll Catch
Door County’s summer fishing season brings a rich variety of species. On the Green Bay side, smallmouth bass are particularly plentiful. In fact, Door County is considered one of the top bass fishing destinations in the country during the warm summer months.
Other popular catches include:
Walleye – especially in the early morning or late evening hours around Egg Harbor and Sturgeon Bay
Northern Pike – lurking in shallower weedy areas such as Kangaroo Lake and Sawyer Harbor
Yellow Perch and Bluegill – perfect for a relaxing day of shore fishing
Trout and Salmon – best caught by trolling on Lake Michigan from a chartered boat out of Baileys Harbor or Gills Rock
Charter companies like Reel Impression Fishing Charters and Hooked Up Sport Fishing offer guided trips that include all equipment, licensing assistance, and insider knowledge of the best fishing spots.
Gear and Licenses
If you’re bringing your own gear, make sure to pack for a variety of depths and species. Light spinning rods work well for perch and panfish, while heavier setups are needed for trolling salmon or chasing bass.
A Wisconsin fishing license is required for all anglers age 16 and older. You can purchase one online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources or at local bait shops and outdoor stores throughout Door County.
Best Times to Fish
Fishing in Door County heats up as early as late May and remains strong through September. June and July are peak months for smallmouth bass and walleye. Early morning and just before sunset are the best times to cast, as fish are more active during these cooler hours.
Plan your trip around sunrise or sunset and you may even catch a trophy fish while soaking in one of Door County’s legendary waterfront views.
Local Tips and Community
Door County’s fishing community is friendly and welcoming. Local bait shops like Howie’s Tackle in Sturgeon Bay not only provide supplies but offer up-to-date fishing reports, helpful tips, and good conversation.
Don’t forget to join a local tournament if your visit aligns with one. Events like the Kewaunee/Door Salmon Tournament attract anglers from across the region and offer big prizes and even bigger bragging rights.
A Summer Tradition Worth Casting Into
Whether you are teaching your kids to fish for the first time or seeking the thrill of landing a trophy salmon, summer fishing in Door County is an unforgettable experience. With its accessible waters, diverse fish species, and beautiful scenery, the peninsula is a dream for anyone who loves the quiet patience and sudden excitement that fishing offers.
So pack your tackle box, grab your pole, and find your way to the shores of Door County. The water is calling, and the fish are biting.
