What You'll Find at Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge

The Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge in Menominee sits where the Menominee River meets Green Bay, making it one of Michigan's most accessible urban fishing spots. The bridge itself is a working drawbridge that opens regularly for boat traffic, and the structure creates ideal conditions for walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch. The current around the pilings and the depth changes near the bridge supports hold fish year-round, though spring and fall are peak seasons when water temperatures favor active feeding.

This is a walk-on location with no boat launch required — you can fish from the bridge itself or from the shoreline on either side. The Menominee River here is relatively narrow and well-defined, so you don't need to cover vast distances. Most anglers fish the current breaks and deeper holes that form around the bridge structure, where fish stage to feed on baitfish moving through the channel.

Key Takeaways

  • Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge is a free, walk-on fishing location in downtown Menominee with year-round access to walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) produce the most consistent action, though summer and winter fishing are both possible.
  • Fish the current breaks around the bridge pilings and the deeper channel on either side of the structure using live bait, jigs, or small crankbaits.
  • Michigan fishing licenses are required for anyone 17 and older, and the Menominee River has specific slot limits and daily catch limits that vary by species.
  • Parking is available on Dyckman Avenue itself, though spaces fill quickly on weekends during peak season.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring walleye fishing at Dyckman Avenue typically begins in late April as water temperatures climb into the 50s. Walleye move into shallower areas to spawn, and the current around the bridge concentrates them. Early morning and evening produce the best results, with live shiners or small jigs worked slowly along the bottom. By late May, the bite often slows as fish move to deeper water, though you can still catch them during low-light periods.

Summer (June through August) is slower for walleye but productive for smallmouth bass. Bass hold around the bridge structure and rocky areas, responding well to topwater lures early and late in the day. Perch remain active throughout summer in the deeper channel, and they're a reliable option when other species are sluggish. Water levels and current speed increase during summer due to spring runoff, which can affect where fish position themselves.

Fall fishing from September through October rivals spring for overall productivity. Walleye return to shallower water as temperatures drop, and the bridge becomes a prime location again. Smallmouth bass are aggressive as they feed before winter, and perch fishing remains consistent. October often produces the largest walleye of the year at this location.

Winter fishing is possible but requires caution. The Menominee River doesn't freeze solid in this section due to current and depth, but ice can form along the shoreline. Some anglers fish from the bridge itself during winter for walleye and perch, though access can be limited by weather and ice conditions. Check local conditions before attempting winter fishing here.

Species, Regulations, and Catch Limits

Walleye are the primary target at Dyckman Avenue. Michigan's walleye regulations on the Menominee River require a minimum size of 15 inches, with a daily limit of five fish. The river is classified as a warmwater fishery in this section, which affects both the season and the regulations that apply.

Smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size and a daily limit of five fish. They're abundant around the bridge structure and provide consistent action, especially in summer and fall. Largemouth bass are also present but less common than smallmouth in this part of the river.

Perch have no minimum size requirement and a daily limit of 25 fish, making them an excellent option for anglers wanting to keep fish for a meal. They're present year-round and respond well to small jigs tipped with live bait or minnow strips. A Michigan fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older. Licenses can be purchased online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, or at DNR offices. Daily, annual, and multi-year options are available.

How to Fish the Bridge Structure

The most productive technique at Dyckman Avenue is working live bait along the current breaks. Use a simple slip sinker rig with a live shiner or sucker minnow, and position yourself upstream of the bridge pilings. Cast uptream and allow the current to carry your bait toward the structure, keeping your line relatively tight so you feel strikes immediately. Walleye often hit hard in current, but perch and smallmouth may mouth the bait first.

Jig fishing is equally effective, especially for walleye and perch. Use 1/4-ounce to 3/8-ounce jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics, and work them vertically or with short hops along the bottom. The deeper holes on either side of the bridge are prime jig territory. Cast slightly upstream and let the current work the jig for you, maintaining contact with the bottom.

Crankbaits and small swimbaits work well for smallmouth bass, particularly during low-light periods. Cast toward the bridge structure and retrieve steadily, allowing the lure to dive into the deeper water around the pilings. Topwater lures produce exciting strikes early in the morning and near dusk, especially in summer.

Access, Parking, and Practical Details

Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge is located in downtown Menominee, Michigan, at the intersection of Dyckman Avenue and the Menominee River. Parking is available along Dyckman Avenue itself, though spaces are limited and fill quickly on weekends during peak season. There is no dedicated fishing parking lot, so arrive early if you're fishing on a Saturday or Sunday during spring or fall.

The bridge is open to foot traffic at all times, and you can fish from the bridge deck itself or from the shoreline on either side. The bridge opens for boat traffic on a regular schedule, so be aware of your surroundings and move to a safe location if you see the bridge beginning to open. The opening mechanism is automated, but boat operators will signal before crossing.

There are no facilities at the bridge itself — no restrooms, no water, no shelter. Bring everything you need for the duration of your trip. The nearest restaurants and shops are a short walk away in downtown Menominee. Cell service is generally reliable in this area.

Getting There and Nearby Options

Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge is in Menominee, located on the Michigan-Wisconsin border along US-41. From the north, take US-41 south toward Menominee and follow signs for downtown. From the south, take US-41 north across the Menominee River. Once in downtown Menominee, Dyckman Avenue runs parallel to the river and is well-marked.

If Dyckman Avenue is crowded or if you want to explore other options, the Menominee River has several other public access points nearby. The Menominee River State Park offers additional fishing opportunities upstream, with boat launch facilities and more space. The Menominee Harbor area, also in Menominee, provides access to Green Bay itself and is productive for walleye and perch, though it requires a boat or kayak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge?

No. The bridge and surrounding shoreline are accessible on foot, and most anglers fish from the bridge deck or the banks. You can reach productive water without a boat, though having one allows you to access deeper holes and cover more water.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning and evening are most productive, especially for walleye. Overcast days often produce better results than bright, sunny days. Summer fishing is better during low-light periods, while spring and fall can be good throughout the day.

Can I keep fish I catch at Dyckman Avenue?

Yes, as long as they meet Michigan's size and bag limits. Walleye must be at least 15 inches with a five-fish daily limit. Smallmouth bass require 12 inches minimum and five per day. Perch have no size limit and a 25-fish daily limit, making them ideal for keeping.

Is there a fee to fish at Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge?

No fee is charged for fishing at the bridge. You only need a valid Michigan fishing license if you're 17 or older. Licenses are inexpensive and can be purchased online or at most sporting goods stores.

What should I bring for a day of fishing here?

Bring your fishing rod, tackle, live bait or lures, a cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish, sunscreen, and water. There are no facilities at the bridge, so pack everything you'll need. A headlamp is useful for early morning or evening fishing.