What You'll Fish at De Pere Locks and Dam Park

De Pere Locks and Dam Park sits on the Lower Fox River just below the dam in De Pere, Wisconsin, about 20 miles south of Green Bay. The park gives you access to a stretch of river that holds walleye, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and occasional lake sturgeon. The dam creates a pool above it and a tailrace below it — two distinct fishing zones with different conditions and species patterns.

The upper pool (above the dam) is slower and deeper, favoring walleye and catfish. The tailrace below the dam runs faster and shallower, drawing smallmouth bass and walleye that feed on baitfish moving through the current. Both zones are accessible from the park, though the tailrace requires more careful wading or boat positioning because of the current and dam operations.

This is a public access point managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and it draws both shore and boat anglers. The park has parking, a boat launch, and picnic facilities, making it a straightforward half-day or full-day destination.

Key Takeaways

  • De Pere Locks and Dam Park offers walleye and smallmouth bass year-round, with walleye most active in spring and fall and smallmouth peaking in summer.
  • The tailrace below the dam is the most productive zone for walleye and bass, especially during low-light hours and when the dam is releasing water.
  • A Wisconsin fishing license is required; walleye and smallmouth have daily bag limits and minimum size requirements that change by season.
  • The boat launch is usable year-round, but winter ice conditions can close access; call ahead during December through March.
  • Shore fishing is possible along the park's banks and from the dam structure itself, though wading in the tailrace requires caution and a personal flotation device.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is prime walleye season. Water temperatures rise from the 40s into the 50s, and walleye move shallow to spawn and feed. Fish the upper pool at dawn and dusk with live shiners, crawlers, or small jigs tipped with minnow. The tailrace also holds walleye, especially if water is being released through the dam.

Summer (June through August) shifts the bite to smallmouth bass and catfish. Walleye move deeper and become harder to find during midday, but smallmouth stay active in the current of the tailrace. Fish topwater lures and crankbaits early and late; during the heat of the day, switch to deeper presentations or move to the upper pool where walleye hold in 15 to 25 feet of water. Channel catfish bite well at night with cut bait or chicken liver.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong walleye bite as water cools and fish move shallow again. The tailrace becomes especially productive. Walleye also move into the upper pool as they prepare to move downriver toward Lake Michigan. This is one of the best times to fish here.

Winter (November through March) slows the bite significantly. Some walleye and catfish remain, but they are less active. Ice can form along the banks and in the upper pool, and dam operations may restrict access. Contact the De Pere Parks Department or check the Wisconsin DNR website before planning a winter trip.

Species, Regulations, and Tackle

Walleye are the primary target. Wisconsin's statewide walleye regulations require a 15-inch minimum size and allow five fish per day. Walleye here respond to live bait (shiners, crawlers, leeches) and jigs tipped with minnow. In spring and fall, cast along the dam structure and the current breaks in the tailrace. In summer, fish deeper in the upper pool with live bait on a slip sinker rig.

Smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum and a five-fish daily limit. They are most abundant in the tailrace, where they hunt in current. Use 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jigs, small crankbaits, and topwater lures. Early morning and evening are best, but smallmouth will bite throughout the day in summer if you fish deep structure or current breaks.

Channel catfish have no size or bag limit in Wisconsin. Fish cut bait, chicken liver, or stink bait on the bottom in the upper pool or along the slower edges of the tailrace. Catfish bite best at night and during low-light periods. A medium-heavy rod with a slip sinker rig works well.

Lake sturgeon are rare but possible, especially in fall. They are a protected species in Wisconsin — if you hook one, handle it carefully and release it immediately. Report the catch to the Wisconsin DNR.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

De Pere Locks and Dam Park is located at 403 South Broadway in De Pere, Wisconsin. The park is open year-round and has free parking for roughly 30 vehicles. A public boat launch is available and is maintained by the Wisconsin DNR. The launch is suitable for small to medium boats and is usable in most seasons, though winter ice can close it temporarily.

The park has picnic tables, restrooms, and a small shelter. There is no bait shop on-site, so bring your own or stop in De Pere or Green Bay before arriving. The nearest tackle shops are in Green Bay, about 20 minutes north.

Shore fishing is allowed along the park's banks and from the dam structure itself. The tailrace can be waded, but the current is strong and water depth changes with dam operations. Always wear a personal flotation device if wading, and never wade directly below the dam gates when water is being released.

How to Fish the Tailrace Safely

The tailrace is the most productive zone but also the most hazardous. Water depth and current speed change when the dam operators release water, sometimes with little warning. If you are wading, stay alert for sudden rises in water level and current speed.

Fish from a boat if possible — it gives you more control and lets you move quickly if conditions change. If you wade, wear a PFD, use a wading staff, and stay in water no deeper than waist-high. Never wade directly below the dam gates. The best fishing is usually 50 to 200 yards downstream from the dam, where current is strong but manageable.

Check the dam's water release schedule before you go. The Wisconsin DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers post release times online. Higher flows mean stronger current and better feeding, but also more danger. Plan your wading time for periods of lower or stable flow.

Nearby Fishing and Lodging

De Pere is part of the Lower Fox River system, which extends south toward Lake Winnebago and north toward Green Bay. If De Pere Locks and Dam Park is crowded or the bite is slow, you can explore other public access points on the Lower Fox River, including Rapide Croche Dam and several boat launches in Appleton and Menasha.

Green Bay, 20 minutes north, has hotels, restaurants, and tackle shops. De Pere itself is a small village with limited lodging, so most anglers either day-trip from Green Bay or stay in the Green Bay area. The Fox River system is also close to Door County if you want to combine river fishing with other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish De Pere Locks and Dam Park?

No. Shore fishing is productive, especially along the park's banks and from the dam structure. However, a boat lets you reach the tailrace more safely and access deeper water in the upper pool. Many anglers fish successfully from shore, particularly in spring and fall.

What is the best time of day to fish here?

Dawn and dusk are most productive for walleye and smallmouth, especially in spring and fall. In summer, early morning and late evening are best; midday fishing is slower. Catfish bite well at night. Overcast days often produce better bites than bright, sunny days.

Can I fish in winter?

Yes, but conditions are difficult. Walleye and catfish remain active but bite less frequently. Ice can form along the banks and restrict access. Call the De Pere Parks Department or check the Wisconsin DNR website before planning a winter trip to confirm the park is open and the boat launch is usable.

What should I bring for wading in the tailrace?

Wear a personal flotation device, wading boots with good grip, and a wading staff. Bring a headlamp if you plan to fish at dawn or dusk. Check the dam's water release schedule before you wade, and stay alert for sudden changes in current and water level.

Where can I buy bait and tackle?

There is no bait shop at the park. Bring your own or stop at a tackle shop in Green Bay, about 20 minutes north. Popular options include local shops near the Green Bay waterfront. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability of live bait.