What You'll Find at Voyageur Park

Voyageur Park sits on the Fox River in De Pere, Wisconsin, roughly 10 miles south of Green Bay. The park offers direct bank access to a slower, deeper section of the river that holds walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass year-round. The water here is managed by the Lower Fox River Remedial Action Plan, which means the river bottom has been dredged and capped in recent decades — the result is clearer water than you'll find in many urban stretches, though the river still carries some industrial history.

The park itself is small and straightforward: a parking area, a boat launch, and a short bank-fishing area along the river's edge. Access is free. The launch is concrete and suitable for small to medium boats; the current is gentle enough that you can fish effectively from a kayak or canoe if you prefer. The bank-fishing zone is roughly 200 yards of open shoreline, mostly level ground with some vegetation.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye and pike are the primary species; walleye bite best in low light (dawn, dusk, and overcast days), while pike are active throughout the day.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most consistent seasons; summer fishing is possible but slower during midday heat.
  • Wisconsin fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older; purchase them online or at any bait shop before you arrive.
  • The boat launch is free and open year-round, but winter access depends on ice conditions and park maintenance.
  • Bait shops in De Pere and Green Bay stock live shiners, crawlers, and leeches; jigs and crankbaits work well if you prefer artificial lures.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is the strongest season at Voyageur. Walleye move shallow as water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s, and they feed aggressively before spawning. Fish the deeper holes near the launch in early April, then move to shallower edges and vegetation as the month progresses. Pike also become active in spring and will chase larger baits and flashy lures.

Summer (June through August) is slower during the day but picks up at dawn and dusk. Walleye retreat to deeper water and shade during heat; fish early morning or after sunset with live bait or dark-colored jigs. Pike remain catchable throughout the day, especially around any submerged wood or vegetation. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can trigger feeding.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring for consistency. Water temperatures drop back into the 50s and 60s, walleye move shallow again, and both species feed heavily in preparation for winter. This is an excellent time for bank fishing, as the park is less crowded than in summer.

Winter (November through March) is possible but depends on ice. If the river freezes solid, ice fishing is an option; if it remains open, the current keeps most of the main channel free. Bank fishing is uncomfortable but productive on mild days. Check with the De Pere Parks Department before visiting in late fall or early winter to confirm access.

Regulations and Licensing

Wisconsin requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at any bait and tackle shop. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you're visiting for a single trip.

Walleye and pike have separate daily bag limits and minimum size requirements. As of the most recent regulations, walleye have a daily limit of 5 fish with a 15-inch minimum, and pike have a daily limit of 2 fish with a 24-inch minimum. Regulations can change year to year, so verify the current rules on the Wisconsin DNR website before you fish.

The Fox River is not a catch-and-release-only water, but the DNR does recommend practicing catch-and-release for pike to maintain the population. Live bait is permitted; artificial lures are also effective and sometimes preferred.

How to Get There and What to Bring

Voyageur Park is located at 1500 Voyageur Drive in De Pere. From Green Bay, take US-41 south and follow signs for De Pere; the park is on the river's west bank just off the main highway. Parking is free and typically has 15 to 20 spaces. The boat launch is immediately adjacent to the parking area.

Bring a Wisconsin fishing license, a valid ID, and your fishing gear. If you're bank fishing, wear waders or waterproof boots — the shoreline can be muddy. Bring bug spray in spring and summer; the Fox River valley has active mosquito populations. A headlamp or flashlight is essential if you plan to fish at dawn or dusk. If you're launching a boat, bring a life jacket and check your vessel's registration before arriving.

Bait shops within 5 miles include several options in De Pere and Green Bay. Most stock live shiners, crawlers, and leeches. If you prefer artificial lures, bring jigs (1/4 to 3/8 ounce), crankbaits in natural colors, and spinnerbaits. The water here is relatively clear, so natural-colored lures often outfish bright ones.

Boat Access and Launch Details

The concrete boat launch at Voyageur Park is suitable for boats up to roughly 20 feet, though most anglers use smaller craft. The launch has a single lane and can accommodate one vehicle and trailer at a time. There is no fuel dock or rental facility at the park, so plan accordingly.

The current on this stretch of the Fox is mild — typically 0.5 to 1 knot — so even small motors or paddle power work well. Larger boats can navigate upstream toward Green Bay or downstream toward Lake Michigan, though the river narrows and becomes shallower as you move south. Most anglers stay within a mile or two of the launch.

Launch hours are typically sunrise to sunset, though the park is open year-round. Winter ice can close the launch; call the De Pere Parks Department to confirm conditions before making the trip in cold months.

Bank Fishing and Shoreline Access

The bank-fishing area at Voyageur Park runs along the park's north edge, offering roughly 200 yards of open shoreline. The bottom is mostly sand and silt with some vegetation near the bank. Water depth ranges from 3 to 8 feet within casting distance, which is ideal for walleye and pike.

Early morning and late evening are best for bank fishing. Cast live shiners or crawlers near any submerged wood or vegetation; walleye often hold tight to cover. If you're using artificial lures, work jigs slowly along the bottom or cast crankbaits parallel to the shore. Pike will chase faster-moving lures and are less shy about shallow water than walleye.

The shoreline can be slippery after rain, and the bank slopes gradually into the water. Waders are recommended, especially in spring and fall when water temperatures are cold. The park has no facilities directly on the fishing area, so bring water and snacks if you plan to stay for several hours.

Nearby Amenities and Alternatives

De Pere has restaurants, gas stations, and a grocery store within a few minutes of Voyageur Park. The city is small but well-equipped for anglers passing through. If you need to stay overnight, Green Bay (10 miles north) has hotels and more dining options.

If Voyageur Park is crowded or conditions are poor, the Lower Fox River has other access points. The Ashwaubenon Millpond, also near Green Bay, holds similar species and is less crowded. Farther south, the Raptor Rapids area offers a different character — faster water and more structure, but also more challenging to fish. Both are worth exploring if you plan to spend multiple days in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Walleye bite best at dawn and dusk, or on overcast days when light is low. Pike are active all day but often bite more aggressively in early morning. If you can only fish midday, focus on deeper holes and shaded areas near vegetation.

Can I fish here in winter?

Yes, if the river is open. The current keeps much of the main channel ice-free most winters. Ice fishing is possible when conditions allow. Call the De Pere Parks Department to confirm access before visiting in late fall or winter.

Do I need a boat to fish here, or can I do it from shore?

Bank fishing is productive and requires no boat. The shoreline offers good access to walleye and pike habitat. A boat lets you cover more water and reach deeper holes, but it's not necessary for a successful trip.

What size lures and baits work best?

Live shiners (3 to 4 inches) and crawlers work well for walleye. Pike will take larger shiners (4 to 6 inches). For artificial lures, use 1/4 to 3/8 ounce jigs in natural colors, or crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Spinnerbaits also produce pike.

Is there a fee to launch a boat or fish here?

No. Voyageur Park is free to access. You only need a Wisconsin fishing license, which you can purchase online or at any bait shop before you arrive.