In Wisconsin, fish fries are synonymous with Friday nights. Our abundance of freshwater means these tasty dinners are accessible across the state. Some regions even have special variations on the “traditional” fish fry, like Fish Boils in Door County or smelt fries from Lake Superior or Michigan.

Baked, fried, broiled or boiled, you can’t go wrong with Wisconsin fish! Make some at home or stop at a local bar, supper club or family restaurant. Need some recommendations? Travel Wisconsin compiled a list of Tasty Fish Fries in Each Region of Wisconsin.  

Warmer weather means that shore fishing is back on the menu. If you’re looking to catch a meal, DNR parks and recreation areas provide access to hundreds of lakes, rivers and streams that hold fish. Check out the latest Fishing Regulations to see what’s in season.

You can still join in the fun if you’re not into eating fish. DNR hatcheries and rearing stations are open to visitors and looking for volunteers. This is a unique way to learn about Wisconsin’s fish.

Below are some fantastic locations to experience Wisconsin waterways and wet a line (if you’re so inclined).

Big Bay State Park

On the eastern side of Madeline Island, Big Bay State Park features picturesque sandstone bluffs along 4 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. The park also has a 1-mile boardwalk, sandy swimming beach, hiking trails, a large family campground and two group camps.

Stopping for lunch? A large fire ring in the day-use area is perfect for outdoor cooking. Benches and a picnic table are also nearby, ideal for a group cookout.

The premier vista at Big Bay is named The Point. The ice-covered boulders and clear Lake Superior water are a sight to behold any time of year, especially on a sunny day. The Point is 300 yards from the parking lot at the end of the main park road.

The day-use area and the beach provide the best night sky or Northern Lights views.

All of Big Bay's trails are open to hikers. Dogs on a leash are welcome as well. If you have some time, Point Trail meanders along Superior’s shore between The Point and the Overlook. This 1.1-mile trail can be hiked out and back, or you can take the alternative Point Loop Trail through the woods. 

Bayview Trail meanders along the opposite side of the peninsula between The Point and the beach day-use area. This may be a welcome alternative to the Point Trail, depending on the wind direction. Adventurous souls can make a 3-mile loop, taking Woods Trail to combine the two coastal trails.

Pattison State Park

Pattison State Park features the highest waterfalls in Wisconsin and the fourth-highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Big Manitou Falls plummets over 165 feet, and Twin Little Manitou Falls is 31 feet high. This 1,400-acre park also has a lake with a beach, a nature center, camping and scenic hiking trails. 

A shelter building is available for rent year-round. While there is no heat or running water at this time of year, the shelter does have a fireplace for a cozy spring cabin experience! You can purchase firewood from the nature center.

Winter camping and backpack camping are still available. Hike 1.5 miles along the Black River to the two open campsites to experience the best of the Northwoods.

Amnicon Falls State Park

Amnicon Falls State Park features delightful waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River.

Featuring approximately 3.5 total miles of hiking trail, this park holds four hidden gem waterfalls! While you’re there, we recommend checking out the Horton Covered Bridge on the Amnicon River or taking a snack break in the day-use area, where you can find a fire ring and benches. 

Camping is also available at this time of year.