What High Falls Flowage offers anglers

High Falls Flowage is a shallow, weedy impoundment near Crivitz in Marinette County that holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in water that rarely exceeds 20 feet deep. The flowage sits on the Menominee River system and draws anglers looking for a different kind of walleye lake—one where structure comes from vegetation and fallen timber rather than rocky reefs, and where pike fishing can be as productive as the walleye bite. The shallow character means water temperature swings fast with the seasons, making timing and location critical.

The lake spans roughly 2,000 acres and is accessible from a public launch on the north side. Because it's shallow and weedy, it fishes best in spring and fall when water clarity improves and fish move into predictable zones. Summer can be productive early and late in the day, but midday heat pushes fish into the thickest cover. Winter ice fishing is possible but requires local knowledge of safe ice routes through the weed beds.

Key Takeaways

  • High Falls Flowage holds walleye and pike in shallow, weedy water where vegetation and timber create most of the structure.
  • Spring and fall offer the clearest water and most consistent fishing, while summer requires early morning and evening effort.
  • The public launch on the north shore is the main access point; check water levels before launching because the flowage can fluctuate.
  • Jigs tipped with live minnows and crankbaits that work shallow cover are the standard presentations for both walleye and pike.
  • Weed edges, fallen timber, and deeper pockets within the shallows hold the most fish and are worth working thoroughly.

Walleye fishing in shallow, weedy water

Walleye in High Falls Flowage behave differently than walleye in deeper lakes because they have less water column to retreat into. They stay tight to cover—weed edges, submerged logs, and the few deeper holes scattered through the lake. In spring, as water warms from the low 40s to the mid-50s, walleye move shallow to feed before spawning, and this is often the most reliable bite of the year. Jigs in the 1/8- to 1/4-ounce range tipped with live shiners or crawlers work well along weed lines and timber.

Summer fishing requires patience and timing. Walleye retreat into the thickest weed beds and the deepest holes—usually 15 to 20 feet—during the day. Fish the edges of vegetation at dawn and dusk, and work live bait presentations slowly. Crawler harnesses trolled along weed edges can produce, but you'll spend much of the day waiting for low-light periods. Fall, as water cools back into the 50s and 60s, brings another strong bite as walleye move back to shallower feeding zones before winter.

Northern pike and panfish opportunities

Pike thrive in High Falls Flowage's weed-heavy environment. They hunt in the same shallow cover where walleye hide, and they're less sensitive to light and temperature swings. Pike fishing is often better during midday when walleye are inactive. Throw larger crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics along weed edges and around fallen timber. Pike in this lake run from 24 to 32 inches commonly, with occasional fish pushing into the 40-inch range.

Panfish—bluegill, crappie, and perch—are abundant in the weed beds and around timber. They're often overlooked by anglers focused on walleye and pike, but they provide consistent action and are excellent for children or anglers looking for a relaxing day. Small jigs and live minnows in 8 to 12 feet of water near weed edges produce steady catches.

Seasonal patterns and water conditions

Spring (April through May) brings the most predictable fishing. Water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s and 60s, walleye move shallow to feed, and clarity improves as winter runoff settles. The flowage can be high during spring melt, which pushes fish into flooded timber and vegetation—excellent cover to work.

Summer (June through August) tests your patience. Water warms into the 70s and 80s, weeds grow thick, and fish retreat into deep holes and dense cover. Early morning and evening are your windows. Midday fishing is slow unless you're targeting pike in the thickest weed beds.

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring in many ways. Water cools, clarity improves, and fish move back to shallower feeding zones. This is often the second-best bite of the year. Winter ice fishing is possible, but the shallow, weedy character makes it challenging to find safe routes and productive holes.

Launch access and practical details

The public launch is located on the north shore of High Falls Flowage and is maintained by Marinette County. It's a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small to mid-sized boats. Parking is available but limited, so arrive early on weekends. The launch can be muddy or difficult to use during high water in spring or after heavy rain.

Water levels fluctuate more than on deeper lakes because of the flowage's shallow profile and connection to the Menominee River system. Check conditions before launching, especially in spring and after storms. A depth finder is essential—the shallow, weedy character means you can ground out quickly if you're not paying attention. Trolling motors are useful for working weed edges and timber without spooking fish.

Tackle and technique recommendations

For walleye, carry jigs in 1/8- to 1/4-ounce weights, live minnows (shiners and crawlers), and a selection of shallow-running crankbaits. Crawler harnesses work well for trolling weed edges. Vertical jigging over deeper holes can be productive in summer when fish are concentrated.

For pike, bring larger crankbaits (3 to 4 inches), spinnerbaits, and soft plastics in the 4- to 6-inch range. Pike in shallow water are aggressive, so don't be afraid to throw large, noisy lures. Fluorocarbon leader material is worth the cost when pike are present.

For panfish, small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 ounce) and live minnows are standard. A light spinning rod makes the day more enjoyable and keeps panfish from tiring quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish High Falls Flowage?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) offer the clearest water and most consistent walleye fishing. Summer can be productive early and late in the day, but midday is slow. Winter ice fishing is possible but requires local knowledge of safe routes through the weed beds.

Do I need a boat to fish High Falls Flowage?

A boat is helpful for reaching productive weed edges and timber, but shore fishing is possible along the launch area and around accessible timber. The shallow, weedy character means a small boat with a trolling motor is ideal for working cover without spooking fish.

What size fish can I expect?

Walleye typically run 15 to 22 inches, with occasional fish pushing into the 25-inch range. Pike commonly reach 24 to 32 inches, and panfish are abundant and eager. The shallow water doesn't produce trophy fish as often as deeper lakes, but consistent action makes up for it.

Is the public launch reliable year-round?

The launch is maintained seasonally and is most reliable from spring through fall. Water levels fluctuate with the Menominee River system, so spring and after heavy rain can make the ramp difficult to use. Call ahead or check with local bait shops for current conditions.

Can I fish High Falls Flowage in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible, but the shallow, weedy character makes it challenging. Safe ice routes through the weed beds are not obvious, and productive holes are scattered. Talk to local anglers or bait shops before heading out—they know where ice forms first and where fish concentrate.