What You'll Find at Lower Nemahbin Lake

Lower Nemahbin Lake is a shallow, weedy 265-acre impoundment in Delafield that holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in a setting that rewards patience and structure-hunting. The lake sits in the Bark River system and runs roughly 3 miles long with an average depth around 8 feet—deep enough to hold fish through summer, but shallow enough that vegetation dominates much of the basin. If you're coming from the Delafield area and want a lake where you can fish from shore or a small boat without a long drive, this one delivers consistent action, especially in spring and fall.

The character of Lower Nemahbin is defined by its weeds and the way they change through the season. Early spring brings walleye into the shallows before the vegetation thickens. By mid-June, the lake becomes a maze of coontail, cabbage, and lily pads—excellent cover for pike and panfish, but a different kind of challenge for walleye anglers. Fall turnover clears some of that weed pressure and concentrates fish again, making September and October prime months.

Key Takeaways

  • Lower Nemahbin holds walleye, pike, and panfish across a shallow, weedy basin where structure and vegetation control where fish live each season.
  • Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the most productive periods, when weeds are thinner and fish move into predictable shallow zones.
  • Summer fishing requires patience with heavy vegetation; focus on weed edges, channels, and any hard bottom you can locate with a depth finder.
  • Public access is available at the Delafield Parks and Recreation boat launch on the north shore; parking and facilities are limited, so arrive early on weekends.
  • Wisconsin fishing license and inland trout stamp (if applicable) are required; check current regulations for walleye and pike bag limits before you fish.

Spring Walleye and Pike in Shallow Water

April and May are when Lower Nemahbin shows its best face for walleye. The water temperature climbs from the low 40s into the mid-50s, and walleye move shallow to feed before spawning. Target the north and east shorelines where the lake bottom transitions from sand to silt—these edges hold fish staging before they move into tributary creeks. Jigs tipped with live minnows or crawlers work well in 4 to 8 feet of water; cast parallel to shore and work the bottom slowly.

Pike are equally aggressive in spring, and Lower Nemahbin's shallow basin is ideal pike water. Large shiners or small suckers cast near any visible structure—fallen trees, dock pilings, or the edges of early-season weed growth—will draw strikes. Pike in this lake run 24 to 28 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 30 inches. Early morning and late evening are most productive, but overcast days often produce all day.

Summer Fishing Through the Weeds

By late June, Lower Nemahbin becomes a weed-choked lake, and fishing changes entirely. Walleye retreat to deeper water or hold tight to weed edges where they can ambush baitfish. A depth finder becomes essential—look for any hard bottom (sand or gravel) in 10 to 14 feet of water, or fish the edges where dense weed beds meet open water. Slip-sinker rigs with live minnows work better than jigs in this season because they stay in the strike zone longer as you work through vegetation.

Pike and panfish thrive in summer weeds. Pike hunt the edges and openings; cast large topwater plugs or swimbaits early and late, or work the perimeter of weed beds during midday. Bluegill and crappie are abundant and eager—a simple bobber rig with a small minnow or cricket will produce steady action in the weedy shallows, especially on the south end of the lake where vegetation is thickest.

Fall Turnover and Concentrated Fish

September and October bring the second-best fishing of the year. As water temperature drops and weeds begin to die back, fish concentrate in deeper basins and along remaining structure. Walleye move into 12 to 18 feet of water and become more aggressive; live minnow rigs and crankbaits that reach bottom work well. Pike remain shallow but less scattered—they're feeding hard before winter and will hit larger baits and lures.

The fall window is shorter than spring, usually lasting 4 to 6 weeks depending on how quickly the water cools. By late October, the lake begins to stratify, and fishing slows. If you have only a few trips planned, prioritize September.

Access and Facilities

Public boat access is available at the Delafield Parks and Recreation boat launch on the north shore of Lower Nemahbin. The launch has a paved ramp, parking for roughly 20 vehicles, and a small picnic area. There is no fuel dock or bait shop on-site, so bring what you need from town. The launch is open year-round during daylight hours, though winter access depends on ice conditions and town maintenance.

Shore fishing is possible at several points around the lake, though much of the shoreline is private residential property. The boat launch area and a small public access point on the east side near the dam are your best options if you don't have a boat. Canoes and kayaks are welcome and often outfish larger boats in the shallows, especially for panfish and pike.

What Regulations and Licenses You Need

Wisconsin requires a current fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at any bait and tackle shop in Delafield, or at most sporting goods stores. Licenses are available as daily, annual, or five-year options.

Walleye and pike are regulated species in Wisconsin. Walleye bag limit is typically 5 fish per day with a 15-inch minimum length; pike bag limit is usually 1 fish per day with a 24-inch minimum. Regulations can change year to year, so check the current Wisconsin fishing guide before you go. Panfish (bluegill, crappie) have generous bag limits and no minimum size, making them ideal for a casual outing or for introducing someone new to fishing.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

For walleye, keep a mix of jigs (1/4 to 1/2 ounce), live minnows, and slip-sinker rigs. A 6- to 7-foot medium-light spinning rod with 6- to 8-pound monofilament is standard. Crankbaits that reach 8 to 12 feet work in fall and early spring.

Pike fishing calls for heavier gear—a 6.5- to 7-foot medium-heavy rod with 10- to 15-pound braid or monofilament. Large shiners, suckers, and topwater plugs are your bread and butter. Avoid treble hooks in heavy weeds; single hooks or weedless designs will save you frustration.

Panfish require only a light spinning rod, small jigs, or a simple bobber rig. Bluegill and crappie will hit crickets, small minnows, or even tiny soft plastics. A 4- to 5-foot ultralight rod is perfect if you have one, but any spinning rod will work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Lower Nemahbin from shore?

Yes, but access is limited. The boat launch area and a small public access point on the east side near the dam allow shore fishing. Much of the shoreline is private residential property, so stick to public areas. Panfish and pike are easiest to catch from shore because they stay shallow.

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

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most productive. Summer is possible but requires patience with heavy weeds. Winter ice fishing is popular for panfish and walleye, though ice conditions vary year to year.

Do I need a boat to fish Lower Nemahbin?

No, but a boat gives you more options. A canoe or kayak is ideal for this shallow lake and often outfishes larger boats in the weeds. Shore fishing works for panfish and pike, especially in spring and fall.

Are there bait and tackle shops near the lake?

Yes, several shops operate in Delafield and nearby communities. Search online for "bait and tackle near Delafield" to find current options. Bring your own bait and tackle to the lake; there is no on-site shop at the boat launch.

What size fish should I expect?

Walleye average 14 to 18 inches with occasional fish to 22 inches. Pike run 24 to 28 inches on average, with some exceeding 30 inches. Bluegill and crappie are typically 7 to 9 inches, though larger panfish are possible. Panfish are abundant and eager, making them reliable for a consistent catch.