The Main Public Launches in Green Bay

Green Bay has three primary public boat launches run by the city and Brown County, all on the Fox River or directly connected to it. Larsen Park sits on the east side near the mouth of the Fox where it meets Green Bay itself—this is your deepest water and best for larger boats heading into the bay. Titletown Park is downtown on the Fox River proper, smaller and more sheltered, good for kayaks and smaller recreational boats. Baird Park is further upriver on the west side, also on the Fox, and tends to be quieter than the downtown launch.

Each launch has a paved ramp, parking for vehicles with trailers, and basic facilities. Larsen Park has the most amenities, including a fish cleaning station and restrooms. All three are open year-round, though winter access depends on ice conditions and the city's decision to keep ramps clear. Spring and fall are the busiest seasons—walleye runs draw crowds in April and October.

Key Takeaways

  • Larsen Park on the bay side offers the deepest water and most facilities, making it the best choice for larger boats or bay fishing.
  • Titletown Park downtown is smaller and more convenient if you're launching a kayak or modest recreational boat on the Fox River itself.
  • Baird Park on the west side is the quietest option and still provides full ramp access to the Fox River upstream.
  • All three launches are free and open year-round, but winter access depends on city maintenance and ice conditions.
  • Spring and fall walleye seasons bring heavy traffic to all launches, so arriving early improves your chances of a smooth launch.

What to Expect at Each Launch

Larsen Park is the most developed. The ramp is wide and well-maintained, the parking lot is large, and there's a dedicated area for loading and unloading gear. The fish cleaning station is a real convenience if you're keeping walleye or perch. Restrooms are available, and the park itself has picnic tables and a small beach area. Because it's on the bay proper, you have immediate access to deeper water and the open bay—this matters if you're targeting walleye in the deeper holes or heading out for lake trout in spring.

Titletown Park is tighter and more urban. The ramp is single-lane and narrower, parking is limited to a small lot, and the setting is right downtown with restaurants and shops nearby. The advantage is convenience and shelter—the Fox River here is narrower and calmer, and you're never far from help or supplies. This launch works well for people who fish the river itself for walleye and smallmouth bass, or who want a quick paddle in a kayak without the commitment of a longer drive.

Baird Park feels more removed. The ramp is solid, parking is adequate, and the river here is wider and slower than at Titletown. You're upstream from the downtown congestion, so the water tends to be quieter and the fishing pressure lighter. If you're targeting walleye in the slower pools or exploring the river system upstream, this is a good starting point.

Parking, Fees, and Hours

All three launches are free to use. There is no launch fee, no parking fee, and no permit required for recreational fishing. Parking is available at each site, though Larsen Park's lot fills up fastest during peak season weekends. Titletown's lot is smallest and can reach capacity on busy spring mornings.

Hours are dawn to dusk year-round, though the city does not formally post closing times. In practice, the parks close when the city locks the gates, usually around dusk or shortly after. Winter access is the variable—if ice forms on the ramps or the parking lot becomes impassable, the city may close a launch temporarily. Call the Green Bay Parks Department to confirm conditions before a winter trip.

What Fish You'll Find and When

The Fox River and Green Bay together hold walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, perch, and pike. Walleye is the main draw. Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are peak walleye seasons—the fish move into shallower water and feed heavily. Summer walleye fishing is slower but possible in deeper holes and at night. Winter is productive for walleye too, but requires ice fishing knowledge and equipment.

Smallmouth bass are present year-round in the river, with best action in summer and early fall. Largemouth bass prefer the slower, weedier sections upstream and in backwater areas. Perch are abundant and fun for kids and beginners—they're not picky and bite consistently in spring and fall. Pike are less common but present, especially in weedy areas and backwaters.

Getting to Each Launch from Downtown Green Bay

Larsen Park: From downtown, head east on Bay View Street toward the water. The park is at 1900 Larsen Park Road, right where the Fox River meets Green Bay. It's about 2 miles from the city center and clearly marked.

Titletown Park: This is the most central launch, located at 1985 Lombardi Avenue (near the Packers' Lambeau Field area). From downtown, head west on any main street toward the stadium; the park is right on the Fox River just south of the stadium complex. It's less than 2 miles from downtown.

Baird Park: Head west from downtown on Main Street or Shawano Avenue, cross the Fox River, and continue west. The park is at 1400 Baird Street on the west side of the river. It's about 3 miles from downtown and slightly less obvious than the other two, but still well-marked.

Tips for a Smooth Launch Day

Arrive early during spring and fall walleye seasons. The launches are busiest between 6 and 8 a.m., and parking can fill up. If you're launching mid-morning or afternoon, you'll have an easier time. Have your boat ready to launch before you back down the ramp—don't use the ramp as a staging area for loading gear. This keeps the line moving and is basic courtesy to other anglers.

Check the weather and water conditions before you go. The Fox River can be swift in spring during snowmelt, and Green Bay itself can get rough quickly if the wind picks up. A quick call to the Green Bay Parks Department or a look at the NOAA marine forecast will tell you what to expect. In winter, confirm that the ramp you want is open and clear of ice.

Bring a fish net if you plan to keep walleye or perch. The fish cleaning station at Larsen Park is convenient, but you'll need your own tools. Larsen also has restrooms, but Titletown and Baird do not, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Wisconsin fishing license to fish from these launches?

Yes. Wisconsin requires a 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 Green Bay, or at most sporting goods stores. Licenses are available as daily, annual, or multi-year options.

Can I launch a kayak at these ramps?

Yes, all three launches accommodate kayaks. Titletown Park is the most kayak-friendly because it's smaller and the ramp is easier to access with a light boat. Larsen and Baird work fine too, but you may have to wait during busy times if larger boats are launching.

What's the best launch for walleye fishing in spring?

Larsen Park gives you the fastest access to deeper water and the bay, where walleye congregate in spring. If you prefer fishing the river itself, Titletown and Baird are both good, but Titletown is closer to downtown and has more support services nearby.

Are these launches open in winter?

The launches remain open year-round, but winter access depends on ice and city maintenance. Call the Green Bay Parks Department before a winter trip to confirm that your chosen launch is clear and passable. Some winters, one or more launches may close temporarily due to ice buildup.

Is there a place to buy bait and tackle near the launches?

Titletown Park is closest to downtown shops and restaurants. For dedicated bait and tackle, you'll need to stop at a shop before reaching any of the three launches. Several tackle shops operate in Green Bay; a quick search will show you what's near your route.