What Southport Marina Offers Anglers

Southport Marina sits on Lake Michigan's western shore in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and it's one of the region's most accessible launch points for both nearshore and open-water fishing. The facility operates a public boat launch, and anglers use it year-round to reach walleye, perch, and lake trout in the deeper waters off Kenosha. The marina itself is a working commercial and recreational harbor, so you'll share the water with charter boats, commercial fishing traffic, and other recreational anglers—which means the fishing pressure is real, but so is the infrastructure to support a full day on the water.

The character of fishing here depends entirely on the season. Spring and fall bring the most consistent action, especially for walleye and perch in the 40- to 80-foot zone just offshore. Summer can be productive early and late in the day, but midday heat pushes fish deeper and makes the shallower structure less reliable. Winter fishing is possible but requires a different mindset—ice conditions vary year to year, and you'll need to check current conditions before committing to a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Southport Marina has a public launch ramp and is the main access point for Lake Michigan fishing out of Kenosha, with parking and basic amenities available.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for walleye and yellow perch, with fish holding in 40- to 80-foot depths just offshore.
  • You'll need a Wisconsin fishing license and a Lake Michigan stamp; both are required before you launch, and you can purchase them online or at the marina.
  • The marina charges a launch fee, which varies by season and whether you're a resident or nonresident; call ahead to confirm current rates.
  • Walleye fishing is best at dawn and dusk, especially in spring; perch fishing can be productive throughout the day once you locate the right depth.

Launch Ramp Details and Parking

The public launch ramp at Southport Marina is a single-lane concrete ramp with a dock area for loading and unloading gear. It's well-maintained and typically handles the volume of traffic without long waits, though on weekends during peak season you may wait 15 to 30 minutes during the morning launch window. The ramp is open year-round, but winter access depends on ice conditions and weather—call the marina office before heading out in December through February.

Parking is available in a dedicated lot near the ramp, with spaces for both vehicles with trailers and vehicles without. The lot fills quickly on weekend mornings, especially in spring and fall. There is no reserved parking, so arrive early if you're launching during prime hours. The marina also has a fuel dock, so you can top off your tank before heading out rather than running on fumes from your drive.

Licensing and Regulations

Before you launch, you need a Wisconsin fishing license and a Lake Michigan stamp. Both are required by state law, and neither is optional even if you're fishing with someone else who holds a license. You can purchase them online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at the marina office, or at most bait and tackle shops in Kenosha. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase, and the Lake Michigan stamp is an add-on that costs less than the license itself.

Bag limits and size restrictions vary by species and change periodically. Walleye have a daily bag limit and a minimum size; yellow perch have a daily bag limit but no minimum size. Lake trout have their own rules. Check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you go—the DNR website has a searchable guide, and the marina office can answer questions about what's legal to keep. Possession limits are enforced on the water, so know the rules before you fish.

Best Times to Fish and What to Target

Walleye fishing is strongest in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October), when water temperatures are moderate and fish move into shallower structure. Early morning and late evening are the most productive times, especially in spring. Fish the 40- to 60-foot zone with live bait—shiners or crawlers—or with jigs tipped with minnows. Trolling is also effective, particularly in fall when fish are more aggressive.

Yellow perch are present year-round and can be caught throughout the day once you locate them. They school tightly, so finding one school often means finding dozens. Fish the same 40- to 80-foot zone with small jigs, live minnows, or small spoons. Perch fishing can be fast and fun, especially in spring and early summer. Lake trout are deeper and require more specialized tackle, but they're present in the offshore zone and can be caught by anglers willing to fish the 100-foot-plus depths.

Summer fishing is possible but requires patience. Fish move deeper to find cooler water, and the bite is often slower. Early morning and late evening are still your best windows. Winter fishing is possible but depends on ice conditions and your comfort level with cold-water fishing—many anglers skip it entirely, but those who fish it often find less pressure and consistent perch action in the shallower zones.

Facilities and Services at the Marina

Southport Marina has a fuel dock, a bait and tackle shop, and restroom facilities. The bait shop carries live shiners, crawlers, and other common baits, as well as basic tackle and supplies. If you forget something, you can usually find it here, though prices are higher than at off-site shops. The restrooms are open during marina hours, which typically run from early morning through late afternoon or evening depending on the season.

There is no on-site restaurant or lodging at the marina itself, but Kenosha has hotels, motels, and restaurants within a short drive. The marina is located in the heart of downtown Kenosha, so you're close to services and supplies. If you need a guide or charter service, several operators work out of Southport Marina and can be contacted through the marina office or online.

Getting There and Planning Your Trip

Southport Marina is located at 1 Simmons Island Road in Kenosha, right on the Lake Michigan waterfront. It's accessible from I-94 via Highway 50 heading east toward the lake. Parking is free, but there is a launch fee—call the marina office to confirm the current rate, as it varies by season and residency status. The office number is posted at the launch area, and staff can answer questions about current conditions, fish activity, and any temporary closures.

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before you want to launch, especially on weekends. Bring your license and Lake Michigan stamp, a full tank of fuel, and a weather forecast check. Lake Michigan conditions can change quickly, and wind can make the water rough even when the forecast looks calm. If you're new to the area, consider hiring a guide for your first trip—the learning curve on Lake Michigan is steep, and a guide can show you where fish are holding and how to fish the offshore structure effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Lake Michigan stamp if I already have a Wisconsin fishing license?

Yes. The Lake Michigan stamp is a separate purchase required in addition to your Wisconsin fishing license. You can buy both online through the Wisconsin DNR website or at the marina office. The stamp is inexpensive and valid for one year.

What's the best bait for walleye at Southport?

Live shiners and nightcrawlers are the most reliable baits for walleye. Fish them on a jig or a live-bait rig in the 40- to 60-foot zone, especially at dawn and dusk. Trolling with crankbaits is also effective, particularly in fall.

Can I fish in winter from Southport Marina?

Winter fishing is possible, but it depends on ice conditions and water access. The launch ramp may be closed or difficult to use in heavy ice. Call the marina office before planning a winter trip to confirm conditions and whether the ramp is accessible.

How much does it cost to launch at Southport Marina?

Launch fees vary by season and residency status. Call the marina office to confirm the current rate. Parking is free, but the launch fee is required before you use the ramp.

Are there guides or charter services available at Southport Marina?

Yes, several charter and guide services operate out of Southport Marina. Contact the marina office for referrals, or search online for Lake Michigan charter services in Kenosha. Guides can be especially helpful if you're new to offshore fishing or unfamiliar with the area.