What Jordan Pond offers anglers

Jordan Pond is a shallow, weedy warmwater lake just outside Stevens Point that holds walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. The pond runs roughly 80 acres and rarely exceeds 20 feet deep—most of it sits between 8 and 14 feet. That shallow character means heavy weed growth from late spring through early fall, which concentrates fish but also demands you know how to work vegetation and navigate the channels.

The pond's real strength is walleye in spring and fall, when cooler water pushes them into the shallower basins and along the weed edges. Pike are present year-round and can run large here; bass fishing peaks in summer when the weeds are thickest. Because Jordan Pond is small and relatively close to town, it draws steady pressure, so timing and technique matter more than on less-fished water.

Key Takeaways

  • Jordan Pond holds walleye, pike, and bass in a shallow, weedy system where weed edges and channels are the primary structure.
  • Spring and fall walleye fishing is strongest when cooler water moves fish into shallow basins; summer requires working thick vegetation.
  • Pike can reach good size here and respond to larger presentations along weed lines and in open pockets.
  • A Wisconsin fishing license is required; check current regulations for season dates, bag limits, and any special restrictions on this specific pond.

Spring walleye patterns on Jordan Pond

As the ice goes out and water temperatures climb into the 40s, walleye move shallow to feed. On Jordan Pond, that means the basin areas on the north and south ends, where depth transitions from 6 to 12 feet. Work these zones with live bait—shiners or crawlers under a slip bobber, or on a simple jig-and-minnow rig—and focus on the edges where weeds begin to show green.

Early spring is one of the few times you can work open water here without constantly snagging. As the season progresses and water warms into the 50s, walleye begin to relate more tightly to weed structure. Transition to working the outside weed edge with crankbaits or live bait on a slip sinker, keeping your presentation tight to where green vegetation meets open water. Dawn and dusk are most productive, but overcast days can produce all day.

Summer bass and pike in thick vegetation

By mid-June, Jordan Pond is choked with coontail, cabbage, and milfoil. This is prime time for largemouth bass and a good season for pike, but it demands precision. Bass respond to topwater plugs and soft plastics worked through pockets in the weeds—throw a frog or a weedless soft plastic into the thickest cover and work it slowly. Early morning and late evening are most productive, though overcast afternoons can be excellent.

Pike hunt the same weed edges and open pockets. Larger presentations work best: 4- to 6-inch swimbaits, large spinnerbaits, or soft plastics in the 5-inch range. Cast along the weed line and work your lure with a steady retrieve or with pauses that let the bait flutter. Pike often hit on the pause, so don't rush. The channels that cut through the weeds are also worth exploring—pike use these as highways between feeding zones.

Fall walleye and the cooling transition

As water temperatures drop in September and October, walleye become active again and move back into the shallower basins. This is often the best walleye bite of the year on Jordan Pond. Work the same spring zones—the north and south basins—but now you can fish them longer into the day because cooler water keeps walleye active even in midday sun.

Live bait remains effective, but fall is also an excellent time to throw crankbaits and jigs. A 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jig tipped with a minnow or soft plastic works well along the weed edge and in the transition zones between shallow and deeper water. As the season progresses and water cools into the 40s, walleye move slightly deeper—into the 12- to 16-foot range—but still relate to the weed structure that defines this pond.

Navigation and access on Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond has a public boat launch on the south end, accessible from County Road A. The launch is small and can get crowded on weekends, especially during spring and fall. Arrive early if you're fishing peak times. The pond is best fished from a small boat or canoe; a kayak works well for exploring the shallower areas and weed pockets, though the vegetation can be thick enough to slow you down.

Because the pond is shallow and weedy, a GPS unit or detailed map is worth carrying. The channels shift slightly year to year as vegetation grows and dies back, and it's easy to get turned around in the thicker sections. A trolling motor is nearly essential—it lets you position quietly and work weed edges without spooking fish. Avoid running the main engine through the thickest vegetation; you'll foul the prop and damage the weeds.

Seasonal regulations and licensing

You'll need a current Wisconsin fishing license to fish Jordan Pond. Walleye, pike, and bass all have specific season dates and bag limits that vary by year. Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources publishes an annual fishing guide that covers Jordan Pond by name and lists current regulations for each species. Check the guide before you go—season dates and limits change, and some years bring special restrictions.

Jordan Pond is open to public fishing year-round, but ice-out timing varies. Spring season typically opens in early May for walleye; check the current year's guide to confirm. Fall seasons run through October for most species. Winter ice fishing is possible once the ice is safe, though the shallow depth means the pond can be slow during the coldest months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Jordan Pond?

Spring (May through early June) and fall (September through October) are strongest for walleye. Summer is best for bass and pike if you're comfortable working thick vegetation. Winter ice fishing is possible but often slow due to the shallow depth.

Do I need a boat to fish Jordan Pond?

A boat is helpful but not required. The south end near the launch has accessible shallow water for shore fishing, and a kayak or canoe works well for exploring weed pockets. A small motorboat with a trolling motor is ideal for working the deeper basins and weed edges.

What size pike and walleye does Jordan Pond produce?

Walleye typically run 12 to 18 inches, with occasional fish to 22 inches. Pike average 18 to 26 inches, and fish over 30 inches are caught regularly. The shallow, weedy character supports good numbers of fish but not trophy-class size.

How do I avoid getting snagged on the weeds?

Work the outside edge of weed beds rather than through the middle. Use weedless presentations like frogs and weedless soft plastics for bass. For walleye and pike, focus on open pockets and channels within the vegetation, and keep your line tight to feel when you're about to foul.

Can I fish Jordan Pond in winter?

Yes, once the ice is safe. The shallow depth means winter fishing is often slow, and the pond can be crowded with ice anglers during peak weekends. Check ice conditions with local bait shops before heading out.