What Lake Joanis offers anglers

Lake Joanis is a shallow, weedy reservoir about 15 miles south of Stevens Point that holds walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. The lake runs roughly 1,200 acres and averages 8 to 10 feet deep, with much of it choked in aquatic vegetation—cabbage, coontail, and lily pads that make it a classic warm-water fishery. The weed growth is the defining feature: it holds fish reliably but demands you know how to work around it, and it changes with the season and water level.

Walleye are the primary draw. They school in the weeds during summer and move to deeper holes and the dam structure in fall and winter. Pike are abundant and often aggressive, especially in spring and early summer when they're shallow and hungry. The largemouth population is steady but smaller than the walleye and pike, so most anglers target them incidentally while working other structure.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Joanis is a shallow, weedy 1,200-acre lake best fished from May through October, when vegetation is established and fish are predictable.
  • Walleye respond to live bait (shiners, crawfish) worked slowly through weed edges and holes; pike hit larger presentations like crankbaits and spinnerbaits.
  • The dam and deeper basin hold fish in fall and winter when summer weeds die back and water cools.
  • Public boat access is available at the county landing on the south shore; no motors larger than 10 horsepower are permitted.

Summer fishing in the weeds

From May through September, the weed beds are your map. Walleye hold tight to the edges—the transition between open water and dense vegetation—and in pockets and holes within the weeds themselves. Fish live shiners or crawfish on a slip sinker rig, casting parallel to the weed line and letting the bait work slowly along the edge. Early morning and evening are most productive, but on overcast days walleye bite throughout the afternoon.

Pike are less picky about light and will chase larger lures through the weeds. Spinnerbaits with willow-leaf blades, crankbaits that dive to 4 to 6 feet, and soft plastics rigged on 3/8-ounce jigs all work. Cast toward the thickest cover and be ready for a hard strike. The weed growth means you'll lose lures; accept it and keep spares.

Boat control matters more than on open-water lakes. Use your trolling motor to hold position along weed edges, and don't be afraid to idle slowly through shallow pockets to spot fish. A depth finder helps you identify the weed tops and any holes or channels running through them.

Fall and winter structure

As water cools in October and November, weeds begin to die back and walleye move deeper. The dam on the south end becomes the focal point—fish stack in the basin below it and along the deeper channel leading away from the dam. Vertical jigging with live bait or soft plastics works well here. Drop your jig to the bottom and work it slowly, pausing to let the bait sit.

Pike remain active through fall and will follow walleye into deeper water. They're less predictable than in summer but still respond to larger presentations. Winter fishing is possible but challenging; the lake can freeze solid by December, and the 10-horsepower motor restriction means you're limited to smaller boats and slower travel.

Access and regulations

The public boat landing is on the south shore, managed by Portage County. It has a gravel ramp, parking for a modest number of vehicles, and a small dock. No motors larger than 10 horsepower are allowed on Lake Joanis, which keeps the lake quiet and makes it manageable for small boats and canoes. The restriction also means you won't find large tournament activity here.

Wisconsin fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older. Walleye and pike are regulated under statewide rules: walleye have a daily bag limit and a minimum size (check current Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources regulations before you fish), and pike are typically unrestricted. Largemouth bass follow separate rules. Seasons are open year-round for pike and bass, but walleye have a closed season in spring (usually March through April) to protect spawning fish.

When to fish Lake Joanis

May through October is the most productive window. Spring (May and early June) is excellent for pike and walleye as they recover from spawning and feed aggressively. Summer (July and August) is steady but requires patience and precision in the weeds. Fall (September and October) is when walleye bite best as they feed before winter, and the weed die-off makes them easier to locate.

Winter is possible but not ideal for most anglers. The lake freezes, and the 10-horsepower limit means you're working with a small boat or auger. If you're interested in winter fishing, contact the Portage County Parks Department or a local tackle shop for current ice conditions and access.

Tackle and technique tips

For walleye, keep your setup simple: a slip sinker rig with a live shiner or crawfish, or a jig tipped with live bait. Use 6- to 8-pound monofilament or fluorocarbon; the weeds and structure demand a bit of backbone, but walleye are line-shy in clear water. Work your bait slowly and pause frequently to let it sit.

Pike tackle can be heavier. Use 8- to 12-pound line and don't hesitate to throw larger lures. A wire bite leader is optional but smart if pike are aggressive; they have sharp teeth and will fray monofilament. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and 4- to 6-inch soft plastics all produce.

Bring extra lures and terminal tackle. Weeds will cost you gear, and the lake is far enough from Stevens Point that running back to town for supplies is a hassle. A good depth finder and a weed rake (to clear your lures) are worth the investment if you plan to fish here regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Lake Joanis year-round?

Yes, but winter is difficult. The lake freezes solid by December, and the 10-horsepower motor limit means you're restricted to small boats. Spring walleye season is closed (usually March through April) to protect spawning fish. Contact Portage County Parks or a local tackle shop for current ice conditions before you go.

What's the best time to catch walleye at Lake Joanis?

Fall (September and October) is most productive, when walleye feed heavily before winter and the weed die-off makes them easier to locate. Summer early morning and evening bites are good, but require more precision in the thick weeds. Winter jigging below the dam works if ice is safe.

Do I need a guide to fish Lake Joanis?

No, but the weed structure rewards local knowledge. If you're new to the lake, a half-day with a local guide can teach you where the weed edges are and how to work them. Otherwise, start by fishing the dam and obvious weed lines, and expand from there as you learn the bottom.

Is Lake Joanis good for pike?

Yes. Pike are abundant and aggressive, especially in spring and early summer. They're less predictable than walleye but hit larger lures readily. The weed cover makes them fun to target with spinnerbaits and crankbaits, and the 10-horsepower limit keeps boat traffic low.

What size fish can I expect?

Walleye typically run 12 to 16 inches, with occasional fish to 20 inches. Pike average 18 to 24 inches, with some reaching 30 inches or more. Largemouth bass are smaller and less common. The lake is not known for trophy fish, but it produces steady action and plenty of keeper-sized walleye.