Boat Ramps In Wisconsin: Open Or Closed?

Boat ramps in Wisconsin are open to the public, but a permit is required to place concrete planks, gravel, rock, or other materials on public lake beds to provide access to public waters. The type of permit needed depends on the type of boat ramp or landing to be installed. General permits are available for boat ramps open to the public, while individual permits are required for private boat ramps. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some boat ramps in Wisconsin were closed due to health and safety concerns, but others remained open. Wisconsin has a plethora of lakes, rivers, and shoreline that offer excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports.

Boat ramp permits in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, a boat ramp or boat landing can provide access to public waters where access is limited. A permit is required to place concrete planks, gravel, rock, or other materials on a public lake or streambed to provide access to public waters.

Different permitting options are available depending on the type of boat ramp or landing you want to install. General permits are available for boat ramps open to the public, such as city-owned ramps, or boat ramps on larger lakes with limited existing boat ramps. Individual permits are available for private boat ramps, such as those for campgrounds or resorts.

To start a permit application, use the DNR Water ePermitting System. A WAMS ID is required. To determine if a local permit or a federal permit is required for your project, contact your city or county zoning authority and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – St. Paul District Office.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some boat landings in Wisconsin were closed, while others remained open. For example, in April 2020, Brown County's Suamico Boat Launch was open, while Oconto County's launches and the East Side Boat Launch in Peshtigo were closed.

COVID-19 closures

In April 2020, some boat ramps in Wisconsin were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While some boat landings remained open, such as the Suamico Boat Launch in Brown County, others, including 19 public access sites in Oconto County and the East Side Boat Launch in Peshtigo, were closed to protect public health and safety.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to outdoor recreation, including boating and fishing, in Wisconsin. The closures were implemented to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure the well-being of residents and visitors. Officer Derek Koronkiewicz of the Peshtigo Police Department explained that the decision to close the East Side Boat Launch was challenging, especially considering the popularity of the Peshtigo walleye run among anglers. However, he noted that social distancing guidelines were not being adequately followed at the site, with 30-40 trucks and trailers jamming the lot and a constant stream of boats launching and landing.

Anglers and boaters were faced with the challenge of finding alternative locations to launch their boats during this period. While some counties kept their boat ramps open, others took a more cautious approach and temporarily closed their facilities to prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of virus transmission. The closures highlighted the importance of adhering to safety protocols and the need to make difficult decisions to protect public health during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 closures of boat ramps in Wisconsin impacted outdoor enthusiasts and local communities. It disrupted recreational activities and affected the local economy, particularly in areas where boating and fishing are significant tourism draws. The pandemic underscored the delicate balance between public access and safety, and local authorities had to make tough choices to protect their residents and visitors. As the situation evolved, health officials continuously assessed the risks and made decisions to open or close boat ramps based on the latest information and guidelines.

Public vs private boat ramps

Boat ramps in Wisconsin and across the USA can be either public or private. In Wisconsin, all citizens have the right to boat, fish, hunt, ice skate, and swim in navigable waters, as per the state Constitution and the Public Trust Doctrine. This means that all navigable waters are public and may be used for water-based recreation, provided there is public access or you have permission from the landowner. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is responsible for upholding this.

The DNR has created a statewide inventory of over 2,000 public boat access sites, with fees for upkeep and maintenance. There are also private boat ramps in Wisconsin, which are generally located at campgrounds or resorts and require an individual permit.

Public boat ramps are often found at marinas and some private communities, and they may require membership or the payment of a launching fee. Private boat ramps, on the other hand, are typically for the exclusive use of the owner and their guests.

When it comes to choosing between a public and private boat ramp, there are several factors to consider. Location is key—both in terms of proximity to your starting point and desired destination, and in terms of traffic and travel time. It is also important to consider the accessibility of the ramp, including parking availability and the type of surface (paved or gravel). The size and capacity of the ramp are crucial, as you need to ensure it can accommodate your boat's size and weight, as well as the towing vehicle.

Other amenities like restrooms, cleaning stations, or bait and tackle shops may also influence your decision. In addition, it is worth noting that both public and private ramps may have associated fees, so be sure to factor these costs into your planning.

In terms of regulations, public ramps are generally subject to local boating rules such as speed limits, no-wake zones, and required safety equipment. Private ramps, on the other hand, may have their own set of rules established by the owner or managing entity.

Finally, it is worth noting that the type of ramp can vary, with concrete ramps being the most common, offering a smooth and sturdy surface. Gravel ramps are less common and require extra caution due to potential tire slippage. Floating ramps are designed to adjust to water level fluctuations, making them ideal for tidal waterways. Multi-lane ramps are often found at busier marinas to facilitate faster launching and retrieval during peak hours.

Boat ramps in Lake Wisconsin

Lake Wisconsin is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. There are 15 public boat launches on the lake, which is surrounded by residential neighbourhoods, public parks, and forests. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species available, including walleye, northern pike, musky, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Fishing tournaments are held throughout the year.

In addition to fishing, Lake Wisconsin offers water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and golfing in the surrounding area. The city of Lodi, located near the southern shore of the lake, offers several parks, restaurants, and shops, as well as the Lodi Valley Farmer's Market.

When boating on Lake Wisconsin, it is important to be aware of stumps and other underwater obstacles. The lake is also known for its strong currents, so boaters should exercise caution and respect for the water.

Boat ramps in Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Located in east-central Wisconsin, it is the largest lake in the state, covering over 131,939 acres with a maximum depth of 21 feet. The lake offers several public boat launches, including 20 identified public boat ramps, fishing piers, and marinas. One of these is the Stockbridge Harbor boat ramp, a concrete ramp located in Stockbridge, Calumet County, Wisconsin. This ramp is approximately 16 feet wide, suitable for two-lane traffic, and has a gentle slope, making it easy for boaters to launch and retrieve their watercraft.

Lake Winnebago is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for walleye, perch, white bass, northern pike, and catfish. It is surrounded by a mix of residential and commercial development, with several cities and towns located along its shores, including Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, and Neenah. These communities offer a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for visitors.

In addition to water activities, the area around Lake Winnebago offers a range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The lake is also within easy driving distance of several attractions in northeastern Wisconsin, including the EAA AirVenture Museum, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, and the Door County peninsula.

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