Winter brings new ways to utilize lakes and waterways in Wisconsin. The Plover Area offers plenty of ice fishing options for anglers looking to catch panfish, walleye, and more throughout the season. Be cautious when accessing the ice as changing temperatures throughout the season can affect the ice stability. Wisconsin DNR recommends 4 inches of ice thickness for safety and at least 8-12 inches of thickness for snowmobile or ATV/UTV use.

Note: Wisconsin free winter fishing is January 17-18. Residents and nonresidents may fish most state waters without purchasing a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp (see the DNR website for exceptions regarding trout waters).

Springville Pond

Springville Pond is a 14-acre lake located in the heart of Plover, with a maximum depth of 10 feet. Fish include Panfish, Largemouth Bass and Trout.

Ice Fishing Plover

Lake DuBay

Lake Du Bay is a 4,649-acre lake located just north of Plover in both Portage and Marathon Counties, with a maximum depth of 30 feet. Fish include Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike and Walleye.

ice fishing 2025

McDill Pond

Located between Plover and Stevens Point, McDill Pond is a 247-acre lake formed on the Plover River, with a maximum depth of 19 feet. Fish include Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike.

ice fishing

Lake Emily

Lake Emily is a 108-acre lake located east of Plover. It has a maximum depth of 35 feet. Fish include Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Trout and Walleye.

Ice Fishing 2026

Lake Pacawa

On the smaller side, Lake Pacawa is a 23-acre lake located right inside Plover, with a maximum depth of 12 feet. Located inside Lake Pacawa Park, parking and access to the ice is easier to navigate than some of the other area waterways. 

Ice Augger