McKinley Pier
Fishing access is available through McKinley Marina, with parking identified by the Wisconsin DNR.
Check posted restrictions and weather before using the exposed pier.
WISCONSIN · PORT GUIDE
Plan the fishing. Make a trip of it.
McKinley Marina anchors the downtown lakefront boating scene, with additional launch access at South Shore. Milwaukee pairs public fishing spots with city lodging, tackle suppliers and museums.
Check fishing conditionsLocal information checked September 17, 2026

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The DNR identifies these public lakefront fishing locations.
Fishing access is available through McKinley Marina, with parking identified by the Wisconsin DNR.
Check posted restrictions and weather before using the exposed pier.
The DNR lists a wooden fishing pier and park parking for shore anglers.
County launches require permits; daily and seasonal options are available.
A Milwaukee County launch serving the lakefront marina and Lake Michigan.
Buy the appropriate daily or seasonal launch permit; daily permits are available at launch-site self-pay stations.
A county-listed public boat launch offering another departure point on Milwaukee's lakefront.
A county launch permit is required; rates depend on vessel category and residency.
McKinley provides boating services beside downtown.
A public lakefront marina with floating docks, full-service fuel docks, pump-out facilities and a convenience store carrying marine supplies.
The published boating season runs May through October. Confirm berth and fuel-dock availability.
A south-side specialist serves shore and boat anglers.
A Lake Michigan bait and tackle shop carrying fishing and marine products, with special ordering available.
Call for specific bait and tackle availability.
Kitchen facilities can be useful for a longer fishing visit.
An Art Deco hotel with rooms featuring fully equipped kitchens and seating areas.
The historic building has no elevators. Confirm vehicle and trailer arrangements directly.
An urban RV base sits west of the lakefront.
A year-round urban RV park with full-hookup options, showers, laundry and access to the Hank Aaron State Trail.
Reserve ahead, especially around fairground events; this is an urban RV setting.
Lakefront museums provide worthwhile indoor alternatives.
Explore the museum's art collection and exhibitions in its distinctive lakefront buildings.
Check current admission and exhibition information.
A science museum and aquarium with hands-on exhibits for families.
Check the calendar for seasonal hours and closure dates.
Confirm seasonal access, hours, launch fees and reservations directly. Ask lodging properties about your complete boat-and-trailer rig and charging needs. Check the marine forecast and posted closures; a favorable fishing score is not a safety rating.
Sources are linked beside listings. Independently selected, not paid placements. Prices and live availability are not tracked.
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