The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages boaters to take extra care at public water access sites throughout the state, where ongoing drought conditions continue to cause low water levels. Much of the state is experiencing some level of drought, with conditions ranging from moderate to extreme drought and nearly 28% of Wisconsin in severe drought, according to NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System.

This means fall boaters, especially those operating larger watercraft with longer trailers, may experience difficulties launching and retrieving them at shallow boat ramps. Low water levels may also expose additional or unmarked obstructions at the ramp, including stumps, rocks, holes, sand bars, and other damage caused by power loading. While the DNR continues to repair and extend boat ramps where possible, options to address access challenges are limited on many lakes.

Boaters who rely on lifts or private docks should stay alert to changing water levels and be familiar with the boat removal options available locally. Removing watercraft ahead of further water decline might be a good option to prevent future complications. Professional lake service providers may be able to assist using specialized equipment.

Boater checklist for low‑water conditions

• Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water.
• Inspect the ramp end for holes, drop offs or mounds before launching or removing watercraft.
• Assign a spotter to watch trailer wheels and boat axles.
• Use idle speed only; do not aggressively throttle the motor on the ramp.
• Use the trailer winch instead of power loading.
• Do not back the trailer into the water any further than necessary for safe loading/unloading.
• Confirm water depth before lowering the motor.
• Consult lake maps to avoid shallow zones and be aware that unmarked and new obstructions may exist.
• Monitor water levels and plan an early or alternate removal if needed.
• The use of any motorized vehicle on an exposed bed of a navigable waterway is generally prohibited by law, with some exceptions. Contact the DNR for more information.

Property owners and those interested in recreating on Wisconsin’s waterways are encouraged reach out to local units of government, lake associations and/or local outdoor recreation businesses if they have questions about water levels or hazards.

Be aware that many hazards on Wisconsin’s waterways are unmarked and conditions can change rapidly. Water levels may continue to drop throughout the end of summer and into fall and winter unless significant runoff producing rains occur in the coming weeks.

Impacts on fish and wildlife 

Low water levels are common and part of normal weather cycles. Fish may be concentrated into smaller areas. This may cause more stress on the fish. Stressed fish are not always “willing biters.”

Additionally, near shore areas, that are exposed due to low water levels, typically do not hold fish during ice conditions. Thus, the DNR does not anticipate a significant increase in harvest. Due to these factors, the DNR does not anticipate closing the fishery due to low water levels. DNR staff will continue to monitor local conditions. If a fish kill is suspected, contact the DNR at 888-936-7463.

Wildlife are adaptable to changes in environmental conditions and will generally move about until they find what they need. While it has certainly been dry, DNR staff have not recorded any widespread negative impacts on populations of wildlife.

For more information on the drought conditions in Wisconsin, visit the DNR's Drought Status and Management webpage.

Submitted by Wisconsin DNR