Delavan Lake

Walworth County - Wisconsin

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Delavan Lake is a beautiful 1,906-acre lake located in Walworth County, Wisconsin, approximately 10 miles northwest of Lake Geneva. It is one of the most popular lakes in the region, and it offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors.

The lake has a maximum depth of 52 feet and is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, bass, northern pike, and panfish. It has several public boat launches and fishing piers, as well as several marinas and boat rental facilities.

Delavan Lake is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, and other water sports, and it has several beaches and parks located along its shores. The lake is also surrounded by beautiful homes and estates, and it is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

In addition to water activities, the area around Delavan Lake offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and golfing. The lake is located within easy driving distance of several other attractions in southeastern Wisconsin, including the Alpine Valley Music Theatre and the Geneva Lake Museum.

The town of Delavan is located along the shores of the lake and offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for visitors. It also has several historic sites and museums, including the Wisconsin School for the Deaf, which was founded in 1852 and is one of the oldest schools of its kind in the United States.

Overall, Delavan Lake is a great destination for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin's lake country while also experiencing the unique culture and history of the region.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Delavan Lake, WI

How big is Delavan Lake?

Delavan Lake is approximately 1,906 sq acres (7.7 sq km) in size.

How deep is Delavan Lake?

Delavan Lake is approximately 52 feet (15.9 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 21 feet (6.4 m).

What kind of fish can you catch in Delavan Lake?

Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Panfish, Smallmouth Bass and Walleye in Delavan Lake.

Are there fishing guides or charters for Delavan Lake?

Yes! There are fishing guides and charters for Delavan Lake and/or the surrounding area. Might we suggest A Big Catch Of The Day Fishing Guide Service?

Are there places to stay in the Delavan Lake area?

Are you craving a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Or maybe you're an avid angler in search of the perfect fishing spot? Look no further! Delavan Lake and its surrounding area offer an abundance of options to suit your needs. If you're in need of accommodation, check out our area map which highlights some of the best places to stay. And if you're looking for even more options, head on over to our Travel section. But why settle for a traditional hotel or resort when you can take your adventure to the next level by renting a RV? The open road awaits you!
More Lodging Options

Lake-Link Featured Lodging

Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Lake Geneva Resort

Lake Geneva, WI

(407) 477-7029

about 10 miles away

Are there bait or tackle shops near Delavan Lake?

Yes, there are some nearby bait or tackle shops in the vacinity of Delavan Lake.

Geneva Lake Bait and Tackle Inc.

Delavan, WI

(262) 245-6150

about 3 miles away

Are there topographical lake maps available Delavan Lake?

We have an topograpical map for online viewing near the top of this page. Lake-Link Pro users can download an print a topograpical map of Delavan Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.

Lake Delavan

Are there boat launches on Delavan Lake?

We know of 3 public boat launches on Delavan Lake. Please observe any specific lake regulations posted by the boat launch and please help keep the launch area free of litter.

Delavan Lake area businesses:

Please check out these local businesses in the Delavan Lake area:

Geneva Lake Bait and Tackle Inc.

Delavan, WI

(262) 245-6150

about 3 miles away

Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Lake Geneva Resort

Lake Geneva, WI

(407) 477-7029

about 10 miles away

JNT's Marine Pros

Whitewater, WI

(262) 473-5960

about 12 miles away

Are there places to eat and drink near Delavan Lake?

Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.

What are the fishing regulations for Delavan Lake?

There are specific fishing regulations Delavan Lake that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 847-9367 or cell #367. Need a Wisconsin fishing license?

General Restrictions

Catch and release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted.
Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler.

What is the bottom composition of Delavan Lake?

Delavan Lake's bottom composition is comprised of muck (40%), gravel (30%) and sand (30%).

Explore the Delavan Lake area in a RV

Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.

2022 Crossroads Sunset Trail - Super Lite - Site Delivery Available

30 ftSleeps 6
Elkhorn, WI

$150/nightMORE

Fully loaded 2021 Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 29TE- with bunk room

37 ftSleeps 9
Delavan, WI

$125/nightMORE

2022 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH

27 ftSleeps 7
Rockford, IL

$125/nightMORE

Lantern Lodge

22 ftSleeps 5
Elkhorn, WI

$100/nightMORE

More RV Options

What aquatic invasive species are found in Delavan Lake?

There are some aquatic invasive species found in Delavan Lake including Banded Mystery Snail, Curly-Leaf Pondweed, Eurasian Water-Milfoil, Hybrid Eurasian / Northern Water-Milfoil, Ornamental water lilies (non-native Nymphaea sp.) , Pennywort, Phragmites (non-native), Purple Loosestrife, Sacred Lotus, Yellow Floating Heart and Zebra Mussel.

Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.

What is the average air temp for Delavan Lake?

Looking forward to your next adventure at Delavan Lake? Don't forget to plan ahead! Weather can be unpredictable, but we've got you covered. On average, air temperatures during this time of year range from a high around 57°F (14°C) to a low around 36°F (2°C). Of course, these are just historical averages, so be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. For the most up-to-date weather information, be sure to check out our Weather Bar located at the top of this page.

Are there any state parks near Delavan Lake?

Enjoy more of the outdoors with a visit to an area state park. There are 2 state parks in the vacinity of Delavan Lake.

For more Wisconsin State Park information see our State Park Guide.

Delavan Lake Reviews

Below is the word on street about Delavan Lake.
Have you been to Delavan Lake? Why not share your personal reveiw with others?
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augi f.

Delavan, WI

This is a great lake. I have been fishing and coming to this lake for over 30 years and have a home on the main body. This is not a lake for beginners unless you want small gills. This lake requires some work and patience. You need to be following tips from others and listen to what they have to say. This lake is a zoo on the summer weekends. Lake will change every Friday through Sunday. The silt will settle down Monday or Tuesday and water clarity will change drastically. The shallow weeds and algae change every week as they mow the lake or wind changes. Personally I would not waste my day banging docks with every spinner or rubber made. I watch people doing this every day and not catch a thing. Then complain they can't catch crap or everything was small. I look at this lake and think live bait on weed edges, shallow, mid or deep depending on what your looking for. This lake deserves more respect than given. There are trophy fish in this lake. Take the time to study and understand it, you will be rewarded.

Reviewed Feb 22, 2022

tod h.

Glenbeulah, WI

Spent many years fishing this lake while I stayed at one of my favorite resorts in the state Lake Lawn. Great lake for BIG panfish and Bass. You won't be disappointed if your invest the time to get to know this body of water.

Reviewed May 18, 2020

jack f.

Delavan, WI

Solid lake

Reviewed Apr 14, 2020

jack f.

Delavan, WI

Solid lake

Reviewed Apr 14, 2020

charles g.

Racine, WI

Lots of small to midsize crappie and blue Gil. Fun lake to fish

Reviewed Mar 12, 2019

bradley b.

Lake Geneva, WI

Great lake to fish. If it's a weekend get out there early and be of the water by 930, the lake has way too much traffic during the day! Launch fee is a joke too! $11.75 for the day to launch at a landing that is a complete zoo! So it's a great fishing lake if youre willing to put up with the outrageous launch fee and abundance of boating traffic.

Reviewed Jun 4, 2018

gary m.

Chicago, IL

Had to work for crappie opening day but got a nice bunch for 2 hours of fishing in the afternoon

Reviewed May 6, 2018

tim m.

Racine, WI

Not as good as used to be

Reviewed Jan 5, 2018

dave m.

Greenfield, WI

Another good day of fishing on Delavan. Mixed bag of gills and perch, with a too short walleye. 12 /15 Fow on weed line

Reviewed Jun 28, 2017

bob p.

Milwaukee, WI

Great lake that i grew up fishing and now my 2 boys fish with me as well. Mainly fish from a pier at assembly park but still catch a nice variety of fish such as bluegill, small perch, big bass, northerns and the occasional walleye. Must need a boat to catch the big walleyes and crappies i keep reading about. Lake is weedy so spring and early summer is the easiest to fish from shore.

Reviewed May 21, 2017

bryan w.

Machesney,Pk, IL

This lake is in a dormant stage

Reviewed Nov 28, 2016

kyle h.

Milwaukee, WI

very good blue gill and walleye lake

Reviewed May 10, 2016

ron/don m.

good lake to fish all year round. need more boat ramps, need to reduce the launch fee price. a speed limit would do wonders for safety concerns.

Reviewed Jan 15, 2014

brandy h.

I love this lake, the fish and there size BUT I don't like the inconsiderate people that come fairly close to the men and woman trying to have a good fishing trip! It gets expensive to go every weekend so I try to make it the best I can as long as I can but it's just rude to fly past a fishermen/woman. I hope the people fishing and the people out for water play h e a good time but please be respectful of others. I bet the people doing the water play wouldn't like it if the fishermen and woman got together and spread out just enough so they can't have there fun too!... Thus the reasOn I give it 4 stars and not 5! Happy fishing and water play everyone!

Reviewed Aug 15, 2012

nicholas p.

This is one beautiful lake. We had the joy of watching float planes flying over about 200ft above the lake and that was cool! The only problem is that we went on a windier day so the water was choppy. Fishing wasn't good because of the water temperature and our lack of skill, but once the day came to a closing the fishing picked up and the waves went down and we cruised full speed back to the launch. What a nice time.

Reviewed Aug 9, 2012

jeff c.

If you're going for "overall" fish this is a great lake. Lots of big Bass, full of decent Northern, solid Bluegill (and other panfish), Walleye, you name it. The only reason I don't give this lake 5 stars is because it's not a great Musky lake :( They are in there, even a few 50 inchers have been pulled out over the past 3 years, but you'll catch about 20 Pike before you even see a Musky... unfortunately.

Reviewed Jul 13, 2011

james c.

This is one hell of a lake it has numbers and size if we all use cpr we can keep it this way

Reviewed Jul 11, 2010

keith j.

This was my 2nd time on the lake fishing and we did great. 6 walleye and 4 LM Bass. I will be back to try again.

Reviewed Sep 15, 2009

chris c.

this lake is one of the best ive fished out of wis for large mouths large numbers and sizes

Reviewed Oct 24, 2008

clifford s.

nice for all species of fish. keep pluging at it for the gillls or anything else. if you know there habitate you can catch them.want a day of fun and try, find me on lake-link and send a message and will take you out.AGH-THOR

Reviewed Sep 18, 2008

j. g.

Fishing receives a 4. Panfishing is excellent starting in June through September, but then the lake shuts down when the tempurature drops. The only thing bad about this lake is the boat traffic. If it wasn't for the good fishing this lake would receive a 2 from me. If you are a hardcore fisher than get on the water around sunrise or shortly after and get off by 11:00am because then the pleasure boaters come out and open up full throttle and cruise within 50 feet from where people are fishing. That's what I call a lack of consideration. On a good day you will catch your Panfish limit before 10:30am.

Reviewed Jun 1, 2006

david k.

awesome lake with some of the best all around fishing in this state. panfishing in the spring is great. bass fishing for both species is awesome all year. pike and muskies are usually willing to bite all year also. i just like the fact u can fish the weedlines for bass and have a sucker on a float behind the boat and have 2 lunkers on at once.

Reviewed Jan 28, 2006

jason w.

BIG BLUEGILLS,BIG CRAPPIES,BIG PERCH, NICE WALLEYES,BIG BASS,BIG PIKE. All of this in this lake and I am loving it.That is all I have to say...

Reviewed Dec 19, 2005

john p.

This is one of the best lakes around. Its got nice healthy weeds, its deep and its got some monsters in it.

Reviewed Oct 14, 2005

gary b.

Lake is great for pan fish. parking lot and boat launch are both to small for the amount of traffic it gets 1/2 hr to launch and 45 min. wait in line to to retrieve. all in all fishing was worth the wait. limited out ( 3 of us) on medium to good size gills.

Reviewed Jul 7, 2005

james g.

Great lake to fish, with nice size panfish, big bass, nice walleyes, big northerns. Caught my biggest smallmouth at 20.5 inches and just over 6 pounds. I rate the lake a 5 easy.

Reviewed Mar 28, 2005

dustin r.

Awosome Walleys lake!!! Panfish and Perch are amazing to. Bass and Northern can be great on occasion.

Reviewed Feb 7, 2005

al f.

Unbelievable pike and bass fishing!! This lake ranks right up there with Wisconsin's finest. Piers and weedlines for bass. Weedlines for pike. I would give it five stars if I did not have to wait so long to launch my boat at the launch.

Reviewed Sep 2, 2004

bobby m.

i give it a five star because it is awesome walleye fishing.

Reviewed Jan 9, 2004

rex r.

Great multi-species lake. Pan fish may be on the downside of their cycle but will be back. Walleye are beginning to hit legal size in good numbers. Trophies of all species present are a good possibility.

Reviewed Oct 9, 2003

lawrence v.

Delavan Lake offers an outstanding variety of fishing opportunities. Even though the launch fees are high, the fishing activity is outstanding. You can catch great pike, super walleyes, perch, bluegills, and crappies. There's an ample amount of smallmouth and largemouth bass too! The pike and walleye size limits are high, but you can still catch some decent fish to take home.

Reviewed Sep 7, 2003

eric j.

Good pike, walleye, and perch during ice fishin. Great place to take the kids or to catch a good meal. I had a lot of fun fishin here during the winter and look forward to fishin it in the spring and summer.

Reviewed Mar 25, 2003

sherry h.

if you want to fish in water deeper than 5 feet,don't waste your time going here.the only place fishable is the north bay by the launch.need cold weather.

Reviewed Dec 29, 2002

tony t.

Great opening weekend, Lots of Northern being taken on suckers. avg. size 30-37 inches. Please catch and release so they can get BIGGER!!!

Reviewed May 6, 2002

todd f.

wonderful lake big bluegills plus a well maintained lake very well organized

Reviewed Apr 21, 2002

mike e.

Fished Delevan twice late last year...once we got skunked, the other time I put (4) LM bass in the boat that weighed an ave of 4 #'s.

Reviewed Mar 4, 2002

jim k.

Excellent Crappie Lake. Boat Launch is jammed at peak hours. Probably because it is a little too close to Illinois. Best fishing at night. Lots of wake from sport boaters and even a seaplane or two during the day.

Reviewed Jan 12, 2002

gene s.

If you know how to fish for Northerns or Muskie, Delavan is a great spot.

Reviewed Nov 30, 2001

ladyfish k.

FIRST TIME OUT ON THIS LAKE. LOVED IT. HAD GREAT FUN CATCHING BLUEGILLS AND CRAPPIES.

Reviewed Jun 20, 2001

joe

Not As Nice As Geneva, 2.5 Lb. Range Crappie Are Present

Reviewed Feb 20, 2001

muskie m.

Great Lake Caught A Grand Slam Muskie,Large & Smallmouth Bass, And Walleye On One Day!!

Reviewed Feb 2, 2001

john g.

Great Lake For Crappie And Walley

Reviewed Jan 25, 2001

rob

Good Walley

Reviewed Jan 25, 2001

eric

Excellent Bass Fishing Around The DOCKS...SMALL Mouth / Large Mouth Bass

Reviewed Aug 3, 2000

josh

Great Place For Catching Walleye,bass,crappie And Many Other Fish

Reviewed Jul 26, 2000

stephen

Exellent Size Of Everything In This Lake, Easy To Catch Fish, Shore Fishing Accessible

Reviewed Jun 5, 2000

zack l.

Great Of Fishing For Crappies And Walleye At Night

Reviewed Feb 22, 2000

t.a.g.

Bass / Northern Fishing Is Good. Good Size . Lake Is To Weedy And Smells Like Siege In Some Places.

Reviewed Feb 20, 2000

mikie c.

Black Crappie Are Abundant In Large Sizes. Easy Catch Through The Ice.

Reviewed Dec 24, 1999

dean j.

Great Bass Lake, Above Average Size.

Reviewed Aug 19, 1999

tracy

Scummy Shores, But Mid-Lake Is Fine. Lots Of Lake Traffic, Good Lake To Play On And Leave.

Reviewed Aug 4, 1999

More Nearby Lakes To Explore

There's more lake's to explore around Delavan Lake...

	DISTANCE	ACRES	MAX DEPTH
Comus Lake	3.0 mi	131	6 ft
Elkhorn Lake	5.5 mi	29
Como Lake	6.1 mi	955	9 ft
Lake Geneva	7.2 mi	5,401	135 ft
Trout Lake	8.2 mi	10
Silver Lake	8.7 mi	85	3 ft
Turtle Lake	9.2 mi	141	30 ft
North Lake	9.8 mi	255	11 ft
Lake Wandawega	9.8 mi	120	8 ft
Lake Number Ten	10.1 mi	34	3 ft

DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Delavan Lake. Although we strive to provide the most accurate information as we can the information contained in this page is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.

WISCONSIN

WISCONSIN

Delavan Lake

Walworth County - Wisconsin

inches

°F

Today's Best Fishing Times

Get the best fishing times for Delavan Lake with Lake-Link's Fishing Forecast. SEE MORE

Share Your Catch & Win!

Frequently Asked Questions About Delavan Lake, WI

How big is Delavan Lake?

How deep is Delavan Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Delavan Lake?

Are there fishing guides or charters for Delavan Lake?

Lake-Link Featured Guides:

Are there places to stay in the Delavan Lake area?

Lake-Link Featured Lodging

Are there bait or tackle shops near Delavan Lake?

Are there topographical lake maps available Delavan Lake?

Are there boat launches on Delavan Lake?

Delavan Lake area businesses:

Are there places to eat and drink near Delavan Lake?

What are the fishing regulations for Delavan Lake?

General Restrictions

What is the bottom composition of Delavan Lake?

Explore the Delavan Lake area in a RV

2022 Crossroads Sunset Trail - Super Lite - Site Delivery Available

Fully loaded 2021 Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 29TE- with bunk room

2022 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH

Lantern Lodge

What aquatic invasive species are found in Delavan Lake?

What is the average air temp for Delavan Lake?

Are there any state parks near Delavan Lake?

Delavan Lake Reviews

augi f.

tod h.

jack f.

jack f.

charles g.

bradley b.

gary m.

tim m.

dave m.

bob p.

bryan w.

kyle h.

ron/don m.

brandy h.

nicholas p.

jeff c.

james c.

keith j.

chris c.

clifford s.

j. g.

david k.

jason w.

john p.

gary b.

james g.

dustin r.

al f.

bobby m.

rex r.

lawrence v.

eric j.

sherry h.

tony t.

todd f.

mike e.

jim k.

gene s.

ladyfish k.

joe

muskie m.

john g.

rob

eric

josh

stephen