Lake Geneva

Walworth County - Wisconsin

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Lake Geneva is a picturesque 5,401-acre freshwater lake located in Walworth County, Wisconsin, about 80 miles northwest of Chicago. It is one of the most popular recreational destinations in the region, known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic views, and luxury homes and resorts.

The lake has a maximum depth of 135 feet and is surrounded by beautiful wooded hills and cliffs, making it a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water sports. Visitors can enjoy sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lake, as well as swimming at one of the many public beaches.

Fishing is popular activity on Lake Geneva, with a variety of fish species available, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and panfish. The lake has several public fishing piers and boat launches, as well as several local businesses that offer boat rentals, fishing guides, and other services.

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

The town of Lake Geneva 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 Lake Geneva Museum and the Black Point Estate and Gardens.

Overall, Lake Geneva is a great destination for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin's lake country while also experiencing the luxury and amenities of a high-end resort town.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Geneva, WI

How big is Lake Geneva?

Lake Geneva is approximately 5,401 sq acres (21.9 sq km) in size.

How deep is Lake Geneva?

Lake Geneva is approximately 135 feet (41.2 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 61 feet (18.6 m).

What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Geneva?

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

Are there fishing guides or charters for Lake Geneva?

Yes! There are fishing guides and charters for Lake Geneva and/or the surrounding area. Might we suggest A Big Fish Guide Service?

What are the closest cities to Lake Geneva?

Nearby cities and towns include Lake Geneva, WI, Como, WI and Williams Bay, WI.

Are there places to stay in the Lake Geneva 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! Lake Geneva 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!
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Lake-Link Featured Lodging

Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Lake Geneva Resort

Lake Geneva, WI

(407) 477-7029

about 4 miles away

Are there bait or tackle shops near Lake Geneva?

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

Geneva Lake Bait and Tackle Inc.

Delavan, WI

(262) 245-6150

about 3 miles away

Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Geneva?

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 Lake Geneva (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.

Geneva Lake

Are there boat launches on Lake Geneva?

We know of 6 public boat launches on Lake Geneva. Please observe any specific lake regulations posted by the boat launch and please help keep the launch area free of litter.

Lake Geneva area businesses:

Please check out these local businesses in the Lake Geneva 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 4 miles away

Action Marine, Inc

Burlington , WI

(262) 539-2000

about 9 miles away

Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Geneva?

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

What are the fishing regulations for Lake Geneva?

There are specific fishing regulations Lake Geneva 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 Lake Geneva?

Lake Geneva's bottom composition is comprised of sand (95%) and gravel (5%).

Explore the Lake Geneva 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.

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30 ftSleeps 6
Elkhorn, WI

$150/nightMORE

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17 ftSleeps 4
Franklin, WI

$253/nightMORE

2022 Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite

30 ftSleeps 8
Genoa City, WI

$145/nightMORE

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

37 ftSleeps 9
Delavan, WI

$125/nightMORE

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What aquatic invasive species are found in Lake Geneva?

There are some aquatic invasive species found in Lake Geneva including Aquatic forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides), Banded Mystery Snail, Curly-Leaf Pondweed, Eurasian Water-Milfoil, Rusty Crayfish, Starry Stonewort, Yellow Iris 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 Lake Geneva?

Looking forward to your next adventure at Lake Geneva? 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 Lake Geneva?

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

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

Lake Geneva Reviews

Below is the word on street about Lake Geneva.
Have you been to Lake Geneva? Why not share your personal reveiw with others?
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tod h.

Glenbeulah, WI

Been fishing this lake since the 70's. This is truly a trophy lake with the best fishing , in my opinion, being in late May early June. If you like to ice fish my one of my favorite spots is off Trinke's estates. Good luck and tight lines!

Reviewed May 18, 2020

dave d.

Mchenry, IL

Best lake in Milwaukee/Chicago metro area. Trophy-class Smallmouth, Largemouth, Walleye and even Lake Trout. But clear, big, big, and can be super-tough.

Reviewed Nov 18, 2019

bob w.

Libertyville , IL

My friend and I searched hard all day 5/23. We marked a-lot of fish in Fontana but the bite was very light. Great post on the sand/clear water stain on the lake. We should have fished that color break. First week of June is generally a great time for Geneva. We will be back for revenge.

Reviewed May 25, 2019

bob w.

Libertyville , IL

Reviewed May 25, 2019

frank p.

Lake Villa, IL

Seems to me some years ago the rates were raised like this and the DNR made them roll back what they charged. It's been quite some time but I do remember something like that happening. Things could have changed since then. Mr Harris you're right I am legendary on both waters, at least in my own mind LOL. I owe it to everything you've taught me over all these years!

Reviewed Apr 29, 2019

matt m.

Palatine, IL

Great fishing lake but can be challenging. Last weekend my cabelas tackle bag left on east side launch. Hoping an honest fisherman has it.

Reviewed Nov 8, 2018

stephen h.

Downers Grove, IL

No boat...no problem...dock fishing for bass pretty good...

Reviewed Aug 13, 2018

ron g.

Roscoe, IL

Fished with the nightprowler and what a day we had. This is the man you want for crappies. Talk about a lite bite. I was sitting there waiting for a bite when william says" When are you going to set the hook?" You have already had two bites. After that I had the hot color and we lite them up. I have been out with him for smallies in the fall and did quite well. Book a trip now before I fill his slots.HAHA. Hero take note. We never did that!!

Reviewed Apr 20, 2018

zachary b.

Chicago, IL

Had an amazing day today! Caught multiple 12" bass on a dropshot then decided to tie on a brush hog. Caught some solid 2's with that. Decided to try a live crawfish I found under a rock and BOOM 5lber. Love this lake!

Reviewed Aug 5, 2017

joe z.

Fox Lake, IL

I fished This lake Twice and caught one 18" large and one 18 " smallie here last year and Big Rock Bass on another trip. It was easy to find fish and I was lucky t=it wasn't windy out. Fox Lake Joe

Reviewed May 23, 2017

joe h.

Plainfield, IL

Nice muskie by black point. Trolling at 35 feet

Reviewed Jul 30, 2016

j h.

This is one of the best lakes you'll find in Wisconsin! The water is crystal clear, its not loaded with nasty weeds and muck, and a lot of the fish are just gigantic! Fishing can be rough at times though because this is a very popular pressured lake. Always use light monofilament or fluorocarbon line here. The reason though why I'm not giving this 5 stars is because the boat traffic is just horrible on weekends and there are rude boaters. Unfortunately (even on week days with a lot less traffic) boaters and water skiers will come close to you and drive at full speed while you're fishing.

Reviewed Sep 5, 2015

andy l.

Geneva is a trophy producing paradise! No matter what species you wish to target. Fished this lake my whole life. Smallmouth and largemouth bass are very abundant with trophy potential a bite away. All panfish species are some of the biggest around. walleyes are hard to catch but huge. Water is crystal clear which makes fishing tough at times. Long casts with light line a must. Night fishing in the summer months is hard to beat. Avoid weekends as boat traffic is pretty bad. Even though this lake is huge pleasure boaters will harass you. Lake can get very rough if winds pick up. Delevan lake has increased in popularity leaving Geneva less pressured than years past. Spend some time out here and learn the lake. It will reward you in the long run

Reviewed Dec 27, 2011

james s.

Fantastic fishery... To bad there are some pleasure boater's that do not know the boating reg's.. very clean lake and quality fish. Have never been disappointed.

Reviewed Oct 1, 2011

john f.

Who knew that trolling with crawler harnesses could bring up such fish variety?! I went out with my dad and brother and we trolled along the 20 to 30 foot depth contour and caught a ton of sardine sized perch (all released), a bunch of bluegills from dinks to giants, a couple of northern pike, and some smallmouth bass. The only problem is the boat traffic.

Reviewed Jan 19, 2011

john f.

Geneva is a great lake for fishing. The last time I went there, I caught a really nice smallmouth bass when I casted out a minnow under a bobber for whatever would bite it. There's alot of perch in here (mostly small but plenty of eaters too) and some amazing bluegill sizes. The biggest problem is the large volume of boat traffic. To avoid that, try going on weekdays or between Labor Day and Memorial Day weekends.

Reviewed Dec 7, 2010

joshua h.

Have you ever been ice fishing and had a northern pike on so big that it wouldn't fit through your 8 inch hole? Have you ever had A northern on so big that it straightened out you hook? Now have you ever had that happen twice in one day? I have! Fish Lake Geneva!!!!

Reviewed Jan 14, 2010

aidan m.

Come here for Smallmouth because everytime i go swimming in here, i see nice Smallmouth Bass come and fish here!!!!

Reviewed Jun 11, 2009

tony h.

Size, not quanity!!

Reviewed Jan 24, 2009

jim o.

Always a great day.

Reviewed Jun 29, 2008

terry h.

great for everything!!!!

Reviewed Jun 15, 2008

ken m.

Reminds me of a canadian shield type lake. Deep,cold,with plenty of good weed beds and rock structure.

Reviewed May 29, 2008

shoot n.

This lake beats MOST Northern Lakes hands down.

Reviewed May 14, 2008

terry h.

Use suckers for pike... works awesome!

Reviewed Feb 4, 2008

nick v.

I've lived on this lake my whole life and have found that it is a challenging but very rewarding lake to fish. My favorite spots are on the north west side between george williams and fontana. Great walleyes near Abbey springs, and in the harbor in spring time. Good luck Be safe!

Reviewed Feb 1, 2008

frank p.

If you enjoy watching a big bass, both smallies and largemouth, battle on the end of your line in crystal clear water then this is the place for you. It's also the best lake I know of for BIG bluegills,BIG pumpkinseeds, BIG crappie and the always hungry and very BIG rock bass. Throw in great pike fishing and a chance at a very nice trout how can you go wrong? Get here early or late during the summer boating season to avoid the crowds and you will not be disappointed.

Reviewed Jun 7, 2006

ken m.

for quality crappie fishing, as well as bass fishing you can not beat this lake! one of the best southern wisconsin lakes around,especially for the above named species would recommend this lake to everyone who asked me any thing about it

Reviewed Jun 6, 2006

david k.

Can you say smallies? I catch more 5 pound smallies here than anywhere else. The only downfall is all the boat traffic but its worth it when you reel in the big bronzies.

Reviewed Jan 28, 2006

garrett j.

what an awesome lake by far the best bluegill lake in wisonsin just started ice fishing it this winter and will be back for many years to come as im putting 5 gills over 11" on the wall already

Reviewed Mar 8, 2005

james h.

The lake keeps producing large fish of every kind.This last week did not disappointed me. I haven't fished it in 20 years and remembering where some old hot spots produced 10" gills and 10"-14" crappies.It has a good base of fish and seems to bounces back guickly in bad years.Excellent

Reviewed Feb 27, 2005

al w.

One of the best lakes i fished on we catch anywere from monster Northern to big crappies a very fun lake to fish.

Reviewed Jan 27, 2005

paul f.

If you want to fish this lake, start at 4:30 AM and get off by 11:00 AM. At about 11:00, the boat traffic gets heavy, but by that time you will have caught all kinds of different fish. This is a great lake, but don't go out on a Saturday afternoon in July and expect any type of tranquility.

Reviewed Nov 20, 2004

gary b.

As you can see by the pictures of the MuskyMod in my boat (late October) holding the very nice crappies, this is a very,very fertile lake. There is great fishing for ALL species of fish. As everyone has said, the boat traffic in the summer is CRAZY but if you can deal with all the bone heads, you can catch very nice fish in numbers! In the spring and fall the lake is all ours (fishermen)! The ice fishing on this lake is very good! You can catch all species in the winter! Have fun and TIGHT LINES!! meatpuppet

Reviewed Jul 31, 2003

paul o.

One of the top lakes in the state, but like the others have said the boat traffic is ridiculous. Have had wake from big 'DUMMY' boats come right over my bow. I guess they should pass an anchored boat at more than 10' away. Thing is, they don't even have a clue. You find that a lot these days wherever you go. Mandatory boater education is a good idea. As far as fishing goes it is tops for the angler that can adapt to the pressure, traffic and clear water.

Reviewed Mar 17, 2003

ted s.

This is an excellent fishing lake but the boat traffic can be a pain in the neck but plenty of smallmouth walleye and panfish can be caught on this lake

Reviewed Mar 1, 2003

john l.

Geneva Lake as I remember it, is gone as far as I am concerned. The amateurs abound everywhere. This lake is one of the best potential good fishing lakes of Wi. You spend the major part of your time trying to avoid being swamped by some people that haven't the slightest idea that they are not the only people on the lake. Today, I towed in some jerky clowns that ran out of gas and, they just took it like I should be doing that. As I left them at Gordy's in Fontana I told the kid at the pump "They are all yours son". This is my first year back to that lake and I am ashamed to call it home.

Reviewed Sep 11, 2002

ben s.

I have fished Lake Geneva for almost 10 years and my biggest Smallmouth Bass was 23" and it weighted about 7 to 8 pounds and caught it right off my dock where I do most of my fishing from and just last weekend I caught a 15" Black Crappie that weighted 2.5 pounds and that time I was in a Kayak not far from my dock and 2.5 pound Black Crappie are not rare in this lake.

Reviewed Aug 7, 2002

andrew h.

I tell you all one thing, if this rating could go any higher i would go with geneva being a down rite 10. Cant wait to pound these fish. It is still to early to tell whether or not the crappies are done spawning. but i will pound this lake the whole month of july. And report back. My two biggest fish that i have landed are a 44 1/2 inch northern weighing in at 23 pounds. And a 22 1/4 inch smallie that i thought was going to push the record book in weight. Never weighed the fish because i released the monster. I would have to say that it is the only lake that at high noon you can fish the docks with a split-shot and a whole crawler and pound these huge smallies. Fish weighed about 6 pounds. See you on the water///A.k.A Daniel Boone/Can anybody top that Honestly???????????????

Reviewed Jun 13, 2002

roger l.

Week days are great, but boat traffic on weekends is hell. Never was skunked. Always caught (and released) many fish. Great clean lake.

Reviewed Jan 28, 2002

belly u.

Great Fishing you can Hammer RockBass all Day But don?t Take a Smallie home The locals will gut you!

Reviewed Jun 16, 2001

dave w.

Awesome fishing! Home of the next Wisconsin Record Walleye!

Reviewed Jun 15, 2001

scott h.

Lake Has Good Nothern Walleye And Bass

Reviewed May 9, 2001

duane

This Lake Has Nice Size Bass And Pike!

Reviewed May 4, 2001

ryan

This Lake Is The Best For Small Mouth Bass

Reviewed May 3, 2001

ryan

Good Bass Action If You Have A Boat

Reviewed May 3, 2001

ryan

I´t Is One Of The Best Spots For Small Mouth Bass If You Have A Boat

Reviewed May 3, 2001

joe v.

Incredibiliy Diverse, Everything Is Quality,Awesome Crappies!

Reviewed Feb 20, 2001

mati

Absolutely The Best Lake In Wisconsin!

Reviewed Feb 11, 2001

muskyhead

Fish From Dark Til Dawn So You Don´t Get Run Over - Awsome!

Reviewed Jul 31, 2000

melinda

It Is The Best! From The Peers To Quailty Of The Lake Itself!

Reviewed Jul 17, 2000

mark

Awesome Small Mouth

Reviewed Jun 30, 2000

j.ludington

Trophy Lake For Small Mouth!

Reviewed Apr 10, 2000

fishhead

Fishheads Hottest Summer Lake. 3 To 5 Lb Smallies/monster Gills

Reviewed Mar 17, 2000

jerry

Love This Lake. Crystal Clear. Gets Very Busy On Weekends In Summer

Reviewed Feb 20, 2000

jack m.

Fished This Lake For Over 20 Years And Can Be Excellent In Mid June. Lindy And Worm Can Produce.

Reviewed Feb 18, 2000

paul b.

By Far The Best Fishing Lake In Wisconsin!

Reviewed Oct 21, 1999

tim

This Is The Lake That I Was Born And Raised On And I Fish There Almost Every Day

Reviewed Sep 28, 1999

dczre

Only Ice Fished,but Know It Has Potential,cant Wait To Capitalize.

Reviewed Aug 13, 1999

chris

Always Catch Fish.

Reviewed Aug 11, 1999

lw

Great Smallmouth Lake. Old & New Mansions For Scenery. Crystal Clear Water. Catch Fish Every Time!

Reviewed Jul 14, 1999

More Nearby Lakes To Explore

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

	DISTANCE	ACRES	MAX DEPTH
Como Lake	2.2 mi	955	9 ft
Peterkin Pond	4.5 mi	24
Pell Lake	6.4 mi	86	13 ft
Lake Ivanhoe	6.7 mi	46	10 ft
Elkhorn Lake	6.7 mi	29
Goose Pond	7.0 mi	69
Delavan Lake	7.2 mi	1,906	52 ft
Tombeau Lake	9.0 mi	34	26 ft
Benedict Lake	9.2 mi	76	37 ft
Powers Lake	9.3 mi	451	33 ft

DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Lake Geneva. 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

Lake Geneva

Walworth County - Wisconsin

inches

44°F

Today's Best Fishing Times

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

Share Your Catch & Win!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Geneva, WI

How big is Lake Geneva?

How deep is Lake Geneva?

What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Geneva?

Are there fishing guides or charters for Lake Geneva?

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Are there places to stay in the Lake Geneva area?

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Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Geneva?

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Lake Geneva area businesses:

Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Geneva?

What are the fishing regulations for Lake Geneva?

General Restrictions

What is the bottom composition of Lake Geneva?

Explore the Lake Geneva area in a RV

2022 Crossroads Sunset Trail - Super Lite - Site Delivery Available

*2023 new* Froggy the shortest full amenity van! -Milwaukee-

2022 Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite

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

What aquatic invasive species are found in Lake Geneva?

What is the average air temp for Lake Geneva?

Are there any state parks near Lake Geneva?

Lake Geneva Reviews

tod h.

dave d.

bob w.

bob w.

frank p.

matt m.

stephen h.

ron g.

zachary b.

joe z.

joe h.

j h.

andy l.

james s.

john f.

john f.

joshua h.

aidan m.

tony h.

jim o.

terry h.

ken m.

shoot n.

terry h.

nick v.

frank p.

ken m.

david k.

garrett j.

james h.

al w.

paul f.

gary b.

paul o.

ted s.

john l.

ben s.

andrew h.

roger l.

belly u.

dave w.

scott h.

duane

ryan

ryan

2023 new Froggy the shortest full amenity van! -Milwaukee-