Jul 3, 2026
PWS Pier in Rowleys Bay
For many boaters, the local boat ramp is the starting point for a great day on the water. Whether you’re heading out for a morning of fishing, an afternoon cruise, or a day of watersports, knowing how to use a boat ramp safely and efficiently helps everyone enjoy their time on the water.
A boat ramp is a sloped surface that extends into the water, allowing boats to be launched and retrieved using a trailer. Many public launches also offer amenities such as parking, courtesy docks, restrooms, fish-cleaning stations, and daily or seasonal launch passes.
Prepare Before You Reach the Ramp
One of the easiest ways to speed up the launching process is to prepare your boat in the designated staging area before it’s your turn. Be sure to:
- Install the drain plug.
- Remove tie-down straps and the boat cover.
- Load coolers, fishing gear, and watersports equipment.
- Confirm all required safety equipment is onboard.
Taking care of these tasks ahead of time keeps traffic moving and helps everyone get on the water faster.
Practice Good Boat Ramp Etiquette
Boat ramps can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. A little courtesy goes a long way toward keeping things safe and efficient. Be patient with inexperienced drivers as they try to back in.
After launching, move your boat away from the ramp so others can launch. When loading your boat at the end of the day, secure it to the trailer and move to the staging area before unloading gear or preparing for the drive home.
Be patient with less experienced boaters, wait your turn, and avoid lingering on the ramp longer than necessary. Everyone appreciates a smooth, efficient launch.
PWS Pier in Town of Liberty Grove
PWS Pier in Rowleys Bay
Put Safety First
Before every outing, inspect both your boat and trailer. Check your tires, lights, safety chains, and winch strap, and always review the weather and water conditions before heading out.
If you’re new to boating, consider practicing at a less busy launch or asking an experienced friend to help you the first few times. One of the easiest mistakes to avoid is forgetting the drain plug—a quick check before launching can save you from an unpleasant surprise.
It’s also best to avoid “power loading,” where the boat’s engine is used to force it onto the trailer. Using the trailer’s winch instead helps protect both the ramp and the surrounding environment.
Know Before You Go
Every launch is a little different. Some require daily or seasonal passes, while others have specific hours or local regulations. Taking a few minutes to check the rules before leaving home can help you avoid delays and make your day on the water more enjoyable.
If you’re still building confidence, consider visiting during off-peak hours when the launch is less crowded.
PWS Pier and Sun Stream Boat Lift
Enjoy More Time on the Water
Public boat ramps make boating accessible to thousands of families every year, and with a little preparation and good etiquette, launching your boat can become a quick and routine part of every outing.
For many boaters, public launches are the perfect way to enjoy a day on the water. But if you find yourself boating often, a private dock and boat lift can make every outing even more convenient. Instead of trailering your boat to the launch each time, you can spend less time preparing and more time doing what you love.
If you’re ready to make the most of your waterfront property, our team at Pier and Waterfront Solutions can help. From custom docks and boat lifts to complete waterfront solutions, we’ll work with you to create an access system that fits your lifestyle. Contact us today for a free quote and take the next step toward easier days on the water.
Jun 4, 2026
There’s something beautifully stubborn about May in Door County. Just when inland Wisconsin starts dreaming about patio season and dockside cocktails, the peninsula reminds everyone who’s really in charge: Lake Michigan.
This year’s cooler-than-usual May weather has kept waterfront mornings crisp, harbor breezes sharp, and waterfront walks noticeably quieter. But instead of spoiling the season, the cooler air has created a slower, moodier version of Door County that longtime visitors often prefer.
The piers are still active. The marinas are waking up. Kayakers are layering hoodies under life jackets. And fishermen are claiming their favorite spots before sunrise with steaming coffee in hand.
In many ways, this is Door County at its most authentic.
Average May temperatures in Door County often hover between the upper 40s and low 60s, with shoreline conditions feeling even cooler thanks to Lake Michigan’s cold water temperatures, which typically remain in the 40s throughout much of the month.
The Piers Feel Different in a Cold Spring
When May stays chilly, the waterfront takes on a quieter rhythm.
At places like the Baileys Harbor marina, Sturgeon Bay ship canal piers, and Sister Bay waterfront, the crowds are thin enough to hear the water slap against the docks. Gull calls seem to carry further in the cold. After the rain, the scent of cedar and damp stone lingers in the air.
Baileys Harbor in particular feels built for cool-weather wandering. The harbor paths, range lights, and shoreline preserves become less about beach weather and more about atmosphere — windbreakers, knit hats, and slow walks with a hot drink in hand.
For photographers, anglers, and anyone who prefers “peaceful” over “packed,” cooler May weather is almost a gift.
Waterfront Activities Don’t Stop — They Shift
Nobody is sprinting into Lake Michigan in May anyway.
With water temperatures commonly sitting around the low 40s, even sunny afternoons feel brisk near the shoreline. But that doesn’t stop waterfront activity — it simply changes the tone.
Kayaking season still begins in May, especially in protected harbors and calmer bays. Paddleboarders appear on warm afternoons wearing wetsuits or heavy layers. Charter fishing boats continue heading out early, often finding calmer conditions before summer boat traffic ramps up.
And the cooler weather actually improves some classic Door County experiences:
- Pier fishing becomes more comfortable without intense sun exposure.
- Hiking along the waterfront bluffs is less overgrown and has fewer bugs earlier in the season.
- The harbor towns are pleasant to walk through, with shops just beginning to open.
- Restaurants and fish boils feel cozy.
May is often considered one of the best times to visit because the county remains soft and peaceful, despite the unpredictable temperatures.
The Quiet Side of Spring
One of the best parts of a cooler May is that Door County hasn’t fully accelerated into summer mode yet.
The orchards bloom slowly. The docks aren’t packed. Waterfront benches stay open. Morning fog drifts through the harbor undisturbed. Even communities that thrive in summer tourism, like Fish Creek and Sister Bay, feel calmer during chilly spring stretches.
Maybe Cooler Is Better
Sure, everyone loves a surprise 75-degree weekend in May.
But there’s something memorable about standing on a Door County pier wearing a hoodie while a cool breeze rolls off the water. It feels unmistakably Northern and seasonal by nature.
The boats are returning. The waterfront restaurants are reopening. The harbors are waking up — just slowly.
And maybe that’s exactly how spring in Door County is supposed to feel.
Imagine May days along the Door County waterfront on your own pier. Call Pier & Waterfront Solutions for a quote on new piers, installation, or repairs. Contact Pier & Waterfront Solutions today at 920-493-4404.
Our Hours:
Mon–Fri: 8am – 4pm
Saturday: By appointment
Sunday: Closed
Apr 13, 2026
March on the Great Lakes isn’t for everyone and that’s exactly what makes it special.
This is the in-between season. Winter hasn’t fully let go, and spring is still finding its footing. Along the piers and waterfronts, you won’t find the crowds of July or the maximum activity of peak tourist season. Instead, you’ll discover something quieter and more reflective in a landscape that feels almost untouched.
Walk out onto a pier in March and you’ll likely hear it before you see it: the low, rhythmic crash of waves against rock and steel. The lakes are restless this time of year. Wind sweeps across open water, pushing waves into dramatic swells that feel more ocean like than Great Lakes. On colder days, ice still clings to the shore edges with crusted railings, or stacked in jagged formations near the shore.
The air carries a sharpness that wakes you up instantly. It smells clean mixed with hints of thawing earth and distant pine. Gulls wheel overhead, their calls echoing in the open space, while the occasional duck or hardy fisherman reminds you that life never really pauses here, it just adapts.
There’s a kind of solitude you can only find on a Great Lake’s waterfront in March. Benches sit empty. Shops and cafes nearby may still be on winter hours. The pace is slower, and that gives you permission to slow down too. You can linger at the end of a pier, watch the shifting patterns of water and ice, and feel the measure of the lake in a way that’s harder to notice during busier seasons.
March is also a time of subtle change. Look closely and you’ll notice snowbanks shrinking at the edges, longer daylight hours, the first hints of migratory birds returning. The lake itself begins to shift in color—from the steely gray of deep winter to richer blues and greens as the season progresses.
If you visit the waterfront this time of year, come prepared. Layers, a warm hat, and sturdy boots make all the difference. The wind can be strong, and surfaces can still be icy, but that’s part of the experience.
Preparing your dock in March on the Great Lakes is all about inspection, timing, and ice awareness. Conditions can still be unpredictable, so the goal is to get ahead without risking damage.
- Check Ice & Water Conditions First
- Make sure ice is completely gone or very thin and breaking up.
- Watch for ice movement. Large sheets can destroy docks quickly.
- Keep an eye on wind direction; shifting ice can pile up fast.
On lakes like Lake Michigan, ice can linger into early spring, especially in sheltered bays.
- Inspect Your Dock Components
Before installation or repairs, go through everything:
- Frames & supports: Look for bending, cracks, rust.
- Decking boards: Check for rot or warping.
- Hardware: Tighten or replace bolts, brackets, hinges.
- Floats (if applicable): Ensure no leaks or damage.
If you removed your dock in fall, now’s the time to assess everything before reassembly.
- Shoreline & Lakebed Check
- Inspect for erosion or shifting shoreline.
- Look for new rocks or debris moved by ice.
- Confirm lakebed stability for posts or anchors.
Winter ice can significantly change your setup area.
- Plan Your Installation Timing
In Wisconsin and the upper Great Lakes:
- Late March is often too early for full install.
- Most docks go in April–May, depending on thaw.
- Aim for a calm, ice-free window.
- Prep Your Equipment
- Lay out sections in assembly order.
- Lubricate moving parts.
- Charge or test any power tools.
- Stage everything close to the shoreline for quick install.
- Safety Tips (Important This Time of Year)
- Avoid walking on questionable ice, “It’s not worth it.”
- Wear a life jacket if working near water.
- Be aware of cold shock if you fall in.
- Work with someone else, never alone in early spring.
- Consider Dock Needs
- Add low water extensions.
- Obtain new or additional equipment.
- Replace damaged parts.
Save time and enjoy the spring by having Pier & Waterfront Solutions service your pier.
Annual install & removal services
PWS has the widest range of equipment and the best reputation to handle your installation. We have dependable ATFs (All-Terrain Vehicles) for efficient service. Our crew leaders are experienced and trained to handle every situation. If you don’t have shoreline access or if the water is very deep, PWS provides a large barge to carry heavy equipment and a 40′ barge equipped with a deck mounted, moving 60′ crane for installs and removals. The barge can pick up your dock or lifts and place them where needed.
Contact Pier & Waterfront Solutions today at 920-493-4404 and be ready for summer fun!
Jan 9, 2026
Winter Waterfront Adventures and Experiences
Winter in Door County Wisconsin offers many exciting waterfront adventures and experiences including ice fishing, winter lighthouse photography, freighter watching, snowshoeing and skiing, as well as historic waterfront walks.
Ice Fishing Hotspots
Door County is the top ice fishing center around the Bay of Green Bay, especially Sturgeon Bay, Little Sturgeon Bay, and areas near Dyckesville, known for yellow perch, whitefish, and walleye. Protected harbors like those in Fish Creek and Ephraim offer early ice opportunities, while deeper Green Bay areas and the Lake Michigan shoreline (Baileys Harbor) provide chances for trout and salmon as the season progresses. Always prioritize safety and local conditions.
Key Fishing Spots:
- Sturgeon Bay & Little Sturgeon Bay: Great for early ice, especially near the shipping channel and Sawyer Harbor, for perch, walleye, and whitefish.
- Bay of Green Bay (Lower Bay): Famous for jumbo yellow perch and whitefish, with access points near Dyckesville.
- Egg Harbor & Fish Creek: Protected harbors are good for relaxed fishing with potential for panfish and other various species as ice forms.
- Baileys Harbor (Lake Michigan Side): Offers deeper water opportunities for trout and salmon, though access can be more challenging with ice.
Targeting Species:
- Yellow Perch & Whitefish: Abundant in Green Bay waters, often targeted with light tackle and cameras.
- Walleye: Found in Green Bay, with late-ice action often excellent.
- Northern Pike: Active throughout the bays, especially in weedy areas.
- Trout & Salmon: Possible on the Lake Michigan side (Baileys Harbor) for Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Steelhead.
Tips for Anglers:
- Check Ice Conditions: Always verify ice thickness and safety before heading out, as conditions change rapidly.
- Guided Trips: Consider guides for access to remote spots and expert knowledge, especially for non-locals.
- Fish Early/Late: Early and late in the day often yield the best walleye and perch action.
Winter Lighthouse Photography
Tips for capturing dramatic shots of frozen lighthouses and snowy shores. Here are some striking examples and ideas for winter lighthouse photography.
Tips for Winter Lighthouse Photography
- Capture Ice Formations: Head to Cave Point for incredible ice caves and frozen waves near lighthouses.
- Use Soft Light: Snow acts as a giant reflector, so aim for soft light (early/late day, overcast) to avoid harsh shadows.
- Plan for Conditions: Check local conditions; access to islands like Cana might depend on ice or water levels.
- Look for Northern Lights: Winter offers chances to capture the Aurora Borealis over Lake Michigan with lighthouses in the foreground.
- Explore Parks: Utilize nearby state parks like Newport for access to remote coastal views.
Freighter Watching
Watching freighters in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, offers thrilling views of massive Great Lakes vessels navigating the canal, with prime spots including the Old Railroad Bridge (closest to the Michigan Street Bridge), the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Trail, and the public areas around Stone Harbor Resort. Use resources like Marine Traffic or BoatNerd to track arrivals, especially during the popular winter layup season.
Top Viewing Locations
- Old Railroad Bridge: The best spot for getting up close as ships pass the historic Michigan Street Bridge; offers great views of tugs assisting maneuvers.
- Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Trail: Scenic trails along the canal ridge provide elevated views as ships enter the bay and shipyard.
- Stone Harbor Resort: A public walkway offers close-up, waterfront views of ships passing the bridge.
- Door County Maritime Museum: Another excellent spot to see ships entering the channel.
How to Track Ships:
When to Go:
- Winter Layup Season: Late fall through early spring (ending around February/March) when large freighters come to Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding for repairs, create exciting activity.
- Anytime: Ships use the canal year-round, so check trackers for scheduled arrivals.
Tips for Your Visit:
- Be Early: Arrive before estimated times; ship movements can vary.
- Look for Tugs: Watch for tugboats assisting the large vessels through narrow channels.
Snowshoeing and Skiing
Door County, WI, offers fantastic winter fun with numerous spots for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, especially at its State Parks (Peninsula, Newport, Whitefish Dunes, and Potawatomi). Other areas to investigate include land trusts and trails like the Ahnapee State Trail, with rentals available at local outfitters like Bay Shore Outfitters and Ecology Sports, and Crossroads at Big Creek. Popular locations include Peninsula State Park (16 miles of groomed ski trails) and Newport State Park (Dark Sky Park with snowshoe trails).
Top Spots for Snowshoeing & Skiing
Rentals & Tips
- Rentals: Available at Bay Shore Outfitters, Ecology Sports, The Ridges Sanctuary, Nor Door Sport & Cyclery, and Door County YMCA.
- Etiquette: Snowshoers should yield to skiers and stay off groomed ski tracks.
- What to Bring: Carry water, as options on trails are limited.
Wisconsin Snow Report
Historic Waterfront Walks
Door County offers beautiful winter waterfront walks and hikes. Historic downtown Sturgeon Bay and Ephraim provide accessible walks past frozen docks (Anderson Dock) and local shops.
Historic Town Walks:
- Sturgeon Bay: Walk the downtown waterfront, see the Maritime Museum, and explore local shops.
- Ephraim: Stroll past the iconic, often graffiti-covered, Anderson Dock for classic Door County scenery.
Winter Waterfront Trails & Areas:
Tips for Winter Walks:
- Footwear: Good boots, plus microspikes or crampons for icy spots.
- Gear: Snowshoes are great for deeper snow; check park websites for conditions.
- Safety: Trails can be remote; let someone know where you’re going.
Enjoy the quiet beauty of Door County’s frozen shoreline!
As the winter comes to an end, consider your own waterfront adventure and experiences with piers, docks, and accessories from Pier and Waterfront Solutions LLC. Contact us today at 920-493-4404 for a free consultation and unlock the full potential of your waterfront property.
Dec 16, 2025
Winterizing piers and waterfront property require specific preparation to protect against severe cold, heavy ice formation, and fluctuating water levels. The fundamental methods involve removing or securing movable structures and implementing ice management systems for permanent installations. General maintenance and evaluation of damage sustained to piers during the boating season should also be addressed prior winter.
Ice Shove
We understand that it may be inconvenient to work around the stored pier. There may be brown grass spots under the footpads in Spring. However, nature recovers quickly. That is not true for your pier.
General Preparation
Dock Inspection and Repairs: Before winter, thoroughly inspect all components (pilings, decking, hardware, electrical) for existing damage. Schedule repairs to prevent further damage from snow and ice melt.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions service crews have the ability to make repairs on all brands of docks and boat lifts.
Remove Accessories: Disassemble and store all removable items on dry land. This includes ladders, ramps, benches, boat lifts (if possible), storage bins, and furniture.
Utilities: Disconnect and blow out any water lines to prevent freezing and bursting. Remove power sources to non-weatherproof outlets and turn off breakers. Inspect cords and junction boxes for damage.
Pier and Dock Specific Measures
The winterizing approach depends heavily on whether you have a permanent pier, a three-season pier, or a floating dock system.
Permanent Piers
Accommodate Water Levels: Lake and river water levels can fluctuate. Ensure that the fixed structure is designed to handle potential changes. Reduced water levels might leave supports exposed or strained. High water can lead to excessive ice buildup.
Ice Management: Fixed pilings are highly vulnerable to “ice-jacking.” Pier ice-jacking refers to the upward force exerted by freezing ice on dock pilings or other piers when water levels fluctuate, causing them to be lifted out of their foundations. This phenomenon is caused by rising and falling water levels, and it can lead to significant damage to docks and other structures. The best way to prevent this is to maintain an ice-free zone around the structure. Installing a dock de-icer or bubbler system is recommended to keep water moving around pilings and the structure, preventing solid ice formation in critical areas.
Monitor Ice and Snow Load: Fixed docks bear the full weight of ice and snow accumulation. Regularly remove excessive ice and snow to prevent structural overload.
Three Season Piers
Three season piers installed by Pier & Waterfront Solutions are removed in the fall and reinstalled in the spring. We recommend that you allow us to place your equipment further up on your property due to the possibility for substantial damage encountered in the spring due to ice shoves.
Improper storage too close to the water Proper storage further from the water
Floating Docks
Removal is Best: For floating docks, the safest and most effective method is often to completely remove the sections from the water and store them on dry land. This eliminates the risk of ice damage altogether.
If Left In: If removal is not feasible, floating piers need to be disconnected from shore and allowed to move in the ice. They must be securely anchored with extra slack in the lines to accommodate shifting water levels and ice movement. Monitor the dock during winter, especially after severe weather events or rapid temperature changes, as fluctuating water levels and ice pressure can quickly cause damage.
Bubblers use an air compressor to create a curtain of bubbles and are more energy-efficient and effective in shallow water.
Propeller deicers use a submerged propeller to draw warmer water up to the surface, which is more effective in deeper water.
Boat Lifts and Equipment
Raise and Disconnect: Raise the boat lift cradle completely out of the water.
Lubricate and Secure: Lubricate all moving parts with marine-safe grease. Remove the power source and secure all lines.
Boat lifts have many of the same requirements as piers depending, if they are permanent or seasonal. Bubblers and deicers do the same thing but are very different products that can be used for piers and piles or lifts.
Consult with Pier & Waterfront Solutions for service and specific advice for winterizing your Pier and waterfront.
