The Story of Door County’s Fish Tradition + The Peninsula’s Best Frys
From Boil to Fry — The Flavors That Define Wisconsin’s Beloved Peninsula
You can’t talk about Door County without talking about the water. The peninsula’s identity has always been shaped by the lake — from its early days as a bustling commercial fishing hub to its thriving shipbuilding and maritime industries. For generations, whitefish was the lifeblood of local families, fueling both livelihoods and community gatherings.
Read on for a bit of local fishing heritage and the best fish frys in Door County.
Origins of the Fish Boil:
There was a time when no trip to Door County was complete without attending a fish boil.
Locals and visitors gathered (and still do) around roaring open fires as whitefish, potatoes, and onions bubble away in giant black kettles. The drama of the “boil-over” — a fiery burst of flames as the fish oils spilled over — is as much a spectacle as it is a meal.
How the Fish Fry Evolved:
Somewhere along the way, the tradition started to fade. For many travelers today, especially those in their 20s to 50s, the experience feels more like watching a history demonstration than enjoying a great dinner. Boiled whitefish (bones and all), potatoes, and onions just don’t compete with the fresh, flavorful seafood served at today’s restaurants.
Still, the spirit of the fish boil — community, simplicity, and respect for the lake’s bounty — lives on in the Wisconsin fish fry. Crispy perch, flaky whitefish, and beer-battered walleye have become the modern-day way to honor Door County’s fishing roots. It’s less about spectacle now and more about flavor — and we’re here for it. Find our rec’s for the best fish frys in
Where to Find the Best Fish Frys in Door County ↓ ↓ ↓
The Waterfront (Sister Bay) — One of Door County’s very best restaurants. Right on the bay, it’s the perfect sunset spot. The seafood here is clean, fresh, and thoughtful — a fine-dining evolution of the fish tradition.
Baileys Harbor Fish Market (Baileys Harbor) — Classic Wisconsin charm right on the water. Their perch fry is a local favorite, and their fresh whitefish dishes celebrate the region’s roots. Beyond the classics, their menu features a wide array of seafood — from lobster and crab to seasonal catches — all served with that unfussy, lakeside ease that makes this spot a local staple.
Stone Harbor (Sturgeon Bay) — A cozy waterfront spot with a memorable twist: their fish fry batter is flecked with dill, giving it a bright, savory flavor that’s downright addictive.
The Greystone (Sturgeon Bay) — Known for its prime rib, but don’t miss their perch fry — one of the best around. The taxidermy-covered walls make it feel like you’ve stepped into a true Northwoods time capsule.
Baileys Harbor Fish Company (Baileys Harbor) — A family-run market that embodies Door County’s fishing heritage. From fresh fillets to smoked fish and homemade fish cakes, this place keeps the tradition alive — one catch at a time.
For those who want to dive deeper into Door County’s fishing heritage, a visit to the Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay is a must. Its exhibits bring to life the evolution of the peninsula’s fishing and shipbuilding industries, and the Jim Kress Maritime Tower offers sweeping views of the harbor that once launched countless fishing boats. Further north, the Death’s Door Maritime Museum in Gills Rock tells the story of the commercial fishermen and families who made their living on the lake — complete with restored boats, historic photos, and hands-on exhibits that capture the grit and grace of this maritime way of life.
That same legacy still shows up today in the local fish markets and restaurants that serve freshly caught perch, whitefish, and walleye. Eating thoughtfully sourced local fish is one of the simplest (and tastiest) ways to keep the tradition going.
