Today at Jack Lake, we’re looking at a high of 67°F with a low of 57°F—and showers and thunderstorms likely throughout most of your paddling window. Morning winds start around 8 mph from the south, but this is not a calm day by any measure. If you’re considering kayak rental at Jack Lake today, read on before you commit.

Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM Breakdown

The morning kicks off at 57°F with showers and thunderstorms likely at 7am and winds at 8 mph from the south. By 9am, you’re seeing 59°F with winds picking up to 11 mph—still manageable but conditions remain stormy. There’s a brief reprieve between 10am and 1pm where storm chances drop to “slight” and winds ease to just 4-5 mph around midday. This late-morning window is genuinely your best shot if you’re determined to paddle. However, by 2pm, storms return with renewed enthusiasm, and that 16-18 mph wind spike between 4pm and 5pm makes late afternoon a hard pass.

Through the Day

Early morning (7-9am) brings active storm threats with temperatures climbing from 57°F to 59°F and winds building from 8 mph to 11 mph. Midday offers the calmest conditions—64-66°F with winds dropping to a gentle 4-5 mph between noon and 1pm. Late afternoon is where things get serious: storms intensify at 2pm, and by 4pm winds jump dramatically to 16 mph, then peak at 18 mph by 5pm as the wind shifts from south-southwest to northwest. The evening settles down by 7pm with only 3 mph winds, but storm chances persist.

Why Today Works (Or Doesn’t)

Today is for experienced paddlers who actively enjoy paddling in the rain and don’t mind the constant threat of electrical storms overhead. If you’re looking for things to do in Wisconsin that involve staying dry, paddleboard rental might not be your move. That midday window with 4-5 mph winds could work for a quick trip, but you need to watch the sky like a hawk.

Visit Details

Kayak Kiosk at Jack Lake has 4 kayaks available from sunrise to sunset. This is an unstaffed kiosk, so you’re responsible for checking conditions yourself before launching.

Should You Come Today?

If you’re flexible and can hit the water between 10am and 1pm, you might squeeze in a decent session. Everyone else—especially beginners—should bookmark this page and come back on a day that doesn’t feature the words “thunderstorms likely” in the forecast.

Weather & Safety Disclaimer: This forecast is based on current data and is subject to rapid change. Always check current conditions in person before paddling. Water conditions can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Kayak Kiosk is not liable for changes in weather, water conditions, or personal injury. Paddlers assume all risks associated with paddling. Always wear a properly fitting PFD, check official weather forecasts, and use good judgment. Do not paddle in conditions you are uncomfortable with.