Well, well, well. Look who decided to show up in February wearing a spring outfit. Jack Lake is serving up a high of 64°F and a low of 38°F today, which in Wisconsin winter terms basically qualifies as a heat wave. Wind starts at a barely-there 1 mph this morning, so either the atmosphere is mocking us or someone bribed Mother Nature.

Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM

Let’s break down this meteorological anomaly hour by hour. At 7am, you’ll launch into 38°F air with the sun already beaming and wind at just 1 mph NNW—practically a frozen morning with zero resistance. By 9am, temps jump to 48°F with wind creeping up to 3 mph from the northeast. The magic really happens between 11am and 3pm when temperatures hover in the upper 50s to 64°F range, with wind holding steady at 5 mph ESE. This is your prime paddling window, folks. Peak warmth hits at 2pm and 3pm at 64°F, then gracefully drops to 57°F by 6pm as wind mellows back to 3 mph. If you’re looking for things to do in Wisconsin that don’t involve freezing your extremities off, congratulations—you found it.

Through the Day

Early birds at 7am will need layers—38°F with 92% humidity means the cold clings to you like regret. By 10am you’re at 53°F and wind has increased to 3 mph ENE, making conditions genuinely pleasant. Midday through mid-afternoon (11am-3pm) is where this day becomes absurd for February: 57-64°F, mostly sunny, with wind at 5 mph providing just enough movement to keep the lake interesting without creating chop. After 4pm, wind drops back to 3 mph ESE as temps begin their descent into the upper 50s. It’s like a normal summer day decided to vacation in the wrong month.

Why Today Works

Today is for everyone. Seriously. With wind averaging only 4 mph and maxing at a laughable 5 mph during peak hours, even beginners will find paddleboard rental at Jack Lake completely manageable. Experienced paddlers can enjoy kayak rental on Jack Lake without battling any real resistance. This is a gift. Take it before February remembers what it’s supposed to be doing.

Visit Details

We’ve got 4 kayaks and 4 paddleboards available sunrise to sunset at our unstaffed kiosk. Jack Lake kayak and paddleboard rentals are self-service, so you can grab your gear and get on the water whenever this ridiculous weather window works for you.

Get Out There

If you’ve been hibernating all winter waiting for a sign, this is it. Anyone with access to a paddle and a functioning sense of opportunity should be at Jack Lake today. Don’t let February’s identity crisis go to waste.

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.