Lake Superior is stunning—but also unpredictable. As Bayfield commercial fisherman Julian Nelson once said, “The lake is the boss.” From icy depths to sudden storms, the waters around the Apostle Islands can change fast. That’s why Wave Watch, a new program from Friends of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, is a game-changer for anyone venturing onto the lake.

Wave Watch Buoy

What Is Wave Watch?

Wave Watch is a network of five SOFAR ocean weather buoys strategically placed around the Apostle Islands. These high-tech buoys deliver real-time data every 30 minutes, including:

  • Wave height, direction, and wave period

  • Water temperature

  • Satellite-transmitted conditions, 24/7

Whether you’re a kayaker, sailor, power boater, or beachgoer, Wave Watch puts the current lake conditions at your fingertips—all accessible by simply scanning a free QR code sticker.

Why Real-Time Data Matters

“Wave Watch is important,” says Charlie Jarvis of Pikes Bay Marina, “because it provides real-time data—not forecasts. That’s what makes it unique and valuable for anyone navigating the Apostle Islands.”

Wave Watch Buoy Placement

Where Are the Buoys Located?

Buoys are deployed from Memorial Day through Labor Day and monitor key areas across Lake Superior’s Apostle Islands, including:

  • Devils Island – notorious for rough water

  • Sea caves near Meyers Beach

  • Stockton Island & Julian Bay

  • Little Sand Bay to Sand Island channel

  • Tip of Long Island

These are high-traffic and high-risk zones for boaters, making accurate, up-to-the-minute data even more crucial.

Safety Starts with Information

“These buoys are like having eyes on the water,” says Jeff Rennicke, Executive Director of Friends of the Apostle Islands. “They give you the right data, at the right place, at the right time.”

Wave Watch QR Code

Get Your Free QR Code Sticker

Visit friendsoftheapostleislands.org to:

  • Download or request your free Wave Watch QR sticker

  • Track real-time lake conditions

  • Support the Wave Watch program

Boater Safety Checklist for Lake Superior Adventures

Before you head out on the water, make sure you:

✅ Have a boat suited for Lake Superior conditions

✅ Ensure everyone wears a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket

✅ Dress in layers for colder lake temps

✅ Check forecasts and real-time Wave Watch data

✅ Carry marine safety gear: fire extinguisher, VHF radio, etc.

✅ Understand navigation rules and right of way

✅ Tell someone your float plan and ETA

✅ Stay informed with Wave Watch to avoid surprises

Wave Watch empowers you to adventure boldly—but safely—on Lake Superior. Because in the Apostles, the lake is always the boss.