Offers Respite From Heat And Noise At Wittman Regional

Robbie Culver

The AirVenture Seaplane base has always remained one of the quietest and most secluded parts of AirVenture, and is often referred to as the "best kept secret" of Oshkosh. In a sheltered bay on Lake Winnebago, some of the most unique and beautiful seaplanes are found floating serenely in the summer sunlight.

Accessible by bus from Wittman field, or by driving the back roads of Winnebago County, the seaplane base offers a cooler, quieter respite from the crowded hot ramp at the airport.

The seaplane base typically hosts more than 100 aircraft  during the week of AirVenture, and on any given day various aircraft may be seen operating. When Aero-News was on site for this story, a Beaver shared the lagoon with two Piper Cubs on floats - all headed out on a sunny morning.

The seaplane base has its roots as far back as 1973, when floatplane pilots coming to Oshkosh landed on the lake and shuttled over to Wittman Field. Paul Poberezny negotiated with several local pilots to establish a location for amphibious and straight float aircraft to arrive and dock for the annual EAA convention and fly-in. Since the land surrounding the lagoon was largely the property of the Vette family, the lagoon became known as the Vette Seaplane Base. 

When visitors arrive, the first sign that things are very different here is the walk from the parking lot. A gravel trail leads through a canopy of trees to a shaded, secluded lagoon full of wonderful airplanes. The atmosphere is more laid back, and the setting is much more intimate. If you are a photographer, be sure to bring your long lens - there are some opportunities for photos at the seaplane base that are hard to find elsewhere.

Several small pontoon boats are used to shuttle visitors around the lagoon to get a closer view of the aircraft and operations at the base. This proved to be a fantastic opportunity for photos, especially early in the day. It also provided a unique view of the seaplane operations and mooring stations.

Lake Winnebago is adjacent to the lagoon, and the city of Oshkosh is visible in the distance. As you watch aircraft come and go from the lagoon, it is easy to lose track of time and forget where you are for just a few moments. The idyllic feel of the seaplane base was just what the doctor ordered after a few days at AirVenture.

For those seeking a change from the heat, dust, and noise at the airport, several hours at the seaplane base can prove to be badly needed therapy. There are plenty of shaded places to sit, vendors with food and drink, and various aircraft vendors set up around the lagoon. If you make it to Oshkosh, don't miss a trip to the AirVenture seaplane base.

FMI: www.airventure.org/attractions/seaplane_base.html