Best Fishing Lakes in Michigan – The 16 Fishing Place

Are you ready for an unforgettable fishing trip in Michigan? If so, you’re in luck! Michigan is home to some of the best fishing lakes in the country, offering a wide range of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

One of the highlights of fishing in Michigan is the abundance of great lakes and inland lakes. In fact, Michigan is known as the “Great Lakes State” and is surrounded by four of the five largest of the Great Lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie. These magnificent water bodies provide endless possibilities for summer fishing adventures.

When it comes to the best fishing lakes in Michigan, there are plenty to choose from. Let’s start with the inland lakes. Houghton Lake, located in the lower peninsula of Michigan, is one of the largest inland lakes in the state. This lake is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch yellow perch, smallmouth bass and over species.

Another gem in southwest Michigan is Mullett Lake. This picturesque lake is connected to Lake Michigan and is also one of the best fishing spots in the state. Anglers can expect to find a variety of fish, including smallmouth bass, and northern pike.

No list of the best fishing lakes in Michigan would be complete without mentioning Lake St. Clair. This lake, located along the border of Michigan and Ontario, is known for its incredible walleye fishery. Anglers from all over flock to this lake to experience the thrill of catching trophy-sized walleye.

In addition to these lakes, Michigan is also home to numerous rivers and smaller lakes that offer great fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, there’s a fishing spot in Michigan that’s perfect for you.

So pack your gear, grab your fishing rod, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure in the beautiful lakes of Michigan.

Best Fishing Lakes in Michigan

In this article, we will explore the top 16 fishing lakes in Michigan that promise an unforgettable fishing trip in 2023. Whether you are an experienced fisherman or a beginner, these lakes offer abundant opportunities for catching a variety of fish species. Get ready to cast your line and reel in some incredible memories!

Lake Huron

Location

Huron Water Body is one of the five Great Water Bodies located on the eastern side of Michigan, United States. It is bordered by Michigan to the west and Ontario, Canada, to the east.

Fish Species

Huron Water Body is home to a variety of fish species, attracting fishermen. Some common fish found in this Water Body include:

• Trout: This Water Body supports lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, which are sought after by fishermen for their fight.
• Yellow Perch: These species are abundant in this Water Body and are known for their delicious taste.
• Northern Pike: This predatory fish species is aggressive and can be found in this Water Body.
• Coho Salmon: These species provide an exciting challenge for fishermen with their acrobatic jumps and strong runs.

Description

Huron Water Body offers excellent fishing opportunities for both recreational and professional fishermen. With its clear waters, scenic shoreline, and abundant fish populations, it is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.

The water body has a diverse fishery, allowing fishermen to target different species such as trout, perch, pike, and salmon.

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Fishermen can fish from the shore, rent a boat, or join a fishing charter to explore the vast waters of this Water Body. The water body’s size and depth provide ample space for fishermen to find their own fishing spot.

Saginaw Bay

This fishing spot is located on the eastern side of the state of Michigan, bordering the Saginaw Bay of Huron Reservoir. It stretches from Au Gres to Bay City and offers excellent fishing opportunities.

Fish Species

This water body is known for its diverse fish population. Fishermen can find a variety of species, including:

• Walleye
• Smallmouth Bass
• Yellow Perch
• Northern Pike
• Muskie
• Catfish

Description

Saginaw Bay is a popular destination among fishermen due to its abundant fish population and scenic beauty. With its vast waters and diverse fish species, it offers a thrilling fishing experience for both beginners and seasoned fishermen. Whether you prefer trolling, casting, or ice fishing, this water body has something to offer all fishing enthusiasts.

The bay’s location on HuronR reservoir provides a favorable environment for various fish species to thrive. Its nutrient-rich waters support a healthy ecosystem, making it an ideal habitat for walleye, smallmouth and perch. Fishermen can also target northern pike and muskie, known for their size and fighting spirit.

This fishing spot offers ample opportunities for shore fishing, boat fishing, and ice fishing during the winter months. Fishermen can explore the bay’s numerous bays, channels, and reefs to find their desired catch. Whether you’re targeting trophy walleye or seeking the thrill of catching smallmouth, this spot is a must-visit destination for any fishing enthusiast.

Lake St. Clair

Location

This lake is situated on the US-Canada border, between Michigan and Ontario. It is part of the Great Waters system and is located northeast of Detroit.

Fish Species

This lake is known for its diverse range of fish species, attracting fishermen and fishing enthusiasts. Common fish species in the water body include:

• Smallmouth Bass
• Muskie
• Walleye
• Yellow Perch
• Northern Pike
• Carp

Description

St. Clair is renowned as one of Michigan’s top fishing bodies of water. fishermen visit throughout the year for the excitement of catching different fish species.

The water body’s clear and shallow waters provide an ideal habitat for smallmouth, which are highly sought after. Smallmouth fishing in St. Clair is known for its excitement and challenge due to its aggressive nature and strong fighting ability.

Walleye is another popular fish species in this lake. Fishermen can target this fish using various techniques such as trolling, jigging, and casting. These fish are prized for their delicious taste.

Aside from smallmouth and walleye, St. Clair offers opportunities to catch muskie, perch, northern pike, carp, and more. Whether fishing from the shore or on a boat, this lake provides a wide range of options.

With its scenic beauty and abundant fish population, this lake is a paradise for fishermen and a must-visit destination in Michigan.

Black Lake

Location

Black Waterbody is a popular fishing spot in Cheboygan County, Michigan. It covers about 10,130 acres and is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Cheboygan.

Fish Species

Fishermen visiting Black Waterbody can find a variety of fish species, including:

• Walleye
• Northern Pike
• Smallmouth Bass
• Yellow Perch
• Bluegill
• Pumpkinseed
• Black Crappie
• Muskie

Description

Black Waterbody is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. It attracts fishermen from all over Michigan due to its healthy walleye population. Spring and fall are the best seasons for walleye fishing, and fishermen use various techniques such as trolling, jigging, or casting with live bait or artificial lures.

Besides walleye, Black Waterbody is also home to smallmouth and northern pike. The waterbody offers abundant opportunities for panfish, including perch, bluegill, pumpkinseed, and black crappie.

Lake Erie

Location

Lake Erie, located in southeastern Michigan, is the fourth largest of the Great Waters, covering about 9,910 square miles. It is known for its shallow depth and fertile waters, making it a perfect habitat for a variety of fish species.

Fish Species

Erie is a paradise for fishermen as it is home to a wide range of fish species, including:

• Walleye: These prized game fish are famous for their delicious taste and challenging fight, attracting fishermen from all over.
• Smallmouth Bass: Erie is considered one of the best smallmouth fisheries in the country, providing ample opportunities to catch these feisty and acrobatic fish.
• Yellow Perch: Abundant in the water, these species are a popular target for fishermen seeking a tasty meal. They offer a fun fishing experience and can be caught in good numbers.
• Northern Pike: Known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, Northern Pike can be found lurking in the waters of Erie, providing an exciting challenge for fishermen.

Description

Erie in Michigan is a true angler’s paradise. Its pristine waters and abundance of fish species make it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch your next trophy fish.

The water’s shallow depth and nutrient-rich waters create a thriving ecosystem that supports a diverse range of fish species. From the thrilling fight of a walleye to the acrobatics of a smallmouth, Erie offers an unforgettable fishing experience.

Hubbard Lake

Location

This waterbody is located in Alcona County, Michigan. Hubbard Lake is one of the most beautiful and popular fishing destinations. It spans 8,850 acres with a maximum depth of 85 feet.

Fish Species

• Smallmouth Bass
• Northern Pike
• Yellow Perch
• Walleye
• Largemouth Bass
• Brown Trout
• Rainbow Trout
• Coho Salmon

Description

With its clear waters and diverse fish population, Hubbard Waterbody is perfect for fishermen of all skill levels. The surrounding natural beauty enhances the fishing experience, and amenities like public access points and boat launches make it easily accessible.

Houghton Lake

Location

Houghton Waterbody, located in Michigan’s Roscommon County, is the state’s largest inland body spanning 20,044 acres. The waterbody, situated in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, is a popular destination for fishermen due to its diverse range of fish species.

Fish Species

• Walleye: Abundant population, prized game fish with delicious taste and challenging fight.
• Northern Pike: Aggressive predatory fish, providing an exciting challenge for fishermen.
• Yellow Perch: Healthy population, tasty panfish found in good numbers throughout the water body.
• Bluegill and Crappie: Excellent opportunities for family-friendly fishing, targeted by beginners and experienced fishermen.

Description

Houghton Waterbody offers a picturesque setting surrounded by scenic landscapes and forests. The waterbody’s diverse habitats create ideal conditions for fish populations to thrive. Whether casting from the shore or exploring by boat, Houghton Waterbody provides ample fishing opportunities for all skill levels.

Visiting fishermen can expect not only the thrill of the catch but also the stunning natural beauty. Houghton Waterbody is one of the best fishing spots in Michigan, offering a peaceful ambiance and abundant fish species.

Burt Lake

Location

Burt Waterbody is located in Cheboygan County, Michigan, in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula. It is one of the largest inland water bodies in Michigan, covering an area of approximately 17,120 acres.

Fish Species

Burt Waterbody is famous for its diverse fish population, attracting many fishermen. The waterbody is home to various fish species, such as walleye, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, offering great opportunities for fishing.

Description

Burt Waterbody is a beautiful destination for fishing. It has clear waters and a diverse fish population, making it one of Michigan’s top fishing water bodies. Fishermen can catch walleye and smallmouth, and during winter, they can also enjoy ice fishing. There are boat launches for easy waterbody access and plenty of fishing spots to explore.

Lake Superior

Location

Superior, located in Michigan, is a top fishing spot in America. As the largest of the Great Waters, it offers ample opportunities for fishermen. It is known for its diverse fish species, such as walleye, perch, northern pike and more. With its clear waters and beautiful scenery, Superior is a paradise for fishermen.

Fish Species

• Walleye: Delicious and challenging to catch.
• Perch: Abundant and provide lots of action.
• Northern Pike: Aggressive and large, offering an exciting catch.
• Coho Salmon: Known for their acrobatic jumps and strong fight.
• Brown Trout: A prized game fish found in the cold waters of Superior.

Description

Superior, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a majestic water body favored by fishermen worldwide. Whether you fish from a boat or the shore, Superior has something for everyone.

The water body’s diverse fish population and healthy ecosystem provide ample opportunities to catch your favorite species.

In addition to excellent fishing, Superior also offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by lush forests and picturesque landscapes, fishermen can truly immerse themselves in nature.

Gun Lake

Location

Gun Water is a large inland body in Barry County, Michigan, located about 30 miles south of Grand Rapids. It covers 2,680 acres and has a 10-mile shoreline, offering ample space for fishing and recreation.

Fish Species

Gun Water is home to a variety of fish species, making it a great spot for fishermen. Some common species include:

• Largemouth Bass: Known for their aggressiveness, largemouth bass are a popular catch at Gun Water.
• Bluegill: Abundant in Gun Water, bluegill provides an exciting fishing experience for fishermen of all skill levels.
• Crappie: Gun Water has a good population of black and white crappie, known for their taste and fighting ability.
• Catfish: Fishermen can also find catfish at Gun Water, offering the chance for a thrilling catch.

Description

Gun Water offers fishermen a serene and picturesque setting surrounded by greenery and peaceful waters. Whether fishing from the shore or a boat, Gun Water provides options for everyone.

With its diverse fish population, Gun Water caters to fishermen of all skill levels. Whether seeking a trophy catch or a first-time fishing experience, Gun Water has something to offer.

In addition to great fishing, Gun Water provides amenities such as public access points, boat launches, fishing piers, camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, allowing visitors to fully enjoy their angling trip in nature.

Muskegon Lake

Location

Muskegon Reservoir is located in Muskegon County, Michigan. It is situated on the western coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, near Lake Michigan.

Fish Species

Muskegon Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, attracting many fishermen. Common fish in Muskegon Reservoir include:

• Walleye: Delicious and challenging to catch, walleye are sought after in Muskegon Reservoir, especially in deeper areas near structures like rocks and weed beds.
• Yellow Perch: Another popular species in Muskegon Reservoir, these species are small and tasty. They can be found in schools near shorelines with vegetation and underwater structures.
• Coho Salmon: Muskegon Reservoir is known for this species population. These large fish are prized for their size and acrobatic fights. Fishermen often go to Lake Michigan to catch them as these fish migrate between the two bodies of water.

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Description

Muskegon Reservoir offers diverse and rewarding fishing. Its proximity to Lake Michigan brings nutrient-rich waters and a thriving fish population. Its varied underwater structures provide ideal habitats for different fish species.

When planning an angling trip, launch your boat from one of the convenient boat launch sites for easy access to the reservoir’s fishing hotspots.

Lake Michigan

Location

Michigan is located in the northern part of the United States, sharing its borders with the states of Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Fish Species

Michigan is home to a diverse range of fish species, including:

• Chinook Salmon
• Coho Salmon
• Steelhead Trout
• Michigan Trout
• Brown Trout
• Smallmouth Bass
• Walleye
• Yellow Perch

Description

Michigan, one of the five Great Waters, is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. With its vast expanse of water and varied fish species, it offers a thrilling experience for fishermen of all levels. Whether you’re targeting the trophy-sized Chinook Salmon or the feisty Smallmouth, Michigan never disappoints.

Coldwater Lake

Location

Coldwater Reservoir is situated in southern Michigan, near the city of Coldwater.

Fish Species

Coldwater Reservoir is home to several fish species, including:

• Largemouth Bass
• Bluegill
• Crappie
• Northern Pike

Description

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of southern Michigan, Coldwater Reservoir provides a serene and rewarding fishing experience. Fishermen flock to this scenic water body to reel in the abundant Largemouth Bass, known for their impressive sizes and thrilling fights. With its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, Coldwater Reservoir is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.

Hamlin Lake

Location

Hamlin Reservoir in Mason County, Michigan is a picturesque water body. It’s easily accessible and covers around 5,000 acres, providing diverse fishing opportunities.

Fish Species

Hamlin Reservoir is home to various fish species, making it a popular spot for fishermen. The most sought-after fish in the reservoir include:

• Bluegill: Abundant throughout the reservoir, bluegill provides great action for a relaxing fishing day.
• Bass: Known for excellent bass fishing, Hamlin Reservoir has both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
• Northern Pike: This predatory fish can be found in the deeper parts of the reservoir, offering a thrilling fight and the chance for a trophy-sized catch.
• Walleye: Hamlin Reservoir is also home to walleye, a prized game fish known for its delicious taste. Fishermen can target walleye during specific times of the year.

Description

Hamlin Reservoir is an angler’s paradise with calm waters for a relaxing angling trip. Fishermen have the option to fish from a boat or the shore, with plenty of opportunities to catch impressive fish.

The reservoir’s diverse habitat, including weed beds, drop-offs, and submerged structures, creates ideal conditions for various fish species. Fishermen can use different techniques like trolling, casting, and jigging to target their preferred species.

Apart from excellent fishing, Hamlin Reservoir offers stunning natural beauty, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes, providing a peaceful ambiance for fishermen.

Marble Lake

Location

Marble Reservoir is located in Cass County, Michigan, in the southwestern part of the state. It covers approximately 780 acres, making it one of the largest inland reservoirs in Michigan.

Fish Species:

• Walleye: Known for their elusive nature and thrilling fights, walleye are highly sought after by fishermen in Marble Reservoir.
• Largemouth Bass: The reservoir is abundant with largemouth bass, known for their aggressive strikes and impressive fighting abilities.
• Northern Pike: Marble Reservoir is home to a healthy population of northern pike, offering fishermen an exciting challenge.
• Bluegill and Sunfish: Fishermen can relax and target bluegill and sunfish in Marble Reservoir.

Description:

Marble Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Its pristine waters and stunning natural surroundings create an ideal setting for a memorable fishing experience. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Marble Reservoir offers something for everyone.

Mullett Lake

Location

Mullett Lake is located in Cheboygan County, Michigan. It is situated in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and is part of the Inland Waterway, which is a series of interconnected bodies of water.

Fish Species

Mullett Lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular destination for fishermen. Some of the fish species that can be found in the water body include:

• Northern Pike
• Yellow Perch
• Smallmouth Bass
• Walleye
• Muskie
• Lake Sturgeon

Description

Mullett Lake is the third-largest water body in Michigan, covering 28,783 acres. It is connected to Burt Lake through the Indian River, forming one of the largest bodies of water in the state.

The water body offers great fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species. Whether you want to catch Northern Pike, Smallmouth, or Muskie, Mullett Lake has something for every angler.

Besides fishing, Mullett Lake is popular for boating, kayaking, and swimming. Its scenic surroundings and calm waters make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

FAQs

Q: What makes Michigan one of the best places for walleye fishing?

A: Michigan is home to some of the best fishing lakes in the country, and it is considered the best walleye lake in the world. With its abundance of beautiful lakes and great fishing opportunities, Michigan offers a unique experience for walleye fishermen.

Q: Can you provide a list of the best lakes in Michigan to catch walleye?

A: There are many lakes in Michigan known for their excellent walleye action. Some of the top lakes for walleye fishing include Lake St. Clair, Saginaw Bay, Burt Lake, and Lake Huron. These lakes offer great opportunities to catch walleye and enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s waterways.

Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish for walleye in Michigan?

A: Yes, a valid fishing license is required for anyone 17 years and older to fish in Michigan. Make sure to check the state’s fishing regulations and obtain the necessary license before your angling trip.

Q: Are there any smaller lakes in Michigan that are good for walleye fishing?

A: Absolutely! Michigan is dotted with numerous smaller lakes that offer excellent walleye fishing. Some popular options include Gun Lake, Marble Lake, Coldwater Lake, and Mullett Lake. These smaller lakes provide great opportunities for fishermen to catch walleye and enjoy a more secluded fishing experience.

Q: Can I catch other fish species along with walleye in Michigan’s lakes?

A: Yes, Michigan’s lakes are home to a variety of fish species. While targeting walleye, you may also catch fish like rock bass, yellow perch, smallmouth bass and coho salmon, depending on the lake you’re fishing in. Michigan’s diverse fish populations make it an exciting destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.

Q: What is the best time of year for walleye fishing in Michigan?

A: Summer is a popular season for walleye fishing in Michigan. The warmer months provide favorable conditions for walleye activity, and many fishermen enjoy fishing during this time. However, walleye can be caught year-round in some lakes, so it’s worth exploring different seasons and fishing techniques to maximize your chances of success.