If you’re a fan of bass fishing, then you’ve probably been asking yourself, “When is the best time to bass fish in Michigan?” Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to the state. From Lake Charlevoix to the Saginaw Bay, there are several locations to choose from, so you can be sure to find a place to hook up with a nice, juicy bass.
Saginaw Bay
Bass fishing in Michigan has become a popular sport in recent years. The state boasts many lakes with a great variety of fish species. Some lakes are better than others for certain species.
Saginaw Bay is a lake on the south side of Lake Huron, and is a popular spot for bass fishing in Michigan. It is also a popular walleye fishing destination.
There are several things to consider before launching your boat. For starters, the largemouth fishery has improved significantly over the past few years. In fact, it was named one of the best in the country by Bassmaster magazine.
In 2006, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources changed the rules for catch and release bass fishing. This meant that the state could legalize fishing year-round.
Lake Charlevoix
Lake Charlevoix is one of the most popular lakes for Michigan bass fishing. It is located in the northern lower peninsula of the state. The lake is connected to Lake Michigan by the Boyne River. This makes for a unique fishing experience.
Lake Charlevoix offers great bass fishing for both beginners and experienced anglers. You can catch smallmouth bass, pike, walleye, and other species. To fish for them, you will need to purchase a license. Fishing licenses can be purchased online or from local retailers.
In recent years, walleye fishing has been particularly good. Some of the best catches have been made out of the ice. These fish are considered award winning. They weigh up to 7 pounds.
While the main basin is more than a mile wide at its largest points, the south arm is about 8 miles long. This arm is much shallower and gets more fishing pressure.
Fletcher Floodwater
If you’re looking to get out on the water and catch some bass, you’ll want to check out Fletcher Floodwater. This is one of the best largemouth bass lakes in Michigan. There are plenty of other fish, as well, including muskie, perch, crappie, and northern pike.
Located in the northeastern part of the lower peninsula, Fletcher’s Pond is a man-made body of water. The lake is on the border of Montmorency and Alpena counties. You’ll find a boat launch at the north end of the lake.
The area is rich in aquatic vegetation, and you’ll likely see a variety of birds. Several resorts dot the shoreline. A popular destination is Jack’s Landing, which includes a restaurant, bar, and cabins.
During the winter, Fletcher’s Pond is an excellent place to try your hand at ice fishing. Several privately-owned campgrounds are also nearby.
Grand Traverse Bay
If you’re looking for an amazing smallmouth bass fishing destination, then you may want to consider visiting the Grand Traverse Bay. This bay is located in northwestern Lower Michigan. There are many reasons why this is a great place to catch a smallmouth.
The area is known for its crystal clear waters and scenic shorelines. It is also home to a variety of fish species. For example, there are trout, largemouth bass, and Coho salmon in the water. You can fish from a boat or kayak.
The bay has a variety of docks and piers that you can use. However, if you’re fishing from a boat, make sure you have a Michigan fishing license.
Another option is to rent a kayak. Many rental shops are available in the area. A kayak allows you to enjoy a quiet fishing experience while you are in the bay.
Gaylord
It’s no secret that Michigan’s Gaylord area is home to many outdoor enthusiasts. The weather is often warm enough to enjoy lakeside fun in the sun, and the surrounding forests are thick and verdant. From golfing to tubing to elk viewing, there’s a good chance that there’s a fun activity that fits your fancy. Fortunately, the region boasts plenty of fishing and other aquatic pastimes to boot.
One of the best things about this part of the state is that it is surrounded by a number of world class fisheries. Some of the larger names in the Northern Lower Michigan fishing fraternity include Hubbard Lake and Big Bradford Lake. Located about 50 miles southeast of Gaylord and about 2 hours northeast of Marquette, they are well worth the drive.