The Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Michigan
While bass are not the most popular freshwater gamefish in Michigan, the state still ranks as one of the top states when it comes to largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. While many bodies of water in Michigan produce their share of big bass every now and then, the ones listed below are known for consistently kicking out numbers of sizeable bass, which is why they're listed as the best bass lakes in Michigan.
- Lake St. Clair is known for monster smallmouth bass, but also contains big largemouth bass. Located near Detroit, St. Clair continues to support a very healthy bass population in the 2-6 pound range, with trophy smallmouth growing even bigger. 100 fish days are common, which is why this fishery is one of the most popular bass fishing lakes in Michigan.
- Bays de Noc in the upper peninsula is traditionally known as a walleye lake. But the tremendous smallmouth bass fishing is difficult to keep a secret. Bays de Noc contains an ample population of big smallmouth bass eager to smack your lure. Trophy Smallmouth bass up to 7 pounds have been caught in recent years, and the nonstop action from 2-4 pound smallmouth bass is enough to draw serious bass anglers from all over Michigan.
- Saginaw Bay continues to produce healthy numbers of both largemouth and smallmouth bass, and big ones too. Bass in excess of 6 pounds are becoming more frequent, thanks to the abundant forage made possible by the weedy vegetation. Legendary Saginaw Bay is regarded as one of the best bass fisheries in Michigan.
- Lake Charlevoix in northern Michigan is a world-class trophy smallmouth fishery and a top destination for bass anglers across the country. The two arms of Lake Charlevoix represent two totally different fisheries. The south arm is shallow whereas the main lake is deep. Bass in the 2-4 pound class are common, with monster smallies topping 7-pounds are possible.
- Burt and Mullet Lakes contain both largemouth and smallmouth bass, but both are known for growing huge smallmouth, thanks to the plentiful Gobie population (a favorite snack for Michigan smallmouth bass). Rocky offshore and shallow structures make up the majority of bass-holding habit. Fishing can be tough, but when you do catch one, it's likely to be a lunker.
- Grand Traverse Bay boasts clear, pristine waters holding plentiful smallmouth bass. Long known for its hefty Michigan trophy bass, Grand Traverse bass anglers know they stand a good chance of catching a true giant smallmouth, making Grand Traverse a bucket list item for serious bass anglers.
Michigan Fishing Licensing Information
Licenses By Phone: 1-517-373-1204