Introduction:

Michigan, often celebrated as the Great Lakes State, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering an extensive range of fishing opportunities across its diverse water bodies. The Top 10 best fishing spots in Michigan range from serene inland lakes to the vast expanses of the Great Lakes. Michigan stands out as a premier destination for anglers of all levels. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 fishing spots in Michigan, delving into precise locations, intriguing facts about the bodies of water, the variety of fish species, and notable records etched in these aquatic realms.

Note: I have linked some popular baits that are used at that specific body of water.

Table of Contents: Top 10 Best Fishing Spots in Michigan

1. Lake St. Clair

Easily Number 1 on the “best fishing spots in Michigan” list. Potentially a top 5 fishing lake in the United States.
Location: Between Lake Huron and Lake Erie, spanning the Michigan-Ontario border.
Facts: Known for its shallow waters and extensive weed beds, covering an area of 430 square miles.
Species: Smallmouth and largemouth bass, muskellunge, walleye, and perch.
Records: Notable catches include a 9.33-pound largemouth bass and a 12.03-pound walleye.

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2. Saginaw Bay

Location: Nestled within Lake Huron’s western shores, accessible from Bay City and Saginaw.
Facts: Renowned for its excellent walleye and perch fisheries, featuring shallow waters and expansive mudflats.
Species: Walleye, perch, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

PFG Fishing gear on Amazon:

3. Grand Traverse Bay

Not only one of the best fishing spots in Michigan, but arguably one of the top travel destinations in Michigan.
Location: A part of Lake Michigan, situated in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula.
Facts: Characterized by crystal-clear waters and diverse underwater topography, ideal for both shore and boat anglers.
Species: Lake trout, whitefish, smallmouth bass, and salmon.

4. Lake Michigan

Location: One of the Great Lakes, bordering Michigan on the west, with an extensive coastline.
Facts: The second-largest Great Lake, known for deep, cold waters and a diverse range of fish species.
Species: Salmon, trout (lake, brown, and rainbow), perch, and whitefish.

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5. Lake Huron

Location: Another of the Great Lakes, separating Michigan from Ontario.
Facts: The third-largest Great Lake, with a mix of shallow coastal areas and deep basins.
Species: Lake trout, walleye, salmon, perch, and whitefish.

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6. Houghton Lake

Location: In the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, Michigan’s largest inland lake.
Facts: A sprawling lake with diverse habitats, including shallow flats and deeper drop-offs.
Species: Pike, walleye, crappie, bass and bluegill.

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7. Burt Lake

Location: In the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, part of the Inland Waterway.
Facts: A clear, deep lake with varied underwater structures and extensive shorelines.
Species: Walleye, perch, muskie, pike, and smallmouth bass.

8. Manistee River

Location: Flows through the northern Lower Peninsula, renowned for its scenic beauty.
Facts: A prime destination for river fishing, featuring diverse habitats and challenging currents.
Species: Steelhead, salmon, brown trout, and rainbow trout.

9. Ludington State Park – Hamlin Lake

Location: Along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, offering both lake and river fishing.
Facts: Scenic beauty, with fishing opportunities in Big Sable River and Lake Michigan.
Species: Salmon, steelhead, brown trout, and walleye.

10. Crystal Lake

Location: In the northwest part of the Lower Peninsula, known for its crystal-clear waters.
Facts: A relatively shallow lake with sandy bottoms, offering a serene fishing experience.
Species: Lake trout, brown trout, perch, and bass.

Conclusion: Fishing Spots in Michigan

The top 10 best fishing spots in Michigan cater to a broad spectrum of angling preferences, ranging from the grandeur of the Great Lakes to the tranquility of inland lakes and rivers. Each location boasts unique characteristics, ensuring an exciting and diverse fishing experience for anglers seeking adventure in the heart of the Great Lakes State. So, prepare your gear, secure your fishing license, and embark on a memorable journey to discover the beauty and bounty of Michigan’s premier fishing destinations.