The Wolverine State is home to some of the most fertile fishing grounds in the Midwest. Between the rivers, inland lakes, and the Great Lakes, there are tons of incredible places to go fishing in Northern Michigan! So, cast in a line and relax as you enjoy the fishing trip of your dreams!
For more information on how to make the most of your Michigan trip, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide!
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The Best Fishing Spots in Northern Michigan
1. Lake Charlevoix
Lake Charlevoix offers plenty of fantastic locations for fishing in Northern Michigan. You’ll find more than a handful of public access points around the lake between Charlevoix and Boyne City. You can also fish from a boat in the lake, but shore fishing is the best way to catch a variety of species, including bluegill, crappie, and rock bass. Plus, there are no fees to fish here!
2. Lake Leelanau
Lake Leelanau is one of the best inland lakes for walleye fishing. This long lake on the Leelanau peninsula has public access points around the shore, and you can also rent a skiff and take it out into the middle of the lake (where the best fishing takes place). The best time to cast your line in here is from August through winter.
3. Manistee River
The Manistee River stretches for miles from Manistee to Hodenpyl Dam Pond near Mesick. There are plenty of fishing locations along the banks, but the Tippy Dam may be one of the best spots to catch salmon and trout!
4. Wilderness State Park
With over 10,000 acres of stunning nature, Wilderness State Park is one of the best state parks in Northern Michigan for fishing. Summer activities also include kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing while visitors can go snowmobiling and cross country skiing in the winter.
5. Interlochen State Park
If you want to enjoy a pleasant day of picnicking and fishing, head to Interlochen State Park. This 187-acre tract of land offers miles of lake shoreline that’s exceptionally beautiful during autumn. You can also enjoy swimming on the beach!
What You Might Catch
There are tons of different types of fish that you can catch in Northern Michigan. Check out the complete list of fish and where you can find them.
- Coho Salmon
- Lake Trout
- Brook Trout
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Northern Pike
- Whitefish
Plan Your Fishing Adventure in the Wolverine State
Whether you want to watch car racing, take long walks on the beach, or explore stunning waterfalls, Freshwater Vacation Rentals has the perfect property for you and your family. We offer an array of fishing cabins throughout the state, from the Upper Peninsula to Western Michigan. Of course, if you’re staying in the Northern Michigan area, you can check out our Northern Michigan cabin rentals and the Things to Do page highlighting the top activities and attractions.
Start planning your trip to the Wolverine State today by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater Vacation Rentals family.