The 7 Best Fishing Lakes in Upper Peninsula

Discover the best fishing lakes in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula! Our guide includes top-rated spots for trout, bass, and more. Read on for detailed information about each lake and tips for fishing success.

Torch Lake

Torch Lake is located in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is part of the Lake Michigan watershed, and is over 17,000 acres in size.

• Types of Fish: Walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, perch, muskellunge
• Types of Fishing: Shore fishing, boat fishing, trolling, ice fishing
• Fishing Equipment Rental: Yes, at various locations around the lake
• Fishing Guide Service: Yes, offered by various companies
• Closest Hotels to this Lake: Clam Lake Lodge, Torch Lake Bed & Breakfast, Torch Lake Inn
• Nearest Fishing Store and How Far Away it is: Torch Lake Bait & Tackle, located three miles away
• Basic Fishing Regulations: Valid Michigan fishing license and limits on species
• Amenities of the Lake: Marinas, various beaches, boat ramps, campgrounds
• Nearest Gas Station and How Far Away it is: Jack’s Gas Station, located two miles away

Manistique Lake

Manistique Lake is located in the central Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is part of the Lake Michigan watershed, and is over 10,000 acres in size.

• Types of Fish: Chinook salmon, lake trout, brown trout, steelhead, walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch
• Types of Fishing: Shore fishing, boat fishing, trolling, ice fishing
• Fishing Equipment Rental: Yes, at various locations around the lake
• Fishing Guide Service: Yes, offered by various companies
• Closest Hotels to this Lake: Manistique Lake Inn, West Shore Lodge, Steeno’s Landing
• Nearest Fishing Store and How Far Away it is: Manistique Marine, located five miles away
• Basic Fishing Regulations: Valid Michigan fishing license and limits on species
• Amenities of the Lake: Marinas, various beaches, boat ramps, campgrounds
• Nearest Gas Station and How Far Away it is: Manistique Quick Stop, located four miles away

Munuscong Lake

Munuscong Lake is located in the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is part of the Lake Huron watershed, and is over 8,500 acres in size.

• Types of Fish: Chinook salmon, walleye, northern pike, bullhead, yellow perch, white bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass
• Types of Fishing: Shore fishing, boat fishing, trolling, ice fishing
• Fishing Equipment Rental: Yes, at various locations around the lake
• Fishing Guide Service: Yes, offered by various companies
• Closest Hotels to this Lake: Munuscong Bay Lodge, Wilderness Woods Resort, Channel View Resort
• Nearest Fishing Store and How Far Away it is: Munuscong Lake Sport Shop, located six miles away
• Basic Fishing Regulations: Valid Michigan fishing license and limits on species
• Amenities of the Lake: Marinas, various beaches, boat ramps, campgrounds
• Nearest Gas Station and How Far Away it is: Munuscong Marina, located two miles away

Keweenaw Bay

Keweenaw Bay is located in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is part of the Lake Superior watershed, and is over 9,000 acres in size.

• Types of Fish: Rainbow trout, lake trout, whitefish, northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass
• Types of Fishing: Shore fishing, boat fishing, trolling, ice fishing
• Fishing Equipment Rental: Yes, at various locations around the bay
• Fishing Guide Service: Yes, offered by various companies
• Closest Hotels to this Lake: AmericInn by Wyndham, Bay Motel, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Casino Hotel
• Nearest Fishing Store and How Far Away it is: Keweenaw Outdoor Store, located five miles away
• Basic Fishing Regulations: Valid Michigan fishing license and limits on species
• Amenities of the Lake: Marinas, various beaches, boat ramps, campgrounds
• Nearest Gas Station and How Far Away it is: Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Gas Station, located three miles away

St. Marys River

St. Marys River is located in the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is part of the Lake Huron watershed, and is over 200 miles in size.

• Types of Fish: Walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, white bass, lake sturgeon
• Types of Fishing: Shore fishing, boat fishing, trolling, ice fishing
• Fishing Equipment Rental: Yes, at various locations around the river
• Fishing Guide Service: Yes, offered by various companies
• Closest Hotels to this Lake: Soo Lockview Hotel, Lakeside Resorts, Grandview Motel & Lodge
• Nearest Fishing Store and How Far Away it is: Anglers Outpost, located three miles away
• Basic Fishing Regulations: Valid Michigan fishing license and limits on species
• Amenities of the Lake: Marinas, various beaches, boat ramps, campgrounds
• Nearest Gas Station and How Far Away it is: St. Marys River Gas Station, located one mile away

Find Good Fishing Spots in Upper Peninsula and Other Nearby Lakes on The Map

Check out the Google map below to explore other great lakes and fishing locations in the Upper Peninsula! Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, you are sure to find a spot that suits your preferences. From small, secluded ponds to large and sprawling lakes, the Upper Peninsula has something for everyone. So, take a look at the map and start planning your next fishing adventure today!

Check the Weather Forecast for Your Next Fishing Trip to Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has a unique climate for sport fishing throughout the year. During the summer months, temperatures can reach highs in the mid-70s and during the winter, temperatures can drop to -20°F. The region is known for its snowy winters, with an average of nearly 200 inches of snowfall annually. However, the area rarely experiences extreme weather, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities all year round.