Fishing Lake Michigamme

AKA: Van Riper State Park Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Lake Michigamme Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Michigamme, MI

Popular Fish Species Lake Michigamme, MI

Walleye

Thanks to good fisheries management, without the need for stocking in two decades, a healthy population of walleye are reproducing and thriving in the waters of Lake Michigamme this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, staying close by schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are a abundant here and a favorite of many locals. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

Northern Pike

Thriving in the cool waters of Lake Michigamme, northern pike are a very popular target for local anglers. This year they are being caught in good quantity, and some mighty big sizes too. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, brook trout, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, muskie, northern pike and tiger muskie at Lake Michigamme in Michigan.

The quaint town of Michigamme wraps the northern edge of Lake Michigamme, which is a 4,300-acre lake in the central part of the upper peninsula. It is considered a big lake by locals and has 36 miles of shoreline for anglers and visitors to explore.

Lake Michigamme, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. With its vast size and abundant fish populations, Lake Michigamme offers excellent fishing opportunities for both recreational and serious anglers. The lake is known for its diverse fish species, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and a variety of panfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or explore the expansive waters on a boat to target these prized catches, creating unforgettable fishing experiences amidst the natural beauty of Lake Michigamme.

Lake Michigamme, with its exceptional fishing opportunities, serene boating experiences, and convenient camping options, stands as a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating aficionado, or simply seeking a tranquil camping retreat, Lake Michigamme offers an unforgettable escape. Its diverse fish species, expansive waters, and breathtaking landscapes combine to create an impressive outdoor experience that will leave visitors with cherished memories of their time spent in this natural gem.

While smallmouth bass, walleye and northern pike are favorite targets for fishing enthusiasts, the lake has nice populations of trout, crappie, musky, perch and sunfish. There is boat launching off Blue Road, with a boat dock. Rental boats, lodging, dining, fishing gear, bait, stores and camping are all handy at the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Michigamme

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Michigamme Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Michigamme, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore the vast expanse of the lake and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Whether it's cruising along the calm waters, water skiing, or leisurely pontoon rides, Lake Michigamme offers a serene and picturesque boating experience. Public access points and boat launches are available, ensuring convenient entry for boaters looking to set sail and navigate the lake's sparkling waters.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Lake Michigamme Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
906 339-4114

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Michigamme Beach Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Imp Heights Road, this is a one-lane, gravel ramp with gravel parking.

Van Riper State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Blue Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake Michigamme

Phil Butera Fishing Guide - bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Lake Michigamme Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Michigan Fishing License.

For those seeking a longer stay, Lake Michigamme offers camping facilities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Nearby campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature, waking up to stunning lake views, and spending the day fishing or boating create cherished memories of outdoor relaxation and connection with the great outdoors.