Bear Lake in Chippewa County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  The Chippewa County entry here is Bear Lake, in Michigan. The country round it is lake country bush from end to end. About 13 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It lies lower than most water we list in Michigan. The nearest town is Thessalon, 23 miles away. The big place round here is Greater Sudbury, 140 miles distant. No border sits close enough to matter.

• Where to Fish on Bear Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Species logged across Chippewa County include rainbow smelt, bloater, lake whitefish, alewife and lake trout. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. Fish Bear Lake to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 66°F, the coldest about 16°F. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near mid April. Expect the water usable from around mid April until roughly early December. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. It sets the rhythm of the year at Bear Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Failing this one, try Kempaien Lake, 0.6 miles away. Check the current arrangement for Bear Lake.