Cedar Lake, Michigan: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Michigan, Cedar Lake falls inside Gladwin County. Elevation runs to 814 feet. Small at around 10 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. West Branch at 11 miles is the nearest place to stop. After that come Gladwin at 13 miles and Saint Helen at 16 miles. Within a short run: Dollar Lake after 0.4 miles, Indian Lake lies 1 mile on, Mud Lake after 1 mile, Elk Lake lies 1.4 miles on and Perch Lake after 2 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Cedar Lake

  No depth figure appears in our records, so the bank has to tell you. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Across Gladwin County, recorded fish include bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie and northern pike. What holds for the county may not hold for this water. Work Cedar Lake in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 69°F; the cold one sits at 18°F. Fishing here follows the temperature more than the calendar. Count the season from break-up, usually early April. On average, early April opens the water and mid December closes it again. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. It sets the rhythm of the year at Cedar Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No public source sets out the position on this bank. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Where tickets apply, they are sold in the nearest town rather than on the bank. Failing this one, try Dollar Lake, 0.4 miles away. The position on Cedar Lake is worth confirming on the day.