Crystal Lake Fishing in Houghton County, Michigan

• Overview

  The Houghton County entry here is Crystal Lake, in Michigan. This is lake country bush ground. At 16 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. 23 miles away sits L'Anse, the nearest town. It is 132 miles to Thunder Bay, the nearest city. The nearest boundary is well away, so one set of rules covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Crystal Lake

  Our records hold no depth for this water. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Fish documented in Houghton County include rainbow smelt, bloater, cisco and yellow perch. County data is a starting point rather than a guarantee. Fish Crystal Lake to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 65°F, with January the cold end at about 11°F. Winter closes the water for a while, and the reopening is worth catching. Winter locks it down, and late April brings it back. Averages place the thaw at late April and the freeze at late November. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Time your trip to Crystal Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. Crystal Lake Boat Launch gives a made launch, 120 yards off. For walleye, a jig and minnow near the bottom is the standard; evenings beat middays. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. Burns Lake at 0.4 miles is the sensible second choice. Check the current arrangement for Crystal Lake.