Fishing at Gabbit Lake, Houghton County, Michigan

• Overview

  Houghton County, Michigan, is where Gabbit Lake sits. It lies 1,555 feet above sea level. About 5 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Most waters listed here for Houghton County are larger. Iron River lies 23 miles from the water. Beyond it, Stambaugh, Iron River at 24 miles and L'Anse at 30 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Gabbit Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Species logged across Houghton County include rainbow smelt, bloater, cisco and yellow perch. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. The shape of Gabbit Lake decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 64°F in July and bottom out at 10°F in January. Fishing here follows the temperature more than the calendar. Once it clears, about late April, the fishing comes on quickly. From about late April to around late November, expect open water on the long-run figures. The shoulder weeks of the open season are the productive ones. That is the shape of the year on Gabbit Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Access is unmapped, which usually means a farm track and a walk. For walleye, a jig and minnow near the bottom is the standard; evenings beat middays. Where the road in crosses private land, ask first. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. If the gate is shut, Pathic Lake at 1 mile is the nearest alternative. Check the current arrangement for Gabbit Lake.