Henderson Lake near Skidway Lake: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Michigan holds Henderson Lake, in Ogemaw County. It sits in pine and birch country. Around 167 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. There is roughly 2.2 miles of shoreline here, which is a short walk end to end. On our Ogemaw County list it sits near the top for size. Skidway Lake lies 11 miles from the water. West Branch lies 12 miles off, Sand Lake another 16 miles. The nearest boundary is a fair way off.

• Where to Fish on Henderson Lake

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Fish documented in Ogemaw County include bluegill, rock bass, pink salmon and largemouth bass. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. On Henderson Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 68°F and January at 17°F. Winter shuts the surface down for months. Break-up comes around early April, and the run that follows is short and strong. Ice usually gives way near early April, and forms again about early December. The strongest runs come at either end of the open season. The season on Henderson Lake follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Our records carry no access rule either way. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. The slipway at Houghton Lake Heights Access Site is half a mile away. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. If the gate is shut, Little Williams Lake at 0.9 miles is the nearest alternative. The position on Henderson Lake is worth confirming on the day.