Fishing House Lake in Mecosta County, Michigan

• Overview

  Set in Mecosta County, House Lake is a Michigan water. The country here is mixed forest. Small at around 11 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Most waters listed here for Mecosta County are larger. Some 5.2 miles away sits Big Rapids, the nearest settlement. Then Reed City, 7.8 miles, and Evart, 13 miles. Local rules may differ a few miles either side of here.

• Where to Fish on House 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. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Fish documented in Mecosta County include bluegill, largemouth bass, rock bass and black crappie. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. The shape of House Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 69°F in July and bottoms out near 19°F in January. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early April. Break-up sits around early April on average, with the water closing again about mid December. June through September is the settled part of the year, with the shoulders busier for fish. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to House Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. Recorded parking is half a mile off, far enough to travel light. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Parking is often the real limit rather than the bank itself. Night access is frequently treated as a separate matter. Failing this one, try Bevens Lake, 1.2 miles away. Confirm access to House Lake locally before you travel.