Fishing at Lake of the Woods, Branch County, Michigan

• Overview

  Lake of the Woods is a Branch County water, in Michigan. It sits at 951 feet above sea level. At 342 acres this is proper open water rather than a pond. Around 4.6 miles of bank, which is a long day on foot. It is among the larger waters listed here for Branch County. Coldwater at 6.5 miles is the nearest place to stop. Then Bronson, 8.1 miles, and Fremont, 9.9 miles. Local rules may differ a few miles either side of here.

• Where to Fish on Lake of the Woods

  Depth figures are not published for this one. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. This is a lake, so the margins and the first drop matter most. County-wide records name bluegill, largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie and warmouth. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. Work Lake of the Woods in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July near 71°F and January near 22°F on the long-run figures. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Expect a solid lid for months and a thaw around late March. On average, late March opens the water and mid December closes it again. The open run goes from the thaw to the freeze, and April through October covers most of it. It sets the rhythm of the year at Lake of the Woods.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. The slipway at Lake of the Woods Boat Launch is half a mile away. There are toilets half a mile off. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. If the gate is shut, Little Rose Lake at 0.9 miles is the nearest alternative. The position on Lake of the Woods is worth confirming on the day.