Fishing at Lake Sixteen, Presque Isle County, Michigan

• Overview

  In Michigan, Lake Sixteen belongs to Presque Isle County. It stands 686 feet above sea level. With some 99 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. The full circuit measures close to 1.5 miles on foot. It lies lower than most water we list in Michigan. Cheboygan lies 16 miles from the water. It is 168 miles to Greater Sudbury, the nearest city. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Lake Sixteen

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Across Presque Isle County, recorded fish include rainbow smelt, alewife, bloater and lake whitefish. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. At Lake Sixteen light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 67°F and January near 18°F. The year splits cleanly: hard water, then open water. Firm cover through the cold months, then open water from mid April. Break-up sits around mid April on average, with the water closing again about early December. June through September is the settled part of the year, with the shoulders busier for fish. Plan around that when you fish Lake Sixteen.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Clear Lake, 3 miles out. Rules at Lake Sixteen are worth checking on the day.