Manake Lake Fishing in Mecosta County, Michigan

• Overview

  The Mecosta County end of Michigan holds Manake Lake. This is rolling bush country. About 15 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Canadian Lakes is the closest place, 10 miles off. The big place round here is Grand Rapids, 57 miles distant. If this one is busy: Lower Evans Lake (0.4 miles), Bullhead Lake 0.7 miles away, Saddlebag Lake (0.7 miles), Big Evans Lake 0.7 miles away and Lost Lake (0.9 miles). It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Manake Lake

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Reported across Mecosta County: bluegill, largemouth bass, rock bass, black crappie and northern pike. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Manake Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 69°F and January near 19°F. The year runs cold to warm and back, with clear transitions. Firm cover through the cold months, then open water from early April. Climate averages put the opening at about early April and the closing near mid December. The strongest runs come at either end of the open season. The season on Manake Lake follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. The slipway at Lower Evans Lake Boat Launch is half a mile away. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. Toilets show in mapping about half a mile away. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. For a change of water, Lower Evans Lake is 0.4 miles distant. For Manake Lake, the notice at the access point is the final word.