Peterson Lake Fishing near Cadillac, Michigan

• Overview

  Michigan holds Peterson Lake, in Wexford County. It stands 1,280 feet above sea level. At roughly 7 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Cadillac lies 5.6 miles from the water. It is 85 miles to Grand Rapids, the nearest city. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank. Most of the shoreline can be walked in a session.

• Where to Fish on Peterson Lake

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Reported across Wexford County: bluegill, yellow perch, rock bass, walleye and black crappie. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Fish Peterson Lake where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 67°F on average, January about 18°F. The year runs cold to warm and back, with clear transitions. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near mid April. Averages suggest open water from about mid April through to roughly early December. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. It sets the rhythm of the year at Peterson Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. No made access is recorded, so a short walk in is the likely arrangement. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. For a change of water, Bammer Lake is 1.9 miles distant. For Peterson Lake in particular, ask before you travel.