Rossel Lake, Michigan: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Michigan holds Rossel Lake, in Oceana County. It sits at 889 feet above sea level. At roughly 11 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Nearest town is Hart, 13 miles off. The nearest city of size is Grand Rapids, 58 miles away. You are close to a county edge here; who manages the access can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Rossel Lake

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Species logged across Oceana County include brook trout, walleye, white sucker and rock bass. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Take Rossel Lake a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 69°F and January near 20°F. Winter shuts things down for a spell, then spring reopens them fast. Winter locks it down, and early April brings it back. Ice usually gives way near early April, and forms again about mid December. Late spring and early autumn carry the year between them. Rossel Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  Ownership and access are not documented in what we hold. A slipway is marked about half a mile from here. There is camping recorded roughly half a mile off. A nature reserve borders this water, which usually brings restrictions. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. If the gate is shut, Black Lake at 0.4 miles is the nearest alternative. For Rossel Lake in particular, ask before you travel.