Sherwood Lake, Michigan: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Michigan, Sherwood Lake belongs to Osceola County. Land around it is pine and birch. This is a pocket water of some 6 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. Most waters listed here for Osceola County are larger. The closest town, Reed City, is 9.8 miles away. Evart lies 12 miles off, Cadillac another 17 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Sherwood Lake

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Fish documented in Osceola County include bluegill, largemouth bass and pink salmon. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. At Sherwood Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 18°F in January to roughly 67°F in July. Expect a real winter and a strong spring after it. Firm cover through the cold months, then open water from mid April. Break-up near mid April, freeze-up near early December: that is the shape of an average year. The middle of summer slows a little, with dawn and dusk carrying it. On Sherwood Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. 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. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Little Sherwood Lake sits 0.1 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm access to Sherwood Lake locally before you travel.