Squaw Lake, Michigan: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Michigan holds Squaw Lake, in Marquette County. The surface lies 1,506 feet up. With some 222 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. Some 4.1 miles of bank gives room to move when the wind turns. It ranks high for size among our Marquette County listings. Nearest place of any size is Crystal Falls, 19 miles away. After that come West Ishpeming at 22 miles and Ishpeming at 23 miles. Local rules may differ a few miles either side of here.

• Where to Fish on Squaw Lake

  Nothing in our records gives a depth for this one. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Species logged across Marquette County include white sucker, yellow perch, rainbow smelt and smallmouth bass. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. On Squaw Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 64°F, the coldest about 11°F. Spring and autumn carry the fishing; summer and winter test it. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near late April. Averages suggest open water from about late April through to roughly late November. May into June fishes hardest, and September gives a second good stretch before the lid returns. Plan around that when you fish Squaw Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Recorded parking is half a mile off, far enough to travel light. A camping area sits within half a mile of here. Ford Eagle Preserve takes in this water; protected-area rules will apply. Look for a notice board at the entrance. If the gate is shut, Little Squaw Lake at 0.9 miles is the nearest alternative. Confirm before you fish Squaw Lake.