Fishing Stephenson Lake in Menominee County, Michigan

• Overview

  Menominee County, Michigan, is where Stephenson Lake sits. Everything around it is rolling bush. Small at around 15 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Norway is the closest place, 18 miles off. Quinnesec lies 21 miles off, Niagara another 22 miles. Being near a boundary, it pays to know which side you are fishing. Nothing about the approach is difficult in dry weather.

• Where to Fish on Stephenson Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. County-wide records name white sucker, johnny darter and brown trout. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. On Stephenson Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 66°F in July and bottom out at 13°F in January. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near mid April. The open-water window runs from around mid April to about late November in an average year. Spring is short and heavy here; autumn is longer and steadier. It holds true on Stephenson Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  No public source sets out the position on this bank. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. East Lake sits 6.3 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Stephenson Lake before loading the car.