Upper Peninsula Fishing Guide
Michigan’s famous nickname is the Great Lake State and sitting out on its upper peninsula, it’s easy to see why. We are surrounded by water—Lake Michigan is to the south, Lake Superior is up north, and Lake Huron lies in the east. You can’t forget the hundreds of smaller lakes spread out throughout the timbered countryside.
Because there are so many lakes around, it should go without saying that fishing is incredibly popular in our neck of the woods. Our fishing guide will cast you ALL the details!
Best Fishing Lakes in Michigan
With so many lakes to fish from, it may be tricky to know which ones are worth your time. Thankfully, we have a shortlist of some of the best!
Remember you can rent boats and other equipment directly from Northland Outfitters.
Manistique Lake
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 14-minute drive
This crystal-clear lake is incredibly close to our campsite, making it the first place many fishermen think to go for a relaxed day of fishing. The lake is cut into three pieces, with a small northern lake and sizable southern one.
Lake Superior
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 30-minute drive
This is one of the big attractions. This massive freshwater ocean has multiple charters you can venture on. With a bigger pool of water, you can catch even bigger fish like Muskellunge and Lake Trout.
Lake Michigan
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 30-minute drive
However, you’re not locked into Lake Superior. Lake Michigan also has a myriad of fishing opportunities. Take rental equipment from Northland Outfitters, ride on a full-fledged charter, or partake in some of the best shore fishing in Michigan. The largemouth bass and walleyes will be yours!
Indian Lake
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 50-minute drive
A clear favorite fishing spot. It’s right next to the cool spring Kitch-iti-Kipi, which brings people here from across the peninsula. After a visit there, Indian Lake remains a popular fishing location.
Muskallonge Lake
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 1-hour drive
Another option is closer to the northern shore of the peninsula! Muskallonge Lake is incredibly close to the Pictured Rocks shore, making it the ideal fishing excursion after a fun day at the beach.
Lake Gogebic
Distance from Northland Outfitters: 3 hours, 34 minutes drive
Committed to fishing for an entire day? Then you should visit Lake Gogebic on the western side of the peninsula. This lake is massive and offers insane jumbo perch catching.
Michigan Fishing License
Nothing will bring down your vacation faster than getting a hefty fine for fishing without a license. Luckily, it’s easier now than ever before to buy a license. Here are all the deets about them!
Age
Anyone between the ages of 18 and 65 must buy an annual license.
Resident Seniors qualify for a discounted license, while Non-Resident Seniors must buy the normal Non-Resident license.
Guests 17 and under don’t need to buy a license.
Cost
Annual All-Species Resident: $26
Annual All-Species Non-Resident: $76
Annual All-Species Resident Senior: $11
Annual All-Species Youth: $2 (voluntary for residents or non-residents under 17).
Daily All-Species License: $10
Buy your fishing license online through this link.
Upper Peninsula Fishing Report
What fish are on the catching menu? It’s time we find out! Some fish are a huge challenge to hook, while others are a cinch.
- Lake Whitefish
- Lake Trout
- Walleye
- Yellow Perch
- Northern Pike
- Smallmouth Bass
- Largemouth Bass
- Lake Sturgeon
- Longnose Sucker
Michigan Fishing Seasons
Looking for the opportune time to catch a fish you want? If fishing is your priority on your Michigan vacation, try to come at a time where you can get the best haul. Check out this news article to find the best time to catch some of the most popular fish up here!
Catch Limits
To preserve the biodiversity of the Michigan lakes, there are certain daily or weekly catch limits that you need to follow. Click on the button below for more detailed information.
