Loading trail…
Michigan · Fishing
Lakefield Township sits in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and the fishing here centers on two lakes worth knowing by name: McCormick Lake and North Manistique Lake. North Manistique Lake is the larger draw, a sprawling inland lake that holds a mix of warm-water species typical of the eastern U.P.
3 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 3 spots
No additional spots match this filter.
Lakefield Township sits in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and the fishing here centers on two lakes worth knowing by name: McCormick Lake and North Manistique Lake. North Manistique Lake is the larger draw, a sprawling inland lake that holds a mix of warm-water species typical of the eastern U.P. — walleye, perch, bass, and pike show up regularly in local reports. McCormick Lake is a smaller, quieter option that tends to attract anglers looking to avoid the weekend boat traffic. Both lakes are accessible enough for visiting anglers, though you'll want to sort out launch logistics before you arrive since ramp conditions and parking vary. The area is rural, so don't expect a full-service marina or a tackle shop around every corner — come prepared with your own gear and a paper map as a backup. Michigan DNR licensing applies here, and if you're fishing from a boat, registration requirements follow standard state rules. Spring and early summer are the most productive windows on both lakes, particularly for walleye and perch, though fall can surprise you with pike activity as water temperatures drop.
North Manistique Lake is known for walleye, yellow perch, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and northern pike. McCormick Lake is a smaller body of water and tends to offer more of a mixed warm-water panfish and bass experience. Check current Michigan DNR fishing reports before your trip for the most up-to-date species activity.
Late May through early July is generally the most productive stretch, especially for walleye on North Manistique Lake after the post-spawn period when fish move back to feeding areas. Fall, particularly September and October, picks up again for northern pike as the water cools. Ice fishing is also popular on both lakes once safe ice forms, typically by late December in most years.
Clear Lake Campsite
~57 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
Three Lakes
~1h 1m drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
North Manistique Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
Pictured Rocks - Grand Sable Lake
~51 min drive
Moderate
Two Hearted River
~52 min drive
Hard
Tahquamenon River
~53 min drive
Easy
Carr Lake Campsites
~1h 10m drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
East Lake Campsites
~58 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
McCormick Lake
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
Steuben Lake Campsites
~59 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
North Manistique Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
Minerva Lake Campsite
~1h 5m drive
A worthwhile stop near MI.
Also worth it near here
Early morning and the hour before sunset are the most reliable windows for walleye and bass on both lakes. Perch can be caught throughout the day, especially over sandy or weedy flats. Midday fishing in summer tends to slow down significantly on clear-water days.
Yes, a valid Michigan fishing license is required for anyone 17 or older. Size and bag limits for walleye, pike, and bass on inland U.P. lakes follow Michigan DNR regulations, which can vary by specific water body. Check the current Michigan DNR Fishing Guide for North Manistique Lake and McCormick Lake specifically before you go, since rules can differ from general statewide limits.
North Manistique Lake has public access points, but confirm ramp conditions with the Michigan DNR or Mackinac County before your trip, especially early in the season when water levels fluctuate. Shore fishing is possible at public access sites on both lakes, though bank access is limited in spots where private property borders the water. A small kayak or canoe opens up a lot more of McCormick Lake if you don't have a motorized boat.
