Fishing Alcona Dam Pond

Northern pike provide the best predator fishing at Alcona Dam Pond, with 25% of fish reaching legal size and some monsters up to 38 inches available. Pike spawn in peripheral wetlands during high spring water, but year class strength varies with water levels. Walleye fishing shows promise with 82% legal size and fish up to 28 inches, though abundance is limited by inconsistent natural reproduction - DNR supplements with periodic stocking. Smallmouth bass are common but grow poorly due to the riverine environment, though 33% reach legal size. Yellow perch grow exceptionally well here, reaching 13 inches, while rock bass dominate the catch at 22% by number. The impoundment's short 1.6-day retention time and riverine nature limit bluegill growth below state average. Bottom structure varies dramatically - some areas have 20-25 foot deep channels close to shore with little productive habitat, while extensive productive littoral zones exist in many reaches with sand, muck, and gravel substrate. Stumps and woody debris provide limited cover. Water stays relatively cool with little thermal stratification due to the Au Sable River's 1,000 cfs inflow. Zebra mussels are present and may affect the food web. The 975-acre impoundment offers diverse structure with three boat ramps and good access. Angler pressure runs 32-36 hours per acre with significant catch-and-release fishing, especially for smallmouth bass. The fishery has remained relatively stable since the 1960s despite high angling pressure.