Fishing Lower Herring Lake

Lower Herring Lake delivers exceptional fishing for Walleye and Smallmouth Bass, with both species growing well above state averages. The 2015 survey captured 45 Walleye from 10-23 inches, with 62% at legal size and growth rates 0.6 inches above average. Eleven different Walleye year classes were present, showing both successful stocking and natural reproduction. Smallmouth Bass are thriving with growth rates 1.3 inches above state average for ages 3-5, and 86% of the catch was legal size. Rock Bass provide excellent panfishing with exceptional growth (1.4 inches above average) and some reaching 12 inches. The lake stratifies in summer with good oxygen down to 27 feet, below which oxygen drops to lethal levels. This means coldwater species like trout are limited to seasonal migrations from Lake Michigan through Herring Creek. The thermocline at 27-28 feet creates a fishing sweet spot where gamefish concentrate during summer stratification. Northern Pike are present but not numerous, with some large individuals up to 36 inches. Panfish like Bluegill and Black Crappie exist but in low numbers due to limited suitable habitat. The lake's connection to Lake Michigan brings occasional migrants including steelhead, Brown Trout, and juvenile Coho Salmon during spawning runs. Round Goby appeared for the first time in 2015, likely invading from Lake Michigan. The 450-acre lake has sand and gravel substrates with significant woody debris that provides crucial fish habitat. Cisco were historically present but disappeared after 1955, likely extirpated by low oxygen conditions below the thermocline.