Fishing Cary Lake

Branch County, Michigan

Fish Species

Rainbow trout

DNR Fish Stocking

Rainbow trout: 23,944 total
DateSpeciesStrainNumberAvg Length
4/7/2025 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 4,100 6.37"
4/1/2024 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 4,345 6.44"
5/3/2023 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 3,800 7.11"
4/11/2022 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 3,950 6.85"
5/4/2021 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 3,949 6.37"
4/8/2020 Rainbow trout Eagle Lake 3,800 6.7"

Source: Michigan DNR Fish Stocking Database

Ice Fishing

Branch County lakes generally freeze reliably through winter given the southern Michigan climate and typically modest depths. Ice fishing is likely feasible here, though always check local conditions and ice thickness before heading out — smaller lakes can have inconsistent freeze patterns near inflows.

Fishing Tournaments & Competitions

Check for upcoming registered bass, walleye, and muskellunge tournaments on Cary Lake.

Michigan Fishing Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish are in Cary Lake?

Cary Lake is known for good general fishing. Reviewers specifically mention large carp — reportedly "the size of a dog" — and the lake's quiet character suggests it supports panfish and bass as well. It's the kind of southern Michigan lake where you can expect a warm-water fishery with bluegill, bass, and likely some pike or catfish mixed in.

Data: Michigan DNR · ← Back to Cary Lake Guide