Fishing Lake Margrethe

Lake Margrethe offers one of the better Walleye fisheries in northern lower Michigan, with 79% of Walleye over the 15-inch legal size and fish present from seven different year classes. The Walleye population is heavily dependent on stocking but extremely healthy, with large numbers from the strong 2006 and 2002 year classes showing excellent survival. While Walleye grow slightly below state average (-0.7 growth index), this is common in Michigan inland lakes and shouldn't concern anglers. Both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are growing well above state average, with Largemouth Bass showing a +1.5 growth index and recently expanding to outnumber Smallmouth Bass for the first time. Northern Pike also grow well above average (+1.2 growth index) and continue reproducing naturally despite the spawning marsh no longer operating. The lake's panfish situation improved dramatically since 2007, with Bluegill averaging 8.0 inches and Pumpkinseed averaging 7.2 inches, both growing above state average. Rock Bass remain the dominant panfish but in lower numbers than previously. The lake provides excellent bullhead fishing opportunities with most fish exceeding 10 inches and many over 14 inches. Brown and Brook Trout add variety to the catch thanks to the Portage Creek connection, with potential for large Brown Trout over 20 inches. A 51-inch, nearly 40-pound Muskellunge was entered in the Master Angler program in 2014, though the switch from Northern strain to Great Lakes strain Muskellunge appears less successful so far. The 1,922-acre mesotrophic lake reaches 65 feet deep in the central basin, with shallower northern lobes providing diverse habitat. At 18.1 docks per kilometer and 39.8% shoreline armoring, the lake shows heavy development but maintains 24.3 submerged trees per kilometer - substantially above average for structure. Eurasian milfoil requires periodic treatment but overall habitat remains good for fish populations.