Prickett Lake is an impoundment on the Sturgeon River, created by damming it in 1931. The Sturgeon River and Coach Creek feed the reservoir, and the Sturgeon River continues downstream from the dam. The Sturgeon River is part of the Lake Superior watershed, flowing north to Portage Lake and the Keweenaw Waterway.
Located in the Upper Peninsula with a max depth of 56 feet, Prickett Lake freezes reliably and sees regular ice fishing use. The boat launch parking area provides good winter access. Always check ice thickness, especially near the Sturgeon River inflow and outflow where current can thin the ice.
How big is Prickett Lake?
What fish are in Prickett Lake?
Is there a boat launch on Prickett Lake?
Can you use a motorboat on Prickett Lake?
Are there campgrounds near Prickett Lake?
Is there a fee to launch at Prickett Lake?
Can you swim in Prickett Lake?
Can you ice fish on Prickett Lake?
Where is Prickett Lake?
Prickett Lake is an 810-acre reservoir in Houghton and Baraga Counties, created in 1931 by damming the Sturgeon River. With a max depth of 56 feet and a sandy bottom, it's a legitimate fishing lake — but the defining feature is what's lurking below the surface. When the valley was flooded, the trees were never cleared, so submerged stumps and treetops are everywhere, many just below or barely breaking the surface. This is emphatically not a speed-boat lake. Idle speed is the move, and even then, reviewers warn about sheared prop pins. Kayaks and canoes are ideal here.
What you get in exchange for the hazard navigation is a genuinely remote, undeveloped reservoir surrounded by dense Upper Peninsula forest — no homes, no cottages, no noise. The DNR maintains a concrete ramp with adjacent docks (a Michigan Recreation Passport is required). Nearby rustic campgrounds at Prickett Lake and Big Lake State Forest give you a base for multi-day trips. The submerged timber structure makes for excellent fish habitat, and the lake has a strong reputation for good fishing. It freezes reliably in winter and sees ice fishing traffic. Located about 4 miles south of M-38 off County Road 2270.