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First Fortune Lake

Iron County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
173.4 acres70 ft deep1 launchRec Passport requiredIce fishing
First Fortune Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on First Fortune Lake
Bewabic State Park
Bewabic State Park · Paved ramp, 1 lane, 16 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Large Boat Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

First Fortune Lake is part of the Fortune Lakes chain in Iron County. The system connects several small lakes in the Crystal Falls area and ultimately drains into the Paint River watershed, which flows into the Menominee River forming part of the Michigan-Wisconsin border.

Winter & Ice Safety

First Fortune Lake is in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where winters are long and cold, so the lake freezes reliably. Ice fishing is possible, though always check local conditions before heading out — the UP can get heavy snow that insulates and weakens ice unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a boat launch on First Fortune Lake?
Yes, there's one launch accessible through Bewabic State Park. You'll need a Michigan Recreation Passport on your vehicle to enter the park. The launch can handle small boats and kayaks.
What fish are in First Fortune Lake?
Reviewers report seeing various fish species from the island bridge, and a few fishing boats are typically on the water. The Fortune Lakes area is known for panfish and bass. The clear water and relatively low fishing pressure make it a pleasant spot, though it's not a destination fishery.
Can you swim in First Fortune Lake?
Yes. Bewabic State Park has a nice sandy beach on the lake with designated swimming. The park also offers free kayak and life jacket loaners for day use near the beach.
Can you camp at First Fortune Lake?
Bewabic State Park is the primary campground right on the lake, and it's one of the most praised campgrounds in the UP. Sites are large, private, and well-shaded — some walk-in sites are tucked deep in the woods for extra seclusion. Flush bathrooms, showers, and powered sites are available. Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp and Paint River Hills Campground are also nearby.
Where is First Fortune Lake?
In Iron County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, near Crystal Falls. It's centrally located in the UP, which campers note makes it a good base for day trips to both the Lake Superior and Lake Michigan coasts.
Is there a fee to launch at First Fortune Lake?
The launch is within Bewabic State Park, so you'll need a Michigan Recreation Passport ($17/year for Michigan plates, $9/day for out-of-state). There's no separate launch fee beyond park entry.
Are there hiking trails at First Fortune Lake?
Yes. Bewabic State Park has several winding trails, including one that leads to an island via a pedestrian bridge. Reviewers note the trails can be muddy after rain. The fall colors in the area are reportedly excellent.
Can you kayak on First Fortune Lake?
Yes, and Bewabic State Park even provides free kayaks and life jackets for day use near the beach — a nice perk you don't see at most state parks.
Can you ice fish on First Fortune Lake?
The UP's long, cold winters mean First Fortune Lake freezes reliably. Ice fishing is possible, though this lake is better known as a summer camping destination than a winter fishery.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

First Fortune Lake sits in Iron County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, part of the Fortune Lakes chain near Crystal Falls. It's a quiet, clean inland lake accessed primarily through Bewabic State Park — one of the UP's most highly regarded campgrounds. Reviews consistently praise the spacious, private campsites, hiking trails, and a walkable bridge to an island where you can spot fish in the clear water below. The single boat launch is within the state park, so expect a Recreation Passport requirement for vehicle entry.

Fishing pressure is light — reviewers note seeing a handful of boats on the water — making it a good pick for anglers who want solitude over action. The lake connects to the broader Fortune Lakes system, and nearby options like Runkle Lake and the Paint River expand your opportunities. Bewabic State Park's beach, kayak loaners, and trail network make this more of a complete basecamp lake than a fishing-only destination. Its central UP location means you can day-trip to both Lake Superior and Lake Michigan shorelines.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment

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