Fishing Starvation Lake
Kalkaska County, Michigan · 125 acres · 47 ft max depth · DNR Survey 2018
Scout's Fishing Notes
Starvation Lake stands out as one of northern Michigan's premier inland trout destinations, with both Brown and Rainbow Trout growing well above state averages and reaching trophy sizes over 20 inches. The DNR stocks 3,350 Wild Rose Brown Trout and 3,350 Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout annually, with fish holding over multiple years and 85% of rainbows reaching legal size. Bass fishing is exceptional, with Largemouth Bass averaging 16.3 inches and 81% over 14 inches, while Smallmouth Bass average 14.2 inches with 59% legal-sized. Both bass species grow above state averages. Bluegill are the standout panfish, averaging 8.6 inches and growing 2.3 inches above state average, with 97% over 6 inches, though they're less numerous than bass. Yellow Perch struggle here, averaging only 6.8 inches and growing 1.3 inches below state average. The 134-acre lake reaches 47 feet deep with primarily sand bottom and some organic substrate in deeper areas. It's a two-story fishery with shallow warmwater habitat and deep coldwater zones supporting trout. White Sucker populations have declined from problematic levels in 2008 when they comprised over half the biomass. The lake has Type C trout regulations with an 8-inch minimum and 5-fish daily limit. Public access includes a hard-surface launch with parking for 7 vehicles, and local ordinances restrict high-speed boating from 6:30 PM to 10:00 AM. Historical surveys show consistent populations since the 1940s, with the only Northern Pike ever recorded caught in 1973 - preventing pike establishment is crucial for maintaining the quality trout fishery.
Species Survey Data
| Species | Count | Size Range | Growth | % Legal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluegill | 119 | 5-10" | +2.3 well above average | 97% |
| Yellow Perch | 116 | 3-8" | -1.3 below average | 26% |
| Rock Bass | 91 | 4-10" | +1.3 above average | 70% |
| Largemouth Bass | 59 | 9-20" | +1.7 well above average | 81% |
| Brown Trout | 54 | 4-23" | +0.6 above average | 52% |
| Iowa Darter | 52 | 1-2" | — | — |
| Smallmouth Bass | 32 | 2-19" | +0.8 above average | 59% |
| White Sucker | 27 | 14-25" | — | — |
| Rainbow Trout | 13 | 7-19" | +2.2 well above average | 85% |
DNR Fish Stocking
| Date | Species | Strain | Number | Avg Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/22/2025 | Rainbow trout | Eagle Lake | 3,500 | 4.24" |
| 4/22/2025 | Brown trout | Wild Rose | 3,300 | 7.56" |
| 4/2/2024 | Rainbow trout | Eagle Lake | 3,685 | 7.7" |
| 4/2/2024 | Brown trout | Wild Rose | 3,100 | 7.27" |
| 4/19/2023 | Brown trout | Wild Rose | 3,015 | 7.4" |
| 4/21/2022 | Rainbow trout | Eagle Lake | 3,350 | 7.6" |
| 4/21/2022 | Brown trout | Wild Rose | 3,345 | 7.17" |
| 4/5/2021 | Brown trout | Wild Rose | 3,300 | 6.5" |
| 6/15/2020 | Rainbow trout | — | 3,000 | 9.76" |
| 4/27/2020 | Rainbow trout | Eagle Lake | 3,200 | 7.8" |
Source: Michigan DNR Fish Stocking Database
Ice Fishing
At 125 acres and 47 feet deep, Starvation Lake freezes reliably in winter — Kalkaska County gets serious snow. Trout through the ice is a possibility. The area is remote, so come prepared with supplies and always check ice thickness before heading out.
DNR Management Direction
Continue stocking Wild Rose Brown Trout and Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout at 25/acre annually (3,350 fish each species). Protect natural shorelines and prevent Northern Pike introduction which would threaten the trout fishery.
Fishing Tournaments & Competitions
Check for upcoming registered bass, walleye, and muskellunge tournaments on Starvation Lake.
Michigan Fishing Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Starvation Lake?
Trout and bass are the main draws. The lake is spring-fed with a 47-foot max depth, which keeps the deeper water cold enough for trout. Reviewers also mention bass in the shallower areas. The spring-fed clarity likely supports decent panfish habitat as well.
Can you ice fish on Starvation Lake?
The area gets heavy snowfall in winter, and at 125 acres with a 47-foot max depth, the lake should freeze reliably. Trout through the ice would be the main draw. Come prepared for serious winter conditions — this is a remote spot.
DNR Fishery Report · Data: Michigan DNR · ← Back to Starvation Lake Guide
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