Fishing Lake Independence

Lake Independence offers a diverse Upper Peninsula fishery anchored by abundant but slow-growing walleye. The 2014 survey found 1,096 walleye from 4-21 inches averaging 14.7 inches, with 51% meeting the 15-inch size limit compared to 68% statewide average. Walleye growth is notably slow - Age-6 fish reach legal size and 16-20 inch fish are typically 10-15 years old. The lake holds an estimated 2,229 adult walleye at 1.1 fish per acre with consistent natural recruitment documented in every survey. Northern pike provide the size opportunity with fish caught up to 37 inches averaging 22.4 inches. Smallmouth bass average a respectable 15.7 inches with fish up to 19 inches. The yellow perch fishery has declined from its historic glory when the 1947 state record 21-inch, 3.7-pound perch was caught here - current fish average only 4.9 inches and may be impacted by invasive spiny water fleas. This 2,000-acre impoundment has clear light brown water with 10-foot secchi depth. The abundant forage base of trout perch, spottail shiners, and juvenile perch can make gamefish difficult to catch. August water temperatures reach 73°F to 24-foot depths, which may stress walleye and cisco populations. The mud flats on the south end provide good mayfly habitat. Best walleye fishing occurs during low-light morning and evening periods due to the lake's clarity. The DNR is considering a 13-inch walleye size limit to improve harvest opportunities on this slow-growing population.