Fishing Hackert Lake

Black Crappie fishing is exceptional at Hackert Lake, with trap net catch rates of 91 per net-night ranking among the highest ever recorded in northwestern Lower Peninsula. The Crappie run 6-12 inches with 99% legal size and average 9.1 inches, growing above the state average. Bluegill fishing has dramatically improved from past stunted conditions, now scoring 6.2 out of 7 on the quality index with 88% over 6 inches and growth well above state average at +1.2. The turnaround represents one of the best Bluegill recovery stories in the region. Northern Pike grow slowly with a -5.1 growth index but reach 34 inches, and the no minimum size limit allows harvest of smaller fish while protecting the breeding stock. Pumpkinseed grow well above average (+1.4) and average nearly 7 inches. The lake's 52-foot maximum depth creates an anoxic zone in deeper water, concentrating fish in the upper water column where marl, organic matter, and sand substrates provide good habitat. Submerged aquatic vegetation offers excellent cover throughout the lake. Large Walleye up to 27 inches are occasionally caught, all products of ongoing stocking that began in 1991 using Muskegon strain fish from the Mason County Walleye Association rearing pond. These adult Walleye provide crucial predatory pressure that keeps the panfish populations balanced. The lake sits 6 miles northeast of Ludington with good public access including hard-surface launch, parking for 23 vehicles, and a pit toilet. Despite heavy development with 70 dwellings, much shoreline remains natural. Evening boating restrictions from 6:30 PM to 10:00 AM keep the lake quiet for fishing.