Fishing Walled Lake

Walled Lake produces exceptional bluegill with a growth index of +1.1, meaning they grow over an inch faster than similar-aged bluegill statewide. The population structure scored 6.75 out of 7, categorizing it between excellent and superior. Bluegill range from 3-11 inches with the sample dominated by 7-8 inch fish, and an impressive 49% over 8 inches and 3% over 10 inches. Ages 1 through 10 were collected, indicating excellent longevity in this 42-acre bowl-shaped lake with depths over 60 feet. The deep water provides cool refuge and prevents winterkill, allowing bluegill to live longer and grow larger than typical northern Michigan lakes. Largemouth bass are present but growth is very poor with a -3.3 growth index, especially for bass age-6 and older. Most bass run 13-14 inches with only one legal-sized specimen (15+ inches) collected. The suppressed bass growth likely reduces predation pressure on bluegill, contributing to the exceptional panfish population. Bottom substrate is primarily sand with some silty areas and sparse aquatic vegetation. The lake has no inlet or outlet and low species diversity is normal for an isolated kettle lake. Black spot parasite was present on some fish. Surface temperatures during the late May/early June survey ranged 69-71°F. The current private ownership has resulted in light fishing pressure, preventing the boom-and-bust cycles common at heavily fished northern Michigan lakes.