Fishing Union Lake

Union Lake stands out as Oakland County's premier smallmouth bass destination, with an exceptional population density of 5.5 fish per acre and 75% of smallmouth over 14 inches legal size. The lake's deep, clear waters with 10+ foot visibility and thermocline at 30-35 feet create ideal smallmouth habitat that's rare in southern Michigan. Largemouth bass are less abundant at 0.95 fish per acre but grow well above state averages, with both species reaching 19 inches maximum. The 2016 creel survey revealed bass dominate the fishery here - unlike typical area lakes where panfish lead, Union Lake anglers catch 64% bass with 98% released. Recent walleye stocking created good fishing opportunities with 95% over 15 inches and averaging nearly 20 inches, though DNR is ending the program. Northern pike grow exceptionally well despite low numbers, limited by the 94% armored shoreline that eliminates shallow spawning areas. The lake's oligotrophic conditions with excellent dissolved oxygen to 64 feet support quality zooplankton (288 large Daphnia per sample vs. 150 state threshold), benefiting all fish growth. Yellow perch provide excellent ice fishing with 84% legal size, while 57% of black crappie exceed keeper size. Union Lake hosts 8 bass tournaments per year on average, ranking 91st statewide, testament to its bass fishing reputation. One cisco was captured in 2020, representing this state-threatened species that requires the lake's cold, deep conditions. The 465-acre lake offers diverse structure including shoals, drop-offs, and three main basins with 110-foot maximum depth, providing habitat for 16 fish species total.