Fishing Woodhull Lake

Woodhull Lake offers excellent bluegill fishing with the most abundant population comprising 77% of the catch by number and scoring 4.4 on Schneider's Index (average to good rating). The 135-acre lake has extensive shallow areas with 40% of the lake 5 feet or less, then drops quickly to a maximum depth of 56 feet in the center. Bluegill average 6.5 inches with 74% reaching legal size, though growth runs about half an inch below state average. The lake connects to Oakland Lake via a wide channel, effectively functioning as one fishery with similar catch rates and size structure between the two waters. Largemouth bass make up 4% of the catch and average 11.6 inches, but growth is nearly 2 inches below state average with only 17% exceeding the 14-inch minimum. Northern pike are the standout predator, with all four caught growing above state average and ranging 23-31 inches. Pike require the abundant emergent vegetation in shallow marsh areas for spawning, making habitat protection critical. The lake stratifies annually with good oxygen to 25 feet in summer, and the thermocline typically runs 18-25 feet in July. Pumpkinseeds are the only species showing above-average growth at +0.3 inches, indicating excellent potential for redear sunfish stocking. Common carp comprise 40% of the catch by weight despite being only 3% by number, with large individuals ranging 14-29 inches that negatively impact water clarity and vegetation. The clear water shows 18-foot Secchi depth, and bottom composition varies from pulpy peat in deep areas to marl with fibrous peat in the shoals. Bass tournaments are popular here with 7-14 events annually, and the fishery gets fair pressure despite light historical use in the 1970s.