Home › Michigan › Presque Isle County

Lake Nettie

Presque Isle County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
270 acres46 ft deep1 launchRec Passport required
Lake Nettie Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Lake Nettie
Lake Nettie Boat Launch
Hoeft State Park · Paved ramp, 1 lane, 4 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Large Boat Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

Lake Nettie sits in the northeastern Lower Michigan watershed in Presque Isle County. Specific inflow and outflow information is limited, but the lake is part of the broader Lake Huron drainage basin typical of this region.

Winter & Ice Safety

Lake Nettie's location in Presque Isle County means cold, reliable winters, so ice formation is expected. The remote setting and low population mean you'll want to check ice conditions yourself — there's no local bait shop crowd reporting daily thickness. Always bring spud bar and safety picks.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Lake Nettie?
Lake Nettie is known for big smallmouth bass — that's what reviewers mention most. The remote, lightly pressured nature of the lake likely contributes to quality fish. Other warm-water species typical of northeastern Michigan lakes are probably present as well.
Where is Lake Nettie in Michigan?
Lake Nettie is in Presque Isle County in northeastern Lower Michigan. It's in a very rural, remote area — expect a drive through forests and back roads to get there. The nearest towns are small, so plan to bring what you need.
Is there a boat launch on Lake Nettie?
Yes, there's one public boat launch on Lake Nettie. It has a 4.8-star rating from 16 Google reviews, which is exceptionally high. Expect a simple, functional launch — this isn't a high-traffic lake.
Are there campgrounds on Lake Nettie?
NettieBay Lodge is located nearby and offers both lodging and camping. It also functions as the local marina. Beyond that, options are limited given the remote location, so book ahead during summer.
Is Lake Nettie crowded?
No — this is one of the least crowded lakes you'll find. Reviewers consistently praise the quiet and minimal boat traffic. It's been gaining some attention in recent years, but it's still fundamentally a remote, low-key destination.
Is Lake Nettie good for kayaking or canoeing?
The quiet water and minimal boat traffic make Lake Nettie a natural fit for kayaking and canoeing. You're unlikely to deal with heavy wake or jet ski traffic here.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Lake Nettie sits in Presque Isle County in a part of northeastern Michigan that reviewers accurately describe as "the middle of literal nowhere." This is a quiet, off-the-radar lake that draws a loyal following — some families have been coming back for nearly 30 years. The single boat launch carries a 4.8-star rating, and the lake is known for big smallmouth bass. NettieBay Lodge operates nearby and serves as both a campground and marina, making it the hub for lake access and activity.

Don't confuse this with the Lake Nettie National Wildlife Refuge in North Dakota — Michigan's Lake Nettie is a different body of water entirely. What defines this lake is its remoteness and lack of development. Reviewers consistently point to the quiet, minimal boat traffic, and the sense of having the place to yourself. If you're looking for a northeastern Michigan lake that hasn't been overrun, Lake Nettie is exactly that kind of spot.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment

Know this lake?

Share fishing tips, seasonal patterns, or hazards to help other anglers.

Share Lake Intel →