Fishing Higgins Lake

Higgins Lake delivers exceptional cold-water fishing anchored by Lake Trout growing 4.1 inches above state average, with fish ranging 8-33 inches and 12 age classes represented in the 2020 survey. The 10,186-acre lake reaches 135 feet deep with sand and marl substrates, providing ideal trout habitat in Michigan's 10th largest natural lake. Northern Pike reach trophy sizes here, known as one of the best Lower Peninsula destinations for pike over 40 inches, though they're not abundant. Smallmouth Bass are underutilized despite tournaments reporting numerous fish over 4 pounds. Yellow Perch dominate winter fishing but most run small at 7 inches average, a size issue documented for nearly 100 years - though occasional limit catches of 12-inchers still occur. Rainbow Smelt, illegally introduced in the late 1960s, create the lake's most popular winter fishery drawing thousands of ice anglers annually. The Lake Whitefish population appears to be struggling, with fewer younger fish caught in recent surveys and angler reports of declining catches, leading to a reduced daily limit of 5 fish in 2020. Rock Bass are abundant and reach good sizes, providing excellent backup fishing when perch are too small. Brown Trout were absent from stocking 2012-2017 but returned in 2018 with positive angler reports since. Rainbow Trout survive well despite being difficult to catch in surveys. The lake's salmonid fishery is supported by annual stocking totaling 8.9 fish per acre. Structure includes reefs near Flynn's Island where Lake Trout concentrate, and an artificial spawning reef built in 1962. Big Creek on the west end supports resident Brook Trout and possibly natural Rainbow Trout reproduction. The lake faces ongoing nutrient enrichment from septic systems that could threaten cold-water species if not addressed through proposed sewer installation.