HomeMichiganSchoolcraft County

Dutch Fred Lake

Schoolcraft County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
29.8 acres45 ft deep1 launchRec Passport requiredIce fishing
Dutch Fred Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Dutch Fred Lake
Dutch Fred Lake Boat Launch
Newberry Field Office (PRD) · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 2 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

Dutch Fred Lake sits in Schoolcraft County near the Fox River corridor, one of the Upper Peninsula's notable trout streams. The proximity to Fox River State Forest campgrounds suggests the lake is within the Fox River watershed, which ultimately drains to Lake Michigan via the Manistique River system.

Winter & Ice Safety

As a smaller lake in the Upper Peninsula, Dutch Fred Lake likely freezes reliably through winter. Ice fishing is plausible given the perch population, though the remote access means you'll want to be well-prepared. Always check ice thickness — UP lakes can have variable conditions especially early and late season.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Dutch Fred Lake?
Anglers report catching bass and perch — perch fishing in particular gets high marks. Trout are reportedly present (likely stocked), though at least one visitor found them elusive. It's a mixed warm- and cold-water fishery typical of smaller UP lakes.
Where is Dutch Fred Lake?
Dutch Fred Lake is in Schoolcraft County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, tucked into the Lake Superior State Forest near the Fox River corridor. It's remote — expect a drive on forest roads to reach it.
Is there a boat launch on Dutch Fred Lake?
Yes, there's one public launch on the lake. It carries a 4.5-star Google rating, though with only 6 reviews — consistent with the lake's low-traffic character.
Are there campgrounds near Dutch Fred Lake?
Yes. East Branch of the Fox River State Forest Campground and Fox River State Forest Campground are both nearby, along with High Swamp Camping. These are rustic state forest sites — don't expect hookups or modern amenities.
Is Dutch Fred Lake crowded?
No. With only a handful of online reviews and deep state forest surroundings, this is one of the quieter lakes you'll find. Visitors consistently describe it as peaceful and worth the drive.
Are there hiking trails near Dutch Fred Lake?
Yes, reviewers mention good trail systems in the surrounding state forest. The Fox River corridor area has multiple trail options for hiking and exploring.
Can you rent a cabin on Dutch Fred Lake?
At least one reviewer mentions staying in a cabin on the lake for a family reunion, so cabin rentals appear to be available. Options are likely limited given the remote location.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Dutch Fred Lake sits in Schoolcraft County deep in the Lake Superior State Forest — this is remote Upper Peninsula water surrounded by woods and not much else. The lake draws anglers for perch and bass, with trout reportedly stocked though results seem mixed based on local reports. One public launch serves the lake, and with only a handful of Google reviews, you're not going to find crowds here.

The real draw is the setting. State forest campgrounds along the Fox River are nearby — East Branch and Fox River State Forest Campground — and reviewers mention good trail systems in the surrounding forest. If you're looking for a quiet UP lake where you can fish from a cabin, paddle without jet ski traffic, and disappear from civilization for a few days, Dutch Fred Lake fits the bill.

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