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Fishing At Crystal Lake In 2024

AKA: Crystal Lake & Water Shed

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Crystal Lake, MI

Most Popular Fish Species In Crystal Lake, MI


Crystal Lake Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

Fishing on Crystal Lake for smallmouth bass is a favorite endeavor of many locals here. Smallies are plentiful and easy to catch, once located in the clear water of this pristine lake. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.


Crystal Lake Popular Fish - Lake Torut

Lake Trout

Pretty much, year round fishing for lake trout in Crystal Lake is quite good and the fish are plentiful as annual stocking keep the population in good order. These large trout can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. Good electronics are a big help in locating lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. It is a monumental help to use fish finders to locate lake trout. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.


Crystal Lake Popular Fish - Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch

Crystal Lake continues to have a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. Fishing at Crystal Lake for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line. They make for an excellent fish fry, are a food source for many of the larger predator fish in the lake, and they are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing.


Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, lake trout, bluegill, rock bass, yellow perch, coho salmon and northern pike at Crystal Lake in Michigan.

Named for its clear, blue water Crystal Lake is a 9,800-acre lake in the northwest part of the lower peninsula. This great trout and coho salmon fishery can be fished virtually year round.

Crystal Lake, located in northwest Michigan, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking a tranquil angling experience. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish populations, Crystal Lake offers a fantastic opportunity to catch a variety of fish species. Anglers can target smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and panfish in this picturesque lake. Whether you're casting from the shore or fishing from a boat, Crystal Lake provides an idyllic setting for a successful day of fishing.

Crystal Lake, with its exceptional fishing opportunities, peaceful boating experiences, and convenient camping facilities, stands as a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene camping retreat, Crystal Lake offers an unforgettable escape. Its diverse fish species, pristine waters, and scenic landscapes combine to create an impressive outdoor experience that will leave visitors with cherished memories of their time spent in this natural gem.

There is over 20 miles of shoreline, some of which is accessible for fishing from the bank in areas like Beulah Beach and Mollineaux Beach. Pontoon boats, ski boats and fishing boats are available for rent at the marina. Crystal Lake DNR Public Boat Launch is located on the southeast corner of the lake. During the season bass, trout, salmon, sunfish, perch, salmon and pike. In winter Ice fishing for brook trout, lake trout and perch.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Michigan

Primary fish species residing in Crystal Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Smallmouth bass Rainbow Trout Lake trout Bluegill Rock Bass Yellow Perch Coho Salmon Northern Pike

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Crystal Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Crystal Lake, and its calm waters make it an ideal spot for recreational boaters. Anglers and pleasure boaters alike can explore the lake's serene beauty, discover hidden coves, and enjoy a leisurely cruise. With public access points and boat ramps available, boaters can easily launch their watercraft and embark on their aquatic adventures.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Crystal Lake Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
231 882-7058

Mac Donald Marine
Rentals: Pontoon boats
231 310-6776

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

DNR Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off DNR Boat Ramp Service Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Marinas

Crystal Lake Marina
7271 Crystal Dr
Beulah, MI 49617
231 882-7058

Fishing Guides On Crystal Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Crystal Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License

Click here for a Michigan Fishing License.

For those looking to extend their stay, Crystal Lake offers camping opportunities that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Nearby campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. Falling asleep under the starry sky and waking up to the breathtaking views of the lake create cherished memories of outdoor relaxation and enjoyment.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Vacation Trailer Park Campground - 231 882-5101

Timberline Campground - 231 882-9548

Betsie River Campsite - 231 352-9535

Crystal Lake MI Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake Marina
7271 Crystal Dr
Beulah, MI 49617
231 882-7058

 

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