Fishing Hamlin Lake
AKA: Hamlin Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Hamlin Lake, MI
Walleye Fishing
Walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Hamlin Lake this year. May and June tend to be the better time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Northern Pike Fishing
Big fish with big teeth tend to attract anglers. Northern pike are veracious feeders and they have the tools necessary to catch and eat pretty much any food source in the lake. Northerns are very agile and powerful, plus they have big mouths with very sharp teeth. They are currently thriving in the cool waters of Hamlin Lake. When the lake has safe ice in winter, ice fishing for northern pike can be quite thrilling. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find northern pike holding during summer. Portable fish finders can also be a big help. This year they are being caught in good quantity and some mighty big sizes. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Hamlin Lake offers very good smallmouth bass fishing. Many locals appreciate the smallmouth population at their disposal to pursue, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, tiger muskie and northern pike at Hamlin Lake in Michigan.
Hamlin Lake Fishing Video
Hamlin Lake, nestled in the beautiful Ludington State Park in western Michigan, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. Spanning over 4,990 acres, this scenic lake offers diverse fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. Hamlin Lake is known for its abundant fish populations, including walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and panfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or explore the lake's expansive waters on a boat to target these sought-after species.
Stretching over 12 miles long, Hamlin Lake is a 5,000-acre lake in the northwest part of the lower MI peninsula, at the town of Hamlin. Explore over 30 miles of shoreline from a boat or on land at various access points around the lake.
Hamlin Lake, with its exceptional fishing opportunities, scenic boating experiences, and convenient camping options, stands as a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating aficionado, or simply seeking a tranquil camping retreat, Hamlin Lake offers an unforgettable escape. Its diverse fish species, expansive waters, and breathtaking landscapes combine to create an impressive outdoor experience that will leave visitors with cherished memories of their time spent in this natural gem.
Fishing from the bank, or launching canoes or kayaks, is accessible at campgrounds, parks and a few walk-in areas off the roads around the lake. Rent a boat at the lake or bring your own pleasure, pontoon, sailing or fishing boat and take advantage of the boat launch ramps available to the public. Fishing enthusiasts will find walleye, perch, bass, crappie, muskie, pike, sunfish and catfish residing in the lake here. Some of the local MI fishing guides offer trips with the boat and all fishing gear provided. In winter try your hand at ice fishing once the ice is safe.
Primary fish species residing in Hamlin Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Hamlin Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Hamlin Lake, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Whether it's cruising along the calm waters, water skiing, or leisurely pontoon rides, Hamlin Lake offers a serene and picturesque boating experience. The lake features public access points and boat ramps, ensuring convenient access for boaters looking to set sail and explore the scenic shorelines and hidden coves.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Hamlin Lake Boat Rentals
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
231 843-8497
Waterside Resort & Boat Rental
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
231 843-2090
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Hamlin Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off County Road 116, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
USFS Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, north side, off W Nurnberg Road, this is a one-lane, primitive launch with gravel parking.
Wilson Hill Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, south side, off Beech Lane, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Hamlin Lake
Hamlin Lake Guide Service - crappie, sunfish, bluegill, bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Michigan Fishing License.
For those looking to extend their stay, Hamlin Lake offers camping facilities that provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area. Nearby campgrounds equipped with amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms offer a comfortable camping experience. Waking up to the sounds of nature, spending the day fishing or boating, and gathering around a campfire in the evenings create cherished memories of outdoor relaxation and connection with the great outdoors.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Ludington State Park Campground - 231 843-2423
Lakeview Campsite Campground - 231 843-3702
Cartier Park Campground - 231 845-1522
Lake Michigan Recreation Area Campground - 231 723-2211
Hamlin Lake MI Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Hamlin Lake
Ludington State Park and Campgrounds
8800 W. M-116
Ludington, MI 49431
231 843-2423
Fishing lakes in each state.
071624
Hamlin Lake in Michigan.
MICHIGAN
Information about fishing lakes in MI.
Fishing in the northwest part of the lower MI peninsula, at Hamlin Lake, for walleye, perch, bass, crappie, muskie, pike, sunfish and catfish.
