This article is written and sponsored by the Calhoun County Visitors Bureau.
Freezing days are ahead, and that’s good news for anglers. You have a lot of lakes to choose from in Calhoun County. While no good angler is going to give up locations for secret spots, we do have a tip from Brian Gunderman, Southern lake manager for the DNR. “The key thing, at least for targeting pan fish, is to stay mobile,” he said. It’s pretty rare for the fish to come to you, so move around to find the fish. Scout around first, especially if you have an electronic fish finder. The DNR waives fishing license days on Free Fishing Weekends, which includes Feb. 19 & 20.

Early Winter

The smaller the lake, the less water has to cool off from the summer warm-up. If you want to get started as soon as possible, keep an eye on these lakes. They will mostly have bluegill, largemouth bass and Northern pike. Prairie Lake: It’s not a great spot for off-shore fishing, but that’s no problem in the winter! And the lake is 10 minutes away from the city of Albion. Warner Lake: There’s not much development in this area, but you do have public access on the east side of the lake. Head into Union City if you need extra supplies. Waubascon Lake: Search the west basin (40 feet max) and the east basin (35 feet max) for your early season fishing. Go down the street to Barney’s Bedford Bar for one of the best dive bar burgers in the area.

Big Catch

As winter goes on, it’s better to move to the bigger lakes. Here, you’ll find more variety: bluegill, largemouth bass, Northern pike, rock bass, walleye and yellow perch. Goguac Lake: You’ll find this deep lake right in the middle of Battle Creek’s metropolitan area. So if you want convenience more than countryside, this is the lake for you. Duck Lake: The biggest lake in Calhoun County, it poses somewhat of a challenge in icy weather. But the patient and wily angler will be rewarded with a well-stocked variety of healthy fish. The Calhoun County Visitors Bureau was formed in 1979 and is the only organization that promotes Calhoun County as a destination for business meetings, sporting events, and tourism-related activities. Our cities include Battle Creek, Marshall and Albion. For more information, visit their website here.