What You'll Find on the Black River

The Black River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula flows through Gogebic County and drains into Lake Superior near Bessemer. It's a cold-water system known for walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike, with occasional lake trout and brook trout in the lower sections where it approaches Superior. The river runs roughly 40 miles from its headwaters south of Watersmeet down to the lake, passing through mixed forest and some developed areas near Bessemer.

The Black River is not a destination for distance travel — most anglers fish it as part of a broader Upper Peninsula trip or live within a couple hours of Bessemer. The water is typically clear to slightly stained depending on recent rainfall, and current varies from slow pools to moderate runs. Access is straightforward, with several public launch points and road crossings, making it manageable for anglers of any skill level.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye fishing peaks in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October), with summer requiring deeper pools and night fishing.
  • Smallmouth bass season runs year-round, with best results from June through September in rocky areas and current breaks.
  • Public boat launches exist near Bessemer and at several road crossings; check current conditions with the Bessemer area chamber or local bait shops before visiting.
  • Michigan fishing licenses are required; the DNR website lists current regulations for walleye, pike, and bass, which vary by season and daily catch limits.
  • The lower river near Lake Superior can be cold and fast during spring runoff, so plan accordingly and wear a life jacket.

Walleye Fishing: Spring and Fall Peaks

Walleye are the primary draw on the Black River, and timing matters. Spring (late April through May) is the strongest season — walleye move into shallower water and current breaks to spawn, and they feed actively before and after. Fish the deeper pools and channel edges with live minnows (shiners or chubs), jigs tipped with minnow, or crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Early morning and evening are most productive, though overcast days can extend the bite into midday.

Fall (September through early October) offers a second strong window as water cools and walleye move back into feeding zones. Summer walleye are present but require patience — they retreat to deeper holes and are most active at night or in low-light conditions. If you fish summer, focus on the deepest pools you can find, use live bait rather than lures, and plan to fish from dusk into darkness.

The Black River's walleye population is not as dense as some other Michigan systems, so expect to work for your fish. Bring a depth finder if you have one; it will save time locating the deeper holding areas. Local bait shops in Bessemer carry live minnows and can point you to current hot spots.

Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike

Smallmouth bass thrive in the Black River's rocky structure and current. Summer (June through September) is peak season — fish rocky shorelines, current breaks behind boulders, and the edges of deeper pools with soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater lures early and late in the day. Smallmouth are less selective than walleye and will bite throughout the day if you find the right structure. The river's smallmouth run 12 to 18 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 20 inches.

Northern pike are present but not the primary focus for most anglers. They inhabit the slower, weedy sections and can be caught incidentally on walleye and bass lures, or targeted with larger baits and pike-specific tackle in spring and fall. Pike fishing is less predictable than walleye or smallmouth, so treat it as a bonus rather than a main plan.

Seasons and Water Conditions

Spring (April through May) brings cold water and high flow from snowmelt — the lower river can be fast and dangerous. Wear a life jacket, use caution near current, and focus on slower pools where fish hold. Water temperature ranges from 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and walleye are most active.

Summer (June through September) warms the river to 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Smallmouth fishing is excellent, but walleye require deeper water and night fishing. Water levels drop and clarity improves, making sight-fishing for bass more effective.

Fall (September through October) cools the water back to 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and both walleye and smallmouth feed aggressively. This is often the most consistent season for mixed results. Winter (November through March) sees the river freeze in many sections, limiting access and fishing opportunity.

Access and Launch Points

Public boat launches are available near Bessemer at the Black River Harbor area, which provides access to the lower river and the transition zone toward Lake Superior. Several road crossings between Bessemer and Watersmeet allow bank access and smaller boat launches. The most commonly used access points are along Michigan State Route M-28 and local county roads.

The river is wadeable in many sections during normal water levels, particularly in summer and fall. Spring runoff can make wading dangerous, so check water conditions before planning a wade trip. Parking is available at most public access points, though spaces can be limited on weekends during peak season.

Bessemer is the nearest town with services — gas, food, lodging, and bait shops. The drive from Bessemer to the upper river sections is 20 to 30 minutes, so plan accordingly if you're staying in town.

Regulations and Licensing

Michigan fishing licenses are required for anyone 17 and older. Licenses can be purchased online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, or at bait shops in Bessemer. A 24-hour license is available if you want to fish for just one day.

Walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike all have specific regulations that vary by season and location. The Black River falls under standard Michigan inland water rules, but regulations change annually. Check the current Michigan fishing guide on the DNR website before you fish — it lists daily catch limits, size restrictions, and season dates for each species. Regulations for walleye and pike are particularly important to review, as they often differ from bass rules.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For walleye, bring a medium-action spinning rod (6 to 7 feet) with 8 to 12-pound monofilament or braided line. Jigs (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) tipped with live minnow are the standard; crankbaits and live bait rigs also work. A depth finder is helpful but not essential.

For smallmouth, a similar medium-action rod works well. Use 8 to 10-pound line and carry a mix of soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), crankbaits, and topwater lures. Smallmouth are less finicky than walleye, so you can fish faster and cover more water.

For pike, heavier tackle is optional but useful — a medium-heavy rod with 12 to 15-pound line and larger lures (3 to 5 inches) or live baits will reduce missed strikes. A wire leader is recommended to prevent bite-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the Black River year-round?

Yes, but winter access is limited. The river freezes in many sections from November through March, making boat access difficult or impossible. Bank fishing is possible in some areas, but check ice conditions and local access before planning a winter trip.

Is the Black River good for beginners?

Yes. The river is accessible, not overly technical, and holds fish that will bite on standard tackle and live bait. Spring and summer are the easiest seasons to start. Walleye require more patience than smallmouth, so if you're new to fishing, focus on smallmouth first.

What's the closest town with lodging and services?

Bessemer is the main hub, about 5 to 10 miles from the lower Black River. It has motels, restaurants, gas stations, and bait shops. Watersmeet, to the south, also has basic services but is smaller.

Do I need a boat to fish the Black River?

No. Much of the river is wadeable or accessible from the bank, especially in summer and fall. A boat gives you more water to cover and access to deeper pools, but it's not required.

What's the water temperature in spring?

Spring water temperatures range from 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the time of month and recent weather. Snowmelt keeps the river cold through May. Wear layers and a life jacket, as the cold water is dangerous if you fall in.