What You'll Find at Cisco Chain of Lakes

Cisco Chain of Lakes is a series of connected lakes in Michigan's Upper Peninsula that holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in reliable numbers. The chain sits in Gogebic County near the Wisconsin border, about 90 minutes west of Marquette. The lakes are shallow to moderately deep, with plenty of weed growth and structure that holds fish year-round. Access is straightforward — multiple public boat launches and shoreline fishing spots make it manageable for anglers of any skill level.

The chain works best in spring and fall when walleye are most active in the shallows. Summer fishing is possible but requires deeper presentations and early morning or evening effort. Winter ice fishing draws a steady crowd for walleye and panfish. The lakes rarely get crowded compared to more famous Michigan destinations, which means you can fish methodically without fighting for space.

Key Takeaways

  • Cisco Chain holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish across multiple connected lakes with public access at several launch points.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for walleye; summer requires fishing deeper structure and low-light periods.
  • Weed beds and shallow structure hold fish throughout the year and are the primary targets for both boat and shore anglers.
  • A Michigan fishing license is required, and walleye have a daily bag limit and minimum size — check current regulations before you fish.
  • The chain is accessible year-round, including winter ice fishing, though road conditions in the UP can be severe from December through March.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) brings walleye into the shallows as water temperatures climb. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well along weed edges and in 6 to 12 feet of water. Pike are also active and will hit larger presentations. The water is still cold, so fish move slowly — work your lure deliberately rather than fast.

Summer (June through August) pushes walleye deeper during the day, typically to 15 to 25 feet. Early morning and evening topwater action can be excellent, but midday requires vertical jigging or live bait presentations on deeper structure. Panfish remain shallow and are easier to catch consistently. Pike continue to hunt weed edges, especially at dawn and dusk.

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring — walleye return to shallower water as temperatures drop, and this is often the most productive time of year. Jigs, crankbaits, and live bait all produce. Pike are aggressive as they feed heavily before winter. The weather is unpredictable, so bring layers and check forecasts before heading out.

Winter (November through March) ice fishing is popular for walleye and panfish. The ice typically forms by mid-December and remains solid through February. Jigging with live minnows or spoons is the standard approach. Road access can be difficult during heavy snow, and the UP receives significant winter precipitation — plan accordingly.

Access Points and Launch Locations

The Cisco Chain has multiple public boat launches that serve different parts of the system. The main launch is at the Cisco Lake public access site, which has a paved ramp, parking, and vault toilets. This is the most developed facility and handles the majority of traffic. From here you can reach most of the connected lakes by boat.

Smaller launches and fishing access points exist around the perimeter of the chain, though not all have developed facilities. Shore fishing is possible at several locations, particularly along County Road 527 and nearby roads. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required to park at state-managed access sites — this is included with your vehicle registration or can be purchased separately for a small fee.

The nearest town with services is Bessemer, about 15 minutes away. Gas, food, and lodging are available there. The area is remote, so fill your tank and stock supplies before heading to the lakes. Cell service is spotty, so do not rely on it for navigation or emergencies.

Fish Species and What Works

Walleye are the primary target. They respond to jigs (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) tipped with live minnows, nightcrawlers, or soft plastics in shades of chartreuse, white, and natural colors. Crankbaits that reach 8 to 15 feet work in spring and fall. Live bait presentations — a slip sinker rig with a live minnow — are effective year-round and especially productive at night.

Northern pike are abundant and aggressive. Larger lures and live bait attract them — spinnerbaits, large crankbaits, and 4- to 6-inch live minnows all produce. Pike prefer weed edges and shallow structure. They are less selective than walleye, so you can fish faster and cover more water.

Panfish (bluegill, crappie, and perch) are easy to catch and fun for families or anglers wanting consistent action. Small jigs, live minnows, and wax worms work well. They school in shallow water and around weed beds. Summer and winter are the best times for panfish — they are less active in spring and fall.

Regulations and Licensing

A Michigan fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older. Licenses are sold online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, and at some gas stations. A one-day license is available if you are visiting briefly; annual licenses are cheaper if you plan multiple trips.

Walleye have specific regulations that change year to year. As of recent seasons, the daily bag limit is typically 5 fish with a minimum size of 15 inches, but this varies — check the current Michigan fishing guide before you fish. Pike and panfish have different limits. Regulations are published in the Michigan Fishing Guide, available free online and at license vendors.

Ice fishing follows the same licensing and bag limit rules as open water. A spear license is required if you plan to spear fish. Catch-and-release is always an option and helps maintain the fishery for future trips.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For walleye, a 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 6- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line works well. Jigs in the 1/4 to 1/2 ounce range are the workhorse. Bring a variety of soft plastic colors — chartreuse, white, and natural patterns cover most conditions. A tackle box with crankbaits, spoons, and live bait rigs rounds out your setup.

Pike fishing benefits from slightly heavier gear — a 6.5- to 7-foot medium-heavy rod with 10- to 15-pound line. Larger lures and live bait require more backbone. Wire leaders are optional but reduce bite-offs from pike teeth.

For panfish, ultralight gear is fun and effective — a 5.5- to 6-foot light spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound line. Small jigs and live minnows are all you need. Ice fishing requires a short rod (24 to 28 inches) and a reel designed for cold weather; jigging spoons and small live bait are standard.

When to Fish and Weather Considerations

Early morning and evening are most productive for walleye and pike year-round. Overcast days often produce better than bright sunshine. Wind can make boat handling difficult but typically improves fishing — moving water oxygenates the lake and triggers feeding.

The Upper Peninsula weather is unpredictable. Spring and fall can shift from mild to cold and wet within hours. Summer is generally stable but can include afternoon thunderstorms. Winter is severe — temperatures regularly drop below zero, and snowfall is heavy. If you fish in winter, bring extra layers, a shelter, and a way to stay warm. Check the forecast before leaving, and do not fish alone on unfamiliar ice.

Water levels can fluctuate, especially in spring when snowmelt raises levels. This affects access at some launch points and changes where fish hold. Ask at the launch or a local bait shop about current conditions before you fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Cisco Chain?

No. Shore fishing is possible at several public access points, and you can reach productive water without a boat. However, a boat lets you cover more water and reach deeper structure where walleye hold in summer. If you do not own a boat, some local outfitters rent them, though availability varies by season.

What is the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most productive for walleye and pike. Summer requires more effort and deeper presentations. Winter ice fishing is popular and can be excellent, but weather and road conditions are challenging. If you are new to the area, spring or fall is the safest bet.

Are there guides or outfitters nearby?

Local outfitters operate in the Bessemer area and can provide guided trips, tackle advice, and current fishing reports. Calling ahead is recommended, especially in peak seasons. They also rent boats and can tell you which parts of the chain are fishing best that week.

Can I fish at night?

Yes. Night fishing for walleye is legal and often productive, especially in summer when daytime fishing is slow. Bring a headlamp, tell someone where you are going, and fish with a partner if possible. Boat safety lights are required if you operate after dark.

What should I do if I catch a pike I want to keep?

Pike have no minimum size in Michigan, so any size can be kept within the daily bag limit. If you want to release it, wet your hands before handling to protect the fish's protective slime coating. Pike teeth are sharp — use pliers or a tool to remove the hook safely.