What You'll Find at Croton Dam

Croton Dam on Michigan's Muskegon River holds walleye, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch in a 1,200-acre impoundment that draws anglers year-round. The dam itself creates two distinct fishing zones: the slower, deeper pool behind the dam where walleye congregate, and the faster current below the spillway where smallmouth hold in structure. The river above the dam widens into a lake-like setting with shallow bays and weed beds that hold perch and pike in summer.

The dam is located in Montcalm County near the town of Croton, roughly 30 miles northeast of Grand Rapids. Public access is straightforward—a state-maintained boat launch sits on the north side of the impoundment, and a smaller launch exists below the dam on the lower Muskegon River. Both are free to use, though the upper launch fills quickly on weekends during walleye season.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye fishing peaks in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) in the deeper pool behind the dam, with jigging and live bait producing best results.
  • Smallmouth bass are present year-round but most active May through September in the current below the spillway and along rocky shorelines.
  • Yellow perch congregate in shallow bays and weed beds above the dam during summer months and can be caught in high numbers on small jigs and live minnows.
  • The dam pool is 40 to 60 feet deep in the main channel, requiring a depth finder to locate walleye holding zones efficiently.
  • Michigan fishing licenses are required for all anglers 17 and older, and current regulations on daily catch limits and size restrictions apply year-round.

Walleye Fishing in Spring and Fall

Walleye are the primary draw at Croton Dam, and the best fishing occurs during the shoulder seasons when water temperatures favor active feeding. Spring walleye season runs from the opener in early April through May, when fish move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively before summer heat pushes them deeper. Fall fishing from September through October mirrors spring conditions—walleye are again active and concentrated in predictable zones as they prepare for winter.

The pool behind the dam is where most walleye hold. Fish suspend in 30 to 50 feet of water during midday and move shallower at dawn and dusk. Jigging with 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jigs tipped with live minnows or crawlers is the standard approach. Work the main channel drop-offs and the deeper holes where the river channel narrows. Live bait rigs—a three-way rig with a sinker and a floating minnow harness—also produce well, especially when drifted slowly along the deeper structure.

Summer walleye fishing is possible but slower. Fish move to the deepest holes (50 to 60 feet) and feed primarily at night. If you fish summer, focus on early morning and after sunset, and use live bait rather than artificials. Winter fishing below the dam can be productive for walleye in the current, but access becomes difficult once ice forms; check current conditions before planning a winter trip.

Smallmouth Bass Year-Round

Smallmouth bass are abundant at Croton Dam and active from May through September. The fastest fishing occurs in the current zone immediately below the spillway, where smallmouth hold in the rocks and deeper pockets created by the dam structure. This area is best fished from a boat, though wading anglers can access portions of the lower river during lower water levels.

Smallmouth respond to 4- to 6-inch soft plastics—tubes, crawdad imitations, and shads—worked slowly along the bottom in 8 to 15 feet of water. Crankbaits that mimic crawfish also work well in the current. Early morning and late evening produce the most active feeding, though smallmouth at Croton will bite throughout the day if you fish structure carefully. The rocky shorelines on both sides of the dam pool also hold smallmouth; cast along these banks in spring and fall.

Smallmouth in the upper pool tend to be smaller (8 to 12 inches) but numerous. The lower river below the dam holds larger fish (12 to 16 inches) but requires more precise casting and patience. Both areas are worth exploring depending on whether you prefer quantity or size.

Yellow Perch in Summer Bays

Yellow perch fishing at Croton Dam is a summer activity, peaking from June through August when perch school in the shallow bays and weed beds above the impoundment. These areas are accessible by boat from the upper launch and are ideal for anglers with smaller boats or canoes. Perch rarely exceed 10 inches but bite readily and provide fast action for families and newer anglers.

Small jigs (1/16- to 1/8-ounce) tipped with live minnows or waxworms are the standard. Drop them near weed edges and along the shallow drop-offs where bays transition to deeper water. Perch often school tightly, so once you locate one, you can expect to catch several more in the same spot. A simple slip-bobber rig with a live minnow also works well and is easier to manage from a canoe or small boat.

Access, Launches, and Parking

The primary public boat launch is located on the north shore of the impoundment, accessed via M-91 near the town of Croton. The launch has a paved ramp, parking for roughly 20 vehicles with trailers, and a small gravel lot for day-use parking. Restrooms are available seasonally. This launch is best for accessing the upper pool and the deeper walleye zones.

A second launch below the dam provides access to the lower Muskegon River and is smaller, with limited parking. This launch is better for anglers targeting smallmouth in the current and for those with smaller boats. Both launches are maintained by the state and are free to use. During peak weekends in spring and fall, arrive early—the upper launch can reach capacity by mid-morning.

No lodging exists directly at the dam, but the town of Croton is 3 miles away and has a few small motels and vacation rentals. Grand Rapids, 30 miles south, offers full hotel and restaurant options. Fuel and supplies are available in Croton and at larger towns along M-91.

Regulations and Licensing

Michigan fishing licenses are required for all anglers 17 and older. A 24-hour license is available for visitors and costs less than a full-season license. Licenses can be purchased online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or at most sporting goods stores and bait shops in the region.

Walleye daily limit is 5 fish with a 15-inch minimum size. Smallmouth bass limit is 5 fish with a 12-inch minimum. Yellow perch have no size restriction and a 25-fish daily limit. These regulations apply to Croton Dam and the Muskegon River system. Regulations can change, so check the current Michigan fishing guide before your trip.

The dam pool and lower river are open year-round, but winter access below the dam is hazardous and not recommended without local knowledge. The upper pool remains accessible through winter for ice fishing in some years, though ice conditions vary and should be verified locally before planning a winter trip.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is peak season for walleye and the busiest time at the dam. Expect crowded launches on weekends and cooler water temperatures (45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit). Bring layers and plan for variable weather. Summer (June through August) is best for perch and smallmouth, with warmer water and longer daylight hours. The dam is less crowded than in spring, though weekends still see steady boat traffic.

Fall (September through October) offers excellent walleye fishing again and fewer crowds than spring. Water temperatures cool to 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and early morning trips are often the most productive. Winter (November through March) is slower overall, with most anglers focusing on the lower river below the dam. Ice fishing is possible in some years but requires local conditions to be checked before you go.

Water levels at Croton Dam fluctuate based on power generation and dam operations. Higher water levels favor walleye and make the lower river more difficult to wade. Lower water levels expose more structure and can concentrate smallmouth. Check the dam's current water level before planning your trip, especially if you plan to wade or fish the lower river.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Croton Dam?

A boat is helpful but not required. The upper launch provides access to the main pool where walleye hold, and a boat makes reaching deeper water easier. However, the lower river below the dam can be waded during lower water levels, and perch fishing in the shallow bays is possible from a canoe or small boat. Bank fishing is limited but possible in a few spots near the launches.

What's the best time of day to fish for walleye?

Dawn and dusk are most productive, especially in spring and fall. Walleye feed actively during low-light periods. Summer walleye are primarily nocturnal, so night fishing or very early morning (before sunrise) produces better results. Midday fishing is slower but possible if you fish the deepest holes and use live bait.

Can I catch pike at Croton Dam?

Pike are present in the upper pool and shallow bays but are not abundant. They are occasionally caught by anglers targeting perch and smallmouth. Pike fishing is not a primary draw at this location, though larger pike (18 to 24 inches) do exist in the weed beds during summer.

What should I bring for a day of fishing at Croton Dam?

Bring a fishing license, a depth finder if you have a boat, live minnows or crawlers, jigs in sizes 1/16 to 3/8 ounce, and a net. Sunscreen, water, and snacks are essential. In spring and fall, bring layers because weather changes quickly. If you plan to wade the lower river, bring waders and a wading belt.

Is there a bait shop near Croton Dam?

Yes, bait and tackle shops operate in Croton and nearby towns. They carry live minnows, crawlers, jigs, and other common lures. Shops are typically open from early morning through evening during peak fishing seasons. Calling ahead to confirm hours and bait availability is a good idea, especially on weekends.