What Garth Point Offers

Garth Point sits on the northern shore of the Straits of Mackinac, roughly midway between the Mackinac Bridge and the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. The point juts into deep, cold water that holds walleye, northern pike, and lake trout year-round. Most anglers fish here in spring and fall when walleye move into shallower structure; summer brings pike hunters and occasional lake trout trollers. The point itself is rocky and exposed, making it a serious destination for waders and boat anglers who understand current and weather.

Access is by boat only. There is no public launch at Garth Point itself, but several marinas in Mackinaw City and around the Straits can put you in the water within 15 to 20 minutes of the point. The water depth drops quickly—you will find 15 to 25 feet within casting distance of shore, and 40-plus feet a short distance out. This depth change is what concentrates fish, especially walleye hunting in the transition zones.

Key Takeaways

  • Garth Point is a rocky point in the Straits of Mackinac accessible only by boat, with walleye and pike as the primary target species.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most productive seasons, when walleye move into shallower water around the point.
  • You will need a Michigan fishing license and must follow state regulations for daily limits and minimum sizes, which differ between walleye and pike.
  • Launch from Mackinaw City marinas or other Straits-area facilities; the point is 15 to 20 minutes by boat from most public ramps.
  • Current and weather in the Straits can change rapidly, so check conditions before heading out and carry a reliable GPS or chart.

Spring Walleye Fishing at Garth Point

Spring is the most consistent season for walleye at Garth Point. As water temperatures climb from 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (roughly April through May), walleye move out of deep winter holes and hunt in the shallower rocky structure around the point. Early morning and late evening produce the best bites, though overcast days often fish well throughout the day.

Jigging is the standard approach. Use 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics, and work the rocky bottom in 12 to 20 feet of water. Cast toward the point and work the jig along the depth breaks where rock meets sand. Walleye often hold tight to structure, so patience and a slow, deliberate retrieve matter more than speed. Trolling small crankbaits along the same depth contours also works, especially if you are covering water to locate active fish.

Fall Fishing and Pike Opportunities

Fall (September through October) brings a second strong walleye bite as water cools and fish move back into the shallows before winter. The same jigging and trolling tactics that work in spring apply here, though water temperatures in the 50s often produce faster action than spring's slower bite. Pike are also active in fall, hunting baitfish around the rocky structure.

Pike anglers typically use larger presentations—spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or live shiners in the 4- to 6-inch range. Cast toward the point and work the edges where deeper water meets shallower rock. Pike are less structure-dependent than walleye and will chase baits across open water, so do not hesitate to cast away from the point itself. Fall pike can be aggressive, especially on cloudy days or when wind pushes water across the point.

Summer and Winter Conditions

Summer at Garth Point is slower for walleye because they retreat to deeper, cooler water beyond the point. However, pike remain active in the shallows, and lake trout trollers sometimes work the deeper water offshore. If you fish here in summer, focus on early morning and dusk when walleye move shallower to feed. Pike fishing remains steady throughout the day.

Winter fishing is possible but demands experience and caution. The Straits freeze, but ice conditions vary year to year and can be unsafe. If you fish through the ice, check current ice reports from local bait shops or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources before heading out. Many anglers avoid Garth Point in winter because the exposed point and strong current make ice unpredictable.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Michigan fishing license to fish Garth Point. Licenses are sold online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, at bait shops throughout the region, and at most sporting goods stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you are visiting for a short trip.

Walleye in the Straits of Mackinac have a daily limit of five fish with a 15-inch minimum size. Northern pike have a daily limit of five fish with a 24-inch minimum size. Lake trout, if you target them, have a five-fish daily limit with a 15-inch minimum. Check the current Michigan fishing guide before you go, as regulations can change year to year. The guide is free and available online through the DNR.

Boat Launch Options and Getting There

Mackinaw City is the closest hub for boat launches. The City of Mackinaw City operates a public launch on the south side of town, near the Mackinac Bridge. Several private marinas in Mackinaw City also offer launch service and often have fuel, bait, and tackle available. From any of these launches, Garth Point is roughly 15 to 20 minutes north by boat, depending on your speed and the exact launch location.

If you do not have your own boat, some charter captains operate out of Mackinaw City and fish the Straits regularly. A charter will handle navigation, tackle, and fish-finding, though the cost is higher than launching yourself. Bait shops in Mackinaw City can recommend local captains and current conditions.

Weather, Current, and Safety

The Straits of Mackinac are known for rapid weather changes and strong current. Garth Point sits in the main shipping channel, so large freighters pass regularly. Check the National Weather Service forecast before launching, and do not venture out if wind is forecast above 15 knots or if visibility is poor. Current in the Straits can run 1 to 2 knots depending on tide and season, which affects how your boat handles and where fish hold.

Carry a GPS or chart plotter and know your position at all times. The point itself is rocky and has shallow water close to shore, so approach carefully and watch your depth finder. A personal flotation device is required by law, and many experienced anglers wear one while wading or fishing from a small boat in the Straits. If you are unfamiliar with the area, fish with someone who knows it or hire a guide for your first trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wade fish at Garth Point?

Yes, but only during calm conditions and with caution. The bottom is rocky and uneven, and current can be strong. Wear a wading belt and a personal flotation device, and never wade alone. Spring and fall offer the best wading conditions when water is cooler and current is more predictable.

What is the best time of day to fish Garth Point?

Early morning and late evening are most productive for walleye, especially in spring and fall. Pike can bite throughout the day, though overcast conditions often improve the bite. Summer walleye fishing is best at dawn and dusk when fish move shallower.

Do I need a boat to fish Garth Point?

Yes. There is no shore access at the point itself. You can launch from Mackinaw City or other nearby marinas and reach the point by boat in 15 to 20 minutes. If you do not own a boat, charter services operate out of Mackinaw City.

What should I bring for safety?

Bring a personal flotation device, a GPS or chart plotter, a fully charged cell phone, and a first aid kit. Check the weather forecast before launching, and tell someone on shore where you are going and when you expect to return. Carry extra fuel if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Are there fish here in winter?

Yes, but ice conditions in the Straits are unpredictable and can be unsafe. Check ice reports from local sources before attempting winter fishing. Many anglers avoid Garth Point in winter because the exposed point and current make ice unreliable.