What Higgins Lake offers anglers

Higgins Lake is a 9,600-acre glacial lake in the Au Sable River watershed, located in Roscommon County in the northern Lower Peninsula. The lake holds a solid population of walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass, with panfish (bluegill, crappie) throughout the shallows and weed beds. The water is relatively clear and moderately deep, with depths reaching over 80 feet in places, which makes it productive for both summer and fall fishing.

The lake's character changes by season and location. Early spring (April through May) brings walleye to shallower structure as they move to spawning grounds. Summer fishing requires deeper presentations — walleye suspend 20 to 40 feet down during midday heat, while bass move to weed edges and deeper drop-offs. Fall (September through October) is often the most consistent period, when walleye and pike feed actively across a wider range of depths and times of day.

Higgins Lake draws both boat anglers and shore fishers. The lake has multiple public access points, boat launches, and rental facilities, making it accessible whether you own a boat or plan to rent one. The surrounding area includes cottages, resorts, and campgrounds, so you can plan anything from a day trip to a week-long stay.

Key Takeaways

  • Higgins Lake holds walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass year-round, with panfish in shallow areas and weed beds.
  • Spring and fall offer the most consistent fishing; summer requires deeper presentations and earlier or later hours to avoid midday heat.
  • Public boat launches are located at Higgins Lake State Park and several private marinas around the lake.
  • Michigan fishing licenses and a trout stamp (if targeting any trout species) are required; walleye and pike have specific bag limits that vary by season.
  • The lake sits in a region with established tourism infrastructure, including boat rentals, lodging, and tackle shops in nearby towns.

Access points and boat launches

Higgins Lake State Park operates the primary public boat launch on the lake's east side. The launch has a paved ramp, parking for vehicles with trailers, and a day-use fee (typically $10 to $15 per vehicle, though rates vary by year). The park also has a picnic area and restroom facilities. This is the most reliable public access point and the one most anglers use.

Several private marinas around the lake offer additional launch options, boat rentals, and fuel. These include facilities on the north and south ends of the lake. Rental boats typically range from 16 to 20 feet and come equipped with basic electronics and rod holders. Rental rates vary but generally run $100 to $200 per day depending on boat size and engine type. Call ahead during peak season (summer weekends and fall) to reserve.

Shore fishing is possible from the state park day-use area and from private property if you have permission. The lake's shoreline is heavily developed with cottages, so public shore access is limited compared to the boat-launch option.

Seasons and what to target

Spring (April through May) brings walleye into shallower water as they prepare to spawn. Fish structure like rocky points, drop-offs, and the mouths of inlet streams in 8 to 15 feet of water. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well. Northern pike also become active in spring and respond to larger lures and live bait presentations.

Summer (June through August) pushes walleye deeper during daylight hours. Focus on structure in 25 to 45 feet of water, or fish early morning and evening in shallower zones. Bass move to weed edges and deeper drop-offs; topwater lures and soft plastics work in low-light periods. Panfish remain shallow and are easiest to catch consistently during this season, especially around docks and weed beds.

Fall (September through October) is often the most productive season. Walleye and pike feed actively across a wider range of depths and times. Fish structure from 15 to 35 feet, and expect good results throughout the day. Bass remain active and respond to crankbaits and jigs. This is also when many anglers target pike with larger presentations.

Winter (November through March) allows ice fishing once the lake freezes solid (typically by late December). Walleye, pike, and panfish are caught through the ice using tip-ups and jigging. Check current ice conditions and local reports before heading out; ice thickness varies year to year.

Regulations and licensing

All anglers age 17 and older must carry a valid Michigan fishing license. Licenses are sold online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, at tackle shops, and at sporting goods stores. A license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Walleye and northern pike have specific bag limits and size restrictions that can change annually. As of recent years, walleye typically have a daily bag limit of 5 fish with a 15-inch minimum size, and pike have a limit of 5 fish with a 24-inch minimum size. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have a combined daily limit of 5 fish with a 12-inch minimum. Panfish (bluegill, crappie) have higher limits and no size restriction. Check the current Michigan fishing guide or the DNR website before your trip, as regulations are updated each year.

If you plan to fish for any trout species (though Higgins Lake is not primarily a trout lake), you will need a trout stamp in addition to your base license. Higgins Lake itself does not have a significant trout population, so this is not typically necessary for this lake.

What to bring and local services

Bring a rod and reel suited to the species you are targeting — medium-action rods work for walleye and pike, while lighter rods are better for panfish and bass. Jigs, crankbaits, soft plastics, and live minnows are standard presentations. If you are renting a boat, confirm what tackle and safety equipment are included; most rental boats come with basic rod holders and life jackets, but you may want to bring your own rods and lures.

The town of Roscommon, about 10 miles south of the lake, has tackle shops, gas stations, and restaurants. Several shops stock live bait, lures, and fishing supplies. Lodging options include state park campgrounds, private campgrounds, and resort cabins around the lake. Book accommodations in advance during summer and fall weekends.

The nearest hospital is in Grayling, about 30 miles away. Cell service is generally available around the lake but can be spotty on the water, so inform someone on shore of your plans before heading out.

Tackle and techniques by species

Walleye respond best to live bait presentations and subtle lures. Jigs (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) tipped with live minnows, crawfish, or soft plastics are the standard approach. Fish structure — points, drop-offs, and weed edges — in the depth range appropriate to the season. Walleye are most active at dawn, dusk, and during low-light conditions, though they can be caught throughout the day in deeper water.

Northern pike are aggressive and respond to larger, flashier lures. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics in the 4- to 6-inch range work well. Pike often hunt in weed beds and along drop-offs. Live bait (larger minnows or small panfish) is also effective. Use a wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader to avoid bite-offs.

Bass (both largemouth and smallmouth) respond to topwater lures in low light, crankbaits around structure, and soft plastics in weed beds. Largemouth prefer shallow weed beds and docks; smallmouth favor rocky points and deeper drop-offs. Fish early morning and evening for the most consistent action.

Panfish are easiest to catch around docks, weed beds, and shallow structure. Small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well. Panfish are active throughout the day and are a good option for families or anglers new to the lake.

Planning your trip

Higgins Lake is open to fishing year-round, though summer and fall are the most popular seasons. If you are planning a boat-based trip, book a rental or confirm your own boat is ready at least two weeks in advance during peak season. If you are staying overnight, book lodging early — summer weekends and fall weekends fill up quickly.

Check the weather forecast before heading out; the lake can develop rough conditions quickly, especially in fall and spring. Bring a personal flotation device (PFD) for every person on the boat — it is required by law. If you are new to the lake, consider hiring a guide for your first day; local guides know the structure, seasonal patterns, and current conditions and can save you time and frustration.

The lake is about 2.5 hours north of Detroit and 1.5 hours south of the Mackinac Strait, making it accessible as a day trip or a longer stay. Nearby attractions include the Au Sable River (a separate fishery for trout and smallmouth bass) and several state forests, so you can combine fishing with other outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Higgins Lake?

Fall (September through October) is generally the most consistent season, with walleye, pike, and bass feeding actively throughout the day. Spring (April through May) is also productive for walleye as they move to spawning grounds. Summer can be good early and late in the day, but midday fishing is slower.

Do I need a boat to fish Higgins Lake?

A boat gives you access to deeper structure and more of the lake, but shore fishing is possible from the state park day-use area. Most anglers use boats because the lake is large and the best structure is spread across the water. Boat rentals are available at multiple marinas if you do not own one.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Walleye typically range from 15 to 22 inches, with occasional larger fish. Northern pike average 20 to 28 inches and can exceed 35 inches. Bass range from 12 to 18 inches on average. Panfish are generally 6 to 10 inches. These are typical ranges; individual fish vary based on season and location.

Can I fish Higgins Lake in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible once the lake freezes solid, typically by late December. Walleye, pike, and panfish are caught through the ice. Check current ice conditions and local reports before heading out, as ice thickness varies year to year and can be unsafe in some areas.

Where can I buy bait and tackle near Higgins Lake?

Roscommon, about 10 miles south of the lake, has several tackle shops that stock live bait, lures, and fishing supplies. Marinas around the lake also sell basic tackle and bait. Call ahead to confirm availability, especially during peak season.