Major League Fishing on Lake Winyah
The Alpena area has built a reputation as one of Michigan’s healthiest and most prolific
bass fisheries. In a state that boasts more than 11,000 lakes, that says quite a lot. Fletcher’s
Pond, Hubbard Lake, Grand Lake, and Long Lake are four of Michigan’s twenty largest
lakes. They are all full of bass and located near Alpena. Add the Thunder Bay River and
the great Lake Huron to the mix, and you’ve found yourself a fisherman’s paradise. But
it’s not just in Michigan where Alpena shines. The area has received national attention for
a bass fishing experience that is second-to-none. The nation’s top-ranked sport fishing
show, Major League Fishing, has been to the community to film programming for the
Outdoor Channel three separate times. You don’t have to be a pro to have a successful
day on the water in Alpena. There are plenty of options for your fishing adventure.
Here’s what you need to know about bass and top places to find them in the Sanctuary
of the Great Lakes:
THE SPECIES
Largemouth Bass: These fish have earned the nickname “bucket mouth” because
their large jaw opens up very wide. They will try to eat anything they can catch and
swallow. Some say that fishing for largemouth bass is more challenging than hunting
land game.
Smallmouth Bass: Smallmouths mature at age three or four, and can live up to 12 years!
Smallmouth are loved by anglers because of their “trout-like” nature and spirited fight
that make them really fun to fish.
Logan Carr Fishing
Courtesy Stacy VanOrman
14 Sanctuary of the Great Lakes