With the arrival of single-digit temperatures and some short-lived snowstorms, the highly-anticipated Northern Michigan ice fishing season is officially here! Big Bear Adventures, one of the premier Michigan family getaways, is minutes from some of the best ice fishing lakes in the state. Being located approximately half of a mile from massive Burt Lake has its perks, especially during ice fishing season. But our serene neck of Northern Michigan wilderness is home to several excellent ice fishing lakes of all shapes and sizes.

Northern Michigan Ice Fishing Hot Spots

Please keep in mind that Big Bear Adventures doesn’t rent ice fishing equipment. Nearly every family that chooses our cozy, affordable Northern Michigan vacation spots have been ice fishing for generations. If you’ve never fished in the Indian River area, you’re in for a real treat! Here are four popular options near Northwoods Lodge.

• Burt Lake: Burt Lake is the fourth largest inland lake in Michigan, making it a popular ice fishing locale for visiting anglers. With nearly 27 square miles of space, you’ll always be able to find a quality spot. Most anglers arrive in hopes of reeling in a giant walleye. Burt Lake’s walleye are typically in the 13 to 20-inch range, but we’ve seen them top out around 30 inches. Sturgeons have been spotted again this year! You’ll also have the opportunity to battle a northern pike, panfish, trout, or perch.

• Mullett Lake: Burt Lake and Mullett Lake, the fifth largest inland lake in Michigan, are only separated by approximately three miles – thus making the Indian River, MI, area an ultra-popular ice fishing hub every winter. With 31.5 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 148 feet, you never know what you’ll catch in Mullett Lake. Walleye, perch, and massive northern pike are the most common species inside Mullett Lake, but it’s possible to reel in a trout (four species), musky, or a rare sturgeon.

• Black Lake: This peaceful Northern Michigan ice fishing gem is known for its short sturgeon spearing season. But Black Lake also has some of the best musky fishing in Northern Michigan. You’ll also see plenty of walleye, northern pike, and perch throughout your visit. Black Lake is approximately 30 miles from Big Bear Adventures.

Premier Northern Michigan Lodging

After each relaxing day on the water, retreat to Indian River, MI, for a steaming plate of pasta at Vivio’s or fresh-caught fish at Wilson's Rivers Edge. Big Bear Adventures has several cozy lodging options in the Indian River area. You’re encouraged to gather around and share stories of the day’s haul around a crackling fireplace at the Northwoods Lodge. For more information about Northern Michigan ice fishing or our cozy, affordable lodging options, please give us a call today at 1-231-238-8181. We’re also home to several outdoor winter adventures, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided winter rafting trips!