What Cedar Lake offers anglers

Cedar Lake sits in Kalkaska County and runs shallow and weedy—a classic warmwater lake that holds walleye, pike, and panfish rather than the coldwater trout you'll find in nearby lakes fed by spring-holes. The lake averages 20 feet deep with plenty of vegetation, which means the fish relate to weed edges and structure rather than open water. If you're coming from a Great Lakes or deep-lake background, Cedar Lake will feel different: you're hunting in cover, not casting to suspended fish or rocky points.

The walleye bite here is strongest in spring and fall when the water temperature sits in the 60s and 70s. Summer fishing is possible but requires patience and timing—early morning and dusk are your windows. Pike are present year-round and will chase lures aggressively, especially around the thickest weed growth. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) are abundant and provide a reliable option when walleye are sluggish.

Key Takeaways

  • Cedar Lake is a shallow, weedy warmwater system best fished in spring and fall when walleye are most active.
  • Weed edges and vegetation are where the fish live; open-water techniques will not produce consistent results here.
  • Pike are aggressive and available throughout the year, making them a good alternative when walleye fishing slows.
  • Public access is available at the state launch, and the lake is small enough to fish thoroughly in a single day.

Spring fishing: walleye and pike transitions

Spring is when Cedar Lake comes alive. As the ice clears and water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s and 60s, walleye move from deeper winter holes toward the shallows to feed. The weed growth hasn't fully emerged yet, so fish are easier to locate along the edges where vegetation is just beginning to green up. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well; cast parallel to weed lines and work the bottom slowly.

Pike also become aggressive in spring, and they're less fussy than walleye. Larger lures—spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and swimbaits—will draw strikes. The water is still cool enough that pike will chase, and the shallower weed edges concentrate both species. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive, though spring days can be good throughout if the sun isn't too bright.

Summer: early and late, not midday

By mid-June, Cedar Lake's weeds are thick and the water warms into the 70s. Walleye retreat to deeper weed edges and the few slightly deeper holes the lake offers. Midday fishing is nearly pointless—the fish are inactive and buried in cover. Your real fishing window is from first light until about 9 a.m., then again from an hour before sunset until dark.

Focus on the thickest weed growth and the edges where vegetation drops off into slightly deeper water. Jigs and live minnows remain effective, but you can also work soft plastics slowly along the weed edges. Pike will still bite during the day if you're throwing large, noisy lures into the thickest cover, but expect fewer hookups than in spring. Panfish are more reliable in summer and can be caught throughout the day in shallow weedy areas.

Fall: the second peak season

Fall mirrors spring in many ways. As water temperatures drop from the 70s back into the 60s and 50s, walleye move back toward the shallows to feed heavily before winter. The weed growth is still present but begins to thin, making fish slightly easier to locate. September and early October are excellent months—the water is still warm enough for active feeding, but the fish are concentrated and hungry.

Jigs, live minnows, and soft plastics all work. You can also throw crankbaits and spinnerbaits if you want more active presentations. Pike are equally aggressive in fall, and the combination of cooler water and thinning weeds makes them easier to find. Fish the same weed edges and transitions you targeted in spring, and expect similar results.

Winter and ice-out considerations

Cedar Lake freezes solid by December and remains under ice through March. Ice fishing is possible and can be productive—walleye and pike are still present, and the reduced fishing pressure means they can be less cautious. Tip-ups and jigging through holes work for both species. Check local ice conditions and thickness before heading out; early and late ice can be unsafe.

As ice begins to break in late March and early April, the transition period can be excellent. Fish are concentrated near remaining ice edges and in the first open water. This is a brief window—sometimes only a week or two—but it can produce fast action if you're on the water at the right time.

Access, regulations, and what to bring

Cedar Lake has a public boat launch on the north shore, managed by Kalkaska County. The launch is straightforward and accommodates both trailers and hand-carry boats. There's parking and a small facility. The lake is small enough—roughly 400 acres—that you can explore most of it in a day, which makes it good for learning the system quickly.

Michigan fishing regulations apply. You'll need a valid Michigan fishing license. Walleye and pike have specific size and bag limits that change year to year; check the current Michigan Department of Natural Resources regulations before you fish. Panfish typically have generous limits and are a good option if you want to keep fish for a meal.

Bring a good depth finder if you have one—it will help you locate weed edges and the few deeper holes. A weed rake or similar tool to clear your lure of vegetation is essential on a lake this weedy. Polarized sunglasses help you see fish in the shallows, especially on calm mornings. Insect repellent is worth the space in your tackle bag, particularly in early summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cedar Lake good for beginners?

Yes. The lake is small, the fish are present and willing to bite during the right seasons, and the public access is easy. Spring and fall are forgiving times to learn—walleye are active and pike are aggressive. Start with jigs and live minnows, fish the weed edges, and you'll catch fish.

Can I fish Cedar Lake from shore?

Shore fishing is possible but limited. Most of the productive water is accessible only by boat. If you don't have a boat, ask at the launch about rental options or consider fishing with someone who does. A canoe or kayak would work for exploring the shallower areas.

What's the best lure for pike on Cedar Lake?

Spinnerbaits and large soft plastics work well. Pike are aggressive and will chase, so size and visibility matter more than exact imitation. Throw toward the thickest weed cover and work the lure with confidence. You'll know quickly whether pike are interested.

How deep is Cedar Lake?

The lake averages around 20 feet deep, with the deepest holes reaching perhaps 30 feet. Most of the productive fishing happens in 8 to 15 feet of water, especially around weed edges. It's a shallow system compared to many Michigan lakes.

When should I avoid Cedar Lake?

Midsummer midday fishing (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) is slow and frustrating. Winter ice fishing is possible but requires caution and current ice reports. If you're new to the lake, spring and fall will teach you the system faster than summer.