What Townline Lake offers anglers

Townline Lake is a modest inland lake in Montcalm County that holds walleye, pike, and panfish in a setting far enough from major highways that you'll see mostly local boats. The lake runs roughly 300 acres and sits in the rolling terrain between Greenville and Six Lakes, with public access at a county boat launch on the north shore. The water is relatively clear in summer, and the bottom transitions from sand and gravel near the launch to muck and weeds as you move toward the deeper basins—a pattern that shapes where fish hold through the seasons.

What makes Townline worth the drive from elsewhere in the region is its lack of crowding and its consistent walleye population. You won't find trophy fish here regularly, but you will find fish willing to bite, and you'll have room to work without running into a dozen other anglers. The lake also draws pike hunters in spring and fall, and the panfish bite can be solid in early summer if you know where to look.

Key Takeaways

  • Townline Lake has public access via a county boat launch on the north shore near Greenville, with parking for trailers and a gravel ramp suitable for small to mid-size boats.
  • Walleye are the primary target, with best results in spring and fall using live bait or crankbaits along the deeper edges and structure; summer requires night fishing or deeper water.
  • Pike fishing peaks in spring (April through May) and again in October, with success along weed lines and in the shallower bays on the west and south sides of the lake.
  • The lake is clearest in mid-summer and murkier in spring runoff, which affects both lure choice and the depth at which fish feed.
  • Montcalm County requires a Michigan fishing license; no special lake permit is needed, and the lake has no horsepower restrictions.

Walleye fishing through the seasons

Spring walleye on Townline respond well to live bait presentations in shallow water as the lake warms. Work the north and east shorelines in 6 to 12 feet of water with a crawler harness or live shiners, especially near any remaining wood or rock. The bite is often best in the hour before sunset and after dark, and you can cover water efficiently by drifting or slow-trolling. By late May, as water temperatures climb into the 60s, the fish move deeper and become more nocturnal.

Summer walleye fishing requires patience and a shift in tactics. Most fish move to the deeper basins—look for the 20- to 28-foot zones on your sounder—and feed primarily at night. If you want to fish during daylight, focus on the deepest holes and use vertical jigging with live minnows or soft plastics. Night fishing with live bait or crankbaits cast toward structure in 12 to 18 feet of water often produces better results and is more enjoyable than fighting the heat.

Fall is when Townline's walleye fishing shines. As water cools in September and October, fish move back into intermediate depths (10 to 16 feet) and feed more actively throughout the day. Crankbaits that reach 10 to 14 feet, live bait on a three-way rig, and jigs tipped with minnows all work. The bite can be fast and steady, especially in the hour after sunrise and before sunset.

Pike and panfish opportunities

Pike fishing on Townline peaks in spring when fish move into the shallows to spawn. April and May are prime months—work the western and southern bays where weed growth is thickest, using large shiners, small suckers, or pike-sized crankbaits. Casting along the weed edges and in the pockets between weed beds will produce strikes. Fish early and late in the day for the best action.

Fall pike fishing (October through early November) is nearly as good as spring. The same shallow bays and weed lines hold fish, and the cooler water keeps them active. By winter, pike are present but less predictable, and ice fishing for pike requires patience and a willingness to move frequently.

Panfish—bluegill, pumpkinseed, and some crappie—are scattered throughout the lake but concentrate in the shallower bays and along weed lines in early summer. A simple bobber and small jig or live cricket will catch panfish consistently in June and early July, especially in the morning. The bite slows as summer heat deepens, but returns in fall.

Access, facilities, and regulations

The public boat launch is located on the north shore near Greenville, accessible via Townline Road. The ramp is gravel, well-maintained, and has adequate parking for trailers. There are no fuel docks or rental facilities on the lake, so arrive with a full tank and any supplies you need. The launch is free to use and open year-round, though winter access depends on road conditions.

Michigan fishing regulations apply. You need a valid Michigan fishing license (available online or at any sporting goods retailer), and there are no special restrictions or lake-specific rules. The lake has no horsepower limit, though most anglers use boats in the 16- to 20-foot range. Respect posted property lines along the shoreline—much of the surrounding land is private.

When to fish Townline Lake

Spring (April through May) is excellent for walleye and pike, with active fish and moderate crowds. The water is cooler and clearer than in early spring runoff, and the bite is often fast. Expect to share the lake with other anglers, but not to the degree you would on larger regional lakes.

Summer (June through August) is best for panfish and night walleye fishing. Daytime walleye fishing is slow and requires deeper water and more technical presentations. The lake is quieter than in spring, and the weather is warm and stable—good conditions if you're willing to adjust your tactics.

Fall (September through October) is arguably the best time to fish Townline. Walleye and pike both feed actively, water clarity is good, and the weather is pleasant. The lake sees moderate use, and the bite is consistent enough to reward a full day of fishing.

Winter ice fishing is possible when ice thickness reaches 4 inches or more, typically by mid-December. Walleye and pike can be caught through the ice, but success requires moving frequently and fishing multiple holes. Check ice conditions with locals before heading out.

Nearby water and regional context

Townline Lake sits in the heart of Montcalm County's inland lake chain. Six Lakes, just a few miles to the south, is larger and more developed but also more crowded. Pigeon Lake, to the east, offers similar walleye and pike fishing with slightly different seasonal patterns. If Townline is too quiet or the bite is slow, these neighboring lakes are close enough for a same-day run.

The region's character is rural and agricultural, with most lakes surrounded by private land and relatively few commercial services. Greenville, the nearest town, has gas, food, and basic supplies. Plan to be self-sufficient once you're on the water, and respect the quiet character of the area by keeping noise levels reasonable and following all posted access rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best bait for walleye on Townline Lake?

Live crawlers and shiners work year-round, with crawlers especially effective in spring and fall. In summer, live minnows (2 to 3 inches) work better in deep water. Soft plastics and crankbaits are good alternatives if you prefer casting or trolling over live bait.

Can I launch a kayak or canoe at Townline?

Yes. The boat launch accommodates small craft, and there's no restriction on kayaks or canoes. The lake is sheltered enough for paddling, though the northern shore can be exposed to wind. Launch early if you're paddling, as the ramp can get busy on weekends.

Is there a size or bag limit for walleye and pike?

Michigan's statewide regulations apply: walleye have a 15-inch minimum size and a daily bag limit of five fish. Pike have a 24-inch minimum and a daily bag limit of five fish. Check the current Michigan fishing guide before you go, as regulations can change.

How far is Townline Lake from other Montcalm County lakes?

Six Lakes is about 5 miles south, and Pigeon Lake is roughly 8 miles east. Both are accessible within 15 minutes by car, making it easy to fish multiple lakes in a day if conditions are slow on one.

What should I bring for a full day on Townline?

Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat—there's no shade on the water. A depth finder is helpful for locating structure and deeper basins. If you're fishing live bait, bring an aerator or bait bucket with ice. A basic tackle box with jigs, crankbaits, and live bait rigs covers most situations.