Largemouth Bass

Elberta, Michigan offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, particularly in Betsie Lake and the connected waterways. Betsie Lake's weedy shallows and numerous docks provide excellent habitat for bass to ambush prey. Spring (late May-June) is prime time, as the bass move into the shallows to spawn. Fall (September-October) can also be productive as they feed heavily before winter. For a local tip, try fishing the Betsie River where it enters the lake, especially after a rain when the water is slightly stained. This can concentrate the fish. Access to the lake is readily available from the Elberta Waterfront Park, which has a boat launch. The bass in Betsie Lake tend to be relatively thick-bodied, likely due to the abundant forage available. Focus on using weedless lures or topwater baits in the heavily vegetated areas.