Smallmouth Bass

While Onekama, Michigan, is better known for its largemouth bass, you can still find some scrappy smallmouth bass in Portage Lake. These fish are often overlooked, but they provide a fun challenge for anglers willing to target them. The key is to focus on areas with rocky bottoms and current, particularly near the channel connecting Portage Lake to Lake Michigan. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target smallmouth, as they become more active in cooler water. Look for them around docks, breakwalls, and any submerged structure. A local tactic involves using crankbaits or tubes in crayfish patterns, as these mimic the smallmouth's natural prey. Access to Portage Lake is readily available via the public boat launch on the north end. The smallmouth in Portage Lake are often hard-fighting and aggressive, offering a good battle on light tackle.