If you like to ice fish in Michigan, you’re in luck. The state has more than 11,000 inland lakes, and many of them offer good ice fishing opportunities. Lake Hamlin is one of them. Situated in west Michigan covering 5000 acres, it is a great spot for ice fishing. When winter arrives and the ice is thick enough, you can go out and enjoy a day of fishing on Lake Hamlin.
Starting in early December the ice begins to form on lake Hamlin. The average ice thickness is around 8-12 inches, which is safe for walking and drilling. However, it is always a good idea to check the conditions before venturing out onto the ice. Fishing shanties are allowed on the lake but must be removed by March 1st.
Starting mid-season will provide you with the best chance of catching fish through the ice. Ice fishing on Lake Hamlin is a great way to enjoy the winter months. Be sure to check the ice conditions before heading out and have a great time!
What Fishes Can I find Ice Fishing In Lake Hamlin?
You will have no shortage of options when it comes to the types of fish you can catch while ice fishing on Lake Hamlin. The most popular species include:
Northern Pike
Largemouth Bass
Muskellunge
Smallmouth Bass
Pumpkinseed
Bluegill
The fishes found are very healthy and of good size. The average length for bass is between 15 and 20 inches. For pike, it is between 24 and 36 inches. And for muskie, the average size is between 38 and 54 inches. Bluegill is the most popular fish to catch on Lake Hamlin.
Know in advance the rules and regulations set by the state of Michigan in order to fish on Lake Hamlin. A fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 17. You can purchase a license online or at any retail outlet that sells them. Check the DNR website for more information on fishing regulations.
For baits, tube jigs work well for bluegill. For largemouth and smallmouth bass, live minnows or plastic worms are a good choice. And for northern pike, use tip-ups with large minnows or suckers.
Best Fishing Spots for Ice Fishing in Hamlin Lake
There are many good spots for ice fishing on Lake Hamlin. You can find fish in the entire lake Hamlin but some spots are better than others.
Hobby Crest Resort: Situated right in Ludington Ave, this resort gives you easy access to the lake. It is a great spot for catching sunfish, perch, and bluegill.
Hamlin Lake State Park: This is a good spot for catching largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. The park also has a heated fishing shack that you can rent if you don’t have your own.
Ludington State Park: Another great spot for catching largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. The state park also has a heated fishing shack that you can rent if you don’t have your own.
Keep a look at natural submerged vegetation as fish tend to congregate in these areas. Fishing around docks and piers can also be productive. Submerged vegetation provides a place for small baitfish to hide and attract larger predators.
These are just some of the best spots for ice fishing on Lake Hamlin. There are many other good spots all around the lake. Get out and explore to find your own favorite spot!
Tips for Ice Fishing on Lake Hamlin
Here are a few tips to help you have a successful day of ice fishing on Lake Hamlin:
Check the ice thickness before venturing out. The ice should be at least 4 inches thick before it is safe to walk on. Knowing about local weather conditions will also help you determine if the ice is safe.
Properly Packing your Ice Shelter: Be sure to properly secure your ice shelter to the ice. This will help prevent it from being blown away by the wind or tipping over. A proper ice shelter will also help keep you warm and dry while you fish.
Pack Your Ice fishing flasher and cameras: A good ice fishing flasher will help you locate fish under the ice. Underwater cameras can also be used to help locate fish.
Have Patience: Patience is key when ice fishing. The fish are not always biting and it can take some time to get a bite. Be patient and enjoy the day even if you don’t catch any fish.
What To Wear For Ice Fishing on Lake Hamlin
Dressing in layers is the key to staying warm while ice fishing. You will want to start with a base layer of wool or synthetic material. This will help wick away moisture and keep you dry. Add a layer of insulation over the top of that.
Gloves and hats are also a must to keep your extremities warm. A good sunglass will help protect your eyes from the sun and wind.
Footwear is also important to consider when ice fishing. You will want to wear boots that are waterproof and insulated. Snow pants are also a good idea to keep your legs dry and warm. Invest in a good pair of ice fishing boots to keep your feet warm and comfortable all day.
A scarf or neck gaiter can also help keep the wind from going down your jacket. This will help you stay warmer and more comfortable while ice fishing.
Ice fishing can be a great experience if you are properly prepared. Dress in layers, pack all the essentials and have patience. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a great day ice fishing on Lake Hamlin.
Travel Plans
You can access lake Hamlin in several ways. Anglers love walking, snowmobiling, ATV/UTV, and cars on the ice to access their favorite fishing spots. We suggest that you plan your travel, letting others know where you’re going and when you’ll return. Always use the “buddy system” when venturing out on foot or with a motorized vehicle. Let us now look into each method in more detail.
Walking: If you are just going out for a short walk to do some fishing, make sure you wear proper footwear. Walking can be a challenge on the ice, as it can be slippery. Make sure you have good traction on your boots and walk with caution. It is also a good idea to wear a life jacket or float coat when walking on the ice. This will help keep you safe if you do happen to fall through the ice.
Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is a popular way to get around on the ice. It is a fast and efficient way to travel, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure you have a good understanding of how to operate your snowmobile before heading out onto the ice. Also, be sure to wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, boots, and a life jacket or float coat.
ATV/UTV: ATVs and UTVs are also popular ways to get around on the ice. They are fast and can carry a lot of gear, but they can also be dangerous. Be sure to wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, boots, and a life jacket or float coat. Also, make sure you know how to operate your vehicle before heading out onto the ice.
Cars: Cars are not recommended for travel on the ice. They are heavy and can break through the ice if you’re not careful. If you do choose to travel by car, be sure to wear proper safety gear, including a life jacket or float coat. Also, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
Check well in advance the ice thickness. We recommend a minimum of 4 inches for walking and snowmobiling and 8-12 inches for cars. As a general rule, never travel on the ice alone.
Safety First
Ice fishing can be a safe and fun activity, but there are always risks associated with any outdoor activity. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to stay safe while ice fishing.
What You Need to Bring
When heading out on your ice fishing adventure, be sure to bring the following items:
Ice Fishing Pole: You will need a good ice fishing pole to catch fish through the ice.
Tackle: You will need tackle, such as hooks, lures, and weights, to catch the fish.
Fishing gear and bait: You will need a fishing rod, reel, line, hooks, and bait. Make sure to have them properly packed for your travel method.
Ice auger or chisel: You will need to drill a hole in the ice to fish. An ice auger or chisel will make this task easier. Any Mechanical or electrical auger is allowed.
Ice skimmer: An ice skimmer is used to remove the ice chips that are produced when drilling a hole in the ice. It is also used to keep your fishing hole open and clear of ice.
Bucket: A bucket can be used to store your catch, as well as bait and other fishing gear.
Bucket or cooler: You will need a place to store your catch. A bucket or cooler will work perfectly for this.
Ice Screws: Ice screws are used to anchor your ice shelter to the ice. They provide extra stability in windy conditions and keep your shelter from blowing away.
Ice Shelter: An ice shelter will protect you from the elements and keep you comfortable while ice fishing.
Stove: A stove can be used to heat up food and drinks. It can also be used to heat up your ice shelter.
Fuel: Fuel is needed for your stove and ice auger. Be sure to bring enough for your entire trip.
Lantern: A lantern can be used to light up your ice shelter at night. It can also be used as a beacon if you get lost.
First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is always a good idea to have when heading out into the wilderness. Be sure to pack one that is adequate for your group size and needs.
Conclude:
Lake Hamlin offers many outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including ice fishing. Ice fishing is a safe and fun activity, but there are always risks associated with any outdoor activity. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to stay safe while ice fishing. Always check the ice thickness before heading out, and be sure to bring the proper safety gear, including a life jacket or float coat. Also, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. And finally, make sure to pack a first aid kit just in case. With these safety tips in mind, you’re sure to have a fun and safe ice fishing adventure at Lake Hamlin!
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
