Fishing in Hillsdale County, Michigan

What this local map set contains

The Hillsdale County directory currently covers 13 lakes or reservoirs. 13 charts use measured bathymetry from a published source; none rely on modeled contours. Recorded maximum depths range from 12 to 70 ft, with a median of 42 ft. Those figures describe each chart's deepest recorded or modeled point, not a safe navigation depth.

Species records are attached to 13 of 13 waters. The most frequently cataloged targets are Bluegill (13), Crappie (13), Largemouth Bass (13), Yellow Perch (13) and Longnose Gar (10). These are coverage counts, not abundance estimates or catch forecasts; open the individual map to see the evidence and seasonal context attached to that water.

Three useful maps to compare first

1. Bird Lake: 64 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 14 cataloged target species.
2. Goose Lake: 60 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 14 cataloged target species.
3. North Sand Lake: 40 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 13 cataloged target species.

Start with a survey-backed chart when exact contour shape matters most. Use a modeled chart as broad planning context, then verify depths on the water. Comparing the three examples above also shows whether this area offers one dominant basin type or genuinely different shallow, deep, lake and river options. Access is separate from map coverage: confirm launches, shore rights, closures and posted rules before making the trip.