Fishing McCormick Lake

McCormick Lake is a premier 100-acre trout destination in Montmorency County that generates over $24,000 in regional economic impact during just the winter ice fishing season alone. The 2021 winter creel documented 488 Brown Trout harvested plus 85 released, with most fish ranging 10-15 inches from recent stockings. The lake stratifies strongly in summer with excellent trout habitat - dissolved oxygen suitable for trout down to 33 feet where water temperature is 46°F. Two high-quality trout streams, Sheridan and Stanniger creeks, enter the lake and provide natural reproduction that supplements the fishery, though stocking remains essential. Brown trout growth runs below state average despite good habitat, while the once-popular Rainbow Smelt fishery has completely disappeared in recent decades. The lake's oligotrophic conditions limit panfish - Yellow Perch are stunted and Rock Bass stay small. Maximum depth hits 78 feet with steep drop-offs and bottom consisting of silt, gravel, and sand. The DNR access on the west shore accommodates small to medium boats with parking for five trailers. Recent marking studies show stocked Brown Trout dominate the fishery more than wild fish, confirming the value of the annual 40-50 fish per acre stocking program. Rainbow Trout are stocked every three years at angler request for catch diversity. Water clarity is excellent at 20 feet secchi depth, and the lake maintains cold, oxygenated water in the depths perfect for holding trout through summer.