Tawas Lake, East Tawas Michigan

This lake is a great lake for Kayaker's because it has a great fish population, easy access, and is shallow at 2 to 5 feet deep. There is a collection of creek run off's that gather and then flow into the Tawas river for a short period of time then into lake Huron.


The Lake has monster Pike some over 40 inches, a great Bluegill population, and good size Largemouth Bass some ranging in the 5 to 6 pound range witch is an size excellent for Michigan. Also I have sighted lots of Gar Pike but they where smaller in size and near impossible to catch without a spear. The Smallmouth Bass are located mainly in the river at the south east end of lake. Soft Plastics (Senko's) and Mepp Spinners work well to target small mouth.

Cover at Tawas lake is thick with lots of lily's, tules, and water plants. This is an ideal lake for kayak fishing with adequate size and lots of big bass. Access is easy with a D&R launch ramp and plenty of parking. You locate the ramp by following Tawas Lake rd. until it ends and making a left.


Topwater frogs work great as long as they are weedless. Throw them against the tules or over the lily's and you will have great success. Just be aware the chance of you catching a pike is about 50/50 with a frog so be prepared to get them off the hook.

Cranks will work good in the spring along with soft plastics. Once the weeds move in your better off using topwater or weedless swim baits. You are dealing with a lot of cover but there is an explosive bite out there and you will enjoy it.

I would say this Lake would rate 9 out of 10 for Kayak friendly lakes. You will see other kayaks on the lake but there is plenty of room for all. There are many options with access to the river, creeks, and a large lake you have plenty of places to explore.