Spring is when a lot of anglers head to the piers and rivers here.
If you fish, or you just like to watch, here is the basic picture of fishing on the lakeshore. It is a big part of life in the harbor towns.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: 6 Places to Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard
Where People Fish on the Lakeshore
1) Piers
Grand Haven, Holland, Saugatuck and South Haven all have piers where people fish.
Stay off them in high waves. It is not worth the risk, and there will be calmer days.
The piers are a fun place to watch, even if you do not fish. Bring a jacket, since it is always windier out on the pier than on the beach. Watch where you step, and give the anglers some room. Early mornings and evenings tend to be the calmest times to be out there.
2) Rivers
The Grand, the Kalamazoo and the Black River run into the lake here.
The spring and fall runs bring fish upstream, which is when the rivers get the most attention.
The rivers are a great place to fish when the lake is too rough. They are also quieter, and the views are beautiful in spring and fall. They are also great for a walk or a paddle, even if you never pick up a rod.
3) Charters
Charter boats run out of the harbor towns in summer if you want to go out on the big lake.
If you have never been out on Lake Michigan, a charter is a fun way to do it.
If you are planning a charter, book ahead for summer weekends. It is a good way to see the lake from a whole new angle. Ask the charter about what to bring before you go, and pack a warm layer, since it is cooler out on the water. It makes a great story to take home.
READ: A Day on South Haven's Black River
4) Licenses
Anyone fishing in Michigan needs a license.
You can buy one online from the Michigan DNR. Do it before you leave home so you are ready to go.
It only takes a few minutes, and it is one less thing to worry about once you get here. Keep the license with you while you fish.
Even if you never cast a line, watching the boats come in and the anglers on the pier is a very lakeshore way to spend a morning. Be safe on the piers and enjoy the water. The lakeshore is a great place to try something new, and fishing is one of the easiest ways to slow down. Pack a thermos, bring a folding chair to the riverbank, and see what the morning brings.
Fennville River View sits right above the Kalamazoo River. Come stay with us and spend your mornings by the water.