Fishing at Jose Lake, Michigan
118-acre lake · County · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 118 acres in County, Jose Lake is a lake known to anglers throughout Michigan for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 9 stocking events on record for Jose Lake:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2025 | 🐟 Walleye | 527 | 6.0″ |
| Nov 1, 2025 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 348 | 5.0″ |
| Nov 23, 2024 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 393 | 5.0″ |
| Nov 23, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 550 | 4.82″ |
| Nov 14, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 345 | 6.0″ |
| Nov 14, 2023 | 🐟 Bluegill | 400 | 5.0″ |
| Nov 24, 2021 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 670 | 6.0″ |
| Nov 9, 2020 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 590 | 7.0″ |
| Nov 9, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 500 | 6.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Michigan
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Jose Lake, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Walleye lakes in Michigan
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Michigan
- Top Bluegill lakes in Michigan
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Michigan
Best Time to Fish Jose Lake
For walleye, the best fishing on Jose Lake is typically in spring and fall, when surface temperatures fall in the 55–70°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with lake thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Jose Lake:
- Loud Dam Pond — 4.2 mi (601 ac)
- Au Sable Lake — 5.9 mi (261 ac)
- North Dease Lake — 6.2 mi (169 ac)
- Vaughn Lake — 6.3 mi (113 ac)
- Alcona Dam Pond — 6.4 mi (978 ac)
- Five Channels Dam Pond — 6.6 mi (221 ac)
- South Dease Lake — 7.4 mi (272 ac)
- West Londo Lake — 9.2 mi (201 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Michigan fishing license is required at Jose Lake. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Michigan fishing regulations. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Jose Lake?
Jose Lake has been stocked with Walleye, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Yellow Perch.
When was Jose Lake last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Nov 1, 2025, when 527 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Jose Lake?
Yes — a valid Michigan fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Michigan fishing regulations.