Diamond Lake covers more than 1,000 acres in Cass County, Michigan, and provides visitors and county residents with a productive ice fishing resource in winter. Ice fishing is a healthy way to get out and enjoy the outdoors during the colder months, and you can catch a lot of table-quality fish.
Species
A number of freshwater game fish call Diamond Lake home. You'll mostly encounter bluegill, yellow perch and walleye, but you may occasionally pull black crappie and northern pike through the ice as well. The lake has healthy populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and rock bass, but these are difficult to catch in winter. Look for walleye in 10 to 20 feet of water in the morning or evening. Bluegill and perch travel in schools and can be found in a variety of areas.
Timing
Diamond Lake begins to freeze as soon as early December, but the ice typically isn't safe enough to walk on until the end of the month. January and February are more reliable ice fishing months, and Diamond Lake's ice sometimes lasts into March. The length of the ice fishing season varies by year and depends on the severity of the winter.
Equipment
You should always carry pliers, a bucket and a flashlight; use an auger to cut through the ice. Fish finders are optional but can make the whole endeavor a lot easier. Clothing is an important consideration; a waterproof and well-insulated ice fishing suit is a good investment, and waterproof boots and thick socks are essential. As far as rods and reels go, a medium-action ice rod with a spinning reel will work well in most situations. Spool it with 1-lb. to 3-lb. line if you plan to fish for perch and bluegill; use a heavier line---up to 8 lb.---if walleye are your target.
Fishing Tips
Ideal ice fishing lures are small. Use lures that are brightly colored, highly reflective or both. Teardrop jigs and jigging spoons are important tools, and these can be tipped with natural baits like wax worms or maggots (sometimes called "spikes"). You can also tip your jigs with small soft plastic baits. Live minnows can catch walleye, as well as the occasional pike or crappie. Be prepared to change presentations or switch locations if you do not get any bites after 20 minutes.
Licenses
You must have a Michigan state fishing license to ice fish on Diamond Lake. Licenses are available at bait and tackle shops all over the state and can be purchased through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website (see Resources).
Safety
Ice fishing on Diamond lake and elsewhere is relatively safe as long as you take basic precautions. Never go ice fishing alone. Keep a cell phone on you and always let someone know where you are going. Do not go ice fishing until you know the ice is safe---contact the Department of Natural Resources or inquire at local bait and tackle shops if you have any concerns. Avoid "black ice" (ice that is clear, not white) and areas with standing water.
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