Willard Mountain's Premier 3-Day Ski Course

Bass & Pike Fishing at Willard Lake

Ready to reel in some monster bass and pike at Willard Lake? Our guided fishing trips are perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. We've got everything you need for a killer day on the water - top-notch gear, live bait, and a pro guide who knows all the local honey holes. Whether you're looking to learn the ropes or just want someone to put you on the fish, we've got you covered. Let's hit the lake and make some memories!

What to Expect on the Water

Our trips kick off bright and early at Willard Lake Lodge, where you'll meet your guide and gear up for the day. We offer half-day and full-day options, so you can choose what fits your schedule best. Once we're on the water, your guide will share local knowledge and help you dial in your technique. We'll hit prime spots for both bass and pike, adjusting our approach based on what's biting. Expect hands-on instruction in casting, working different lures, and proper fish handling. And don't worry - we've got all the gear you need, from rods and reels to life jackets. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a lucky hat!

Top Catches This Season

Willard Lake is known for its hefty largemouth bass and aggressive northern pike. We typically use a mix of techniques to target these species. For bass, we might start the day working soft plastics along weed edges or flipping jigs into thick cover. As the sun gets higher, we might switch to deep-diving crankbaits or drop-shot rigs to find fish holding on offshore structure. When it comes to pike, we often troll large spoons or cast oversized swimbaits near weed beds and points. Your guide will teach you how to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs from those razor-sharp pike teeth. And here's a pro tip: don't be afraid to upsize your lures. The big girls in Willard Lake aren't shy about attacking a hefty offering!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Willard Lake has earned a reputation as one of the top multi-species fisheries in the region, and for good reason. The lake's diverse habitat - from shallow, weedy bays to deep, rocky points - provides ideal conditions for both bass and pike to thrive. Our guests often comment on the sheer number of fish they catch, as well as the potential for trophy-sized specimens. But it's not just about the fish. The stunning scenery, with its pristine shorelines and surrounding forests, makes for a peaceful day on the water. And let's be honest - there's nothing quite like the adrenaline rush when a big pike slams your lure or a chunky bass explodes on your topwater bait. It's the kind of experience that keeps anglers coming back year after year.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: The king of the lake, largemouth bass in Willard can grow to impressive sizes. These ambush predators love to hang out near structure like fallen trees, weed edges, and docks. They're known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Spring and early summer are prime times for bass fishing, but they can be caught year-round with the right tactics. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their fighting spirit and the challenge of figuring out what they'll bite on any given day.

Northern Pike: Often called "water wolves," northern pike are the apex predators of Willard Lake. These toothy missiles can grow to lengths of 40 inches or more in these waters. Pike are known for their lightning-fast attacks and powerful runs when hooked. They're most active in cooler water, making spring and fall prime pike seasons. Anglers get a thrill from battling these fierce fighters and admiring their sleek, prehistoric appearance. Just watch those teeth when unhooking - they're no joke!

Smallmouth Bass: While not as common as their largemouth cousins, Willard Lake also hosts a healthy population of smallmouth bass. These bronze bombers prefer rockier habitat and are known for their acrobatic fights. Pound for pound, many anglers consider smallies to be the hardest-fighting freshwater fish. They're most active in late spring and early summer, often found near rocky points and offshore humps. Landing a big smallmouth is always a highlight of any fishing trip on Willard.

Yellow Perch: While not typically a target species, yellow perch are abundant in Willard Lake and provide great action when other fish are less active. These tasty panfish travel in schools and can be caught in good numbers using small jigs or live bait. They're a favorite of both pike and bass, so finding perch often leads to finding the predators. Plus, a mess of perch makes for an excellent shore lunch if you're out for a full day!

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, we could go on all day about the awesome fishing at Willard Lake, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Whether you're dreaming of that wall-hanger bass or just want to spend a relaxing day on the water, our guided trips are the way to go. We've got the local know-how, the right gear, and a passion for putting clients on fish. Plus, with our flexible scheduling options, it's easy to fit a trip into your plans. Don't let another season slip by without wetting a line at Willard Lake. Give us a call or book online today, and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. See you on the water!