The Best Lakes in Southwest Michigan Ranked

We are going to be dead serious on this one. Its not competitive and we put a lot of effort and work into this. we considered so many factors like the type of lake the people who live there the access, size depth types of fish that live there/

10. PAW PAW LAKE

Paw Paw Lake, situated in Berrien County, Michigan, spans across Coloma and Watervliet Townships and stands as the largest lake in the region, covering 922 acres. With a surface elevation of 620 feet and boasting 11 miles of shoreline, it holds a significant presence in the area.

During the early 20th century, Paw Paw Lake served as a prominent tourist destination, leading to the development of a census-designated place sharing its name. Today, it remains a cherished locale, offering recreational opportunities and natural beauty.

Teeming with diverse aquatic life, Paw Paw Lake supports various fish species such as walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and panfish, making it a haven for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Accessible to the public, the lake provides several entry points, including a county park equipped with amenities like a boat launch, fishing pier, and beach, ensuring visitors can fully enjoy its offerings.

9. BARRON LAKE

Nestled in Cass County, Southwest Michigan, Barron Lake sits 13 miles north of South Bend, Indiana, and just over 100 miles east of Chicago. Covering approximately 200 acres, the lake offers ample space for water-based activities while maintaining a serene ambiance.

Found within Howard Township, Cass County, Michigan, Barron Lake has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when the township was first settled. Originally dubbed “Lake Alone” due to its secluded location, it was renowned for its exceptional purity and softness. However, in 1907, the name was altered to “Barren Lake,” evolving further by 1914 to be spelled both “Barren” and “Barron.” Finally, by 1917, the spelling was standardized to “Barron Lake,” the name it bears to this day.

8. JUNO LAKE

From the fishermanI could not desscribe it better

“As an avid angler who frequents the waters of Sister Lakes in Edwardsburg, let me paint you a more detailed picture of this gem among the trio. Nestled amidst the serene landscape, this particular lake stands out as the largest of the interconnected trio and boasts the added perk of public access, a boon for enthusiasts like myself.

As I navigate its waters, I’m constantly greeted by a diverse array of fish species, each presenting its own challenge and allure. From the spirited largemouth and smallmouth bass to the delicate crappie and bluegill, the lake teems with life beneath its surface. And let’s not forget the thrill of tangling with the powerful pike, the elusive walleye, or the cunning catfish, all of which add to the excitement of each fishing expedition. Oh, and there’s a sprinkling of perch too, adding a delightful variety to the catch.

One of the most exhilarating experiences I’ve had is witnessing the majestic sight of large fish breaking the surface just a stone’s throw away from my boat, particularly in the vicinity of the launch area. My keen eye tells me these are likely the predatory pike, lurking in the shallows, ready to pounce on unsuspecting prey. It’s moments like these that remind me why I’m drawn to the sport of fishing – the thrill of the chase, the anticipation of the catch.

Overall, fishing in this lake is nothing short of exceptional. With an abundance of keeper-sized bass and a healthy population of various other species, there’s never a dull moment on these waters. Every cast holds the promise of adventure, every tug on the line a potential trophy. So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just dipping your toes into the world of fishing, Sister Lakes is a destination worth exploring, offering not only the thrill of the catch but also a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.”

7. Indian Lake

Indian Lake, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Cass County, forms a serene centerpiece in the heart of southwestern Michigan, captivating visitors with its tranquil allure. Located approximately 5 miles (8.0 kilometers) west of the charming town of Dowagiac, this natural gem is more than just a body of water; it’s a testament to the region’s rich history and natural splendor.

Enveloped by lush greenery and surrounded by rolling hills, Indian Lake draws its pristine waters from natural springs, imbuing it with a sense of purity and vitality. Its name pays homage to the indigenous peoples who once inhabited its shores, their presence echoing through time and adding depth to its identity.

The lake boasts a vibrant community, with around 220 homes dotting its scenic shoreline. Interestingly, a third of these residences sit on leased land, fostering a unique blend of ownership arrangements that add character to the area’s dynamic.

Venturing to the western edge of Indian Lake unveils the sprawling expanse of the Indian Lake Hills Golf Course, a golfer’s paradise boasting three distinct nine-hole courses: East, West, and North. Here, amidst meticulously manicured fairways and challenging greens, enthusiasts can indulge in their passion for the game while soaking in the breathtaking vistas that surround them.

Meanwhile, on the eastern shores, the Indian Yacht Club stands as a beacon of maritime leisure, offering members exclusive access to a well-appointed boat ramp. Serving as a gateway to the lake’s azure waters, this facility ensures that enthusiasts can embark on their aquatic adventures with ease, whether it be cruising along the tranquil surface or engaging in exhilarating water sports.

As the sun sets over Indian Lake, casting a golden hue across its tranquil waters, it becomes apparent that this idyllic haven is more than just a geographical feature—it’s a sanctuary where nature, history, and community converge, leaving an indelible impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing its timeless beauty.

6. Shavehead Lake

A well-known Pottawatomie chief, so named by the whites because, like many of his ancestors, he kept the hair shaved from the greater part of his scalp. The dates of his birth and death are not known, but lie lived during the early part of the 19th century in the southeast part of Cass County, Mich. As a warrior Shavehead was the terror of the vicinity, feared by both whites and Indians. He participated in many battles and manifested a determined hatred for the whites, openly boasting of the scalps he had taken, and wearing them as trophies about his person. It was reported, although probably with great exaggeration, that he possessed a string of 99 white men’s tongues. 

Many incidents of Shavehead’s vindictiveness are related. After the mail stages had begun to run on the Chicago road, Shavehead, claiming the rights of his people as proprietors of the soil, established himself at a ferry of St Joseph River, near Mottville, and demanded tribute from every one who crossed, especially the settlers who were compelled to use this route to the nearest grist mill. 

Finally, exasperated beyond endurance, one of the settlers caught the Indian unaware and administered a severe beating, which had the effect of curing his depredations, but making him more sullen. He is described in his old age as being tall and erect, quite dark, and with not a hair on his head. Both a lake and a prairie bear his name.

Several stories are told of the manner of Shavehead’s death, but they can not be substantiated. One is that the old chief, while boasting of his part in the massacre at Ft Dearborn, Chicago, in 1812, was recognized by a surviving soldier, who followed him out of the village, and, it is supposed, murdered him. Another account states that after significantly saying that there was no longer game enough for both the Indian and the white man, he was killed by a white hunter who had been his companion on many hunting expeditions. The last and more probable story is that be died, enfeebled by age and poverty, and was buried in a hollow log in the forest.