Anyone that regularly uses the lake already knows this, but the lake has nice clarity now and it appears you can see down at least four feet. Weeds are starting to come back, which is a mixed blessing. Some weeds are good for lake ecology, helping to add oxygen while holding down the development of algae. They also provide great cover for the minnows, of which there seems a strong presence. When the weeds and algae get out of control they can become a serious problem as we found out so treatment will be as necessary.
Friday, June 3, we had our first visit from the lake biologist to monitor the health of the lake as well as to suggest necessary treatments. June 6 will be the first weed and algae control of the year, meaning no irrigation using lake water for 7 days, do not eat any fish for three days, and do not swim in the lake for 2 days. I am assuming that is not including the treatment day so for instance do not swim in the lake until the 9th.
Fishing of late has been excellent. Walleye seem plentiful this year as well as of course the bass. I don’t remember finding it so easy to catch walleye any time during our 24 plus years here. Panfish are also strong. I caught one a few days ago that I believe is the biggest I have ever caught. Our lake has to be in decent shape judging by the fishery.
I noticed a small fish kill Thursday evening but it was panfish (crappie and bluegill) that are especially susceptible to fatality from stress and it is now spawning season. That is very tough on them. I doubt it is anything serious. I’ll keep you advised.
From the Michigan DNR……
Spring Kill
Spring kill occurs in lakes and rivers when fish survive the winter but die as the water warms rapidly in May and June. It rarely claims many fish and is usually over in a couple of weeks. Spring kill is almost always due to natural causes beyond our influence. The usual victims are large bluegills and crappies, and other fish which spawn in the spring such as perch, bass, pike and suckers.
A combination of stresses is usually responsible. Fish come through the winter in a weakened condition because they've been eating at a reduced rate. As the water warms, their metabolism increases and they divert much energy to strenuous spawning activities. In lakes, additional stress may be added during "turnover", which is when wave action stirs up bottom water low in oxygen and high in noxious gases.
Ken Dillenburg