Long Lake

There are 3 main all sports lakes in Colon. The smallest is Sturgeon Lake which locals refer to as “Lower Lake” due to its location. It connects with the St. Joseph River. This is generally thought of as a nice lake that is much smaller and more quiet than the other two. The water is thought to be relatively clean and desirable. However, many homes on this lake run the danger of flooding. It is too small and quiet for my taste. Probably better for viewing wildlife though.

The largest of the 3 main lakes is Palmer Lake. This has the most homes on it and is the busiest lake simply due to the amount of homes and size. While the water looks pretty clear when you look at it and has a good sight depth level, it does suffer from algae seaweed problems…the kind that can stick to the edge of your boat at times and smell at the shoreline at certain times of the year.

Long Lake actually flows into Palmer Lake. It is bigger than Sturgeon, but smaller than Palmer. The water looks less clear visually, but it is thought to be “cleaner.” It doesn’t suffer from algae problems the way Palmer does. When you take your boat out of it, there is not a mucky ring around it. Certain spots of the lake have seaweed, but overall, it is pretty clear. Long Lake does not smell badly either.

The atmosphere is wonderful. There are some full-timers, some weekenders, and some retirees. Like Palmer, there are all types of people on the lake. There are many retirees, yet there are young families. There are some party crowd types, but nothing offensive or over the top.

  • Skiing and jet skis permitted? Yes.
  • What kind of fish? This is a natural lake, and to my knowledge the fish population stocks itself. I know there are Bluegill, Sunfish, Perch, Bass, and Catfish.
  • Is the lake clean enough to swim in? Yes
  • Does the level of the lake vary during the year making it unsuitable for certain events? No. It is pretty consistent.
  • What’s the limit to the size of the dock? Probably no limit.
  • Any limitations as to a shore station/lift station for boats or jet skis? No, most people have them.
  • How large/deep is the lake? I have no idea how deep it is. I know that it is very deep, and there aren’t any worries about it getting dried up or anything. It think it is 222 acres.
  • Is there a marina on the lake for gas? No.
  • Are there any bars/restaurants on the lake? No, but there is a campground.
  • Do you need a Michigan fishing license? Yes.
  • What are the hours of operation of watercraft? I believe it’s an unwritten rule from like 9 to 9, but not sure. The idea is to not drive real close to fisherman, and leave the early morning and late evening hours to them to fish without the zooming speedboats.

Colon Business

Contact info@long-lake.org