Bear Lake is a naturally sandy bottom, all-sports lake located south of Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes. The lake is a diamond in the rough, a small but beautiful inland lake. Surrounded by hardwood forests and the town of Bear Lake, the body of water is a perfect getaway for any couple or family. Close to cities like Onekama and Arcadia, but just far away enough to get a small taste of freedom from the stresses of the 'real world'. Bear Lake is a great spot to put in the boat and go tubing or fishing. The lake does get a decent amount of traffic during the summer months, but there is always plenty of room for everyone. Water varies in depth but is mostly between 5-15 feet deep, while reaching depths of 20 feet in some places. Walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill, yellow perch, and common suckerfish are just some of the species of fish living in Bear Lake. The lake is known as one of the better coolwater fishing lakes in Michigan. Ice fishing is also an activity quite a few people enjoy on Bear Lake when it gets a little too cold for swimming. No matter what you enjoy doing in or around the lake, Bear Lake offers tons of fun for everyone!