Big Bear Lake
Otsego County, WisconsinLimited DataOligotrophic
Big Bear Lake is a cold, clear oligotrophic lake in Otsego County, MI. Water quality is graded A based on 1 sampling years through 2022. The lake supports 3 documented fish species including Bluntnose minnow, Largemouth bass, and Yellow perch. Compared to the 12 other monitored lakes in Otsego County, Big Bear Lake ranks #8 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2022-09-02. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
Swimming Safety
Excellent for swimming, crystal clear water with minimal algae
Water Quality Grade: A, Excellent
Crystal clear, you can see 15 ft down. Trophic State Index: 38.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 15 ft | A |
| Phosphorus | No data | |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 38 | Oligotrophic |
Low nutrients, clear water, excellent for swimming
Fish Species
Click a species to see all Wisconsin and Minnesota lakes where it is found.
→ Best fishing times for Big Bear Lake (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Big Bear Lake? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Big Bear Lake fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #8 of 13 lakes in Otsego County
Nearby Lakes in Otsego County
More Wisconsin Lake Rankings
Other Grade A Lakes in Wisconsin
Mecosta County · Clarity: 12.8 ft
Benzie County · Clarity: 13.5 ft
Clare County · Clarity: 15 ft
Kalkaska County · Clarity: 16 ft
Gogebic County · Clarity: 18 ft
Iron County · Clarity: 16 ft
Oligotrophic Lakes in Wisconsin
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2022-09-02
Monitoring stations: 1