Chickenbone Lake
Keweenaw County, WisconsinEutrophic
Chickenbone Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Keweenaw County, MI. Water quality is graded C based on 2 sampling years through 2024. The lake supports 1 documented fish species including Blackchin shiner. Compared to the 18 other monitored lakes in Keweenaw County, Chickenbone Lake ranks #17 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2024-09-03. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Murky, only visible to about 6.1 ft. Phosphorus level: 28.2 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 52.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 6.1 ft | D |
| Phosphorus | 28.2 µg/L | B |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 52 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Fish Species
Click a species to see all Wisconsin and Minnesota lakes where it is found.
→ Best fishing times for Chickenbone Lake (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Chickenbone Lake? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Chickenbone Lake fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #17 of 19 lakes in Keweenaw County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Chickenbone Lake holds Grade C. 5 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- ASargent LakeKeweenaw County · 2.8 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ALake HarveyKeweenaw County · 4.1 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ASiskiwit LakeKeweenaw County · 5.9 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- BLake RichieKeweenaw County · 1.9 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
- BBeaver LakeKeweenaw County · 2.3 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Keweenaw County
More Wisconsin Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in Wisconsin
Cass County · Clarity: 7 ft
Leelanau County · Clarity: 9.5 ft
Iosco County · Clarity: 5.5 ft
Muskegon County · Clarity: 6.8 ft
Gladwin County · Clarity: 9 ft
Montmorency County · Clarity: 9 ft
Eutrophic Lakes in Wisconsin
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2024-09-03
Monitoring stations: 1