Nichols Lake Northwest Basin
Newaygo County, WisconsinLimited DataOligotrophic
Nichols Lake Northwest Basin is a cold, clear oligotrophic lake in Newaygo County, MI. Water quality is graded B based on 1 sampling years through 2023. The lake supports 7 documented fish species including Bluegill, Bluntnose minnow, and Green sunfish. Compared to the 16 other monitored lakes in Newaygo County, Nichols Lake Northwest Basin ranks #14 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2023-09-18. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
Swimming Safety
Good for swimming, clear water with low algae levels
Water Quality Grade: B, Good
Good clarity, visible to about 14.7 ft. Trophic State Index: 38.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 14.7 ft | B |
| 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 Nichols Lake Northwest Basin (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Nichols Lake Northwest Basin? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Nichols Lake Northwest Basin fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #14 of 17 lakes in Newaygo County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Nichols Lake Northwest Basin holds Grade B. One nearby lake has a higher grade.
See full comparison →Nearby Lakes in Newaygo County
More Wisconsin Lake Rankings
Other Grade B Lakes in Wisconsin
Lapeer County · Clarity: 9.5 ft
Livingston County · Clarity: 13 ft
Manistee County · Clarity: 11 ft
Lake County · Clarity: 14 ft
Cass County · Clarity: 10.5 ft
Genesee County · Clarity: 10 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: 2023-09-18
Monitoring stations: 1