Otter Lake
Benzie County, WisconsinOligotrophic
Otter Lake is a cold, clear oligotrophic lake in Benzie County, MI. Water quality is graded A based on 2 sampling years through 2021. The lake supports 30 documented fish species including Bigmouth shiner, Black bullhead, and Black crappie. Compared to the 34 other monitored lakes in Benzie County, Otter Lake ranks #15 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2021-09-09. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
Swimming Safety
Excellent for swimming, crystal clear water with minimal algae
Water Quality Grade: A, Excellent
Good clarity, visible to about 12 ft. Chlorophyll-a: 1.7 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 39.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 12 ft | B |
| Phosphorus | No data | |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 1.7 µg/L | A |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 39 | 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 Otter Lake (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Otter Lake? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Otter Lake fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #15 of 35 lakes in Benzie County
Nearby Lakes in Benzie County
More Wisconsin Lake Rankings
Other Grade A Lakes in Wisconsin
Mecosta County · Clarity: 12.8 ft
Clare County · Clarity: 15 ft
Kalkaska County · Clarity: 16 ft
Gogebic County · Clarity: 18 ft
Iron County · Clarity: 16 ft
Leelanau County · Clarity: 15.5 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: 2021-09-09
Monitoring stations: 1