Paw Paw Lake
Hillsdale County, WisconsinLimited DataMesotrophic
Paw Paw Lake is a mesotrophic lake in Hillsdale County, MI. Water quality is graded C based on 1 sampling years through 2023. The lake supports 4 documented fish species including Bluegill, Bowfin, and Brook silverside. Compared to the 6 other monitored lakes in Hillsdale County, Paw Paw Lake ranks #2 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2023-07-11. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Moderate clarity, visible to about 8 ft. Trophic State Index: 47.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 8 ft | C |
| Phosphorus | No data | |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 47 | Mesotrophic |
Moderate nutrients, good water quality
Fish Species
Click a species to see all Wisconsin and Minnesota lakes where it is found.
→ Best fishing times for Paw Paw Lake (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Paw Paw Lake? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Paw Paw Lake fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #2 of 7 lakes in Hillsdale County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Paw Paw Lake holds Grade C. 2 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- ARose Lake North Basin; Ovid TownshipBranch County · 12.5 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- BLmj-07 LakeBranch County · 14.9 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Hillsdale 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
Mesotrophic Lakes in Wisconsin
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2023-07-11
Monitoring stations: 1