Smoky Lake
Iron County, WisconsinOligotrophic
Smoky Lake is a cold, clear oligotrophic lake in Iron County, MI. Water quality is graded A based on 2 sampling years through 2025. The lake supports 1 documented fish species including Lake herring. Compared to the 38 other monitored lakes in Iron County, Smoky Lake ranks #7 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, local state DNR records, last sampled 2025-10-08. 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 24 ft down. Phosphorus level: 8.3 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 33.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 24 ft | A |
| Phosphorus | 8.3 µg/L | A |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 33 | 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 Smoky Lake (14-day solunar calendar)
→ Is it safe to eat fish from Smoky Lake? (mercury & PFAS guide)
→ Smoky Lake fishing regulations (limits, seasons, special rules)
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #7 of 39 lakes in Iron County
Nearby Lakes in Iron 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
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: 2025-10-08
Monitoring stations: 1