Pontiac Lake (Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pontiac Lake |
|
---|---|
Location | Oakland County, Michigan |
Coordinates | 42°39′51″N 83°27′40″W / 42.66426107379466°N 83.46107482910156°W |
Basin countries | United States |
Surface area | 640 acres (260 ha) |
Max. depth | 34 ft (10 m) |
Islands | several |
Settlements | White Lake Township and Waterford Township |
Pontiac Lake is a fun, 640-acre lake in Oakland County, Michigan. It's a great spot for all kinds of water sports and sits along the Huron River. Most of the lake is in White Lake Township, with a smaller part in Waterford Township. It's actually the fifth biggest lake in Oakland County! Anyone can visit Pontiac Lake, and there's a public boat launch if you want to bring your own boat. You'll also find the Pontiac Lake Recreation Area right here, offering even more outdoor fun.
Contents
Lake History: How Pontiac Lake Was Made
Pontiac Lake is not a natural lake. It was created by people in 1926. Before that, there was a smaller lake called Lime Lake. Engineers built a dam across the upper Huron River watershed. This dam caused the water to back up and form the larger Pontiac Lake we know today. The lake is located about seven miles west of the city of Pontiac, Michigan.
Annual Boat Races: Quake on the Lake
Since 1999, Pontiac Lake has been home to an exciting event called "Quake on the Lake." This is an annual race featuring special boats called hydroplanes. These boats are designed to skim across the water at very high speeds, making for a thrilling show!
Fish Species: What Lives in Pontiac Lake?
Pontiac Lake is a great place for fishing! Many different types of fish live in its waters. Anglers can often catch a variety of species here.
Common Fish You Might Catch
Here are some of the fish you can find in Pontiac Lake:
- Carp
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Largemouth Bass
- Northern Pike
- Smallmouth Bass
- Sunfish (like Bluegill and Pumpkinseed)
- Bowfin
- Walleye
- Yellow Perch
These fish make Pontiac Lake a popular spot for both casual and serious anglers.