Lake Ovid

Lake Ovid is a reservoir located within Sleepy Hollow State Park, Michigan, which was created in 1974 when a dam was built to block the Little Maple River. Lake Ovid is a shallow lake with an average depth of ten feet. The deepest areas of the lake do not exceed thirty feet.

Many freshwater fish live in the lake including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Bluegill, Rock Bass, Crappie, Channel Catfish, Muskellunge(Muskie), and Northern Pike. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources(DNR) has been monitoring the fish population annually and has determined that the smaller species of panfish have been reproducing prolifically and future stocking is going to focus on Muskellunge and Catfish. These predatory species have plenty to eat in the lake and an increase in their numbers will bring a balance to the ecosystem.

A boat landing is available at no charge to anyone with a Michigan State park sticker on their vehicle and is located on the west side of the lake. A "no wake" policy is enforced on the lake in order to maintain a peaceful fishing and boating environment. Many anglers choose to propel their vessels using electric trolling motors which allow for stealthy approaches to fishing locations and wildlife viewing. Canoes and pontoon boats are available for rent from the park.

The dam, which holds back the Little Maple River, is about thirty feet in height, over one thousand feet in length and is constructed of earthen mass. The drainage area encompasses over ten square miles.

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