Crystal and Perch Lakes vary significantly in size.

The Crystal Lake basin is approximately 130 acres, with a mean water depth of approximately 14 feet. The deepest point is approximately 62 feet. Crystal Lake includes 3.7 miles of shoreline, and contains two large trenches running north to south, on the east and west sides of the lake.

The Perch Lake basin is approximately 45 acres, with a mean water depth of approximately 6 feet. The deepest point is approximately 10 ft. Perch Lake includes 1.3 miles of shoreline.

See the Crystal and Perch Lakes aerial photo

The health of the lakes can be measured through water quality, diversity of aquatic plants, native or invasive species, and the fishery. In 2023, the Foundation and POA Boards jointly commissioned an independent study of Crystal and Perch Lakes to assess the health of our lakes and provide unbiased recommendations for consideration.

• The Board received a detailed report on the study conducted by Restorative Lake Sciences, see the report.
• The author of the report, a water quality scientist, rated the quality of the lakes a solid B+. However, there is room for improvement. Diligence is critical to maintain this rating and where necessary, improve the health of our lakes.

The threat of invasive aquatic species in our lakes is significant, as it is in many lakes. We must control and/or eradicate invasive species through careful monitoring and targeted treatment. Currently, scientific evidence supports the targeted use of systemic herbicides to control “weeds” like Eurasian Water Milfoil and Curly-leaf Pondweed, present in both lakes. We are monitoring a new invasive weed, Starry Stonewort, and are hopeful that it can be controlled. Most invasive plants and animals are a problem because they take over native plants and animals that are part of a healthy lake ecosystem.

Annually, a systemic lake-wide herbicide treatment plan is developed and executed in consultation with scientific experts, and the cost is included in the annual Lake Management program (SAD).

Any lake front property owner may also arrange for herbicide spot treatment directly in front of their home, at their own cost, as this is not included in the SAD funds collected annually. Payment for spot treatment may be submitted directly to the lake vendor.

• Boat Speed. Go slow! Crystal and Perch are no wake lakes. Going slowly, especially near shore reduces accidents with swimmers, and eliminates wave action that leads to erosion of shoreline areas. Slower boating speeds create safer and more sustainable nearshore areas.
• Boat Direction. All boats must travel counterclockwise on the lake per State of Michigan laws.
• Right-of-Way. Reminder to all boat captains, smaller watercraft have the right-of-way.
• Watch for Swimmers. All boaters must keep away from swimmers and those in the water nearshore. Swimmers are advised to use a tow float to assist with visibility and safety.
• Boat Registration. Boats must be licensed and registered by the state with decals affixed to vessels according to State Law. The local Sheriff and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources have the right to come on our lakes and ticket non-compliant boat owners.
• Lot Numbers. Per our Association Rules, please also affix CLPL lot numbers on all boats. This will allow identification of your pontoon boat, kayak, canoe, etc., should it come loose during a storm and float to a neighbor’s lot. Lot numbers are available free each spring and summer at the annual POA membership meetings.
• Ice Shanties. Winter provides a good fishing opportunity when the ice is safe. Please remove your fishing shanty before the ice becomes unsafe in the approaching spring season. Please see the Ice Fishing Shanty Regulation. Also, all shanties must include the home address of the shanty owner on the outside of the structure. Please be sure this is visible and protected from the elements.
• Boat cleaning and maintenance. Please conduct major boat maintenance on land, away from the water and avoid any contaminated runoff (e.g., paint) that may enter the water. Avoid using any petroleum products near the water. Use non-chemical cleaners like vinegar and baking soda, if possible.

• Yes. Although Crystal and Perch Lakes are private, fishing licenses are required by the State of Michigan. See additional details below.
• If you are 17 years of age or older, you must purchase a fishing license to fish in the State of Michigan. If turning 17 at any point during the fishing season (April 1 - March 31) you will need to buy a license. If you are under 17, you may fish without a license, but you are required to observe all fishing rules and regulations. For ages 16 and under, a youth fishing license is voluntary and not required.
• Any adult actively assisting a minor must have a fishing license.
• Adults without a fishing license may do the following: Help land a fish with a net or their hands, unhook a fish, set up the fishing rod with the appropriate gear, bait the hook, fix tangles or snags, cast the line for young anglers. The young angler must be an active participant, while the adult assists.
• See the State of Michigan Fishing Guide