Big Fish Lake, Finch Lake, East Saddlebag Lake, and West Saddlebag Lake form a connected chain of lakes in Cass County, Michigan. Linked by channels and navigable by boat, these lakes together cover about 620 acres.
The lakes are spring and creek fed, with water flowing south from Gravel Lake and Cedar Lake toward the St. Joseph River. A dam helps regulate water levels. Known for their clean, clear waters, these lakes offer a balance of active recreation and peaceful living.
Access: Near M-40; Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport is about 35 minutes away
Life on these lakes combines the excitement of all-sports boating with the charm of Michigan countryside. Big Fish Lake is the hub for most motorized activity, including wakeboarding, tubing, and pontoon cruising. The Saddlebag Lakes and Finch Lake offer more intimate settings for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
The west side of Big Fish Lake is wetlands, home to wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.
Saddlebag Lakes still have surrounding farmland to the north, while East Saddlebag’s eastern shoreline hosts Melville’s Campground. The mix of wetlands, cottages, and farm views creates a scenic and varied shoreline.
Lake communities here are a blend of year-round residents and seasonal owners. On Big Fish Lake, more than half of homes are occupied year-round, and the area has seen a trend of older cottages being replaced with larger, modern homes. Finch Lake has followed a similar trend, with more sizable lake homes built in recent years.
The Big Fish Lake Property Owners Association fosters a strong sense of community with annual picnics, a Fourth of July boat parade, poker runs, and seasonal gatherings.
Homes around Big Fish, Finch, and the Saddlebag Lakes offer a wide range of styles and price points, reflecting both the area’s history of cozy cottages and its trend toward larger, modern builds.
Many properties, especially on Big Fish, are occupied year-round. The area has seen a gradual transition, with older cottages replaced or renovated into larger, more modern homes. With limited shoreline and steady demand, updated and well-situated homes tend to sell quickly, making this a competitive market for buyers.
The Big Fish–Finch–Saddlebag chain is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Big Fish Lake is the most active for skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing. The smaller lakes provide calmer waters for paddling and cruising.
Clear, spring-fed waters make swimming a summer staple. Many homes feature sandy frontage or docks for easy lake access.
The connecting channels allow for leisurely paddles between lakes.
The chain hosts panfish, bluegill, crappie, and walleye. Several bass tournaments are held here annually, drawing anglers from across the region.
Wetland areas, especially on the west side of Big Fish, support diverse bird species and aquatic life.
Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing keep residents active year-round.
While the lakes themselves are the centerpiece, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore.
Big Fish and Saddlebag Lakes are part of a vibrant Cass County lake region. Nearby options include:
Together, the four lakes cover about 620 acres. Big Fish Lake is the largest at 340 acres, reaching depths of 47 feet.
Yes. All four are all-sports lakes, though Big Fish handles most motorized boating while the smaller lakes provide quieter areas.
Options range from seasonal cottages to luxury homes valued up to $3 million. Vacant lots for new construction are occasionally available.
The lakes support bluegill, panfish, crappie, walleye, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Yes. The Big Fish Lake Property Owners Association hosts seasonal events including a boat parade, poker run, and holiday gatherings.
About 28 miles to Kalamazoo, one hour to Notre Dame in South Bend, and 2.5 hours to Chicago.
The connected chain of lakes offers both active water recreation and peaceful retreats, with proximity to Kalamazoo, South Bend, and Chicago.
Shoreline quality, frontage, and lake views matter most. Big Fish and Finch generally command higher prices than Saddlebag properties.
Inventory is limited. Updated homes and those with larger lots or prime frontage often sell quickly.
Spring and summer see peak interest, though motivated buyers search year-round.
Renovated kitchens, outdoor living spaces, and well-kept docks are highly desirable.
Whether you’re looking for a cottage getaway, a family-friendly lake house, or ready to sell your current property, Lake Life Realty is here to help. As experts in Southwest Michigan’s lakefront markets, we know the nuances of Big Fish, Finch, and Saddlebag Lakes — from their unique shorelines to the competitive real estate dynamics.
Contact Lake Life Realty today to explore homes for sale or request a complimentary market consultation.
