Biting bugs can quickly spoil your day or evening at the lake! The common biting bugs will vary depending on the location and time of year. We will describe the main culprits and then recommend the best bug repellent to keep these critters away and allow you to enjoy your time by the lake.

The most common biting bugs at the lake are:

Mosquitoes:

Mosquitoes are widespread and found near almost all bodies of water, including lakes. They are most active during dawn and dusk and can be bothersome and potentially transmit diseases. Most people are allergic to mosquito bites while others will get small itchy bumps on their skin.

Black flies:

Black flies are common around lakes, especially in areas with fast-flowing water such as where rivers enter or near dam walls. They can be particularly annoying during the spring and early summer months. Black flies bites typically leave behind small, raised, red, itchy bumps on the skin. The severity of the reaction to black fly bites can vary from person to person.

Horse flies and Deer flies:

These large flies are often active around lakes and can deliver painful bites, especially on sunny days. Horse flies create an open wound that can make you susceptible to infections. 

Ceratopogonidae (No-see-ums):

These tiny biting midges can be challenging to spot and most prevalent in the evenings. They can cause itchy bites.

Ticks:

Ticks are generally found in wooded  or grassland areas near lakes and can latch onto people and pets, potentially transmitting diseases like Lyme disease. Take special precautions to removing ticks.

Chiggers:

Chiggers are tiny mites found in grassy and brushy areas near lakes. Their bites can cause intense itching. Chiggers are most common in summer months and warmer temperatures

Sandflies (Phlebotomine flies):

Sandflies are a common and annoying fly, found by lakes and other bodies of water. An issue bite will cause a rather intense sting. Often followed by a large lump.

Best Bug Repellents For The Lake

There are severals ways to protect from biting inspects. Clothes that cover the skin is a good start to protect the majority of your body. Also try and stay away from still bodies of water around dawn and dusk. However these options are not always possible and therefore we must rely on bug repellent. We suggest an EPA-approved insect repellent and also generally avoid DEET insect sprays. We have included 1 DEET spray as it is an extremely popular insect repellent. We prefer the insect repellent made of more natural insect deterrents.