We’re just days away from the opening of numerous Michigan fishing seasons – which has many anglers anxious to hit the water.
Last Saturday of April brings the statewide trout season and Lower Peninsula inland walleye, northern pike and muskellunge seasons. Please note, due to recent regulation changes the catch-and-immediate-release season for largemouth and smallmouth bass is now open all year on all waters (unless otherwise closed to fishing). Please note the catch-and-keep seasons for bass will not open until May or June (depending on the specific waterbody being fished).
Are you interested in participating in any of these early seasons? Make sure you’re up to date on all the details before you head out. The chart below will help to get you started!
Anglers also need to be aware of all fishing rules and regulations, which are available in the Michigan Fishing Guide. Pick up a guide at any license retailer or visit the online version at www.eregulations.com/michigan/fishing/.
The new fishing license season began on April 1, so anglers need to be sure they have purchased a new fishing license. There are two simple ways to purchase your license:
1. Visit your local license retailer or DNR Customer Service Center and make a purchase in person.
2. Use the E-License system to buy a license online 24 hours a day, seven days a week on your smartphone, tablet or computer. Just visit www.mdnr-elicense.com to get started.
We hope you’ll continue counting down the days until you can fish for your favorite species. For all things Fishing in Michigan – visit michigan.gov/fishing.