Anglers are preparing for the upcoming fishing seasons in Michigan, with several fishing seasons set to begin this weekend. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced that the statewide trout season, as well as the Lower Peninsula walleye and northern pike seasons, will open on Saturday, April 26.
- Statewide Trout Season Opens
- Lower Peninsula Walleye and Northern Pike Seasons Open
In addition to the above-mentioned seasons, the Upper Peninsula walleye and northern pike seasons will also open on Thursday, May 15.
- Upper Peninsula Walleye Season Opens on Thursday, May 15
- Upper Peninsula Northern Pike Season Opens on Thursday, May 15
The DNR is urging anglers to be aware of the potential road and waterway obstructions caused by the late March ice storm that devastated the northern Lower Peninsula. The storm has left areas like Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties with downed trees and branches that could pose a hazard to fishing.
| County | Impacted Area |
|---|---|
| Alcona | Downed trees and branches |
| Alpena | Downed trees and branches |
| Antrim | Downed trees and branches |
| Charlevoix | Downed trees and branches |
| Cheboygan | Downed trees and branches |
| Crawford | Downed trees and branches |
| Emmet | Downed trees and branches |
| Mackinac | Downed trees and branches |
| Montmorency | Downed trees and branches |
| Oscoda | Downed trees and branches |
| Otsego | Downed trees and branches |
| Presque Isle | Downed trees and branches |
The Michigan DNR is also advising anglers to be aware of harmful invasive species that can affect the habitat and food sources for trout and other fish. Didymo, or “rock snot,” and New Zealand mudsnail are two species that can cause significant harm to the environment.
“Cleaning waders, nets and other gear before moving to a different river or stream can help prevent the spread of invasive species like didymo and New Zealand mudsnail.”
The DNR has provided information on how to decontaminate fishing equipment and prevent the spread of invasive species while fishing and boating. Important Tips for Anglers
• Clean waders, nets and other gear before moving to a different river or stream. • Learn about other ways to prevent the spread of invasive species while fishing and boating. • Use the Michigan DNR’s resources to stay up-to-date on fishing regulations and other important information. Get more information about fishing regulations and how to prevent the spread of invasive species.
The Michigan DNR also reminds anglers that the 2025 fishing regulations and Inland Trout and Salmon Maps are available online, along with other helpful fishing information. The 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations and Inland Trout and Salmon Maps can be downloaded from the Michigan DNR website.
- Didymo (Rock Snot):
- A type of invasive algal species that can cause significant harm to the environment.
- New Zealand Mudsnail:
- A type of invasive mollusk that can cause significant harm to the environment.
- Michigan DNR Website:
- https://www.michigan.gov/fishing
- Michigan DNR Hunt Fish App:
- https://www.michigan.gov/huntfish
- Michigan.gov/Fishing:
- https://www.michigan.gov/fishing
The Michigan DNR is urging all anglers to take necessary precautions and enjoy the upcoming fishing seasons while helping to protect Michigan’s environment. With the help of the DNR, anglers can ensure a healthy and sustainable fishing experience for years to come.
