Michigan is a fishing paradise, offering anglers a diverse array of species to target throughout the year. From the mighty Chinook Salmon to the delicate Yellow Perch, the Great Lakes State provides ample opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various fish you can catch and keep in Michigan in 2024, along with the best times and locations to find them.
Salmon Fishing in Michigan
Michigan is renowned for its exceptional salmon fishing, with four species available to anglers: Chinook (King) Salmon, Coho (Silver) Salmon, Atlantic Salmon, and Pink Salmon. The peak season for salmon fishing varies depending on the species, but generally runs from late spring through early fall.
Chinook Salmon, the largest of the species, are most abundant in Lake Michigan, with the best fishing occurring from July through September. Coho Salmon are also found in Lake Michigan, with the peak season running from June through October. Atlantic Salmon, a relatively new addition to Michigan’s fishery, are primarily found in Lake Huron and the St. Marys River, with the best fishing from June through September.
For those looking to target multiple species, June is an excellent time to fish the Great Lakes, as it marks the beginning of the high season. On Lake Michigan, anglers can target Steelhead, Lake Trout, Coho Salmon, and even Chinook Salmon. Lake Superior offers plenty of Salmon and Trout action, while Lake Erie traditionally features the hottest Walleye fishing.
Trout Fishing in Michigan
Michigan is also renowned for its exceptional trout fishing, with several species available to anglers, including Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Lake Trout. The best times and locations for trout fishing vary depending on the species and water body.
Brown Trout are a popular target at many northern and central Lake Michigan ports, with the peak season running from spring through fall. Brook Trout are found in many of Michigan’s cold, clear streams and rivers, with the season running from the last Saturday in April through September 30.
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead) are anadromous, meaning they spend part of their life in the Great Lakes and part in rivers and streams. The peak season for Steelhead fishing runs from fall through spring, with the best fishing occurring in rivers and streams.
Lake Trout are found in the Great Lakes, with the peak season running from spring through fall. The daily possession limit for Lake Trout is two per person, so anglers should be selective when keeping fish.
Other Notable Species
In addition to salmon and trout, Michigan offers anglers the opportunity to target several other notable species, including Walleye, Muskellunge, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Yellow Perch.
Walleye are found in many of Michigan’s inland lakes and rivers, with the peak season running from spring through fall. The Detroit River, St. Clair River, and Lake St. Clair are particularly productive for Walleye fishing.
Muskellunge, also known as “Muskie,” are found in many of Michigan’s inland lakes and rivers, with the peak season running from spring through fall. Lake St. Clair is particularly well-known for its trophy Muskellunge.
Smallmouth Bass and Largemouth Bass are found in many of Michigan’s inland lakes and rivers, with the peak season running from spring through fall. Lake St. Clair is particularly productive for Smallmouth Bass.
Yellow Perch are found in many of Michigan’s inland lakes and rivers, with the peak season running from spring through fall. Lake Erie is particularly well-known for its abundant Yellow Perch.
In conclusion, Michigan offers anglers a diverse array of fish to target throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in pursuing salmon, trout, walleye, muskellunge, bass, or perch, the Great Lakes State has something to offer for every angler. By understanding the best times and locations for each species, you can maximize your chances of success and enjoy a memorable fishing experience in 2024.