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NOW IS A GREAT TIME TO GET STARTED FISHING!
- Learn about Michigan's fish species »
Intro
Everything You Need to Go Fishing in Michigan
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It’s so easy to get started with fishing in Michigan. Here’s a checklist of what you need:
- Choose your company. Do a solo outing, grab some friends for some fishing fun or make it a family trip.
- Buy your fishing license. If you’re a Michigan resident, you can get an annual license for just $26.
- Pick up some gear. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Some basic rods and reels, hooks, sinkers, bobbers and baits are all you need.
- Decide where you want to go. Fish your local lake, book a charter on one of the Great Lakes or plan a trip to a special stream.
- Think about what species you want to fish for. Do some bobber fishing for panfish, throw lures at bass, target walleye or fall in love with something else.
Resources
Resources to help you get started
Family Friendly Fishing Fishing spots that are family friendly, easy to access and have a high likelihood of catching fish.
Weekly Fishing Report This weekly report is intended to give you an idea of fishing conditions around the state.
License Info Information on who needs a license, how much they cost and where you can buy them.
Fishing Home Page Visit the fishing home page for more information about fishing in Michigan.
Great Lakes Fishing Roadmaps Prime fishing sites on the Great Lakes and times of year when great opportunities exist.
Trout Trails Biologist-verified great trout waters with site descriptions, regulations and more.
Free Fishing Weekends Two weekends each year are designated as Free Fishing Weekend. No license needed!
Kid-Friendly Fishing Info Find fun activities for kids and sign up for our Fish Bites newsletter, dedicated to kids.
Videos
Learn to fish videos
Fishing safety and etiquitte
Choosing the right equipment
How to: Fishing for Panfish
How to: Baiting Fish
How to: Catch and Release
Clean and care for your catch
Copyright 2021 State of Michigan