Air quality across the state is being affected by wildfire smoke. Before heading outdoors, get information on current conditions and alerts at Michigan.gov/MiAir, and learn about the state’s response to inform and protect the public at Michigan.gov/EGLEWildfireSmoke.
Every person who deals in fish by operating a wholesale fish market or fish house, or who solicits the purchase of or buys fish for wholesale distribution, must get a license from the department. This license expires on December 31 of each calendar year, and the fee for the license is $5.00.
Businesses that operate more than one establishment are required to license each business separately and display a copy of the license at each location.
Wholesale fish dealers must keep a record of the purchase of fish in a form as required by the department.
Below are links to several videos to assist with using FACTS.
The charter fishing industry provides Michigan with significant economic benefits. The number of active charter fishing boats changes each year as new operators are added and others depart the fishing industry.
Active charter fishing operations should report their catches via this online tool.
Charter boat operators fishing for lake trout in Michigan waters are required to purchase a sport trolling license. It is not required for any other type of charter fishing activity.
This application serves many different licenses including fur dealer's license (resident fur manufacturer, non-resident fur manufacturer, fur buyer, fur processor); taxidermy; wholesale fish dealers license; minnow; wiggler and crayfish dealers (retail; resident and non-resident); resident minnow catchers; permit to export bait; and sport trolling license.
Inland fishing guides in Michigan are currently NOT required to obtain written permission in the form of a lease in order to use state-owned public water access sites. Guides must provide proof of insurance, be a licensed inland pilot or Coast Guard captain, have a valid fishing license and have a Recreation Passport for vehicle entry to DNR launches.
Currently there are around 50 state-issued commercial fishing licenses in Michigan spread out over all four of the Great Lakes. If you are out fishing or boating on the Great Lakes, you may encounter commercial trap nets, gill nets and hook lines. All state-licensed or Native American commercial equipment is required to be marked with floats or staff/flag combinations.
