Fishing
Fishing
Fishing on the lakes, river, and streams on the Huron Chain of Lakes is a wonderful opportunity for all who love the peace and tranquility of the sport.
Help keep our fish habitats healthy. Learn how to protect the watershed by following best practices while you fish.
As your lake association we are committed to the enjoyment and protection of the natural resources within our lakes and river. We are dedicated to preventing the further introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species. Please join us in these efforts by familiarizing yourself with local fishing regulations as well as invasive species threats and prevention tactics.
Local Fishing Regulations
Fishing regulations are a dynamic and evolving code to protect the integrity of the fisheries, while still allowing as much access as possible to anglers.
Since fishery biologists cannot customize regulations for each lake, they settle on reasonable (albeit generalized) rules that apply to entire regions. Thus, anglers should look beyond the letter of the law to the spirit of the law. For instance, just because bass season is open, catching late spawning bass off their beds could destroy an entire new generation—that is, what may be legal, may not be what’s best for the lake’s ecosystem or future fish population. Please be aware that ‘Do Not Eat Fish’ advisories currently apply to all of our lakes due to PFAS contamination.
Fish Stocking
The DNR is stocking our lakes with fish.
In June 2024, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources stocked out Big Portage Lake with 39,497 walleyes.
In May, 4150 brown trout were introduced into Mill Creek at Shields Road, near Dexter.
More than 9 million fish have been stocked in 2024.
The Fish Stocking Database at michigan.com/fishstock provides details on where the fish were stocked.
Bait Restrictions
It is now against Michigan law to transfer any live bait between lakes
Example – minnows caught in another lake cannot be used in Huron River Chain of Lakes. There is no transfer of minnows, leeches or crayfish. They can be brought in if they are purchased and have been treated for VHS (a serious fish disease).
MICHIGAN FISHING GUIDE
Refer to the latest Michigan Fishing Guide for the latest fishing regulations, including possession and size limits, season dates, license requirements, and angler rights.
