Michigan has long been attracting fisherman both locally and from around the world because of its extensive lake system that includes four of the Great Lakes and more than 11,000 inland bodies of water. Whether your passion is salmon or steelhead, lake trout or bass, Michigan will provide you with the fresh air, adventure and great catches you crave.
The Great Lakes
The Great Lakes region is home to the largest mass of freshwater in the world. For this reason, Michigan is home to one of the largest freshwater fisheries for more than a century. In the Great Lakes, you will find an alluring variety of native and planted species, many of which are stocked throughout fishing season to make the sport rewarding for every fisherman who comes to either Lake Michigan, Huron, Superior or Erie. If you like to freshwater fish in lakes, expect to catch salmon, white fish, smallmouth bass, steelhead, lake trout and brown trout while spending time perusing the Great Lakes region of Michigan. Each lake also contains its own main specialty: Lake Superior, rainbow smelt; Lake Huron, whitefish; Lake Erie, yellow perch; and Lake Michigan, salmon and walleye.
Fly-Fishing
Fly-fishing in Michigan is never ordinary, thanks to five rivers known for their lush fish population and peaceful ambiance to enjoy while casting into the water. The Au Sable River, located in northern Michigan, allows you the opportunity to breathe in air scented by cedar trees while you catch trout. The flow of the river is steady, making it a prime fishing spot throughout the season. The Escanaba River, which runs across the Upper Peninsula, draws more daring fishermen who prefer wild waters. Here, you will find brown trout and other fish species--some of which are considered to be trophy-sized. The Grand River is home to trout, smallmouth bass and a few other game fish-- the river snakes through farms and forests, and you can canoe out to more remote fishing holes along this river. The Boardman River is a personal favorite of many avid fishermen, because it is the home of the most beautiful trout in Michigan and also the most tricky to catch--providing a personal challenge and goal for many who thrive on the sport aspect of fishing. Finally, the Manistee River has a wide variety of trout and plays host to many campgrounds on its banks so you can fish for the entire weekend.
Tournaments
During fishing season, you will find many tournaments throughout Michigan. In fact, you can enter a tournament practically every weekend throughout the spring and summer months thanks to affordable entry fees and the wide variety of events available. Starting with the Lake Chemung Hard Water Tourney at the end of January, there are no age restrictions, and includes special divisions such as the largest-fish competition. The Memorial Weekend Shake Down shakes up Onekama, Michigan, each year, and corporately sponsored tournaments such as the Budweiser Pro/Am in June and the Bud Light Ladies Classic provide special opportunities for all demographics of fishermen to participate in active competition.
Baits and Tackle
There are many different kinds of baits and tackle that can be used while fishing in Michigan. For the catfish found in the water, you can use almost anything for bait, including aquatic plants, small fish, eggs and worms. The infamous brown trout prefer crayfish and aquatic insects, while also feeding on smaller trout if you're looking to catch a whopper. For tackle, most fishermen who regularly visit Michigan agree that a Carolina rig, slip sinker and perch rig often work best when it comes to reeling in your best catch.
Charter Boats
For those who enjoy deep-sea fishing, or plan to vacation in style, taking a Michigan charter boat out onto the water is an ideal option. The charter boats found in the Ludington area have been serving fishing enthusiasts since the early 1970s, and Ludington is home to more successful catches than any other port in Michigan. With access to deep water and natal river mouths, you will find charter boat fishing to be challenging yet fulfilling when you set sail to reel in your catch.
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