Regulations & Licenses

Michigan fishing regulations undergo annual reviews by the Department of Natural Resources to protect fish populations and habitats.

Michigan fishing regulations undergo annual reviews by the Department of Natural Resources, releasing new rules each April.

The 2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations Digest PDF details bag limits, size limits, and seasonal dates set by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Michigan walleye season opens later in the Upper Peninsula because colder water temperatures delay the spring spawning cycle.

Michigan walleye season opening dates and the Department of Natural Resources conservation reasons for the Upper Peninsula winter schedule.

Michigan Lower Peninsula walleye season dates, inland lake rules, and Great Lakes tributary fishing regulations for anglers.

Michigan’s inland trout season opens on the last Saturday of April for designated streams and lakes across the Lower and Upper Peninsulas.

Michigan trout and salmon fishing stays open year-round on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and connecting waters.

Michigan trout regulations determine whether using egg imitating beads is unlawful in waters restricted to artificial lures only.

Michigan daily possession limits for largemouth and smallmouth bass combined allow anglers to keep a maximum of five fish per day.