|
April 24, 2017
Contact: Christian LeSage, 517-284-5830 or Elyse Walter, 517-284-5839
Fishing activity to pick up as multiple seasons open this Saturday
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds anyone who fishes to dust off their gear and get ready for the opening of two fishing seasons Saturday, April 29. The statewide trout season and the Lower Peninsula inland walleye, northern pike and muskellunge seasons all open that day.
Anglers are reminded that in Upper Peninsula waters the walleye, northern pike and muskellunge seasons open Monday, May 15.
Don’t forget the catch-and-immediate-release season for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open all year on nearly all waters (unless otherwise closed to fishing – check the current Michigan Fishing Guide for specifics). The possession season for bass opens statewide Saturday, May 27, except for Lake St. Clair, the St. Clair River and the Detroit River, which open Saturday, June 17.
Fishing is a major economic driver in many parts of the state. In Michigan, anglers typically spend 28 million days on the water and generate $4.4 billion in economic activity, which generates $623 million in local, state and federal tax revenue. On top of that, sportfishing in Michigan is estimated to support nearly 38,000 jobs.
The new license season began April 1, so anglers need to be sure they have purchased a new fishing license for this fishing season. The 2017 fishing licenses are valid through March 31, 2018.
Also be aware this is the second year of the two-year Michigan Fishing Guide. The 2016-2017 Michigan Fishing Guide and Inland Trout & Salmon Maps are available online, visit the DNR website at michigan.gov/fishingguide for the most up-to-date information. You can view the complete guide online, or download it to your device for later use.
/Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.
Even though Michigan offers great fishing opportunities 365 days a year, the thrill of spring fishing is rapidly approaching as anglers get ready to hit the water./
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
|
