Learn how Michigan's fish rearing process begins - up close!

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DNR Fisheries employee holding up Chinook salmon during egg-take efforts at Little Manistee River Weir

Would you like to see big Great Lakes fish up-close? Every fall we offer free tours to the public and school groups at the Boardman River Weir (in downtown Traverse City), the Little Manistee River Weir (in Manistee County), and the Upper Platte River Weir (in Benzie County)! 

These weirs - which are structures that temporarily block upstream fish passage on a river - are used by us to collect eggs and milt from certain fish species for their continued production in our hatchery system. 

Tour visitors learn about salmon biology, how weirs and fish ladders work, invasive species, state fish hatcheries and how our annual egg collection efforts impact Michigan's fisheries. Join us! 

Boardman River green button

Tours here begin the week of September 17 and will run through mid-October. Tours will be offered at various times on Fridays, Saturday and Sundays. Group tours are available by appointment. Call 231-779-1321 for more info or book a tour online.

Platte River Weir green button

Tours here will run during the coho salmon egg-take season, and are slated for Oct. 16-18, 23-25 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Weir activity can be checked by calling 231-325-4611, ext. 21. Group tours are available by appointment - book a tour online.

Little Manistee River Weir green button

Tours will be offered here October 2-3 and 9-10. To check the status of activity, call the weir hotline at 231-775-9727, ext. 6072. Group tours are available by appointment. You can also book a tour online!


Please note, all tour dates are subject to change based on the progress of this year's salmon runs. It's best to call ahead to check the current status.