Fishing season begins April 1, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding anglers of some new regulations taking effect.
The 2025 fishing season in Michigan begins Tuesday and runs through March 31, 2026. The DNR said this includes changes to sportfishing regulations.
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Inland stream rainbow trout possession limit
Steelhead regulations on several Type 3 and Type 4 streams have been slightly modified from last year.
The DNR said some streams do not have a 20-inch minimum size limit on steelhead anymore, but the daily possession limit is still one.
New single-pointed hook restriction, spearing prohibition waters
There are new singe-pointed hook regulations from Nov. 1 through Nov. 30 for the ports of Grand Haven, Muskegon and Whitehall/Montague.
The DNR said spearing or possessing spearing gear is now prohibited in those waters from Nov. 1 through Nov. 30.
Muskellunge size limit
New 50-inch minimum size limit regulations for muskellunge are in effect for Thornapple Lake in Barry and Eaton counties and Lake Hudson in Lenawee County.
The DNR said its developing a population of mature adults for future stocking need, and the lakes are an important source of Great Lakes-strain muskellunge.
Several other inland waters underwent minor regulation changes focused on northern pike, bass and trout.
Before hitting the water, the DNR advises anglers to review the 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations guide.
You can view the 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations guide here.
How to get a fishing license
Anglers can buy a fishing license online or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app and visit Michigan.gov/Fishing for fishing resources.
