SV Steelhead II, marks a significant advancement for the MDNR

The new research vessel, SV Steelhead II, marks a significant advancement for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in its efforts to monitor and manage Lake Michigan’s fisheries. The vessel, set to be operational by the 2026 field season, will replace the aging SV Steelhead, which has been a critical tool in fisheries research for nearly 60 years.

The SV Steelhead II will be constructed by Moran Iron Works of Onaway, Michigan, a company known for its expertise in fabricating

Lake Erie Basin Coordinator Report on August 8 – 2024

Jim Francis, the Lake Erie Basin Coordinator, provided an updated report at the Natural Resources Commission meeting on August 8th. According to the meeting minutes, Francis discussed the state of fisheries in Southeast Michigan. He highlighted popular species for anglers on Lake St. Clair, including perch, walleye, smallmouth bass, and muskellunge. Walleye fishing in Lake Erie is currently very strong, with walleye abundance exceeding levels seen in the 1980s. Yellow perch harvest rates are also

Recreational Fishing Boat Restrictions Enforced in Ludington Harbor Due to S.S. Badger Close Calls

Following several near-misses between the S.S. Badger and fishing boats, Ludington authorities are implementing temporary restrictions on fishing in the harbor. The Ludington Police Department reported that the S.S. Badger's captain had to take evasive actions to avoid collisions after smaller boats did not yield right of way. Recreational Fishing [...]

Summer

President's Report

From the Desk of President Bill Winowiecki

Michigan Charter Boat Association (MCBA) Update
The 2024 charter season has officially started, with excellent reports of salmon up the West Coast of Lake Michigan. Lake trout are abundant from Frankfort north, and notably, we are seeing an increase in smaller lake trout.

Welcome Jeff Panich
I am pleased to welcome Jeff Panich as the new Northern Lake Huron Director. Jeff runs Fish Cop Charters out of Harrisville, is a Michigan Conservation Officer, and is a licensed Charter Captain. He replaces Rick Koecke, who has stepped down after many years of dedicated service. Thank you, Rick, for your service and advocacy.

Tribal Decree Appeal
The Coalition to Protect Michigan Resources is still processing affidavits and motions regarding the tribal decree appeal at the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati.

 New Committee for Tribal Decree Compliance
The DNR Tribal Coordination unit and state fishing groups have formed the Tribal Co-management Citizens Advisory Committee (TCMFAC). This committee ensures compliance with the new Tribal Decree and will address any issues over the next 24 years. The first meeting was on April 18, 2024. Special thanks to Central Lake Michigan Director Mark Williams for chairing this committee.

IMG_0669-980x735-bill

Legislative Updates

On Commercial Fishing

  • HB 5108–This bill aims to reform commercial fishing in Michigan’s Great Lakes, potentially increasing the harvest of sport fish. However, it is primarily designed to benefit the commercial fishing industry and is referred to as the ‘bad’ fishing bill.
  • HB 5553:** This bill seeks to modernize commercial fishing laws while protecting sport-caught fish from commercial harvest. Supported by the MUCC, it is known as the ‘good’ fishing bill. The MUCC and MCBA may call on members for support as it progresses through the legislature.

Welcome New Board Members & Directors

MCBA BOARD

President:
Karl Burnside
Vice President:
Holly Engel
Secretary:
John Giszczak
Treasurer: 2024
Tony Radjenovich

MCBA DIRECTORS

N. Lk. Michigan
Bruce Shane
Central Lk. Michigan
Mark Williams
S.Lk. Michigan
Paul Vanderwall
N Lk. Huron
Jeff Panich
S.Lk.Huron
William Dunk
Erie &St Clair
Vacant
U.P.
Jim LaBeske
Interesting in
serving
on the board?
Please let us know!

 

Do you need help with License Renewal?

 

Captains – The U.S.C.G has changed their application.

MCBA recommends you contact Lt. Commander, USCG (retired) Charles “Chuck “ Kakuska a Maritime Licensing Specialist , has been assisting our members.

We recommend him and appreciate his continued services to our association.

Give him a call at (734)847-1723 –

Web: https://www.seakslicensing.com
SEAKsLic@aol.com for help with your USCG renewal.

Follow this link to the renewal section of the USCG website.

https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/charter_boat_captain/

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Reminder Fishing Reports are due the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month