Michigan Charter Boat Association

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 high-quality vessels. The new vessel will feature state-of-the-art technology, including advanced hydroacoustic systems for more precise data collection on [...]

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 high, with all of this success attributed to natural fish reproduction without the need for stocking. The Detroit River walleye fishery is also thriving, particularly [...]

Did your chance to catch a fish in Michigan just go up 9.1 million times? Maybe,  the state did stock that many fish into Michigan waters this spring and summer, significantly enhancing fishing opportunities and supporting local economies. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) stocked a total of 9,118,112 fish across the state, including 10 species and one hybrid. These fish weighed nearly 321 tons, and the stocking effort involved 17 specialized trucks making 451 trips and traveling more than 100,000 miles to 691 stocking sites. This initiative not only aims to enhance fishing experiences but also to boost [...]

Great Lakes Fishery Commission advisors pass resolutions addressing policies and programs to protect and improve great lakes fisheries The U.S. and Canadian Committees of Advisors to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission came together during the Commission’s 2024 annual meeting in Ottawa, Ontario this past June to discuss a number of issues pertaining to the Great Lakes fishery. The committees are comprised of citizens who represent varied interests, including recreational and commercial fishing, academia, local and tribal governments, and the public-at-large. The committees meet regularly to consider issues, share information, and provide input to governments about the management of the shared [...]

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced over $2 million in grants to enhance recreational boating in 10 communities statewide. Origin: The DNR Parks and Recreation Division’s waterways grant program, established in 1947, aims to expand the harbor system along the Great Lakes and boating access sites throughout Michigan. Today, the system includes over 1,200 state-sponsored boating access sites, 19 state-managed harbors, and 63 locally managed, state-sponsored harbors. Eligibility: Local governments and state colleges/universities can apply for grants to improve recreational boating facilities. The grant-in-aid program offers matching funds, requiring communities to match 50% of the total project [...]