Charter Reporting

From the Desk of Kendra KozlauskiThere have been some recent changes to charter reporting that I wanted to highlight again. We also have some new requirements for Inland Guides which will affect some of you, in both licensing and reporting. First, as most of you are already aware, charter reporting [...]

Pending Legislation – Commercial

Michigan house bill H.R. 5108, introduced last fall intoVice President Karl Burnside Michigan house bill H.R. 5108, introduced last fall into the State legislature, will allow a 25% annual take of sport fish by commercial fish netting. While it’s fortunate this bill has not yet been passed into law, it [...]

Motor Fuel Gas Tax refund for Charter Boats.

From the desk of Secretary John Giszczak After talking to a number of captains, I realized there are still a number who are not claiming the “road” fuel tax for their charter operations. It’s a fairly easy procedure albeit a little time consuming on your part but well worth it. [...]

Spring

President's Report

From the Desk of President Bill Winowiecki
The impact of these warmer temperatures on our lakes and their ecosystems is a topic of great interest and concern. How will our fisheries be affected, and what changes might we expect in the ecosystem as a whole?

The Michigan Charter Boat Association (MCBA) Board has been quite active despite these unusual weather patterns, welcoming new members who bring fresh perspectives and ideas. Captains Mark William, Bruce Shane, and Bill Dunk join the board, contributing to our efforts to modernize and adapt to the challenges of the present day. Together with existing officers and board members, they’re steering the MCBA toward embracing the digital age while upholding our mission to safeguard the Great Lakes fishery, support our profession, and promote the businesses of MCBA members.

As we move forward, it’s important to express gratitude to retiring board members Rich Haslett and George Freeman for their dedicated service. Rich, who has served as President and Vice-President over several terms since 2003, along with his wife Linda, who managed our sports shows, will continue to assist their successors. Similarly, George, who served as the Central Lake Michigan director since 2009, has graciously agreed to stay on as an advisor to the new board. Their experience and wisdom will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges ahead.

Protecting the fishery remains a top priority for the MCBA. Currently, we’re closely monitoring the appeal of the Tribal Decree by the Coalition to Protect Michigan Resources, recognizing that its outcome could significantly impact the future of our fishery. Additionally, there’s concern about potential threats posed by state commercial fishing interests, with two versions of the HB 5558 commercial fishing bills expected to be released soon.

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Our Future

Tribal Decree and More

In addition to legislative advocacy and policy discussions, the MCBA is actively engaged in on-the-ground efforts to protect and preserve our fisheries. We collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities, to implement sustainable management practices and conservation initiatives. These efforts include habitat restoration projects, stocking programs, and educational outreach to promote responsible angling practices and environmental stewardship.

One area of particular concern is the potential impact of aquaculture on the Great Lakes ecosystem. While aquaculture has the potential to contribute to food security and economic development, there are also significant environmental risks associated with intensive fish farming in open water environments. The MCBA is closely monitoring proposals for aquaculture operations in the Great Lakes and advocating for stringent regulations to minimize negative impacts on native fish populations and water quality.

Welcome New Board Members & Directors

MCBA BOARD

President:
Bill Winowieki
(231) 228-7417
3700 Schomberg
Cedar, MI
Vice President:
Karl Burnside
(810)513-6073
2073 Bisby Dr.
Mount Morris, MI
Secretary:
John Giszczak
(734)787-0030
9760 Judd Rd.
Willis, MI
Treasurer:
Larry Lienczewski
(989) 684-7943
3396 Anna Drive
Bay City,MI

MCBA DIRECTORS

N. Lk. Michigan
Bruce Shane
(419)356-4317
PO box 118
Lake Ann, MI
Central Lk. Michigan
Mark Williams
(586) 531-2763″
4679 S.Benedict Rd.
Ludington, MI
S.Lk. Michigan
Holly &
Hunter Engel
(616) 916-2857
3171 Lighthouse Way
Saugatuck, MI 49453″
N Lk. Huron
Rick Konecke
(989) 255-4524
916 Ford Ave.
Alpena, MI
S.Lk.Huron
William Dunk
(248) 408-0349
155 Serene Dr.
Imlay City, MI
Erie &St Clair
Henry Walters
(586) 725-3678
7103 St.Clair Ave
Fair Haven, MI
U.P.
Jim LaBeske
(906) 337-4433
PO Box 38 Hubbell,MI
Interesting in
serving
on the board?
Please let us know!

 

Support Our Business Sponsors

MCBA Members, it is with great excitement for our board to announce that we have teamed up with Jimmy Gretzinger and Michigan Out Of Doors TV for 2024.  The longest running Michigan focused Outdoor Show that highlights our great fishery, will be promoting us and our mission of education and advocacy.

So stay tuned to Michigan Out Of Doors TV and watch this partnership grow and work for all of our interests.