--- title: "Detroit Fishing" url: https://www.heredetroit.com/fishing-detroit-mi/ date: 2026-06-18T20:59:17-04:00 modified: 2026-06-18T21:11:49-04:00 author: "" site: "HERE Detroit" attribution: "HERE Detroit" --- # Detroit Fishing *Source: [HERE Detroit](https://www.heredetroit.com/fishing-detroit-mi/) β€” June 18, 2026 by * HEREDetroit # Detroit MI Fishing Report Live conditions, species status, solunar ratings, water body profiles, MDNR regulations, and community fishing coverage for Wayne lakes and rivers. Bass: Hot Bite Crappie: Active Catfish: Active 9 Waters Profiled **9** Waters Profiled **Live** Conditions **Solunar** Rating **2026** Season First Look β€’ Fishing Conditions 🌘 Waning Crescent Illumination: 4% Air Temp 45Β°F Est. Water 35Β°F Wind 9 mph Pressure 1018 as of 10:35 AM ET Very Good β€” decreasing moon builds toward new moon peak. Dawn and dusk feeding surges expected. 69 GOOD Good fishing. Work structure and cover β€” fish are biting. Wayne β€’ Metro Detroit MI Your Local *Fishing Resource* Fishing in the Detroit area offers access to Great Lakes waters, the Detroit River walleye fishery, and inland lakes throughout the region. Always verify current regulations with MDNR. Current Conditions β€’ Detroit Waters Species *Status* Largemouth Bass HOT Fall feeding frenzy. Bass are chasing shad and blueback herring. Crankbaits and swimbaits dominate. **Top Bait**Crankbait, Swimbait, Jig **Depth**10-20 ft structure Smallmouth Bass FAIR River smallmouth in deeper holes and pools. Slower presentations required. **Top Bait**Tube Jig, Crawfish Pattern, Ned Rig **Depth**Shoal tail-outs, 3-12 ft Crappie FAIR Summer or late fall. Fish are deeper β€” target 12-20 ft brush piles with tube jigs. **Top Bait**Small Tube Jig, Live Minnow, Slip Float **Depth**12-20 ft brush Catfish FAIR Winter catfish are catchable but slower. Concentrate in deepest lake holes and river pools. **Top Bait**Cut Shad, Chicken Liver, Prepared Stink Bait **Depth**Channel edges, 10-30 ft Bluegill / Bream FAIR Bluegill in slower mode. Small jigs under a float near dock pilings and woody structure. **Top Bait**Cricket, Worm, Small Jig (1/32 oz) **Depth**Spawning: 1-4 ft. Non-spawn: dock edges 4-10 ft Trout ACTIVE Trout active in stocked waters. Cold water temperatures keep fish feeding. **Top Bait**PowerBait, Night Crawler, Inline Spinner **Depth**Where stocked, target trout in cooler oxygenated water β€” verify MDNR stocking and structure data. Species status is based on seasonal patterns and current conditions for Wayne waters. Always verify MDNR regulations for creel limits, size minimums, and any current advisories before heading out. [Report a Bite Update](/submit-a-tip/?topic=report-a-bite-update) Fishing Report Partners [Dick's Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/c/fishing) [Bass Pro Shops](https://www.basspro.com) [REI Co-op](https://www.rei.com/c/fishing) [Academy Sports](https://www.academy.com/fishing) First Look Weather & *Fishing Conditions* 45F Cloudy Feels like 40Β°F as of 10:35 AM ET Wind 9 mph WNW Humidity 70% Pressure 1018 hPa Est. Water Temp 35Β°F Moon Waning Crescent Sunrise / Sunset 7:11 am / 5:19 pm Location Detroit, MI On-the-Water Tips - Cold front conditions. Fish are sluggish β€” slow down your presentations. Try finesse jigs and drop shots in 15-25 ft of water. Solunar Index Fishing *Conditions Dashboard* Air Temperature 45Β°F Cold β€” Slow Down Wind Speed 9 mph Light Breeze Barometric Pressure 1018 hPa Stable β€” Active Moon Phase 🌘 Good GOOD Good fishing. Work structure and cover β€” fish are biting. Extended Outlook 5-Day Fishing *Forecast* TODAY Mostly Cloudy 52Β° / 35Β° 10 mph wind FAIR SUN Mostly Sunny 58Β° / 39Β° 13 mph wind FAIR MON Mostly Sunny 57Β° / 43Β° 8 mph wind FAIR TUE Sunny 64Β° / 38Β° 10 mph wind GOOD VET Partly Sunny 55Β° / 37Β° 5 mph wind FAIR Lakes & Rivers Water Body *Profiles* 9 fishing waters within Wayne β€” with species, access, tips, and restrictions. Lake St. Clair 275,200 acres Shared US-Canada lake (Great Lakes connecting waters) NE of Detroit, bordering Macomb County and Ontario; immediate access from Harrison Township, St. Clair Shores, Grosse Pointe; ~25 min NE of downtown via I-94/Jefferson Smallmouth Bass Walleye Yellow Perch Muskellunge Northern Pike Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Bluegill Lake St. Clair is metro Detroit's marquee fishery and one of the great freshwater fishing destinations in North America β€” a 275,000-acre shallow connecting lake between Lake Huron and Lake Erie that produces world-class smallmouth bass and muskellunge. Bassmaster has repeatedly ranked Lake St. Clair the #1 bass fishery in the U.S., and the Muskies, Inc. tournament circuit treats the lake as a national stage. Average depth is only 11 feet, which keeps the lake warm, weedy, and incredibly productive. The southern Anchor Bay and St. Clair Flats β€” the largest freshwater delta in North America β€” hold the bulk of the muskie population. Public ramps at Lake St. Clair Metropark (Harrison Township), Brandenburg Park (Chesterfield), Selfridge ANG Base public ramp, MDNR ramps in Algonac and Harsens Island. Michigan resident annual fishing license required; reciprocity with Ontario waters does NOT apply β€” anglers crossing into Canadian waters need an Ontario license. The Metropark also requires a Huron-Clinton Metroparks vehicle pass. Angler Tip For smallmouth, target the deep weed lines and rock piles north of the Mile Roads in 14–18 ft of water with tube jigs or drop-shot rigs from late May through October. Trophy muskies show up on weed-edge transitions in 8–12 ft on the south end of Anchor Bay; bucktails and double-10 blade baits in figure-8s at boat-side produce the bulk of fall fish. Smallmouth Bass: catch-and-immediate-release Jan 1–third Sat in June; possession season third Sat in June–Dec 31, 5 fish/day, 14 in min. Muskellunge: possession Saturday before Memorial Day through Mar 15, 1 fish/day, 42 in min. Walleye: 5 fish/day, 15 in min. All Michigan DNR sport-fishing regulations apply β€” check the current MDNR Fishing Guide. [Field Guide](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing) Detroit River 32-mile international river International river (US–Canada border, Great Lakes connecting waterway) Flows 32 miles from Lake St. Clair south to Lake Erie, forming the US–Canada border between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario; access from downtown Detroit, Riverside Park, Belle Isle, Wyandotte, Trenton, Grosse Ile Walleye Yellow Perch Smallmouth Bass Muskellunge Lake Sturgeon Channel Catfish Largemouth Bass Bluegill The Detroit River is the cornerstone of Michigan's spring walleye run β€” between mid-March and mid-May, several million walleye stage and spawn in the river on their way from Lake Erie to spawning grounds, and the Detroit/Wyandotte area becomes the busiest walleye fishery in the country. The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge protects 6,000 acres of marsh, island and shoreline habitat. Lake Sturgeon up to 100 lb still live here β€” the river has the largest remaining naturally reproducing population in the lower Great Lakes. Public ramps at Riverside Park (downtown Detroit), Belle Isle Park (Michigan Recreation Passport required), Elizabeth Park (Trenton), Bishop Park (Wyandotte), Lake Erie Metropark (Brownstown). Many anglers fish the spring walleye run from charter boats out of Wyandotte and Trenton. License: Michigan resident or non-resident fishing license; Canadian waters require an Ontario Outdoors Card. Angler Tip For the walleye run, vertical-jig 3/8–5/8 oz jigs tipped with minnows or rubber on the channel edges in 18–28 ft of water β€” the Trenton Channel, Grassy Island, and the Grosse Ile area are the classic spots. Stage tactic: troll the upper river above the Ambassador Bridge in late April when fish are pushing through to Lake St. Clair. Walleye: 5 fish/day, 15 in min, no closed season in the Detroit River. Lake Sturgeon: catch-and-immediate-release ONLY in the Detroit River (no harvest permitted). Smallmouth Bass: 5/day, 14 in min, possession opens third Sat in June. Standard MDNR creel and size limits apply. [Field Guide](https://www.fws.gov/refuge/detroit-river) Lake Erie (Western Basin) 9,910 sq mi (Great Lake) Great Lake (shared US–Canada) Southern Wayne and Monroe Counties; closest access at Lake Erie Metropark (Brownstown), Sterling State Park (Monroe), Bolles Harbor; ~30–45 min south of downtown Detroit via I-75 Walleye Yellow Perch Smallmouth Bass White Bass Channel Catfish Largemouth Bass Steelhead Lake Erie's western basin is the most productive walleye fishery on the planet β€” the Ohio DNR estimates the 2024 spawning population at over 100 million walleye. Michigan's slice of the western basin runs from the mouth of the Detroit River south to the Ohio line and includes the Brest Bay/Sterling area, where summer trolling and drift-and-cast for walleye produces 5-fish limits with regularity. The fall yellow-perch run between Stony Point and Bolles Harbor is one of the great freshwater perch fisheries in the country. Lake Erie Metropark (Brownstown, MI) has a 12-lane ramp β€” one of the largest on the Great Lakes. Sterling State Park (Monroe) and Bolles Harbor offer additional access. Charter fleets run out of Brest Bay, Bolles Harbor, and Luna Pier. Michigan license required in MI waters; Ohio license required to fish south of the state line β€” buy each separately. Angler Tip Spring (April–early June): cast hair jigs and blade baits around the Detroit River mouth and the Raisin River mouth for staging post-spawn walleye. Summer (June–Sept): troll worm harnesses behind in-line weights or planer boards in 20–28 ft from Brest Bay south. Fall: anchor and minnow-fish for perch in 20–30 ft north of the Toledo Light. Walleye: 6 fish/day, 15 in min in Michigan waters of Lake Erie (note: higher daily limit than inland waters). Yellow Perch: 25/day, no min size. Smallmouth Bass possession opens third Sat in June. Check MDNR's Great Lakes regulations for current creel β€” Lake Erie rules differ from inland Michigan rules. [Michigan DNR Fishing Rules](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing) Belle Isle (Detroit River) 982-acre island park Urban state park (Detroit River island) Mid-Detroit River, accessible by the MacArthur Bridge from East Jefferson at E Grand Blvd; ~10 min from downtown Detroit Smallmouth Bass Largemouth Bass Walleye Bluegill Channel Catfish Northern Pike Yellow Perch Muskellunge Belle Isle is Detroit's 982-acre island state park in the middle of the Detroit River β€” and one of the most accessible shore-fishing destinations in the entire city. The island has multiple interior canals and three connected inland lakes (Lake Tacoma, Lake Muskoday, Lake Okonoka) that hold panfish, bass and pike. The Blue Heron Lagoon was re-connected to the Detroit River in 2019 and now produces surprising smallmouth and pike action steps from downtown. The park is operated by MDNR as Belle Isle Park. Free 24-hour bridge access; Michigan Recreation Passport required to park ($14 resident, $17 non-resident annual; or $11 daily non-resident). Shore-fishing legal anywhere along the perimeter and inland lakes; small-boat ramp at the southwest end into the Detroit River. No motorized boats permitted on the inland lakes β€” canoe/kayak only. Angler Tip Fish the riprap along the south shore (facing downtown) at dawn with tubes and ned rigs for smallmouth β€” the current breaks behind the rocks hold fish all summer. The Blue Heron Lagoon outflow is a sleeper spot for early-spring pike on white spinnerbaits. Standard MDNR sport-fishing license required (age 17+). All state regulations apply β€” see Lake St. Clair / Detroit River entries for species-specific limits. Recreation Passport required to park (not to fish). [Michigan DNR Fishing Rules](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing) Lake Huron (Saginaw Bay) 23,000 sq mi (Great Lake) Great Lake Saginaw Bay shoreline ~90 min N of Detroit via I-75 to Bay City/Linwood/Au Gres; Port Sanilac/Lexington shoreline ~75 min NE via M-25 Walleye Yellow Perch Lake Trout Chinook Salmon Coho Salmon Steelhead Smallmouth Bass Northern Pike Lake Huron is Michigan's quietly elite Great Lake β€” Saginaw Bay produced an estimated 7 million walleye between 2003 and 2024 thanks to MDNR's stocking and habitat work, and the mid-bay reef complex now rivals Lake Erie for walleye action without the boat-traffic. The Thumb shoreline from Lexington to Port Austin holds excellent perch and a serious Chinook/lake trout fishery out of Harbor Beach. Steelhead run the AuGres, Rifle and Pine Rivers each spring. Public ramps at Linwood Beach, Bay City State Park, Caseville County Park, Harbor Beach, Lexington, Port Sanilac. Charter fleets in all major Thumb harbors. Michigan license + Lake Huron stamp included in standard license. Angler Tip Saginaw Bay walleye: troll crawler harnesses behind 1–2 oz inline weights at 1.2–1.6 mph along the 15–22 ft contour from late May through August. Thumb shore-fishing for perch is reliable on the rock breakwalls at Harbor Beach and Port Austin all summer. Walleye: 5 fish/day, 13 in min on Saginaw Bay (specific bay regulation β€” different from inland MI). Lake Trout & Salmon: see current MDNR Great Lakes regs for the management zone and time of year. Standard Michigan sport-fishing license. [Michigan DNR Fishing Rules](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing) Belleville Lake (Lower Huron River) 1,270 acres Public reservoir (impoundment of the Huron River) Van Buren Township, Wayne County; ~25 min west of downtown Detroit via I-94; access from Belleville and Van Buren Park Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Walleye Northern Pike Black Crappie Yellow Perch Bluegill Channel Catfish Belleville Lake is the closest large bass lake to downtown Detroit β€” a 1,270-acre reservoir on the Huron River that supports a serious tournament-bass following, with multiple Bassmaster and FLW-affiliated club events on the calendar every season. The lake has a healthy walleye population thanks to ongoing MDNR stocking, plus solid pike, crappie and perch numbers. The 5 mph speed limit east of the Denton Road bridge keeps fishing pressure manageable on the upper half. Public boat launch at Van Buren Park (Wayne County Parks day pass) and the MDNR Belleville Lake access site off Hannan Rd. Shore access along the Lower Huron Metropark trail system. Standard MDNR fishing license; Wayne County or Huron-Clinton Metroparks pass for parking. Angler Tip Drop-shot the deep weed edges off the main lake points in 12–18 ft in late summer for keeper bass. Crappie school heavy on the brush piles east of the Denton Bridge in April and again in October. Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass: catch-and-immediate-release Jan 1–third Sat in June; possession 5/day, 14 in min after. Walleye: 5/day, 15 in min. Northern Pike: 2/day, 24 in min. Standard MDNR creel. [Field Guide](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing) Huron River 104-mile river corridor Designated Michigan Water Trail (state-designated paddle/fishing river) Headwaters in Oakland County, flowing SW through Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti to Lake Erie at Pointe Mouillee; access throughout the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system (Kensington, Hudson Mills, Dexter-Huron, Delhi, Lower Huron) Smallmouth Bass Northern Pike Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Channel Catfish Walleye Steelhead Bluegill The Huron River is the metro Detroit area's #1 paddle-fishing river β€” designated a State of Michigan Water Trail, the river offers 104 miles of canoe-and-kayak-accessible fishing through a chain of impounded lakes and free-flowing river segments. Smallmouth bass fishing through the Hudson Mills/Dexter and Delhi stretches is excellent, and the lower river below Belleville Lake produces walleye and pike. A Huron River fish-consumption advisory exists for PFAS β€” check the latest EGLE guidance before keeping fish. Multiple Huron-Clinton Metroparks ramps and paddle launches (Metroparks vehicle pass required). MDNR access at Portage Lake and Strawberry Lake on the upper river. Standard MDNR fishing license required statewide. Angler Tip Wade the gravel runs below the Argo Cascades and Hudson Mills dams for summer smallmouth on tubes and small crankbaits. Late-spring steelhead run reaches Flat Rock on the lower river. Catch-and-release ONLY downstream of Argo Dam in Ann Arbor for many species due to PFAS β€” check current EGLE 'Eat Safe Fish' guide for the Huron River. Otherwise standard MDNR limits. [Field Guide](https://www.hrwc.org/) Clinton River 80-mile river corridor Designated Michigan Water Trail (state-designated paddle/fishing river) Headwaters in Oakland County, flowing SE through Auburn Hills, Rochester, Mt. Clemens to Lake St. Clair; access at Yates Cider Mill, Bloomer Park (Rochester), Clinton River Park (Sterling Heights), Clinton River Cut Smallmouth Bass Steelhead Brown Trout Northern Pike Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Channel Catfish Bluegill The Clinton River is the closest legitimate trout-and-steelhead river to downtown Detroit β€” the upper river through Rochester is a state-designated stocked trout stream with brown trout and steelhead runs each spring and fall. The lower river through Mt. Clemens and Harrison Township is a smallmouth and pike fishery, and the Clinton River Cut (a 1.5-mile manmade channel to Lake St. Clair) is one of the best urban smallmouth runs in the region. Bloomer Park (Rochester), Yates Cider Mill, Clinton River Park (Sterling Heights), Heritage Park (Sterling Heights), Mt. Clemens public access points. Free shore access; Macomb/Oakland County park passes may apply at some lots. Angler Tip Hit the Yates Dam tailwater on opening day of trout season (last Saturday in April) β€” MDNR stocks the run heavy through May. For Lake St. Clair smallmouth pushing into the river, fish the Cut in April with jerkbaits. Trout regulations vary by river segment β€” the river is split into Type 1 and Type 4 designated trout streams; check the MDNR Trout Stream map. Standard creel and size limits otherwise. [Field Guide](https://www.crwc.org/) Rouge River 127 sq mi watershed Urban river (tributary of the Detroit River) Flows through western Wayne County into the Detroit River at River Rouge; multiple branches drain Oakland and Wayne Counties; access at Rouge Park (Detroit), Hines Park (Wayne County), Lola Valley Park Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Channel Catfish Bluegill Black Crappie Northern Pike Yellow Perch The Rouge River is the focus of one of the great urban-river restoration stories in the United States β€” once classified as dead, the Rouge now supports a recovering warmwater fishery through the Hines Park corridor and Rouge Park inside Detroit city limits. The Friends of the Rouge volunteer organization runs annual surveys and a Rouge Rescue cleanup. The river is best fished as a paddle-and-cast or shore-fishing destination, not for keeping fish β€” long-running consumption advisories remain in effect. Free shore-fishing access throughout Hines Park, Rouge Park, Lola Valley Park, and city of Detroit park sites along the river. Canoe/kayak launches in Hines Park. Standard MDNR license; no parking fees on most stretches. Angler Tip The Henry Ford Estate impoundment at the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus is the most underrated bass spot in the city β€” fish soft plastics around the bridge pilings for largemouth in summer. Strong consumption advisories β€” EGLE recommends catch-and-release on the Rouge below Northville. See the 'Eat Safe Fish' guide for SE Michigan. Otherwise standard MDNR creel limits. [Field Guide](https://therouge.org/) Did We Miss a Spot? Know a Detroit-area fishing lake, pond, or river stretch that should be on this list? Let us know. [Report a Fishing Spot](/submit-a-tip/?topic=report-a-fishing-spot) Local Experts Field *Guides* No Detroit-area fishing guides are listed yet. Guide Service or Charter Captain? Get listed in the Field Guides section and reach active anglers across Wayne and the HERE City Network. [List Your Guide Service](/contact/) [Launch Special$1 a day for up to 90 days β€” Best deal in Detroit Reach all the Fishing traffic in Detroit β€” it’s a deal! Find out how](#fr-banner-form) Launch Special Your Banner *Here* $1/day Up to **90 days** at the launch rate. Cancel anytime. - Drop us your website URL β€” we build the banner for you - Runs above the **Community Reviews** section - No contract. No setup fee. Cancel anytime. - Local Detroit anglers see your business every visit Your Name * Business Name * Website URL * Email * Phone (optional) How long would you like to reserve it? Daily $1 Weekly $7 30 days $30 60 days $60 90 days $90 Lock in $1/day β€” Build my banner No payment now. We email a preview within one business day. Your launch rate is locked when you approve. Community Reviews I Fished *Here* Share Your Trip Fished a Detroit-area lake or river? Tell us about it in 280 characters or fewer. Water Body Fished * Select a water body... Lake St. Clair Detroit River Lake Erie (Western Basin) Belle Isle (Detroit River) Lake Huron (Saginaw Bay) Belleville Lake (Lower Huron River) Huron River Clinton River Rouge River Other Lake / Pond Other River / Creek Your First Name * How Was the Fishing? * (280 characters max) Species Caught Select species... Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Crappie Catfish Bluegill / Bream Trout Multiple Species Other Lure / Bait That Worked Best Spot / Area on the Water Submit Review Community Here *We...* Reel Them *In...* Big catches, personal bests, and tournament fish from Detroit anglers. Wyatt β€” Belleville Lake Pre-spawn largemouth on a black-and-blue jig with a craw trailer worked along the riprap east of the Denton Bridge. The 6-2 hit on a slow drag in 6 ft. Best Belleville fish in three seasons. Closest big-bass water to Detroit. **Largemouth Bass** 6 lb 2 oz, 22 in Denise β€” Lake Erie (Brest Bay) Fall perch run, anchored north of the Toledo Light in 28 ft. Minnows on a perch rig, doubled up on most drops. Filled the cooler before noon. Best afternoon at Brest Bay all year. **Yellow Perch** Limit β€” 25 fish, 9–13 in Tyrell β€” Lake St. Clair (Anchor Bay) Bucktail figure-8 at boat-side on the weed-edge transition off Anchor Bay. She came out of nowhere on the last pass of the day. 47 inches, released after a quick photo. Lake St. Clair is the muskie capital for a reason. **Muskellunge** 47 inches Your First Name * Where Did You Catch It? Species * Select species... Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Crappie Catfish Bluegill Trout Other Weight / Length / Details Tell Us About It * (200 chars max) Photo or Video (optional, max 8MB) Submit Catch Cast Them *Cold...* Your favorite post-fishing spots. Where do you go when the rods are stowed? Wyatt Drove the rig from Belleville Lake back into the city, parked near Greektown, walked over to Detroit Beer Co. on Broadway. Detroit Dwarf on draft, a fresh pretzel, and the big-bass story repeated for everyone at the bar. **Detroit Beer Co.** β€” Detroit Dwarf Lager Denise Drove the perch cooler straight from Brest Bay to Eastern Market, parked at the brewery, ordered the Elephant Juice. The taproom hands you a fish-fry voucher next door at Bert's Marketplace. Detroit done right. **Eastern Market Brewing Co.** β€” Elephant Juice IPA Tyrell Forty-seven-inch muskie deserves brisket. Hit Slows on Michigan Ave in Corktown after the morning Anchor Bay session β€” All Day IPA and the Reason burnt-ends platter. Best post-trophy meal in town. **Slows Bar BQ β€” Corktown** β€” Founders All Day IPA Your First Name * Bar / Restaurant Name * Go-To Drink Why This Spot? * (200 chars max) Photo of the Bar or Drink (optional, max 8MB) Submit Pick Coverage Fishing News *HERE* Presented by [Become a Sponsor](/section-sponsorship/?section=fishing) Local β€” Detroit and Metro Detroit [Local DNR Launches 3-Year Study After 27 Lake Sturgeon Stranded ONTONAGON, Mich. β€” The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has started a three-year effort to learn why 27 threatened lake sturgeon ended up cut off in shallow pools below a hydroelectric dam in the western Upper Peninsula this summer, and whether it will keep happening. The fish were found below Victoria Dam in a channel […] Nov 4, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/11/04/dnr-three-year-study-27-lake-sturgeon-stranded-ontonagon/) [Local Invasive Mudsnails Turn Up in Southern Michigan KENT COUNTY, Mich. β€” A tiny invasive snail that has spread through several of northern Michigan’s best-known trout rivers has now been found in the southern half of the Lower Peninsula for the first time, state invasive species officials said Monday. New Zealand mudsnails were collected in Bear Creek, a small coldwater stream that feeds […] Nov 3, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/11/03/new-zealand-mudsnails-found-southern-michigan-bear-creek/) [Local DNR Pike Rules Open Otsego Marsh, Lift Small-Fish Caps LANSING, Mich. β€” Fresh DNR northern pike rules that took hold Oct. 15 reopen Otsego County marsh water year-round and let anglers keep more smaller pike on four inland lakes after Natural Resources Commission votes on Oct. 14. Commissioners rewrote Fisheries Orders 204 and 206. The Otsego Lake pike marsh, once locked from mid-March through […] Oct 17, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/10/17/michigan-nrc-northern-pike-regulation-changes/) National β€” Bass, Fishing Regulations, and Conservation [National Louisiana draws down six waters this fall to slow salvinia Louisiana wildlife officials are lowering five lakes and one complex this fall to slow giant salvinia; drawdown windows are now set. Sep 9, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/09/09/louisiana-lakes-drawdowns-giant-salvinia/) [National Lackawanna Lake drawdown starts as dam rehabilitation begins A drawdown of 198-acre Lackawanna Lake began this week as construction starts on the 69-foot dam and fishing rules have been eased. Sep 9, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/09/09/lackawanna-lake-drawdown-dam-rehabilitation/) [National Kentucky Fish and Wildlife recaps June regulation amendments Kentucky Fish and Wildlife published a recap of administrative regulations that took effect in June 2026, including Otter Creek changes. Sep 9, 2026](https://www.heredetroit.com/2026/09/09/ky-fish-wildlife-june-regulations-recap/) [View All Detroit Fishing Coverage β†’](https://www.heredetroit.com/tag/fishing/) More at Outdoor Sports Hunting, camping, hiking, and all outdoor sports coverage for Detroit and Metro Detroit MI [See All at Outdoor Sports](/outdoor-sports/) Partner [Advertise Here](/section-sponsorship/) Tackle, Rods and Reels Essential *Gear HERE* Gear reviews and picks for the Detroit angler β€” rods, reels, tackle, and kayaks tested for Metro Detroit MI waters. Presented by https://www.amazon.com/?tag=heredetroit-20 [Become a Sponsor](/section-sponsorship/?section=fishing) Gear Reviews β€” Tested for Metro Detroit MI Waters As an Amazon Associate, HERE earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088K2K149 Fishing Rod Holder Smart Fish Catcher Fishing Pole Holders Automatic Spring Tip-Up Hook with… Rod Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. Fishing Rod Holder Smart Fish Catcher Fishing Pole Holders Automatic Spring Tip-Up Hook with…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $26.96 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088K2K149) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQCB1HZ9 HADORAM Robotic Swimming Lure 5.1” Fishing Lure 4-Segement Multi Jointed Swimbait Electric B… Lure Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. 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Chasing Gladius MINI S Upgraded Professional Underwater Drone Set, with 4k Resolution + EIS …. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $1399.00 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPMC52G7) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FL28MMF9 【2025 New】FIFISH V-EVO 4K60FPS Underwater Drone with Robotic Arm, with Removable SD Card, QY… Fishing Gear Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. 【2025 New】FIFISH V-EVO 4K60FPS Underwater Drone with Robotic Arm, with Removable SD Card, QY…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $1699.00 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FL28MMF9) Tackle Shop, Guide Service, or Marina? Get featured in the Essential Gear section and reach active anglers across the HERE City Network β€” 100+ cities. [Learn About Gear Advertising](/contact/) MDNR MDNR *Regulations* License requirements, bag limits, and size limits for Wayne waters. Always verify current regulations at michigan.gov. MI Fishing Licenses Licenses, current fees, age requirements, and any free fishing days are set by Michigan Department of Natural Resources. [Buy or check a license at michigan.gov](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr). Bag & Size Limits β€” Detroit Waters Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass Β· Freshwater 5 per day combined **Size:**14" minimum 2026 possession season opened May 23 statewide (June 20 on Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair and Detroit rivers); catch-and-immediate-release is open all year on most waters. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Walleye Β· Freshwater 5 per day **Size:**15" minimum Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair and St. Clair River: 6 per day, 15" minimum. Some inland waters have special rules. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Northern Pike Β· Freshwater 2 per day **Size:**24" minimum 5 per day on Lake St. Clair, the St. Clair River and the Detroit River. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Channel Catfish Β· Freshwater 10 per day **Size:**12" minimum Flathead catfish: 5 per day, 15" minimum. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Sunfish & Crappie (bluegill, pumpkinseed, crappie, rock bass, etc.) Β· Freshwater 25 per day combined **Size:**No size limit Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Yellow Perch Β· Freshwater 25 per day **Size:**No size limit Some waters have different limits. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Muskellunge (incl. tiger muskie) Β· Freshwater 1 per license year **Size:**42" minimum Harvest must be reported to MDNR within 24 hours. 2026 possession season opened June 6; catch-and-release open all year. Source: [MDNR Fisheries Order 215 (2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations)](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Orders/Fish-Orders/FO_215.pdf) Regulations shown are for general reference (checked 2026-10-16). Special rules apply on many individual lakes and rivers. Always verify current rules with Michigan Department of Natural Resources at **michigan.gov** before keeping fish. Spawn Timing & Key Dates Season *Calendar* Mar – Apr Walleye Spring Run β€” Detroit River Walleye stack in the Detroit River as fish move up from Lake Erie. Jigging vertical structure near Wyandotte and the Trenton Channel produces trophy fish. Detroit River Apr – May Smallmouth Bass Pre-Spawn Smallmouth move to nearshore rocky structure on Lake St. Clair flats and Detroit River shoals. Catch-and-release season β€” verify with MDNR. Lake St. Clair / Detroit River Late May Bass Opener Possession harvest opens (date varies by water body). Lake St. Clair smallmouth bass world-class. Verify open dates with MDNR. Statewide May – Jun Muskellunge Opener Muskie season opens on Lake St. Clair β€” one of the best muskellunge fisheries in North America. Verify exact opener with MDNR. Lake St. Clair Jun – Aug Yellow Perch Peak β€” Lake Erie Yellow perch fishing peaks. Western Lake Erie out of Monroe and Detroit-area launches produces consistent limits. Verify bag with MDNR. Lake Erie Jul – Aug Walleye Summer Pattern β€” Lake Erie Walleye spread across Lake Erie reefs and basin. Trolling crawler harnesses and crankbaits in 25-50 ft. Verify MDNR limits. Lake Erie Sep – Oct Fall Walleye Run β€” Detroit River Walleye return to the Detroit River as water cools. Quality fish on jigs and stickbaits near shoreline structure. Detroit River Oct – Nov Smallmouth Fall Feed Smallmouth bass feed aggressively on Lake St. Clair flats and Detroit River shoals before winter. Trophy fish realistic. Lake St. Clair / Detroit River Dec – Mar Hardwater Season Ice fishing on inland lakes throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. Verify ice conditions and MDNR rules before going out. Inland Lakes Feb 14–15, 2026 Free Fishing Weekend Fishing licenses waived; all other rules apply (MDNR). Statewide Jun 13–14, 2026 Free Fishing Weekend Fishing licenses waived; all other rules apply (MDNR). Statewide Spawn timing is approximate and based on typical Wayne water temperature patterns. Actual timing varies by year and water body. MDNR trout stocking schedules are published annually β€” visit www.michigan.gov/dnr for exact dates and stocking locations. Questions and Answers Fishing *FAQ* Common questions about fishing in the Detroit area, answered. - Do I need a fishing license to fish in Detroit MI? Yes. All anglers 17 and older need a MDNR fishing license. Senior, youth, and short-term options are available. Verify current fees and free-fishing weekends with MDNR.Sources: [MDNR: Fishing license info](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing/license-info) Β· [MDNR: Free Fishing Weekend](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing/free-fishing) - What are the best fishing lakes near Detroit? Top fishing waters in the Detroit area include Lake St. Clair (smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, muskellunge), the Detroit River (walleye, perch, smallmouth), and inland lakes throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. Verify access and licensing with MDNR. - When is the best time to fish for crappie in Detroit? Crappie season in Detroit-area waters typically peaks in spring during the spawn (April–May) when fish concentrate in shallow brush and dock structure. A secondary peak occurs in fall. Verify MDNR regulations including bag limits and size minimums. - Can you kayak fish on Wayne lakes? Yes β€” kayak fishing is excellent on Detroit-area waters. The Detroit River has multiple kayak launches and protected coves perfect for paddling and fishing in tandem. Lake St. Clair offers vast nearshore flats ideal for kayak anglers targeting smallmouth bass and yellow perch in shallow water. Inland lakes throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties offer quieter kayak fisheries. Verify launch permits with MDNR and respect navigation rules for shared waters. - What species can I catch in the Detroit River and Rouge River? The Detroit River is a world-class fishery β€” walleye runs each spring draw anglers nationally, with trophy smallmouth bass, yellow perch, white bass, channel catfish, and sturgeon (catch-and-release) all present. The Rouge River system offers smaller-water bass and panfish opportunities, with restoration efforts improving water quality over recent decades. Fly fishing for smallmouth on Detroit River shoals is increasingly popular. MDNR fish consumption advisories apply β€” check the current guide before keeping fish. - Do Detroit lakes get trout stocked? MDNR stocks trout in many Michigan inland streams and lakes β€” the Detroit region's nearest stocked waters are accessible via short drives north and west. Check the current MDNR trout stocking schedule for exact locations and dates near Wayne. ITS ALL HERE! 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