Michigan Announces 2025 Fishing Season Dates and New Regulations: License Fees Set at $26
As the 2025 fishing season approaches, Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding anglers about updated regulations for the upcoming season. The season kicks off on Tuesday, April 1, and everyone who plans to fish in Michigan needs to be aware of the new fishing license requirements and other regulations.
New Fishing Licenses Now Available
The 2025 fishing season brings new rules, and Michigan anglers are urged to purchase their fishing licenses now. Fishing licenses are available for sale and will remain valid until March 31, 2026. All anglers aged 17 and older must have a valid fishing license to fish in Michigan’s waters.
The Michigan DNR has set the following fees for fishing licenses:
- Annual Michigan Resident Fishing License: $26
- Annual Non-Resident Fishing License: $76 (includes a $1 surcharge)
- Daily Fishing License: $10 (for a one-day pass)
- Youth Fishing License (for anglers aged 16 and under): $2
- Senior Citizen (65+) or Disabled Individuals License: $11
- Veterans or Active Military Personnel: Fishing licenses are free for those with a 100% disability rating or who are currently serving.
For more information about purchasing a fishing license, visit the Michigan DNR’s website at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses. You can also buy your license through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
Free Fishing Weekend
Exciting news for both residents and non-residents: Michigan will host Free Fishing Weekend on June 7-8, where fishing licenses will not be required. During this weekend, anglers can fish in both inland and Great Lakes waters without the need for a fishing license. It’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy a day on the water without the worry of permits. Additionally, a recreation passport will not be required for entry into state parks or boating access sites during this weekend.
Key Fishing Seasons for 2025
The DNR has also released important dates for various fishing seasons in 2025. Here are the notable openings:
- Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass (Catch-and-Release Season): Open year-round on nearly all waters. Please check the current Michigan Fishing Regulations for specific locations.
- Trout and Walleye Seasons: The statewide trout opener, as well as the Lower Peninsula inland walleye and northern pike seasons, will begin on Saturday, April 26.
- Upper Peninsula Walleye and Northern Pike Seasons: Open on Thursday, May 15.
- Bass Possession Season: Opens on Saturday, May 24 (except for Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, and Detroit River, which open on Saturday, June 21).
- Muskellunge Possession Season: Opens on Saturday, June 7 on all Great Lakes and inland waters, including the St. Marys River, Lake St. Clair, and the St. Clair and Detroit rivers.
Daily Possession Limits
To help manage fish populations and maintain healthy ecosystems, the Michigan DNR has set daily possession limits for certain species of fish. Here are the limits for some popular fish species:
- Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: 5 fish (in any combination)
- Walleye: 5 fish
- Northern Pike: 2 fish
- Flathead Catfish: 5 fish
- Channel Catfish: 10 fish
- Muskellunge: Only 1 per angler per license year (catch-and-release is allowed year-round)
- Yellow Perch: 25 fish
- Sunfish: 25 fish (in any combination)
- White Bass: 25 fish (5 on Great Lakes, Lake St. Clair, St. Marys River, St. Clair River, and Detroit River; 10 on inland waters)
- Cisco, Lake Whitefish, Round Whitefish: 10 fish (10 on Great Lakes and connecting waters; 5 on inland waters)
Anglers are reminded to check the full list of regulations for other species and ensure that they comply with the rules to help preserve Michigan’s fish populations.
How to Buy Your License
Fishing licenses can be easily purchased through the Michigan DNR’s official website or the DNR Hunt Fish app. If you choose to purchase online, you can set your license to automatically renew at checkout, making it easier for you to stay updated for future seasons.
For questions about fishing licenses, you can contact the DNR licensing staff at [email protected] or call 517-284-6057.
Helpful Resources for Anglers
To help you stay informed and prepared, the Michigan DNR has provided several helpful resources for anglers:
- 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations: Available on the DNR website, this includes the latest rules and guidelines for all types of fishing.
- Inland Trout & Salmon Maps: Detailed maps to guide you to the best fishing spots.
- Fishing Locations & Tips: Find the top fishing locations and useful tips to improve your catch.
- Species Identification: Learn how to identify different species of fish while fishing.
You can access all these resources by visiting Michigan.gov/Fishing.
Conclusion
The 2025 Michigan fishing season is set to be another exciting year for anglers across the state. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and purchase your fishing license early to avoid any issues. Don’t forget about the Free Fishing Weekend in June, which is the perfect time for a fishing trip with family and friends. Be sure to check the Michigan DNR website regularly for updates, and enjoy a successful fishing season!
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