Species of Fish in Michigan
Michigan's waters are home to a wide variety of fish species, thanks to its location among the Great Lakes and numerous inland lakes and rivers. Popular game fish include walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, and several species of bass, such as largemouth and smallmouth. Trout are common in Michigans cold-water streams, with brook trout being the state fish. Salmon, including Chinook and coho, are found in the Great Lakes and provide excellent sport fishing opportunities. Panfish such as bluegill, perch, and crappie are abundant in inland lakes. Altogether, Michigan supports a diverse and thriving fish population.
People in Michigan use a variety of methods to catch different fish species. Walleye are often caught by trolling with crankbaits or drifting with live bait rigs using nightcrawlers or minnows. Bass fishing is popular with soft plastic lures, topwater baits, and jigs, especially around weed beds and rocky structures. For trout, fly fishing with nymphs, streamers, or dry flies is effective in rivers and streams, while spinners work well in lakes. Salmon are commonly targeted by trolling with spoons and flashers in deeper Great Lakes waters. Ice fishing during winter months is also popular for perch, bluegill, and crappie.
| Fish Species | Identification Features | Typical Size | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Dark green horizontal stripe along body, large mouth extends past eye | 1-5 lbs | shallow, weedier bodies of water or reservoirs with standing timber |
| Smallmouth Bass | Bronze streaks on its cheek, mouth extends to middle of eye | 1-4 lbs | Rocky habitats and rivers |
| Walleye | Two seperated dorsal fins, canine teeth, large glossy eyes, white tips on lower fins | 2-10 lbs | Lakes and rivers, prefers deep, cool waters |
| Northern Pike | One dorsal fin, scaly cheeks, lighter spots on a dark body | 5-20 lbs | Weedy lakes and rivers |
| Bluegill | Round body, dark spot on rear of dorsal fin, small mouth | 0.5-1.5 lbs | Lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers |
| Rainbow Trout | Silver body with pinkish stripe along sides, black spots on tail | 1-5 lbs | Cold, clear rivers and lakes |
| Yellow Perch | Golden-yellow body, vertical dark stripes, small mouth with no teeth | 0.5-2 lbs | Shallow waters near shores |
| Muskellunge (Muskie) | Long, torpedo-shaped body, dark vertical bars, large mouth with fang-like teeth | 10-30 lbs | Usually found in the Upper Peninsula, deep, cooler waters |