Michigan Fishing Season 2026 Opens with New Rules: West Michigan Anglers See Changes to Burbot Limits, Sturgeon Season, and More

New Regulations Take Effect Across Michigan Waters

Michigan's 2026 fishing season officially began on April 1, bringing a series of new regulations that will affect anglers throughout the state, including West Michigan waters. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources approved these changes through the Natural Resources Commission, and they will remain in effect through March 31, 2027.

The updated rules modify possession limits, size requirements, and equipment definitions to better manage state fisheries. While many of the changes impact Upper Peninsula and Lake Superior waters, several key updates directly affect West Michigan anglers and popular fishing spots.

Burbot Limits Added to Statewide Regulations

One of the most significant new regulations establishes a daily possession limit of five burbot across the entire state. This change follows growing concern over the species' population as overharvesting and invasive species threaten coldwater fish populations.

The burbot regulation update specifically addresses page 12 of the 2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations manual. Burbot, also known as lizard fish or eel catfish, are a popular freshwater species found in Michigan's inland rivers and lakes, including waters throughout West Michigan.

Lake Sturgeon Season Expansion on Menominee River

West Michigan anglers will have new opportunities for lake sturgeon fishing beginning in June. The DNR announced a catch-and-immediate-release season on the Menominee River, which runs from Grand Rapids toward the Upper Peninsula.

The new season will operate between the Grand Rapids Dam and the Sturgeon Falls Dam, running from the first Saturday in June through the first Sunday in March. This represents a significant expansion of access to one of Michigan's most iconic freshwater species.

Spearfishing Opportunities Expand

The DNR has expanded underwater spearfishing access to additional Great Lakes waters, though some exclusions remain. Under the new rules, anglers participating in spearfishing no longer need to submit monthly reports, but they must still obtain a free spearfishing license before heading to the water.

Anglers can spearfish in designated areas of the Great Lakes, though they are limited to harvesting three game fish per outing. The expansion includes various West Michigan waters, opening up new opportunities for recreational spearfishing.

Equipment Clarifications

The DNR provided important clarification regarding equipment used for trout and salmon fishing. A bead attached to a hook, or pegged to a line no more than four inches above a single-pointed hook, is now officially defined as an artificial lure.

This clarification helps anglers understand what constitutes legal bait and tackle when fishing for popular species throughout Michigan waters.

Lake Superior and Upper Peninsula Updates

While several major changes focus on Upper Peninsula waters, West Michigan anglers should also be aware of other statewide updates. The DNR expanded spearfishing waters across the Great Lakes, including portions of Lake Michigan near West Michigan communities.

Regulatory Correction

The DNR issued a correction regarding the print version of the 2026 fishing guide. On page 16, the manual incorrectly described the Lake Michigan southern boundary as the border between Michigan and Wisconsin. The boundary is actually the border between Michigan and Indiana, a correction that appears only in the digital version of the regulations.

How to Get Fishing Licenses

Anglers can purchase 2026 fishing licenses through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app or the department's website. The app also provides tools for reporting harvests and accessing the full text of current regulations.

For questions regarding the new rules, the DNR has designated Lucas Nathan at 517-599-9323 and Christian LeSage at 517-449-7073 as primary contacts.

What Anglers Need to Know

The new regulations represent ongoing efforts by the Michigan DNR to manage fish populations sustainably while maintaining recreational opportunities for anglers throughout the state. West Michigan anglers should review the complete 2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations before heading to the water.

The rules approved by the Michigan Natural Resources Commission will remain in effect through March 31, 2027, providing a stable regulatory framework for the upcoming year.