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Allegan County Fishing

📍 Michigan

Allegan County offers 22 fishable inland lakes and 24 public boat launches, making it one of Michigan's accessible fishing destinations. Anglers here target Blackstripe Topminnow, Bluntnose Minnow, Central Mudminnow, Common Shiner and Emerald Shiner, among other species recorded across county waters. The Michigan DNR has made 4,250 stocking events in Allegan County, releasing over 185,632,065 fish, with the most recent activity recorded in July 2026. The most actively stocked waters include Lake Michigan, Kalamazoo River and Rabbit River. Notable waters by size include Gun Lake (665 ac).

22
Lakes
123
Fish species
24
Boat launches
4,250
DNR stocking events
185,632,065
Fish stocked

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can you catch in Allegan County, Michigan?

Allegan County waters hold 123 recorded fish species. The most widely distributed include Blackstripe Topminnow, Bluntnose Minnow, Central Mudminnow, Common Shiner, Emerald Shiner and Fathead Minnow. Species presence is based on Michigan DNR stocking records and lake survey data.

What is the most stocked fish in Allegan County?

According to Michigan DNR stocking records, Lake Trout is the most actively stocked species in Allegan County with 1,305 stocking events and 69,771,163 fish released. Other frequently stocked species include Brown Trout, Walleye, Rainbow Trout.

What are the best fishing lakes in Allegan County?

Based on Michigan DNR stocking activity, the most actively managed fishing lakes in Allegan County are Lake Michigan, Kalamazoo River and Rabbit River. These lakes have received the highest number of DNR stocking events on record. See all lakes in Allegan County at /lakes/county/allegan.

Has the Michigan DNR recently stocked fish in Allegan County?

Yes. The Michigan DNR has made 4,250 stocking events in Allegan County, releasing over 185,632,065 fish. The most recent stocking on record was in July 2026.

Are there public boat launches in Allegan County?

Yes, Allegan County has 24 public boat launches on record, including Allegan Dam East, Baseline Lake and Big Lake, and more. Directions and details for each launch are listed in the boat launches section above.

Do you need a fishing license to fish in Allegan County, Michigan?

Yes. Anyone 17 or older fishing in Michigan — including Allegan County — must have a valid Michigan fishing license issued by the Michigan DNR. Licenses are available at DNR License Centers, many sporting goods stores, and online at michigan.gov/dnr. Residents and non-residents have different license fees. Some waters may also have special regulations, so check the current DNR Fishing Guide before heading out.