Antrim County offers 14 fishable inland lakes and 28 public boat launches, making it one of Michigan's accessible fishing destinations. Anglers here target Bluntnose Minnow, Brook Stickleback, Central Mudminnow, Common Shiner and Emerald Shiner, among other species recorded across county waters. The Michigan DNR has made 3,697 stocking events in Antrim County, releasing over 121,337,185 fish, with the most recent activity recorded in June 2026. The most actively stocked waters include Lake Michigan, Cedar River and Torch Lake. Notable waters by size include Elk Lake (7,793 ac), Elk Lake (7,793 ac) and Intermediate Lake (682 ac).
Antrim County waters hold 113 recorded fish species. The most widely distributed include Bluntnose Minnow, Brook Stickleback, Central Mudminnow, Common Shiner, Emerald Shiner and Fathead Minnow. Species presence is based on Michigan DNR stocking records and lake survey data.
According to Michigan DNR stocking records, Lake Trout is the most actively stocked species in Antrim County with 1,183 stocking events and 65,769,373 fish released. Other frequently stocked species include Brown Trout, Walleye, Rainbow Trout.
Based on Michigan DNR stocking activity, the most actively managed fishing lakes in Antrim County are Lake Michigan, Cedar River and Torch Lake. These lakes have received the highest number of DNR stocking events on record. See all lakes in Antrim County at /lakes/county/antrim.
Yes. The Michigan DNR has made 3,697 stocking events in Antrim County, releasing over 121,337,185 fish. The most recent stocking on record was in June 2026.
Yes, Antrim County has 28 public boat launches on record, including Alden DNR Access -- Torch Lake, Birch Lake and Central Lake, and more. Directions and details for each launch are listed in the boat launches section above.
Yes. Anyone 17 or older fishing in Michigan — including Antrim 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.