Ingham County offers 3 fishable inland lakes and 8 public boat launches, making it one of Michigan's accessible fishing destinations. Anglers here target American Brook Lamprey, American Eel, Barred Fantail Darter, Bigmouth Buffalo and Bigmouth Shiner, among other species recorded across county waters. The Michigan DNR has made 16 stocking events in Ingham County, releasing over 46,603 fish, with the most recent activity recorded in September 2025. The most actively stocked waters include Red Cedar River.
Ingham County waters hold 85 recorded fish species. The most widely distributed include American Brook Lamprey, American Eel, Barred Fantail Darter, Bigmouth Buffalo, Bigmouth Shiner and Black Buffalo. Species presence is based on Michigan DNR stocking records and lake survey data.
According to Michigan DNR stocking records, Rainbow Trout is the most actively stocked species in Ingham County with 14 stocking events and 42,108 fish released. Other frequently stocked species include Channel Catfish, Brown Trout.
Yes. The Michigan DNR has made 16 stocking events in Ingham County, releasing over 46,603 fish. The most recent stocking on record was in September 2025.
Yes, Ingham County has 8 public boat launches on record, including Burchfield Park, Ferguson Park and Gale Road, 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 Ingham 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.