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Iosco County Fishing

📍 Michigan

Iosco County offers 14 fishable inland lakes and 12 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 62 stocking events in Iosco County, releasing over 2,597,947 fish, with the most recent activity recorded in November 2023. The most actively stocked waters include Van Etten Lake, Foote Pond and Chain Lakes. Notable waters by size include Tawas Lake (1,100 ac).

14
Lakes
116
Fish species
12
Boat launches
62
DNR stocking events
2,597,947
Fish stocked

🌊 Top Lakes in Iosco County

See all 14 lakes →
Van Etten Lake 28 stocking events Chinook Salmon, Muskellunge, Walleye, Yellow Perch
→
Foote Pond 25 stocking events Muskellunge, Walleye
→
Chain Lakes 9 stocking events Black Crappie, Bluegill, Hybrid Sunfish, Walleye +1 more
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🐟 Fish Species

116 species total
Bluntnose Minnow 14 lakes Brook Stickleback 14 lakes Central Mudminnow 14 lakes Common Shiner 14 lakes Emerald Shiner 14 lakes Fathead Minnow 14 lakes Finescale Dace 14 lakes Golden Redhorse 14 lakes Lake Chub 14 lakes Least Darter 14 lakes Longnose Sucker 14 lakes Mimic Shiner 14 lakes +104 more →

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can you catch in Iosco County, Michigan?

Iosco County waters hold 116 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.

What is the most stocked fish in Iosco County?

According to Michigan DNR stocking records, Walleye is the most actively stocked species in Iosco County with 35 stocking events and 2,131,856 fish released. Other frequently stocked species include Muskellunge, Black Crappie, Bluegill.

What are the best fishing lakes in Iosco County?

Based on Michigan DNR stocking activity, the most actively managed fishing lakes in Iosco County are Van Etten Lake, Foote Pond and Chain Lakes. These lakes have received the highest number of DNR stocking events on record. See all lakes in Iosco County at /lakes/county/iosco.

Has the Michigan DNR recently stocked fish in Iosco County?

Yes. The Michigan DNR has made 62 stocking events in Iosco County, releasing over 2,597,947 fish. The most recent stocking on record was in November 2023.

Are there public boat launches in Iosco County?

Yes, Iosco County has 12 public boat launches on record, including Au Sable River Mouth, Cedar Lake and East Branch Au Gres River, 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 Iosco County, Michigan?

Yes. Anyone 17 or older fishing in Michigan — including Iosco 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.