Ontonagon County Fishing — Lakes, Species & DNR Stocking Records | Michigan Fishing
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Ontonagon County Fishing

📍 Michigan

Ontonagon County offers 4 fishable inland lakes and 6 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 157 stocking events in Ontonagon County, releasing over 174,811 fish, with the most recent activity recorded in May 2026. The most actively stocked waters include Trout Creek Pond and Courtney Lake.

4
Lakes
88
Fish species
6
Boat launches
157
DNR stocking events
174,811
Fish stocked

🌊 Top Lakes in Ontonagon County

See all 4 lakes →
Trout Creek Pond 90 stocking events Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
→
Courtney Lake 67 stocking events Brook Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout
→

🐟 Fish Species

88 species total
Bluntnose Minnow 4 lakes Brook Stickleback 4 lakes Central Mudminnow 4 lakes Common Shiner 4 lakes Emerald Shiner 4 lakes Fathead Minnow 4 lakes Finescale Dace 4 lakes Golden Redhorse 4 lakes Kiyi 4 lakes Lake Chub 4 lakes Longnose Sucker 4 lakes Mimic Shiner 4 lakes +76 more →

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can you catch in Ontonagon County, Michigan?

Ontonagon County waters hold 88 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 Ontonagon County?

According to Michigan DNR stocking records, Brook Trout is the most actively stocked species in Ontonagon County with 85 stocking events and 99,473 fish released. Other frequently stocked species include Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout.

What are the best fishing lakes in Ontonagon County?

Based on Michigan DNR stocking activity, the most actively managed fishing lakes in Ontonagon County are Trout Creek Pond and Courtney Lake. These lakes have received the highest number of DNR stocking events on record. See all lakes in Ontonagon County at /lakes/county/ontonagon.

Has the Michigan DNR recently stocked fish in Ontonagon County?

Yes. The Michigan DNR has made 157 stocking events in Ontonagon County, releasing over 174,811 fish. The most recent stocking on record was in May 2026.

Are there public boat launches in Ontonagon County?

Yes, Ontonagon County has 6 public boat launches on record, including Bergland Dock, County Line Lake and Ewen, 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 Ontonagon County, Michigan?

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