Native and introduced non-game species — the forage base that Michigan's sport fishery depends on. Each species has its own page with habitat, description, and identification notes.
Michigan is home to 149 documented fish species across its lakes, rivers, and Great Lakes waters — ranging from prized gamefish like walleye and lake trout to native baitfish and forage species.
Brown Trout is the most stocked species by event count in the Michigan DNR database, with 20,985 recorded stocking events. Walleye, rainbow trout, chinook salmon, and lake trout consistently rank among the most stocked.
All stocking records on this site come from the Michigan DNR public database. Each species page shows a complete stocking history by year, recent individual events, and the top lakes where that species has been stocked.
Northern Lower Peninsula counties such as Roscommon, Otsego, and Cheboygan consistently rank among the most active due to their high concentration of inland lakes and trout streams. Browse the Counties page to compare stocking activity by region.
Game fish — walleye, bass, trout, salmon, pike — are the primary targets for recreational anglers. Baitfish and forage species like shiners, suckers, and smelt are smaller fish that gamefish depend on for food, and are generally subject to different regulations.
Yes. Michigan requires a valid fishing license for anglers 17 and older. Licenses are available through the Michigan DNR. Regulations vary by species, water body, and season, so always check the current DNR guide before you head out.