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Step 1
Determine the species of fish you would like to catch. Whether you are after your typical pan fish (Crappie, Bluegill perch) , or something far more exciting like Trout, Largemouth bass, Pike, Muskie, Salmon, or even Walleye, they can all be found in Michigan waters. For pan fish, Largemouth Bass or Pike, any inland lake will do. Lake St. Clair is famous for large Muskie at 30 pounds and up. If Walleye turns your crank, the St. Clair River is a great spot. Salmon can be found in any of the Great Lakes and connecting tributaries, such as the Big Manistee River on the west side of the state, or the AuSable River on the east side.
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Step 2
Choose the time of year you would like to fish. Michigan's four seasons offer annual spawning runs of some of the best game fish. Early spring is a great time for Walleye, Native Trout, Steelhead and Perch. Autumn is famous for migratory Salmon staging at the mouths of many rivers mentioned above, prior to their upstream spawning runs. They can be caught easily from the shoreline on Lake Michigan or Huron or from one of the many charter boats active at this time of year. Summer is an excellent time of year for the Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, as well as Muskie, in Lake St. Clair. Winter ice fishing is becoming more popular with the advent of power augers, ice fishing shanties and fish locators.
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Step 3
Visit any local bait shop to find out the latest action on the surrounding lakes and streams. Owners can be helpful in sharing the latest bug hatches for fly fisherman and very knowledgeable in the successful baits and color patterns used by local anglers. In addition, any of the major outlet stores like Cabela's, Jay's Sporting Goods or Bass Pro Shops can offer some guidance.
