The Hiawatha National Forest offers fishing on more than 75 lakes and 600 miles of streams for a wide variety of warmwater and coldwater species. Opportunities on streams range from brook trout fishing on small, spring-fed waters to salmon and steelhead fishing on large Great Lakes tributaries. Inland lakes offer fishing for bass, pike, walleye, panfish and trout. Anglers interested in lakes or streams can chose between readily accessible waters and those that require a long hike or float to reach. Some waters have special regulations that maintain especially high quality fisheries.

The fishing season on the Forest is nearly year-round. Steelhead runs begin early in April and extend well into May. General stream trout fishing is open from the last Saturday in April through September 30. On inland lakes, perch fishing begins shortly after ice-out. Good fishing for bluegills, crappies and other panfish usually begins shortly after the May 15 season opener for walleye and northern pike. Bass season opens the last Saturday in May (be sure to check Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations for exceptions). Productive fishing for walleye, pike and bass extends into late October. Salmon run from late August into November. Most lakes freeze over and are safe for ice-fishing from early December through March.

Information attached to this site is not exhaustive, but will give you an overview of fishing opportunities. For information on Michigan fishing regulations, visit the Michigan DNR. To order Forest maps or obtain more information on camping, fishing, or other opportunities, please return to our general Forest website or call one of our offices:

To speak to a fisheries biologist, call the Supervisor’s Office or Munising District.

Our fisheries staff consists of two fisheries biologists, two biological technicians and seasonal employees. We emphasize habitat protection, restoration and enhancement and work closely with the Michigan DNR to manage fish populations. Many habitat improvement investments in streams and lakes are designed to restore large wood structure and reduce sediment inputs. Our program includes inventory and monitoring to determine the status of aquatic communities and response to habitat management activities. Partnerships with other agencies and a wide variety of local and national organizations play an important role in accomplishing habitat management objectives. Partner support has included financial contributions and contributed services.