Michigan Fishing Season Begins! Make Sure To Get A New License

Spring is in the air. The end of March saw our first major storms of the season after multiple tornadoes touched down around the state. Besides severe weather, Michigan also welcomes the return of one of Michiganders' favorite pastimes: fishing. Fishing season begins April 1st, and we have everything you need to know to start casting your lines without getting in trouble.

Michigan Fishing

Recreational fishing has long been a popular Michigan activity. But in recent years, interest in this hobby has soared since 2020, most likely from people looking for something to do outside, a hobby with a low barrier to entry, and away from others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

License numbers have stayed steady since then, with 180,033 of the 807,573 licenses purchased from June 2023 to June 2024 being first-time buyers. So, whether you're new or returning to fishing, here's how you can go about getting a license for this fishing season.

License Sales

Michigan offers a variety of licenses for many different situations. Anyone 17 years or older must have a license to go fishing. Licenses are valid from March 1 of the given year to March 31st of the next year. In addition to the license, a $1 Sportcard needs to be purchased as well.

READ MORE: Michigan Approves The 'Rapids' Returning To Grand Rapids |

Here's the full breakdown:

"Michigan residents" are considered anyone who lives full-time in the state, is a full-time student at a Michigan college or university, or serves full-time in the U.S. Military and is stationed in Michigan. You can view the full requirements here.

Michigan residents: $26

Nonresidents: $76

Seniors: $11

Day pass for residents & nonresidents: $10/day

If you are a hunter as well, the state offers a hunting and fishing combo plan that you can learn about here, otherwise, you can buy your fishing license through the DNR's site here.