More people fishing in Michigan as state considers license fee hikes

Today marks the first day of the 2026 fishing season, which means anglers need a new license and need to pay attention to some notable regulation changes.

By: Laura Herberg

Outlets: Bridge Michigan

Published: April 1, 2026

Words: 1,044

Last Updated: 3 months, 3 weeks ago


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  • The number of people buying fishing licenses in Michigan has trended up slightly over the last 10 years, but dropped between 2024 and 2025
  • The 2026 fishing regulation season starts today, which means anglers will need new licenses
  • A handful of notable regulations will take effect this year, including protections for a fish known as ‘freshwater cod,’ a new limit while fishing near two rock reefs and underwater spearfishing expansions

The number of …

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