MSU Extension

Fishing, whether for recreation or profit, makes an important contribution to Michigan’s economy. The impact of sport fishing is estimated to be in excess of $4 billion annually and provides more than 38,000 jobs, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.

Michigan Sea Grant Extension, in partnership with fisheries agencies and stakeholder organizations such as Michigan Fish Producers and Michigan Charter Boat associations, holds workshops to discuss the latest research findings, lake management updates and fishing trends. Workshops provide valuable information for anglers, commercial fishers, charter captains, resource professionals and others. In addition, attendees have the opportunity to weigh in on important fisheries management issues and interact with scientists.

Stakeholders have contributed input toward management decisions over the years such as reductions in chinook salmon stocking, adaptive management regulations for Saginaw Bay yellow perch and walleye, and engagement with native cisco restoration efforts in lakes Huron and Michigan.

• 10 workshops were held in 2017, involving more than 500 stakeholders.
• Fishery-related businesses gain insights relating to Great Lakes fisheries resources around which their businesses depend. 
• Recreational anglers learn the latest in fishing trends and also can become citizen scientists by collecting data through the Great Lakes Angler Diary program.