New sportfishing regulations for the upcoming 2022 season

Warmer weather isn’t far away and that means a new fishing season for Michigan anglers. Remember, you will need a new license after April 1st. There are also some changes you need to should be aware of.

Walleye size limit

For Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair River, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has increased the minimum size for walleye – from 13 inches to 15 inches. The change brings the minimum up to match the rest of the state.

Round whitefish limit

DNR also increased the allowable limit for round whitefish (Menominee) on Lake Superior. Though it’s primarily a commercial species, recreational anglers will now be permitted to keep 10 additional fish as part of their daily possession limit.

Spearfishing

Due to its demanding nature, DNR doesn’t expect many walleye, northern pike or lake trout to be caught via spearfishing, but they’ve opened up southern portions of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan for those who want to try it. You’ll need a special, no-cost underwater license to do so and you’ll need to report your attempts and harvest to the DNR. They want to collect information on the activity for future use.

Special hooks on the Torch and Rapid rivers

On Torch River from the Crystal Beach Road Bridge down to Lake Skegemog, including Rapid River up to Aarwood Road Bridge, single-pointed hooks will be required to fish legally. The hooks must be one-half inch or less from point to shank.

Steelhead / Rainbow trout limit

One rainbow trout (steelhead) is permitted daily from March 15 to May 1 on certain inland waters. This bag limit applies to Bear Creek, Manistee River, Pere Marquette, Muskegon River (See Mr. Freeman’s Photo Above), Manistique River and Carp River.