Managing Michigan's Fisheries on Inland Lakes

Inland lakes provide habitat for fish populations that provide ecological, recreational, and subsistence values to society. In fact, 48% of all recreational fishing in Michigan is on inland lakes. Managing fish populations includes regulating fishing, managing habitat to support populations, and collaborating with the public to ensure sustainable fish populations for future generations. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages fish populations on inland lakes in collaboration with other agencies and with the public. This session will include presentations from Matt Diana (DNR Fisheries Biologist), Brian Gunderman (DNR Fisheries Natural Resource Manager), and Joe Nohner (DNR Inland Lakes Resource Analyst). In this session, you’ll learn about how the DNR manages fish and aquatic resources on inland lakes, as fisheries biologists discuss fishing regulations, fish stocking, fish kills, fish habitat projects, the importance of water quality and natural shorelines, and emerging threats to fish and aquatic resources in Michigan. We’ll show you how the DNR assesses fish populations in lakes, how fish populations relate to key habitat features, and share information on grant resources available to benefit inland lakes. DNR biologists will also address frequently asked questions and provide information on how to learn more about maintaining a healthy inland lake ecosystem to sustain fish populations.

Presented during the 2020 Michigan Inland Lakes Convention.