Fishing for lake sturgeon is a rare and unique opportunity in Michigan. The month of July brings several season openers.
Detroit River
Fishing season: July 16 – March 15
Catch and release only. All lake sturgeon must be released immediately.
Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River
Fishing season: July 16 – March 15
Possession season: July 16 – Sept. 30
Fish must be between 42 and 50 inches. Lake sturgeon less than 42 inches and greater than 50 inches must be released immediately.
Otsego Lake (Otsego County)
Fishing/possession season: July 16 – March 15
Fish must be a minimum of 50 inches. Lake sturgeon less than 50 inches must be released immediately.
Anglers are limited to catching and keeping one lake sturgeon per year (April 1 – March 31) and are required to report, within 24 hours, any lake sturgeon they take. Reporting can be done online at michigan.gov/registerfish, by calling toll-free 844-345-FISH or in person at any DNR Customer Service Center during normal state business hours with advance notice of arrival.
