While salmon will put up a good fight and impress you with their size, the common sunfish is easy to catch, tasty to eat and found prolifically in most lakes and streams. The varieties include bluegill, pumpkinseed and the green sunfish. Found in shallows and the weedy water's edge, the sunfish is best caught in early morning and evening but can be caught most anytime. During the hot summer months, the sunfish are found in deeper, cooler waters. Whatever method of sport fishing you enjoy, whichever species you prefer to land, it's important to have a good understanding of state regulations regarding harvesting and possession of fish.
Regulations vary from river to river and lake to lake.
Information on seasons, size limitations, when and where fishing is allowed and how you can take the fish is all outlined in the Michigan Fishing Guide . Published by the state's Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division, the booklets are available free of charge from all fish licensing dealers. Even if you've been fishing Michigan's waters for decades, it's wise to review the updated publication each year. Major regulation changes are highlighted, as well as new fees, programs and safety issues. Northwest Michigan has a long, rich fishing heritage.