Michigan DNR releases fish restocking numbers for the state

What’s happening: After a busy fall stocking season for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, local waterways are filled with tons of fish — 8.6 tons specifically. Rearing seven species at 76 hatcheries across Michigan, some 648,557 fish were released in the hopes of increasing the populations of traditional fishing targets like rainbow trout, steelheads and muskies. 

Upper Peninsula stock increases: Three Upper Peninsula locations and a northern Lower Peninsula hatchery helped grow the fish stock in the region. Marquette State Fish Hatchery stocked almost 28,000 brook trout fingerlings in 27 locations in the U.P.. Thompson State Fish Hatchery near Manistique stocked over 3,000 muskies and 330,000 steelhead fingerlings in the central and eastern parts of the Upper Peninsula. Working with the Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sportfishermen, a total of 8,026 walleye fingerlings also hit the waters. 

What they’re saying: “This was another exceptional fall fish stocking season, enhancing fishing opportunities throughout Michigan,” said DNR fish production manager Aaron Switzer. “Combined with successful spring and summer stocking efforts, the 2025 total reached nearly 19.5 million fish stocked in Michigan’s waters.”

What’s next: The DNR will continue its year-long hatching program as it looks forward to the spring stocking season. While the fall provided an opportunity for seven species, the larger stocking season is in the spring, allowing fresh opportunities for amateur anglers and pros alike a chance to enjoy Michigan waterways.