Help protect sturgeon while ice fishing this season

DNR reminds anglers of lake sturgeon fishing regulations and rehabilitation efforts

Ice fishing has been good this season, but anglers on the ice targeting walleye or other fish may unexpectedly find themselves with a lake sturgeon on the line. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers that regulations on the targeting and harvest of lake sturgeon are in effect, and that on most waters of the state, fishing for lake sturgeon is prohibited and any lake sturgeon caught must be released immediately.

What is a lake sturgeon?

Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens), the only sturgeon species found in the Great Lakes, are unique in appearance and characteristics. They have five rows of bony plates, called scutes, on their backs and sides, as well as whisker-like barbels near their mouths. Often referred to as “living fossils” or “dinosaur fish,” lake sturgeon first appeared in the fossil record in the Mesozoic Era, 100 million to 150 million years ago. These fish are long-lived, with some documented at more than 100 years old. Lake sturgeon are freshwater fish native to Michigan and found in North America throughout the Great Lakes, Mississippi and Hudson River basins. The species is an important cultural resource in the region, in addition to its ecological significance. But due to overfishing and habitat loss and degradation, lake sturgeon populations in Michigan began to decline in the 1800s.

Why are lake sturgeon protected?

As a result of declines in lake sturgeon populations, in 1994 the State of Michigan listed lake sturgeon as a threatened species. Since then, the DNR has partnered with state, federal and tribal agencies to rehabilitate lake sturgeon in the state. The goals of these efforts are to conserve lake sturgeon populations that are currently self-sustaining and to rehabilitate depressed or declining populations to self-sustaining levels so that lake sturgeon can be removed from the threatened species list.

As part of this rehabilitation strategy, the DNR and partners stock lake sturgeon in several rivers and lakes in Michigan. Lake sturgeon are raised in streamside rearing facilities. At these facilities, naturally produced eggs or larval lake sturgeon are captured in their natal (birthplace) streams and brought into the rearing facilities, where they are protected from predators while still “imprinting” on the stream or river. This increases their survival and the chances that the sturgeon will return to the stream or river as mature adults to reproduce.

Where can anglers target sturgeon?

Anglers can target lake sturgeon in Michigan only in designated waters during designated seasons. In some of these waters, lake sturgeon may be targeted, but must be released immediately; in others, a possession season with size restrictions is in effect. Waters with sturgeon possession seasons include: Lake St. Clair and St. Clair River. Otsego Lake. Menominee River. Black Lake. Waters with sturgeon fishing seasons (catch-and-release only) include: Detroit River. St. Marys River. Portage Lake and Torch Lake. Ontonagon River.

In all other waters in the state of Michigan, it is unlawful to fish for lake sturgeon. Sturgeon are frequently caught incidentally in Saginaw Bay, the Saginaw River, the Kalamazoo River, the Grand River, Muskegon Lake, the Muskegon River, Manistee Lake and the Manistee River, but cannot be targeted in those waters — anglers should be aware of the possibility of incidental lake sturgeon catch and of these regulations.

Any lake sturgeon caught incidentally while targeting other species must be released immediately. When temperatures are below freezing, fish gills can freeze quickly, making it important to release sturgeon into the water as quickly as possible to increase their chances of survival.

“We know that encountering a fish as iconic as the lake sturgeon is a memorable moment for most anglers, but even the time you take to snap a photo can be extremely detrimental to the fish’s health and survival,” said Jeffrey Jolley, Southern Lake Huron unit manager with the DNR Fisheries Division. “A prompt release ensures a healthy sturgeon.”

See page 15 of the 2024 Michigan Fishing Regulations, which remain in effect through March 31, 2025, for detailed information on lake sturgeon fishing regulations, fishing and possession season dates and size requirements.

How do I report a sturgeon harvest?

Where harvest is allowed, lake sturgeon harvest is limited to one (1) lake sturgeon per angler, per license year (April 1-March 31). If you harvest a lake sturgeon, you are required to report the harvest within 24 hours. Lake sturgeon harvest can be reported online at Michigan.gov/RegisterFish, by phone at 888-636-7778 or in person at any DNR customer service center. To report a harvest in person, visit a customer service center during normal business hours and provide advance notice of your arrival by calling ahead.

Anglers can also report catch and release of lake sturgeon using the lake sturgeon form at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField.

To report illegal harvest or targeting of lake sturgeon, call or text the Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800 or complete the Report All Poaching form at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField.

For more information on lake sturgeon visit Michigan.gov/Sturgeon or visit the DNR’s Lake Sturgeon Management page for details on management and restoration efforts in Michigan.

Note to editors: The accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

• Close-up sturgeon: The Michigan DNR has partnered with state, federal and tribal agencies to rehabilitate lake sturgeon in the state.
• Harvested sturgeon: Anglers can target and harvest lake sturgeon in Michigan only in designated waters during designated seasons.

• Meet some of Michigan’s mighty winter birds
• Happy Little (Virtual) 5K: Get outdoors, support trees
• Sign up for weekly Pure Michigan Snow Report
• Love trails? Apply for open advisory workgroup spots
• Photo ambassador snapshot: Lake Michigan majesty

See other news releases, Showcasing the DNR stories, photos and other resources at Michigan.gov/DNRPressRoom.

PHOTOS: Larger, higher-res versions of some of the images used in this email (fat-tire biking, black-capped chickadee, cardinal, snowshoeing, ORV and kayaker) are available in the DNR’s public image gallery.

Meet some of Michigan’s mighty winter birds

Brrr … it’s cold outside! But for many of our feathered friends, winter in Michigan is just another season. Get to know a few of our small and resourceful winter birds and the clever survival tactics they use to stay warm and find food throughout the winter. The black-capped chickadee is an expert at staying cozy in cold temperatures – shivering and contracting opposite muscle groups to stay warm, and even lowering its body temperature at night and entering regulated hypothermia to conserve energy. These birds are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders, carrying sunflower seeds to store in tree bark for later, when food is scarce. How to ID: This small and lively bird has a black cap and bib, gray back and buff (yellowish-brown) wash on its sides. The downy woodpecker uses its small size to its advantage, feeding on weed stalks and drilling into trees to create roosts to keep warm during cold winter nights. How to ID: This is the smallest woodpecker in North America, between the size of a robin and sparrow. It has a white back, a black-and-white striped face, and a very short, stubby bill. Male “downys” also have a red spot on the nape (back of the neck).

Another familiar sight is the northern cardinal. These brilliant red birds puff out their feathers into a round shape to trap heat, making them look even more striking against a snowy backdrop. Their diet is highly variable, which gives them a greater chance of finding food in the winter. Cardinals begin their courtship this season – look for pairs sweetly feeding seeds and berries to one another. How to ID: The male cardinal is unmistakable and is our only red bird with a crest. The female isn’t as bright in color, but shares the crest, massive pink-orange bill and long tail of the male. Want to learn more about these and other winter birds and where to find them? Read the full story brought to you by MI Birds, an outreach and education program presented by the DNR and Audubon Great Lakes. Happy winter birding! Questions? Contact Nicole Minadeo at 419-308-4846. A note about bird health: While the birds mentioned above are not as susceptible to highly pathogenic avian influenza as scavenging wild birds (e.g., eagles, hawks and owls), do keep an eye out for any dead birds and report die-offs of six or more birds through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field app. HPAI is a highly contagious respiratory virus suspected in recent waterfowl die-offs in Lower Michigan. Learn more at the DNR’s HPAI webpage.

Happy Little (Virtual) 5K: Get outdoors, support trees

Run, walk or roll to support tree planting and forest protection efforts in state parks. Registration is open for this spring’s Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5k – the popular event that has expanded to 13 states, thanks to Maryland, Tennesssee and Virginia joining the effort.

“What started six years ago in Michigan as a small but meaningful way to bring people together through running and art has now grown into something truly special,” said Michelle O’Kelly, fund developer for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

“Expanding the Happy Little Trees 5K to 13 states is a testament to the power of community, nature and the lasting inspiration of beloved artist and TV host Bob Ross,” O’Kelly said. “Seeing this program flourish fills me with pride, and I can’t wait for even more people to experience the joy it brings. Join us in celebrating this milestone; lace up, hit the trails and be part of something bigger.”

When registering (recommended by April 1), you can pick your state to represent, creating a sense of pride and friendly competition as states rally together for the cause. Selecting your state is easy; just choose it from the dropdown menu. (Be sure to mention this to your out-of-state family and friends so they can sign up, too!)

Register today and get ready to create happy little moments on the trail or road. As a participant in this virtual event, you pick the pace and place. Do your 5K anytime April 19-27 (the week of Earth Day and Arbor Day).

Don’t wait to sign up — race packets start shipping March 1. Registration is $36 and includes your keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, finisher’s medal, commemorative bib number and shipping. Get more race information and register today.

Questions? Contact Michelle O’Kelly at 517-899-5211.

Sign up for weekly Pure Michigan Snow Report

If you’re a fan of the Pure Michigan Fall Color Update, you know the value of having up-to-date information about when and where those red, orange and yellow hues are set to peak around the state. For snow-goers, too, Pure Michigan has you covered! Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes, tackle the trails or simply soak up some snow time in the great outdoors, sign up now for the Pure Michigan Snow Report to receive weekly updates that will include snowfall predictions, recreation opportunities, seasonal events and weatherproof fun throughout both peninsulas.

Love trails? Apply for open advisory workgroup spots

If you’re as passionate about trails as we are, and you’d like to help shape state-designated routes and pathways throughout Michigan, apply for one of several volunteer positions now open for two of the DNR’s advisory workgroups. “The DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division, which oversees our statewide trails system, relies on input and guidance from residents to help us maintain, improve and grow the thousands of miles of motorized and nonmotorized trails in communities around the state,” said Tim Novak, state trails coordinator. “We’re excited to share these workgroup openings and continue the work of providing outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy and explore, efforts that help elevate Michigan’s reputation as the Trails State.” Positions are available on both the Nonmotorized Advisory Workgroup, or NAW, and the Off-Road Vehicle Advisory Workgroup, also known as ORVAW. Both groups are subcommittees of the Michigan Trails Advisory Council, assisting with the council’s duties and responsibilities and providing the DNR advice related to the creation, development, operation and maintenance of the state’s designated trails system.

Details on vacancies

NAW: This workgroup, which meets quarterly, is seeking to fill two positions with a focus on water trails. Successful candidates should have an interest in paddling sports, the Great Lakes and our inland lakes and rivers. These positions are two-year terms. Fill out this application to apply for NAW positions. ORVAW: Four new positions are available for this workgroup following passage of new bylaws that expanded the committee from seven to 11 members. These four-year-term positions include one ORV safety instructor representative, one full-size vehicle user representative and two at-large representatives. ORVAW also meets on a quarterly basis. Fill out this application to apply for ORVAW positions. Applications will be accepted through March 15. Questions? Contact Tim Novak at 517-388-8347.

Photo ambassador snapshot: Lake Michigan majesty

See more pictures by Michigan state parks photo ambassadors at Instagram.com/MiStateParks. For more on the program, call Stephanie Yancer at 989-274-6182. (This photo is by Brandon Johnson, for the Michigan DNR, at Hog Island Point State Forest Campground in Mackinac County.)

• Natural Resources Commission to meet Feb. 13 in Lansing
• Best practices for stress-free snowy owl viewing
• Become a lighthouse keeper at Tawas Point Lighthouse
• Save the webinar dates, learn the secrets of birding hot spots
• February full of fun with DNR events
• Photo ambassador snapshot: Lovely Ludington

See other news releases, Showcasing the DNR stories, photos and other resources at Michigan.gov/DNRPressRoom.

PHOTOS: Larger, higher-res versions of some of the images used in this email (bear, snowy owl, black-necked stilt, lantern-lit trail) are available in the DNR’s public image gallery. Other photos include Tawas Point and invasive species expo.

Natural Resources Commission to meet Feb. 13 in Lansing

The next meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission – Thursday, Feb. 13, in Lansing – includes an overview of fiscal year 2026 operational budgets for the DNR Fisheries and Wildlife divisions, a summary and schedule of wildlife regulations, a look at bear population trends and regulations, a DNR legislative report, and an update on Wildlife Conservation Order Amendment No. 1 of 2025, which proposes to keep the recently acquired Gete Mino Mshkiigan property in Cheboygan County open to hunting following the integration into the North Central State Trail as state park property. The day starts at 9:30 a.m. in the Michigan Room, first floor of Lansing Community College’s Downtown Campus, 600 N. Grand Ave. in Lansing. (Parking is available on first floor in the ramp.) See the draft meeting agenda and remaining 2025 meeting dates at Michigan.gov/NRC. For more information or to request time to speak at the meeting, email [email protected].

Best practices for stress-free snowy owl viewing

Each winter, Michigan welcomes the large, magnificent snowy owl from the Arctic tundra – and its appearance can attract a lot of attention! This season, these elusive visitors have been seen across the state. While exciting for us, these visits to Michigan can pose unfamiliar threats to the owls. Unfamiliar urban landscapes put them at risk from curious humans, rodent poisoning, and vehicle and power line collisions. Here are a few quick tips for viewing these majestic visitors, while helping to keep them stress-free and safe: Give them space. When snowy owls visit Michigan in winter, they don’t often display signs of fear toward humans. A good rule of thumb is to view the owls from a great distance, using binoculars or a scope, rather than approach them. Don’t lure owls with audio recordings. While it might be tempting to use audio recordings to attract snowy owls closer to you, hearing another owl’s call – even a recorded one – can be stressful to them. Don’t lure owls with live bait. This practice can be dangerous for owls when it’s done by photographers and birders looking to get a glimpse. Owls learn to associate people with food and can be drawn to dangerous places, like roads or airports, where people can be found. Submit your eBird observations to scientists but keep them hidden from the public. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to keep your eBird checklist hidden and why discretion is sometimes needed to protect certain birds, like owls.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can help snowy owls on their wintering grounds here in Michigan. Seeing a snowy owl is an unforgettable sight; plan your owling trip for February, as they will begin their journey back to the Arctic the following month.

Read the full article, brought to you by MI Birds, an outreach and education program of the DNR and Audubon Great Lakes.

Questions? Contact Erin Ford at 313-820-0809.

Become a lighthouse keeper at Tawas Point Lighthouse

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a lighthouse keeper? If that sounds like your dream adventure, grab three friends and apply to the 2025 Lighthouse Keeper Program at Tawas Point Lighthouse located in Tawas Point State Park. Opportunities are available from early June through late October. For just $250 per person, keepers will live along the Lake Huron shoreline in a historic lighthouse keeper’s dwelling for two weeks. The living space features modern accommodations, including two bedrooms that can sleep four adults, a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom with a shower. Learn about the recent restoration of the Tawas Light in this Showcasing the DNR story. During their stay, lighthouse keepers help greet visitors, lead tours, provide information about the historic structure and perform basic facility maintenance. The keeper schedule is designed to allow time to enjoy recreational activities, soak up the stunning surroundings and explore the region, all while providing valuable volunteer services. The total per-person service commitment is about 60 hours over the two weeks. “Volunteering at the Tawas Point Lighthouse is a unique experience that combines the region’s cultural history and natural sciences,” said Don La Barre, Tawas Point Lighthouse site historian. “You’ll dive into the lighthouse’s fascinating history, which dates back to the 1870s. Join us as a volunteer lighthouse keeper in the 2025 season and make your mark on this historic landmark!” Keepers apply in teams of four. Team members must be at least 18 years old and able to climb the 85 steps to the top of the tower. There is a $40 nonrefundable application fee. Applications are due by Friday, Feb. 28, and successful applicants will be notified no later than March 14. For more information and application details, visit the Michigan History Center’s Lighthouse Keepers webpage or email [email protected].

Save the webinar dates, learn the secrets of birding hot spots

Whether from the comfort of home or while out exploring our favorite public lands, Michigan’s birds connect us to the beauty of our natural world. Join MI Birds, an outreach program of Audubon Great Lakes and the DNR, for a free lunch-hour webinar series dedicated to Michigan’s incredible birds. With the 2025 MI Birds webinar series, you can learn about where to spot birds, the public lands and other habitats they depend on, and the ongoing efforts to conserve them. When you RSVP to save your spot for each webinar, you’ll get a reminder email leading up to each event.

• Demystifying Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, Friday, March 21 (noon to 1 p.m. ET)

Pointe Mouillee State Game Area is one of southeast Michigan’s premier birding destinations! From black-bellied plovers to glossy ibises, discover the unique birds that inhabit this Wetland Wonder and Audubon Important Bird Area, conservation efforts to support them, and tips to enhance your visit. RSVP for March 21 webinar.

• Demystifying Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area, Friday, May 9 (noon to 1 p.m. ET)

On the shores of Lake Michigan, Portage Marsh is an important coastal wetland that provides a protected area for waterfowl and wetland species. Hundreds of bird species fly through Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area, near Escanaba, each spring. Get to know this Audubon Important Bird Area and Wetland Wonder, the birds you might see, recreation opportunities (including a hiking trail that runs along the peninsula) and the ongoing work to protect this vibrant ecosystem. RSVP for May 9 webinar.

• Demystifying Paw Paw River State Game Area and the West Michigan Coastal Corridor, Thursday, July 17 (noon to 1 p.m. ET)

Learn about the new Paw Paw River State Game Area, an exciting addition to southwest Michigan! Discover the critical habitat this area provides for migrating songbirds, as well as habitat management efforts and other birding hot spots along the West Michigan Coastal Corridor. RSVP for July 17 webinar.

Questions? Contact Erin Ford at 313-820-0809.

February full of fun with DNR events

Our February calendar is jam-packed with opportunities to get out and enjoy Michigan’s natural and cultural resources – here are a few highlights. For a full list of DNR events, see Michigan.gov/DNRCalendar.

Snowshoe hikes: Fresh air, fitness, fab views

Several state parks will host snowshoe or cross-country ski events – some by lantern or candlelight – this month, including: Lantern-lit snowshoeing, presented by Van Riper State Park on the grounds of the Michigan Iron Industry Museum in Negaunee Feb. 7. At Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Paradise, both guided snowshoe hikes and lantern-it snowshoe events Feb. 8, Feb. 15 and Feb. 22. A lantern-lit guided snowshoe hike at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon Feb. 8. A lantern-lit hike at Orchard Beach State Park in Manistee Feb. 14. Candlelight cross-country skiing at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in Metamora Feb. 15. In addition to a lantern-lit trail, the Porkies Winter Snowburst Carnival at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon, Feb. 22, will feature a youth treasure hunt, a chance to learn how to ski, cardboard sled races, fireworks and more. Find more details about these and other cold-weather events at Michigan.gov/WinterFun.

Outdoor Skills Academy: Bird watching, ice fishing

If you’re interested in learning more about bird watching or ice fishing, the DNR Outdoor Skills Academy can help!

Birding Basics, Feb. 15 at the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery Visitor Center in Mattawan, will teach new birders about identification techniques, behavioral clues, foraging styles and habitat types. The class also will introduce participants to birding tools such as binoculars and to free birding resources and apps, explore ways they can get involved in community science projects, and cover birding etiquette and ethics. Cost is $25. Each participant will receive a bird field guide and be entered into a drawing for a grand prize.

Advanced Hard Water School, Feb. 15-16 at the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center in Cadillac’s Mitchell State Park, will cover advanced techniques for catching panfish, walleye and northern pike through the ice. Instructors will spend the first day indoors, focused on which lures and rigs are best for varying conditions, how to effectively use sonar and camera electronics, and tip-up styles and rigging techniques. Day 2 features fishing on the ice. Cost is $50, which includes lunch Saturday.

All-ages events at the OAC

If you live in or are visiting the Detroit area, check out the Outdoor Adventure Center activity schedule for fun and educational programs for all ages (kids to seniors), both indoors and outdoors. The February calendar includes archery, yoga, birding, ice fishing and much more. Don’t miss Girls Night Out: Galentine’s Archery Games Feb. 14, the Birding Expo Feb. 16 and the Invasive Species Awareness Expo Feb. 23.

Free Fishing Weekend Feb. 15-16

Two days twice a year, you can enjoy one of Michigan’s premier outdoor activities, fishing, for free! The winter Free Fishing Weekend is Feb. 15-16 – all fishing license fees will be waived for those two days, and a Recreation Passport will not be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites. Remember that all fishing regulations will still apply, and be sure to review ice safety tips before heading out.

Photo ambassador snapshot: Lovely Ludington

See more pictures by Michigan state parks photo ambassadors at Instagram.com/MiStateParks. For more on the program, call Stephanie Yancer at 989-274-6182. (This photo is by Aubry Healy, for the Michigan DNR, at Ludington State Park.)