So You Hooked a Michigan Bass: Master of the Messy Net or Keeper for the Cooler?
Let's face it, reeling in a bass in the "Great Lakes State" is a brag-worthy feat. But before you envision yourself on the podium at a bass-tacular tournament, there's a hurdle to jump: is your bass big enough to keep? Fear not, fellow fishers, for this guide will have you releasing like a pro (or legally keeping your catch) in no time!
Size Does Matter (Unless You're Talking About Your Boat)
Michigan has different size requirements for the two most common bass types:
- Largemouth Bass: This bronze beauty needs to be at least 15 inches long to be a keeper.
- Smallmouth Bass: These feisty fighters gotta be 14 inches or more to make it to your bucket.
Remember, these are minimum lengths! A whopper of a bass is always better left in the water to spawn and thrill future anglers (and maybe even you, on another fishing adventure!).
Exceptions: The Plot Thickens (Like Bass Chowder)
Now, Michigan likes to keep things interesting, so there can be exceptions to these size limits depending on where you're fishing. Here's where things get tricky:
- Special Regulations Zones: Some lakes and rivers have special rules. Always check the Michigan DNR website or app before casting your line to make sure you're following the local bass code.
- Going Up North: Head to the Upper Peninsula? The size limit for smallmouth bass might be different up there. Be sure to double-check the regulations for your specific fishing spot.
Breaking the rules is a surefire way to turn your fishing trip into a fin-ancial disaster (fines, anyone?). Don't let a misunderstanding turn your trophy catch into a costly mistake!
Reelin' in the Facts: Quick Recap
- Largemouth Bass: Gotta be 15 inches or longer.
- Smallmouth Bass: Needs to be at least 14 inches.
- Double-check regulations: There might be special rules depending on your location.
- Respect the resource: Bigger bass means more babies, which means a healthier fishery for everyone.
How To... Bass Boss FAQs
1. How to Measure a Bass? Measure the fish from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail with its mouth closed. Be honest! A fish slightly undersized is better off returned to the water.
2. How Many Bass Can I Keep? The daily limit in Michigan is 5 bass in any combination of largemouth and smallmouth.
3. How to Release a Bass Unharmed? Wet your hands before handling the fish and avoid squeezing it. If the fish is hooked deep, cut the line as close to the hook as possible.
4. How to Find Out About Special Regulations? Check the Michigan DNR website (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing/fishing-regulations), download the Michigan DNR app, or ask a local bait shop for the latest information.
5. How to Be an Awesome Angler? Practice catch-and-release for bigger fish, dispose of fishing line properly, and always be respectful of the environment. Tight lines!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
