Fishing Fun: 7 Michigan State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Surrounded by four Great Lakes and dotted with thousands of inland waters, Michigan is a prime destination for anglers. From remote northern wilderness to easy-access lakes near cities, the state’s parks offer a diverse array of sites and scenery to check out from a private boat dock for rent or a marina. Whether you’re chasing trout, walleye or bass, here are seven of the best Michigan state parks for fishing.

1. Cheboygan State Park 

Located near the Straits of Mackinac, Cheboygan State Park offers anglers miles of Lake Huron shoreline and access to Duncan Bay and Elliot Creek. The cold, clear waters are perfect for lake trout, salmon and walleye. The park’s carry-in boat launch makes it easy to get on the water if you’re trailering from a private boat lift for rent. Its quiet beaches make it a beautiful fishing escape.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, salmon, trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Craig Lake State Park

Hidden deep in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Champion, Craig Lake State Park is the state’s most remote park — and one of its wildest fishing destinations. Reachable only by rugged trails, its lakes (there are six) are teeming with northern pike, muskellunge and bass. Bring your canoe or kayak for an unforgettable backcountry fishing trip surrounded by loons and pine forests.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, northern pike, muskellunge
• Fishing Type: Shore, kayak, canoe

3. Seven Lakes State Park 

Just an hour north of Detroit, Seven Lakes State Park in Holly lives up to its name. With several connected lakes, it’s ideal for anglers who like variety. You can catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, pike and crappie. The boat launch, fishing piers and picnic areas make it perfect for families and weekend anglers to visit from a private boat slip rental.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, pike, crappie, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore 

4. Lake Gogebic State Park 

Michigan’s largest inland lake, Lake Gogebic, offers incredible fishing from its scenic state park on the western Upper Peninsula. Anglers here regularly reel in walleye, smallmouth bass and perch. The Marenisco park’s campground hugs the lakeshore, so you can cast a line right from your campsite or head out for a sunrise troll on the lake’s deep waters.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, walleye, perch
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park 

Home to one of Michigan’s most iconic waterfalls, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, in Paradise, also boasts great fishing along the Tahquamenon River. Expect pike, walleye, perch and brown trout, especially near the river mouth. Combine your fishing trip with a hike to the falls for one of the most breathtaking outdoor experiences in the state.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Perch, brown trout, walleye, pike
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat

6. Bay City State Park 

Located on Saginaw Bay in Bay City, Bay City State Park is a top destination for anglers without boats. The park features accessible fishing piers, abundant shoreline and plenty of opportunities to catch catfish, bass and panfish. It’s also a family-friendly spot with playgrounds and picnic shelters just steps from the water.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, panfish, bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, pier

7. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

In Copper Harbor, at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Fort Wilkins State Park offers fishing in both Lake Fanny Hooe and Lake Superior. Try your luck for trout, perch and pike, and then explore the restored 19th-century military outpost nearby. It’s a perfect mix of history, scenery and excellent fishing.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, pike, perch
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat