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🐟 Walleye

Walleye Regulations — Michigan 2026

Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) · Always verify before fishing
Quick Reference — Michigan Walleye
Minimum Size
15 inches
Slot: Varies by water body
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Possession: 10
Season
Varies by water — inland lakes typically open in May
Slot Limit
⚠ Slot limit in effect: Varies by water body
Special Rules & Notes
Lake Erie (shared with Ohio) has specific joint regulations. Lake St. Clair and Detroit River have separate regulations.
Popular Michigan Waters
  • Lake Erie
  • Lake St. Clair
  • Houghton Lake
  • Saginaw Bay
Tips for Michigan Walleye Fishing
Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River are exceptional early season walleye destinations.
Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron is another top Michigan walleye fishery.
Common Questions
The statewide minimum for walleye is 15 inches with a 5-fish daily bag limit. Lake Erie follows the joint Ohio-Michigan-Ontario regulation.
Related Regulations
🐟 Walleye
Ohio
15 inches on Lake Erie, 12 inches inland · 6 per day on Lake Erie, 10 inland
🐟 Walleye
Wisconsin
15 inches · 5 per day
🐟 Walleye
Minnesota
15 inches (statewide) · 6 per day
Important: Fishing regulations change annually. This page reflects regulations for 2026 but always verify current rules with Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) before fishing. Some waters have special regulations that differ from the statewide rules.