If you’re an avid fisherman who loves the thrill of trying to land a giant catfish, then Michigan is the perfect place for you! Not only is it full of rivers and lakes teeming with these delicious tasting fish, but they’re also easy to find thanks to densely populated fishing spots all around the state.
From tips on challenging waters near the Upper Peninsula down to bobbers floating in warm southern waters like Lake St. Clair and beyond, there’s something for everyone when it comes to catching catfish in Michigan — regardless of whether you prefer beach seining or using live baits.
In this blog post we’ll explore some of the best places for reeling in a big haul and provide tips on how to be successful while out on your next expedition!
Best Catfish Fishing Locations in Michigan
Michigan is not only known for its picturesque landscapes, but it also boasts some of the best catfish fishing locations in the United States. With a vast array of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, Michigan provides a variety of prime habitats for catfish species. Here are some of the top spots to reel in your next big catch, complete with even more details about each location.
1. Detroit River
The Detroit River is a 28-mile long river that serves as the border between the United States and Canada. It flows from Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie and is part of the Great Lakes Waterway. The river has a rich history dating back to Native American tribes and European settlers. It played a significant role in the region’s development, with numerous industries and communities established along its banks. The river’s width varies from about 0.5 miles to over 2 miles, offering plenty of room for anglers to find their perfect fishing spot. The best time to fish for catfish in the Detroit River is during the warmer months, from May to October.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Wyandotte: The area around Wyandotte offers excellent shore fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
- Trenton Channel: This stretch of the Detroit River is known for its deep holes and strong currents, providing ideal habitat for catfish.
- Grosse Ile: The waters surrounding Grosse Ile offer a mix of depths and structure, making it a great location for both boat and shore anglers.
Fishing Techniques:
- Drift fishing: Use live bait on a sliding sinker rig to target catfish in deeper water, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait.
- Bottom bouncing: Employ a bottom bouncer rig with a worm harness or spinner to attract catfish in areas with a mix of current and structure.
- Slip float rigs: Use a slip float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Walleye
- Smallmouth Bass
2. Grand River
The Grand River is the longest river in Michigan, spanning approximately 252 miles. It flows from its headwaters in Hillsdale County to its mouth in Lake Michigan. The river has a storied past, serving as an important transportation route for Native Americans and European settlers. Today, it is a popular destination for anglers due to its diverse fish population and scenic surroundings. Depths can vary from shallow water to over 20 feet deep, providing different habitats for various fish species. The best time to fish for catfish in the Grand River is from late spring to early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Grand Rapids: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Grand Rapids, where there are plenty of access points for shore anglers.
- Lansing: The area around Lansing offers excellent fishing opportunities, with several parks and public access points along the river.
- Jackson: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Jackson, where the river widens and slows.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Largemouth Bass
- Northern Pike
3. Saginaw River
The Saginaw River is a 22-mile long river located in eastern Michigan, flowing from Saginaw Bay into Lake Huron. The river is known for its rich history, which includes Native American settlements, lumber and shipping industries, and a vibrant commercial fishing trade. Today, the Saginaw River is a popular spot for recreational fishing, particularly for catfish. Depths can range from 12 feet to over 40 feet, providing numerous opportunities for anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Saginaw River is from late spring through early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Saginaw: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Saginaw, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Bay City: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Bay City, where the river widens and slows.
- Zilwaukee: The area around Zilwaukee offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Drift fishing: Use live bait on a sliding sinker rig to target catfish in deeper water, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait.
- Anchor fishing: Set up in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Casting from shore: Cast live bait or artificial lures from shoreline access points to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Walleye
- Yellow Perch
4. St. Joseph River
The St. Joseph River is a 206-mile-long river that flows through southwestern Michigan and northern Indiana, ultimately emptying into Lake Michigan. The river has a rich history, with Native American tribes and European settlers utilizing its waters for transportation and trade. Today, the St. Joseph River offers excellent fishing opportunities for various species, including catfish. Depths can vary greatly along the river, with some areas as shallow as 3 feet and others reaching depths of over 30 feet. The best time to fish for catfish in the St. Joseph River is from late spring to early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Niles: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Niles, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Three Rivers: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Three Rivers, where the river widens and slows.
- Berrien Springs: The area around Berrien Springs offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Steelhead Trout
- Salmon
5. Lake St. Clair
Lake St. Clair is a freshwater lake that spans approximately 430 square miles. It is between Lake Huron and Lake Erie, connecting them through the St. Clair and Detroit Rivers. The lake is known for its shallow waters, with an average depth of 11 feet, and abundant fish populations, making it an ideal location for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in Lake St. Clair is from late spring through early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Anchor Bay: Fish the deeper holes and structure in Anchor Bay, where there are plenty of access points for shore and boat anglers.
- St. Clair Flats: Target catfish in the shallow, weedy areas of the St. Clair Flats, which provide excellent habitat for catfish.
- St. Clair River: Fish the deeper holes and structure along the St. Clair River, where catfish often congregate.
Fishing Techniques:
- Drift fishing: Use live bait on a sliding sinker rig to target catfish in deeper water, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait.
- Trolling: Employ trolling techniques with crankbaits or spinnerbaits to cover more water and locate active catfish.
- Casting from shore: Cast live bait or artificial lures from shoreline access points to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Yellow Perch
6. Muskegon River
The Muskegon River is a 216-mile long river in western Michigan, flowing from Houghton Lake to Muskegon Lake and eventually into Lake Michigan. The river is known for its breathtaking scenery and abundant fish populations, making it an ideal location for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Muskegon River is from late spring through early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Newaygo: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Newaygo, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Big Rapids: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Big Rapids, where the river widens and slows.
- Muskegon: The area around Muskegon offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Walleye
- Smallmouth Bass
7. Kalamazoo River
The Kalamazoo River is a 178-mile long river that flows through southwestern Michigan, eventually emptying into Lake Michigan. The river is known for its rich history and diverse fish populations, making it an attractive destination for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Kalamazoo River is from late spring to early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Battle Creek: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Battle Creek, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Plainwell: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Plainwell, where the river widens and slows.
- Saugatuck: The area around Saugatuck offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Largemouth Bass
- Northern Pike
8. Tittabawassee River
The Tittabawassee River is a 72-mile long river located in eastern Michigan, flowing from its headwaters in Roscommon County to its confluence with the Saginaw River. The river is known for its scenic beauty and diverse fish populations, making it a popular destination for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Tittabawassee River is from late spring through early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Midland: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Midland, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Freeland: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Freeland, where the river widens and slows.
- Saginaw: The area around Saginaw offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Walleye
- Smallmouth Bass
9. Huron River
The Huron River is a 130-mile long river that flows through southeastern Michigan, eventually emptying into Lake Erie. The river is known for its picturesque scenery and diverse fish populations, making it an ideal location for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Huron River is from late spring through early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Ann Arbor: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Ann Arbor, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Ypsilanti: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Ypsilanti, where the river widens and slows.
- Flat Rock: The area around Flat Rock offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Largemouth Bass
10. Manistee River
The Manistee River is a 190-mile long river that flows through northern Michigan, eventually emptying into Lake Michigan. The river is known for its pristine waters, dense forests, and diverse fish populations, making it an attractive destination for catfish anglers. The best time to fish for catfish in the Manistee River is from late spring to early fall.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Grayling: Fish the deeper holes and structure near downtown Grayling, where several parks and public access points are along the river.
- Cadillac: Target catfish in the deeper pools and undercut banks downstream of Cadillac, where the river widens and slows.
- Manistee: The area around Manistee offers excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous parks and public access points along the river.
Fishing Techniques:
- Bank fishing: Cast live bait, such as nightcrawlers or cut bait, on a sliding sinker rig to reach catfish holding near the bottom.
- Boat fishing: Drift fish or anchor in deeper holes and structure, using live bait or prepared catfish baits.
- Float fishing: Use a float rig with live bait to target catfish in shallower water or along shoreline structure.
Fish Species Commonly Found:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Blue Catfish
- Steelhead Trout
- Salmon
Fishing is an excellent activity for spending time outdoors and bonding with friends or family. Michigan boasts some of the best catfish fishing locations, giving anglers plenty of options for their next excursion! Whether you’re looking for a day trip to Lake St. Clair or planning an overnight camping experience on the Muskegon River, Michigan has something special to offer every type of angler.
If you’re searching for a unique yet rewarding outdoor experience, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and plan your next adventure to one of these amazing Blue Water state locations! And don’t forget to check out our other articles where we cover more strategy and tips for catfishing and great spots around America. Hit the water and have a fishing experience like nothing else; because when it comes to catfish, Michigan can’t be beat!
FAQ
1. What is a Blue Catfish?
A Blue Catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) is a large species of catfish native to the Mississippi River drainage system in the United States. They are known for their distinctive blue color, forked tail, and large size.
2. How big do Blue Catfish get?
Blue Catfish can grow quite large, with some reaching over 100 pounds. However, most typically range between 20 and 40 pounds. The world record Blue Catfish weighed in at 143 pounds.
3. What do Blue Catfish eat?
Blue Catfish are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey such as fish, crustaceans, and even small birds. Their diet primarily consists of other fish, like shad, herring, and sunfish.
4. Where can I find Blue Catfish?
Blue Catfish inhabit large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes throughout the Mississippi River Basin, including the Ohio, Missouri, and Tennessee river systems. They prefer deep water with a strong current and can often be found near submerged structures like fallen trees or rock piles.
5. How do you catch Blue Catfish?
Anglers targeting Blue Catfish often use heavy-duty fishing equipment, such as sturdy rods, large reels, and strong fishing line. Popular bait options include cut bait, live bait, and stink baits. Blue Catfish can be caught using a variety of techniques, such as drift fishing, bottom fishing, or jug fishing.
6. Are Blue Catfish good to eat?
Yes, Blue Catfish are considered a delicious food fish. Their firm, white, and flaky flesh has a mild flavor that can be enjoyed in various dishes, such as fried, grilled, or baked catfish.
7. Are Blue Catfish an invasive species?
Blue Catfish are considered an invasive species in some areas, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay, where they have been introduced and have negatively impacted native fish populations. Efforts to control their numbers include promoting their harvest for consumption and implementing fishing regulations.
8. How do Blue Catfish reproduce?
Blue Catfish spawn in late spring or early summer when water temperatures reach 70-75°F. Males build nests in dark, secluded areas like under rocks or in submerged logs. The female lays her eggs in the nest, and the male guards and protects them until they hatch.
9. How long do Blue Catfish live?
Blue Catfish can live for up to 20 years or more, with their growth rate slowing down as they age. Habitat, food availability, and predation can influence their lifespan.
10. Are Blue Catfish protected or endangered?
Blue Catfish are not currently listed as endangered or threatened. However, their populations may be affected by habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing in certain areas. It is essential to follow local fishing regulations and practice sustainable angling techniques to help protect Blue Catfish populations.