Michigan Updates Northern Pike Fishing Rules for Four Lakes

Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources has announced changes to northern pike fishing regulations that took effect on 15 October 2026.

At Au Sable Lake in Ogemaw County, Clear Lake in Mecosta County, Gibson Lake in Iron County and Hanbury Lake in Dickinson County, anglers may now keep up to five northern pike per day, but only one may measure 24 inches or longer.

The changes reflect fisheries data showing slow-growing pike populations in these waters. Separately, the seasonal fishing closure at the Otsego Lake pike marsh has been removed because the marsh has not operated since the early 2000s.

Anglers should consult Michigan’s current digital regulations before fishing because the changes are not reflected in the printed 2026 guide.

Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, 15 October 2026.