Arctic Grayling Make a Historic Return to Michigan Waters

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For the first time in over 90 years, Arctic grayling are once again swimming in Michigan’s rivers and streams. This momentous conservation effort represents a major step in restoring a native species that once thrived in the state’s cold-water fisheries but was lost due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and competition from non-native species.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

The Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative, a collaborative effort involving the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Michigan State University, and various conservation groups, has been working tirelessly for years to bring the species back. The goal is to reintroduce self-sustaining populations of Arctic grayling to their historic range, primarily focusing on select rivers in northern Michigan.

The Reintroduction Process

The effort to restore Arctic grayling began with careful research, genetic selection, and habitat assessments. Eggs were sourced from wild populations in Alaska and carefully raised at the Oden State Fish Hatchery before being stocked in designated rivers. These young grayling, also called fingerlings, will be closely monitored to ensure their survival and adaptation to their new environment.

When is the Reintroduction Happening?

Manistee River

The reintroduction of Arctic grayling into Michigan waters is set to commence on May 12, 2025. On this date, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will provide approximately 400,000 grayling eggs to the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. These eggs will be introduced into the North Branch of the Manistee River, the Maple River, and the Boardman-Ottaway River.

Maple River

This initiative is a significant phase in the Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative, established in 2016, which aims to restore self-sustaining populations of Arctic grayling within their historical range in Michigan. The reintroduction process involves placing the grayling eggs in streamside incubators, allowing them to imprint on the specific waters where they are released, thereby increasing their chances of survival and reproduction.

Why It Matters

Arctic grayling were once the dominant species in Michigan’s cold-water streams, but their disappearance left an ecological void. Their return is expected to improve biodiversity, enhance local fisheries, and provide a unique angling opportunity for fly fishers in the coming years. While fishing for grayling won’t be allowed immediately, future regulations may permit limited catch-and-release angling as populations establish themselves.

Looking Ahead

The success of this reintroduction will depend on continued conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and responsible stewardship. With the dedication of conservationists and anglers alike, the return of Arctic grayling to Michigan marks a promising new chapter in the state’s rich fishing heritage.

Stay tuned for updates as this initiative unfolds, and let’s celebrate the revival of a truly remarkable fish species in Michigan’s waters!