Michigan regulations
Smallmouth Bass Regulations in Michigan 2026
Michigan Smallmouth Bass regulations as of 2026-05-08: Season start Jul 1; Status Closed; Daily bag 5 fish/day. Sourced from DNR.
Rules (8)
Michigan statewideCatch & release
- Status
- Catch And Release
- Season opens
- Apr 27
- Season closes
- Dec 31
- Daily bag
- 5 fish/day
- Possession
- 10 fish
- Min size
- 14"
CIR fishing for bass is allowed all year on all waters, unless otherwise closed to fishing. All bass caught must be immediately returned to the water. Southern Zone combined with Largemouth Bass
L. Michigan
- Season opens
- Jul 1
within one-half mile of the following islands of the Beaver Island Archipelago: Beaver, Garden, High and Hog
Lake Of The CloudsClosed
- Status
- Closed
no possession of Smallmouth Bass
Also known as
Smallmouth Bass is also called smallies. Anglers in different regions use different names for the same fish, and the rules on this page apply to all of them in Michigan.
Frequently asked questions
When is Smallmouth Bass season in Michigan?
Smallmouth Bass season in Michigan runs from Jul 1 to Dec 31 per DNR.
What is the size limit for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan?
Minimum size for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan is 14 inches, per DNR. Slot limits or maximum sizes may apply in some zones.
What is the daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan?
Daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan is 5 fish/day, per DNR.
Official sources cited
- https://www.eregulations.com/michigan/fishing/general-fishing-regulations
- https://www.eregulations.com/michigan/fishing/exceptions-to-general-regulations-by-county
Reference only. Regulations change frequently, often mid-season. Always verify with DNR before keeping a catch. Last verified .