The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced plans for its annual steelhead egg collection at the Little Manistee River weir, scheduled to begin April 14, 2026. This event is integral to sustaining steelhead populations for Michigan and the wider Great Lakes region, and continues a vital local tradition that has supported fisheries for nearly six decades.

Little Manistee River: A Regional Focal Point for Fisheries

Located in northern Michigan, the Little Manistee River remains the sole state-operated source for winter-run steelhead eggs. Over the years, this site has become a centerpiece for fish hatcheries, distributing eggs not only within Michigan but also supplying neighboring states. Each year, the facility plays an essential role in maintaining regional fish populations and supporting the growing interest in steelhead fishing across the state.

2026 Egg Collection Schedule and Public Access

The DNR has set the egg collection schedule for April 14-16 and April 21-22, 2026. Community members, including anglers, students, and local families, are encouraged to witness the weir egg collection process firsthand. Daily public viewing hours will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering educational opportunities and insight into the procedures that enable successful steelhead spawning and distribution across the region.

DNR Operations Ensure Healthy Fish Populations

Each spring, DNR operations at the Little Manistee weir begin with the installation of weir boards and jump screens. These measures are critical for managing spawning steelhead migration and controlling invasive sea lamprey movement. Mature steelhead are carefully held in temporary ponds during the steelhead egg collection process, before being released upstream to help sustain wild populations within Michigan’s rivers.

Supplying Fish Hatcheries Across the Great Lakes

Of the roughly 4.6 million eggs expected to be collected this season, a substantial portion is distributed among several key fish hatcheries. Michigan’s own Manistique’s Thompson State Fish Hatchery and Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Van Buren County will receive major allocations. Additionally, 500,000 eggs are provided to Ohio, and 400,000 to Indiana, reinforcing vital partnerships within the Great Lakes stocking program. These collaborative efforts enhance the overall health and sustainability of sport fisheries throughout the Midwest.

Steelhead Hatcheries and Regional Impacts

The eggs collected through these annual efforts are nurtured in steelhead hatcheries until they reach stocking size. The robust stocking program, funded in part by fishing license sales, creates sustainable angling opportunities and enriches the local economy. The ongoing work from Michigan’s DNR not only supports steelhead fishing enthusiasts but also aligns with regional conservation goals.

Public Viewing: Engaging Education and Conservation

Those planning to visit the public viewing hours at the Little Manistee River weir can observe the intricate stages of steelhead spawning and egg processing. These open-access events serve as important outreach opportunities, fostering stewardship and appreciation for Michigan’s river systems and wildlife management initiatives. Local schools, conservation groups, and fishing communities are especially encouraged to attend and support the DNR’s mission.

Legacy of Conservation in Michigan

The Little Manistee River’s role in annual weir egg collection has made an enduring impact on Michigan’s reputation as a leader in fishery management. As the steelhead egg collection resumes in 2026, residents and visitors across Michigan will once again have the chance to witness a crucial chapter in the state’s conservation story and contribute to the continued health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.