New MI DNR Program to Clear Boat Access Site for Ice Fishing
The Michigan DNR has a new pilot program aimed at keeping ice fishing access clear in the Upper Peninsula.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has developed a new pilot program that will help keep boating access sites plowed this winter for those trying to ice-fish. The program will keep the boating access sites at 26 locations plowed over the winter to allow easier access to the popular ice-fishing spots.
Because we have had continued requests from the public to maintain access throughout the winter, we’ve partnered with a number of entities to assist with plowing for winter access...We have entered into agreements with each partner to try this concept for one year. Depending on the success of the pilot program, we may or may not continue it into next winter...said Zack Bishop, a DNR Parks and Recreation Division Unit Supervisor.
The popular locations and boat access sites are located in 10 of the Upper Peninsula's 15 counties. The boating access sited that will remain plowed this winter include:
- Baraga County - Vermilac Lake and Silver River
- Chippewa County - Conley Point
- Delta County - Kipling
- Dickinson County - Hamilton Lake
- Iron County - Indian Lake, Swan Lake, Lake Mary, East Lake Emily, and Lake Ellen
- Keweenaw County - Gratiot Lake, Lake Medora, and Lake Bailey
- Luce County - Little Lake Harbor, Kak's Lake, and Big Manistique Lake (County Line access)
- Mackinac County - South Manistique Lake, North Manistique Lake, Milakokia Lake, and Millecoquins Lake
- Marquette County - Lake Michigamme, Greenwood Reservoir, Johnson Lake, Big Shag Lake, and East Bass Lake
- Schoolcraft County - Big Spring Landing
This is great news for ice fishermen looking to get out on the ice this winter in the Upper Peninsula. For more information or to find more areas to fish, click here.
Source: Michigan DNR