Giant Fish Lurks in Michigan Lakes—Look, But Don’t Touch

The older I get, the more I respect what could be lurking below the surface of Michigan's lakes. A lot has changed. Growing up on a lake at a very early age, I used to make a beeline for any body of water with zero regard for what I could potentially land on. However, if you are taking the plunge into a Great Lake in the Mitten State, you may want to be on the lookout for a prehistoric beast that tips the scales at over 200 lbs.

RELATED: The Largest Fish Caught in Michigan: 58 Species Records

Michigan’s Lake Sturgeon: Older Than the Dinosaurs

Dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, Michigan's lake sturgeon isn't the largest animal in the state; it's a solid second to moose. What these two animals have in common is that they are both protected and scarce, compared to historical population data.

How Big Can These Underwater Giants Get?

Trying to wrap your head around how big Michigan's lake sturgeons can grow? The largest ever recorded in state waters came out of the Detroit River and was landed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service crew in April 2021. It weighed 240 pounds and measured 6 feet 10 inches. That's like trying to reel in an angry Rick Marhorn.

More recently, on August 21, 2024, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) caught and tagged another impressive specimen, weighing in at 125 pounds and an impressive 75.2 inches long, according to the Huron Daily Tribune.

Look, But Don't Catch

As I mentioned earlier, the lake sturgeon is a protected species in Michigan. Fishing for the species will result in a possible fine and or a suspension of your license. There is a limited season in limited waters that typically takes place in February and runs until the limit is reached, sometimes within hours.

RELATED: Michigan Ranks as One of the Best Fishing Destinations in America

That said, the Lansing State Journal reports that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is actively reminding all Michiganders that the state's lake sturgeon are off limits. If you are fishing in a lake or river in Michigan and accidentally land a lake sturgeon, you must release it immediately or face the consequences when caught.