Top 10 public fishing spots in Detroit, MI

Detroit, Michigan, offers a variety of public fishing spots for anglers to explore, from riverbanks to serene lakeshores. Here are the top 10 places for public fishing in and around Detroit.

1. Belle Isle Park – Detroit River

Belle Isle Park, situated in the Detroit River, provides diverse fishing opportunities.  Targeting species like walleye and bass, anglers can fish from various points along the riverbank. The park’s scenic views enhance the overall fishing experience.

2. Lake St. Clair

Lake St. Clair, northeast of Detroit, is a renowned fishing destination. Anglers can fish from the shore or explore the lake by boat. The lake is known for its abundance of smallmouth bass, muskie, and other species.

3. Milliken Lake

Milliken Lake offers urban fishing in the heart of the city. Anglers can target a variety of freshwater species while enjoying the park’s amenities. The river’s flow adds to the dynamic fishing environment.

4. Kensington Metropark – Kent Lake

Kensington Metropark, west of Detroit, features Kent Lake for fishing. Anglers can enjoy shoreline fishing or use the park’s boat ramps for a day on the water. The lake is stocked, providing diverse fishing opportunities.

5. Detroit Riverwalk

The Detroit RiverWalk provides additional fishing opportunities along the river. Anglers can explore different sections of the RiverWalk for a chance to catch various freshwater species. The urban setting adds to the overall experience.

6. Stony Creek Metropark – Stony Creek Lake

Stony Creek Metropark, north of Detroit, features Stony Creek Lake for fishing. Anglers can fish from the shore or use the park’s amenities for a complete fishing experience. The lake is stocked, offering diverse catches.

7. Elizabeth Park

Elizabeth Park in Trenton, south of Detroit, provides riverbank fishing along the Detroit River. Anglers can enjoy scenic views while fishing for a variety of species. The park’s green spaces make it an ideal location for angling.

8. Lower Huron Metropark – Belleville Lake

Lower Huron Metropark, southwest of Detroit, features Belleville Lake for fishing. Anglers can fish from the shore or utilize the park’s amenities for a day of angling. The lake is known for bass, panfish, and catfish.

9. Dodge Park – Cass Lake

Dodge Park, located on Cass Lake, provides additional fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish from the shore or utilize the park’s amenities for a complete fishing experience. The lake is known for its diverse fish population.

10. Lake Erie Metropark – Lake Erie

Lake Erie Metropark, south of Detroit, offers fishing along the shores of Lake Erie. Anglers can target a variety of species, including walleye and perch. The park’s amenities enhance the overall fishing adventure.

A few things to remember before you go fishing:

1. Never trespass on private property to get to a fishing spot, only use public access or property you’ve received permission to access.
2. Research your fishing spot(s) ahead of time so you know what to expect, and where the public access starts and ends.
3. Be prepared – dress for the weather, bring a spare change of dry clothes/towels just in case, and bring everything you’ll need to fish and enjoy the day (bait, lures, rod, ice, snacks, etc.).
4. Be aware of all the state regulations like catch limits, licenses, seasons, size & species restrictions.
5. Be safe and have fun! No one wants to spoil the fun with hypothermia or a hook in the leg, so remember to have fun responsibly.