© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

The history of fish stocking in the Great Lakes

fisherman holding salmon
Wikamedia commons

Brown trout, Chinook and coho salmon  are all currently stocked in one or more of the Great Lakes, however none of these prized catches are native to the basin. These fish were stocked to help manage invasive species and to build a sport fishery.  

Over the course of the year, the Department of Natural Resources will stock nearly 19 million fish, including native and non-native species. Todd Grischke, Lake Huron basin coordinator for the Michigan DNR, discusses how fish populations in the Great Lakes have evolved and how they are maintained.

Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.