Winter is over, and the fish are hungry, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which is promoting spring fishing as offering some of Michigan’s best outdoor opportunities.
The MDNR has reeled in some places to get you started if you’re looking for your next favorite fishing hole on a "find a fishing adventure" website that highlights great fishing spots across the state, including the Sault.
"No matter what Mother Nature throws at us each spring, there are plenty of fishing opportunities within an hour’s drive of Sault Ste. Marie," the MDNR says. "The warming temperatures also bring an influx of migratory fish, such as salmon and trout, making it an exciting time to test your skills against these prized catches."
A page dedicated to Sault and area fishing also shares information on fishing and charters, as well as the fishing situation during the ongoing New Lock at the Soo construction, with the Soo Locks hydro plant tailrace closing to vessel traffic.
"Ongoing New Lock at the Soo construction activities are occurring in the St. Marys Falls Canal hydroelectric power plant tailrace. Beginning April 1, 2024, this area will close to all vessel traffic except at the specific direction of the Chief Lockmaster," the MDNR website notes.
"Scheduled New Lock at the Soo construction activities are anticipated to allow exceptions to this closure beginning most Saturdays at 6 p.m. through the following Monday at 6 a.m., and infrequently on other days.
"Illuminated traffic signs are positioned at the east end of the tailrace to indicate open or closed status."
The MDNR says that to sign up for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers text message alerts when status changes occur, text 906-259-2841 with the message ADD TO TAILRACE NOTIFICATIONS, or email [email protected] with your cell number and request to be added to the tailrace status text message alert list. (If you have previously signed up for text message alerts, you will continue to receive them, the MDNR says.)
This closure will remain in effect through Jan. 15, 2025.
To find more information on the New Lock at the Soo, visit the Detroit District Website.
