Trip Planning Tools
Nothing is more important to the success of a fishing trip than doing your homework before you leave home. Check here for all the links you will need to help you in planning a trip whether it be a year down the road or a short trip for the weekend.
The Basics
Take advantage of your hard work by using a system that lets you organize your data in a way that is easy to sort and access. Both paper and electronic systems exist, but always be sure to keep multiple copies in case of a problem!
Information here, there and everywhere Walleye 101 Catch Report Sheet
Baitfish Information (need to download special reader software first - Click here for reader)
Weather and Water Conditions
Nothing can effect the success of a trip more than the weather and water conditions. Be sure to check these sites before you head out for a trip.
NOAA Great Lakes Weather Forecasts Great Lakes Surface Temp Charts
Great Lakes Coastal Forecasting (Really Cool!) National Data Buoy Center West Great Lakes
National Data Buoy Center East Great Lakes Satellite view of lake conditions on Great Lakes
Michigan DNR
The Michigan DNR site is full of great information for any angler or outdoorsman. Here are some links to important parts of the site you will need when planning a trip or doing some pre-season scouting.
Over the years the Michigan DNR has conducted numerous netting surveys, water quality assessments, fish species distribution and health studies on inland lakes in the state. These reports are invaluable tools in planning a fishing trip, especially on lakes that you have never visited before. The results are not available online yet but below is a list of contact information for each of the district offices. Contact the office which covers the body of water you are interested in receiving reports for. A simple letter or e-mail asking for the information will get the ball rolling and in about 3-4 weeks you will receive the information by mail.
I have also included a full list of Fisheries Division personnel. Get to know the people in your area and at the field offices that cover the bodies of water you fish. Believe me when I tell you they love feedback from the anglers.
Michigan DNR Fish Stocking Database Michigan DNR Netting Survey Results and Research Library
Michigan DNR Inland Lake Maps Michigan Fisheries Management Units Map
Michigan Fisheries Management Contact Information
Maps and Charts
Very few things are as important to a successful fishing trip as good maps and charts. Use these links to check out the best in both paper and electronic maps, as well as mapping chips for your GPS.
LakeMaster Electronic Mapping Chips Navionics Electronic Fishing Mapping Chips
Michigan DNR Inland Lake Maps Fishing Hot Spots Maps
NOAA Nautical Charts Nationwide NOAA Nautical Charts Michigan Catalog
LakeMaster Paper Maps (MI, MN, WI, ND)
Licenses and State Information
Some states are starting to offer online licenses to make purchasing on much easier. State DNR offices are great starting points for planning a fishing trip to unfamiliar waters. Check out the sites to get started, and if you know of more, please contact me by e-mail with the link.
Michigan Licenses Online Ohio Licenses Online Ohio DNR Boat Requirements
Michigan DNR Site Ohio DNR Site