Today marks the first day of the 2026 fishing season, which means anglers need a new license and need to pay attention to some notable regulation changes.
Outdoors Life
Covering everything that makes Michigan unique, from outdoor places, activities, enthusiasts, plants and animals to hunting and fishing, science, natural wonders and cherished spaces.
Michigan United Conservation Clubs to pause camp, magazines amid financial woes
The group claims to be the largest statewide conservation organization in the nation. Its board president said, ‘It’s tight right now.’
Looking for a native plant sale? Here are 30+ in Michigan
Native plants provide benefits to the environment and to gardeners.
UP residents bet on start to spring, when a structure falls through ice
The tradition is part of a fundraiser run by the Negaunee Lions Club. Roughly half of the pot goes to the person with the closest guess.
Michigan fishing regulator to draft resolution against Consumers dam sale
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission may not have authority over Consumers Energy’s plan to sell 13 dams, but it wants to have a voice.
Michigan lags US in outdoor economy growth, report says
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis has released its latest outdoor recreation economic statistics. The outdoor industry’s contribution to Michigan’s economy grew in 2024 over the previous year, but at a slower rate than most other states.
Groups running out of time to raise millions to save unique Michigan prairie
A 440-acre section of Sibley Prairie in Brownstown Township was listed for auction, putting the rare plants found there at risk of development. Now, environmental groups are working with the owner to buy and preserve the land. But they need to raise millions of dollars to complete the deal.
US plans to clear-cut in Michigan forest. Some fear for endangered species
The US Forest Service is proposing a project in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that would involve logging, gravel mining expansion and forest restoration efforts.
Are campgrounds a solution to Michigan housing crunch? Some lawmakers think so
New proposal would allow extended stays of more than half a year at campgrounds in some parts of Michigan. Some are skeptical but one sponsor says it could ‘help solve the housing problem.’
Ice caves forming on the Great Lakes, bringing beauty and danger
Natural phenomena on the Great Lakes are beautiful, but adventurers head out on the ice at their own risk.