A couple of assumptions are built into that optimistic forecast, including adequate staff and funding is provided to the U.S.

The Michigan DNR said it wrapped up its 2024 stocking by releasing nearly 600,000 fish during the fall, including trout, salmon, walleye and muskie.

Lake Erie is also ice free right now, and the walleye are biting from Cleveland to Huron, where some of the largest walleye of the season are being caught this week.