Do I Need to Report My Catch?
Several states require mandatory harvest registration for sensitive or slow-maturing species. Miss the window and you can be cited — even if the fish was legally kept. Use the wizard to check your state and species.
Verified mandatory-reporting states (2026)
Michigan
lake sturgeon, sturgeon — Within 24 hours of harvest.
Online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or by phone at 888-636-7778. Registration CANNOT be done at hatcheries, field offices, or customer service centers.
Source: Michigan DNR 2026 Fishing Regulations — Mandatory Harvest Registration (lake sturgeon).
muskellunge, muskie — Within 24 hours of harvest.
Online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or by phone at 888-636-7778.
Source: Michigan DNR 2026 Fishing Regulations — Mandatory Harvest Registration (muskellunge).
Other states maintain their own mandatory-reporting lists (often sturgeon, paddlefish, alligator gar, or tagged species). When a species is not listed above, confirm with the state agency — do not assume reporting is optional.
Next on the water
The rest of the trip checklist — free, printable, no sign-up.