Fishing, boat launches and camping

Last checked: Oct 27, 2026. Every fact links to its official source. Rules change, so check the source before you go.

Michigan fishing season dates, boat launches and campgrounds near Kalamazoo.

Fishing seasons

Michigan's trout season and the Lower Peninsula inland walleye and northern pike seasons opened Saturday, April 25, 2026. Source
Largemouth and smallmouth bass possession season opened statewide Saturday, May 23, 2026 (Lake St. Clair, the St. Clair River and the Detroit River opened June 20). Catch-and-immediate-release bass fishing is open all year on nearly all waters. Source
Muskellunge possession season opened Saturday, June 6, 2026. Catch-and-immediate-release muskie fishing is open all year. Source
2026 fishing licenses run April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027. Anglers 17 and older need a license. Source
Inland trout and salmon rules vary by stream and lake. Check the DNR's interactive regulations map and fishing regulations before you go. Source
Unverified, call to confirm The 2027 season opener dates are not posted yet. Check the DNR in spring. Source

A Recreation Passport is required for any motorized vehicle entering a state park, a state boating access site or a state forest campground. Source
Use the DNR's Michigan Boating Facility Finder to find launches, amenities and closures. Source
Fort Custer State Recreation Area (5163 Fort Custer Drive, Augusta; 269-731-4200) has three lakes, and each lake has a boating access site. It also has the Kalamazoo River, boat rentals and an accessible fishing pier. Source

Fort Custer State Recreation Area, between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, has a modern campground and an equestrian campground. Campers still need a Recreation Passport. Source
Unverified, call to confirm Kalamazoo County Parks runs a campground at Cold Brook County Park. We could not load the county site to confirm the season, rates or how to reserve. Source

When does Michigan trout season open?

In 2026, trout season opened Saturday, April 25, along with Lower Peninsula inland walleye and northern pike. The DNR announces each year's dates.

Do I need a permit to launch a boat in Michigan?

At state boating access sites, any motorized vehicle needs a Recreation Passport. Local and private launches may have their own fees.

Who needs a Michigan fishing license?

Anglers 17 and older. 2026 licenses are valid April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027.

Are there state campgrounds near Kalamazoo?

Yes. Fort Custer State Recreation Area in Augusta, between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, has a modern campground and an equestrian campground.