Michigan DNR Announces Surplus Salmon Available For Public Purchase

Surplus salmon harvested at Michigan Department of Natural Resources weirs around the state are available for the public to purchase.

The DNR maintains several sites where seasonal salmon return to their native streams to spawn and die.

DNR fisheries biologist and technicians collect eggs and milt from Chinook and coho salmon at theses weirs for use in state fish hatcheries.

After the egg-take needs are met, fish in good physical condition are made available to the public by American-Canadian Fisheries.

The private vendor harvests the fish for human and pet food markets, and the eggs for bait and caviar and pays the DNR a flat rate. They then make the fish available to distributors at wholesale. The distributors then market the fish.

The DNR recommends people use caution when eating certain kinds and sizes of fish from Michigan streams and lakes. To see a list of current advisories click here or contact the department at 1-800-648-6942.

You can purchase salmon harvested at DNR weirs at the following Michigan retailers:

•        Andy’s Tackle Box

        14573 Coates Highway

        Brethren, MI 49619

        231-477-5737

•        AuSable River Store

        680 W. River Road

        Oscoda, MI 48750

        989-739-5332

•        Hank and Sons

        16441 Coates Highway

        Brethren, MI 49619

        231-477-5450

•        Lixie’s Fish Market

         2699 Lixie Beach

         East Tawas, MI 48060

         989-362-5791

•        R & J Resort

        3070 Keith Road

        Brethren, MI 49619

        231-477-5549

•        Tippy Dam Campground

17974 Old House Road

Wellston, MI 49689

231-848-4448

•        Wellman’s Bait & Tackle

410 S. State St. #309

Oscoda, MI 48750

989-739-2869