Access to the Great Lakes Fishery
Forecasted
Access to the Great Lakes Fishery supports shore-based anglers and tribal fishers in Michigan through access construction, renovation, and planning projects that expand access to Great Lakes fish populations.
Funder: Great Lakes Fishery Trust
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2028 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1.3 million in total grants for the 2026 cycle
Summary: Supports projects that increase access to Great Lakes fisheries for shore-based anglers and tribal fishers in Michigan.
Key Information: Funded facilities must be maintained and controlled at the grantee’s expense for at least 20 years.
Description
The Great Lakes Fishery Trust’s Access program funds construction, enhancement, and renovation of fishing access points, including boardwalks, piers, and related angling amenities. It also supports feasibility, engineering, and design studies, qualifying land acquisition, fish cleaning stations, and boat access for tribal commercial fishing. The goal is to significantly increase access to Great Lakes fish populations for shore-based recreational anglers and tribal fishers.
The program prioritizes capital improvements to aging access sites and new, high-value sites that fill access gaps. Funding is limited to Michigan, with geographic priority given to the Lake Michigan basin. High-use sites elsewhere in Michigan are also considered. Projects identified through community planning, supported by meaningful stakeholder engagement, and backed by partnerships for construction and long-term maintenance receive priority.
