MUCC Supported Commercial Fishing Legislation Introduced in Michigan House

Justin Tomei • March 21, 2024

On March 6, Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) introduced a stakeholder-backed modernization of Michigan’s commercial fishing statute.

House Bill 5553 , written over the past several months in partnership with MUCC, would modernize archaic regulations in the state’s commercial fishing statute, and keep gamefish out of commercial nets.

Michigan’s commercial fishing statute is decades old and an update is long overdue to protect the pristine Great Lakes fishery, said Amos O’Neal.

“Michigan is so beautiful with its lakes and streams, and one of my favorite pastimes in the summer is to fish,” said Rep. O’Neal. “I am proud to introduce a bill to modernize the state’s commercial fishing industry. House Bill 5553 makes a change to commercial fishing that has not taken place in over 50 years. These protections are long past due.”

According to MUCC Policy and Government Affairs Manager Justin Tomei, the current commercial fishing statute needs to be revised protecting the investment licensed anglers have made in the management of our sportfish.

“Currently we operate with an abhorrent patchwork of rules and regulations, many of them have not been updated since the 1970s,” said Tomei. “We must modernize this industry, create a single regulatory framework in statute, and keep gamefish out of commercial nets, protecting the investment licensed anglers have made managing and rearing these fish.”

The bill has been assigned to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation.

HB 5553 starkly contrasts HB 5108, introduced by Rep. Jason Morgan (D-Ann Arbor) last fall. HB 5108 sets minimum quotas for gamefish to be caught by state-licensed commercial anglers, commercializing a resource held in the public trust.

MUCC opposes HB 5108 and started a call to action resulting in 85,000 emails being sent to legislative offices in opposition to the commercialization of Michigan’s game fish.

MUCC supports HB 5553 and looks forward to working with legislators to secure passage in 2024.

To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC .

The post MUCC Supported Commercial Fishing Legislation Introduced in Michigan House appeared first on Michigan United Conservation Clubs.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 15, 2025

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed! Rochester Hills, MI — April 15, 2025 — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) is proud to announce its 250th On the Ground (OTG) habitat improvement project: a community clean-up of the Clinton River at Yates Park in Rochester Hills. The event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM . In partnership with Metro-West Steelheaders and the Clinton River Watershed Council, this initiative aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats by removing trash from the river and surrounding riparian zones. The project not only benefits local ecosystems but also fosters a cleaner, healthier community and environment. Event Details: Location: Yates Park, 1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM What to Bring: Work gloves (if available), appropriate outdoor attire, and a reusable water bottle. MUCC will provide waders, trash grabbers, trash bags, lunch, and a volunteer appreciation gift. This milestone event underscores MUCC's commitment to conservation and community engagement. "Reaching our 250th project is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners," said Olivia Triltsch, MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator. "We invite everyone to join us in making a tangible impact on our natural resources." Registration: Interested volunteers should register by Friday, April 18, at 2:00 PM. To expedite check-in, please complete the digital volunteer waiver individually for each participant. Individuals under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. For late registrations or cancellations, contact Olivia Triltsch at otriltsch@mucc.org. MUCC is always excited to work alongside the Clinton River Watershed Council. Their continued efforts to protect, enhance, and promote the Clinton River and its watershed are deeply valued. Together, we make a greater impact on ensuring clean, healthy waterways and thriving wildlife habitats for generations to come.