Experience
fishing in Jackson County
Fish-Stocked Waters
Up your chances of reeling in the catch of the day by casting a line at one of our fish-stocked waters. If walleye is your fish of choice, the DNR makes sure there are plenty in the Grand River. Prefer channel catfish? Gillett’s Lake County Park is just the place for you. Stocked with rainbow trout, Swains Lake County Park is another great spot and even has a public boat launch. The lake at this park also supports a two-story fishery for bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie, and yellow perch.
For more great fishing spots check out tour guides for fishing and lakes at our resource page.
Ice Fishing Paradise
Why is Jackson, Michigan a prime location for ice fishing? With more than 150 lakes, finding a spot to put up your shanty will be the last thing you’ll be worrying about. Waterloo State Recreation Area has 11 lakes alone, and there are plenty more lakes throughout the county – simply request our free ice fishing guide to help find your next fishing spot. The guide is jam-packed with exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else, including fishing maps of some of the best lakes the county has to offer, the types of fish you’ll find, an unbeatable hotel offer, recommendations on great places to stay, fun things to do when the fish stop biting, and so much more! When you come to Jackson for ice fishing you won’t regret it.
Free Fishing Weekend
Each year the Michigan DNR hosts two Free Fishing Weekends, one in the winter and the other in the summer. The annual Summer Free Fishing Weekend started in 1986, allowing Michigan citizens and out-of-state visitors the opportunity to fish for free – without a fishing license.
All fishing license fees will be waived on these two days and participants may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for many species of fish. Learn more here.
Explore
Jackson's Recreation
Other Recreation
