Research on all kinds of fish is conducted in labs around the Great Lakes region. The different state agencies have agreed to a Joint Strategic Plan that compiles their data to provide a big picture of the fisheries in the lakes.
Great Lakes News Collaborative

Bridge Michigan, Circle of Blue, Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television, The Narwhal and Michigan Public work together to report on the most pressing threats to the Great Lakes region’s water. This independent journalism is supported by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.
Water’s True Cost
As the nation prepares to pour hundreds of billions of federal dollars into rescuing water systems, the Great Lakes News Collaborative investigates the true cost of water in Michigan. Read the series.
Ready or Not
The Great Lakes region is frequently touted as one of the most climate-resilient places in the U.S., in part because of its enviable water resources. But climate change also threatens our water. The Great Lakes News Collaborative explores what it will take to prepare. Read the series.
In Michigan, Great Lakes are a lifeblood and birthright. They’re under attack
How can states, provinces and tribal nations manage their water resources to create jobs and attract businesses without inflicting severe ecological damage?
Whitmer: Trump's invasive carp action a 'huge win' for Michigan, Great Lakes
Trump’s memorandum aims to kick start the invasive carp barrier project in Illinois and follows his April meeting with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and state House Speaker Matt Hall.
‘Gutted.’ Michigan losing $200M in fed research funding, with more in limbo
Research at Michigan universities and hospitals – including work on cancer treatments and Great Lakes algae blooms — is being pared back or delayed as the Trump administration slashes federal spending.
Smallmouth bass are getting bigger in Michigan. Thank catch-and-release
Catch and release ethics is credited for the fact that smallmouth bass in Lake St. Clair have been getting larger over the past 50 years, a DNR study finds.
Lawmakers try again to get $50M for controversial Copperwood mine in UP
After a state subsidy stalled in approvals, officials now are trying to get the funding through budget earmarks
Video: Scientists map bottom of the Great Lakes to explore hidden habitats
Take an underwater journey as researchers deploy sonar technology to map the lakebed to document organisms that call it home. The goal is to provide data to fishery and hatchery managers and those tracking the spread of invasive species.
Trump praises Whitmer, vows to ramp up Asian carp fight to 'save Lake Michigan'
In Oval Office, President Donald Trump says he’ll work with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to stop Asian carp, calling her a ‘very good person’ who has ‘really done an excellent job.’
Climate change making Great Lakes water birds sick
Climate change is making it easier for Great Lakes waterbirds to get sick, according to a recent study.
Trump reverses cuts to Great Lakes lamprey program, but uncertainty remains
The Trump administration has reversed a purge of federal workers tasked with combatting one of the Great Lakes’ most damaging invasive species. But a month-plus delay in starting treatments may have consequences.