(AREA) — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources continues to explore commercial fishing in southern Lake Huron. The DNR has reissued a research permit to explore lake whitefish stocks in the lake. This is the second of a 3-year study in which one commercial angler has been permitted to set large mesh trap nets on experimental fishing grounds located several miles south of Harbor Beach and north of Port Sanilac. DNR personnel will monitor and evaluate the health of fish populations, as well as determine the long-term potential for a sustainable and profitable commercial lake whitefish fishery. The first three nets of the season were set May 3 and additional nets are expected to be set over the next several weeks. A maximum of 10 nets were authorized for this year and fishing is expected to continue through October. The fishing grounds were established to avoid conflict with recreational fishing near the ports of Harbor Beach and Port Sanilac.
