The Evolution of Great Lakes Commercial Fishing Vessels & Gear – A Brief Overview
The Evolution of Great Lakes Commercial Fishing Vessels & Gear – A Brief Overview From lighthouses to shipwrecks, Michigan is rich in maritime heritage tradition;
The Evolution of Great Lakes Commercial Fishing Vessels & Gear – A Brief Overview From lighthouses to shipwrecks, Michigan is rich in maritime heritage tradition;
The wooden Fishtug Violet hauled out on the beach at South Manitou Island, MI., 1920s.
Photograph of tribal fisherman Bill Fowler’s trap net boat Stormin’ Norman in the Manitou Passage, MI. Circa 2010.
Learn about the types of fishing nets in the Great Lakes.
This web page is on of the few resources describing Great Lakes trap nets boat. A short article describing trap netting and trap net boats
The Islander can be viewed on the south side and near the mouth of the Sheboygan River in Wisconsin, where it is on display as
This monument celebrates the heritage and fishermen in this area.
History Museum
Waterfront history museum with rotating exhibits, includes outdoor waterfront space with interpretive signage and view of maritime traffic and the village of Saugatuck across the
Charter fishing operation targeting Chinook and Coho salmon, Lake Trout, Brown Trout and Steelhead from a 36 foot Tiara.
With financial support from America250MI, we are excited to enhance the GLFHT website! We’re delivering a more accessible, user-friendly experience and expanded stories that celebrate fisheries heritage in Michigan and throughout the Great Lakes region.
Some highlights include new trail stories featuring local voices, curated educational resources for youth and educators, additional places to explore in our directory, and more ways to connect with coastal communities through history, culture, and stewardship.
The first phase of the upgraded site launched in June, with more content coming in August 2026. Thank you for visiting!
