Treaty Rights and The Great Lakes Fishery

Available from Clark Historical Library, Central Michigan University website: This discussion of Native American fishing rights includes the following components:   Background on The Great Lakes Fishery and its Uses 1600-1966 Pre-Contact and Early European Period Commercial Fishing in the Nineteenth Century Decline and Collapse of Commercial Fishing Restoring the Great Lakes Fishery Re-Allocating the Great Lakes Fishery Native American Treaty Rights Enforcement 1965-1999 Introduction Legal Action People v. LeBlanc U.S. v. Michigan U.S. v. Michigan; The Negotiated Settlement Additional Information People v. LeBlanc Text of Court Ruling U.S. v. Michigan Text of Court Ruling

The GLFHT is Getting an Upgrade—More to Explore This Summer!

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!

Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail
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