Learning Resource:

Guide to Great Lakes Fishes

Description presented by University of Michigan Press (view full description online):

The Great Lakes are home to an impressive variety of fish. The Guide to Great Lakes Fishes describes sixty-two of the region’s most commonly found species, from giants like the sturgeon all the way down to the minnows and shiners, some of the Lakes’ smallest residents.

Beautiful color illustrations accompany color photographs and line drawings to highlight distinguishing characteristics of each fish alongside quick facts about distribution, diet, behavior, and conservation status. Informative essays on the natural history, adaptations, and characteristics of Great Lakes fishes are also included, as well as detailed diagrams of the aquatic habitats and food chains within the Lakes. This is a must-have guide for every angler, fishery or wildlife professional, and conservationist. The paperback edition is printed on waterproof paper.

The University of Michigan Press worked in collaboration with Michigan Sea Grant on the development of this guidebook, the second in a series of books about the Great Lakes coast.

Gerald R. Smith is Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan and Curator Emeritus of Fishes for the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology. He is editor of Fishes of the Great Lakes Region, Revised Edition.

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Guide to Great Lakes Fishes

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Related Resources

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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