🎣 Fishing in Au Gres: Local Tips, Gear & Access Points

Planning to fish while visiting Au Gres? Whether you're dropping a line from the shore, launching your boat, or heading out in one of our kayaks, knowing where to get bait, gear, and reliable access is key. This guide highlights trusted local spots like M-65 Bait Shop, nearby boat ramps, fishing parks, and helpful resources to make your trip smooth and productive.

🎣 M-65 Bait Shop – Local Bait & Tackle in Au Gres

M-65 Bait Shop is a no-frills, locally owned bait and tackle store located just north of the DNR boat launch in Au Gres, Michigan. It’s a convenient stop for anglers heading out on Saginaw Bay or nearby waters.

They carry a solid mix of gear and supplies, including:

• Fresh live bait

• Rapalas, jigs, spoons, lures, and more

• Custom tackle from local makers

• Terminal tackle and rigging essentials

The shop is small but reliable, with a rotating selection that fits the needs of most local and visiting fishermen.

📍 View M-65 Bait Shop on Google Maps
🌐 m65baitshop.com

Fishing Right from the Cabins

One of the best things about staying at our cabins is that the fishing starts right outside your door. The shoreline here offers direct access to productive waters, with conditions changing based on lake levels. When the water is higher, I’ve caught walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, perch, bluegill, pike, dogfish, and even gar pike—all within casting distance. Some of the best bass fishing I’ve ever had happened right here in front of the cabins.

Even when the water is low, there are still opportunities. Shallow water can actually be productive during the right times of year. In the spring and early summer, for example, panfish and bass often move into the warmer, shallow waters to spawn. In contrast, late summer and fall may push more of the action out to slightly deeper areas—what we call the "deeper shallow water" just beyond wading distance.

That’s where our kayak rentals come in. Just a short paddle out puts you right back in the action. If you're looking to explore more water and improve your chances, you can rent a kayak directly from us here.

And if you're into spearfishing, the clear shallow water in front of the cabins can be ideal when visibility is good. At the right time of year, it can be surprisingly productive.

Au Gres Public Access Boat Ramp

The Au Gres Public Access Boat Ramp is one of the top fishing spots in the area and an excellent launch point for your boat. Located just off Main Street, it offers a wide ramp, easy access to Saginaw Bay, and plenty of parking—even on busy weekends.

For shore anglers, this spot is just as rewarding. If you follow Main Street all the way to the end, you’ll find a parking area where you can cast a line right from the shoreline or along the nearby rocks. For those willing to walk a little farther, head toward the lighthouse and try fishing along either side of the rock breakwalls.

Over the years, I’ve caught everything from catfish, walleye, lake trout, salmon, and burbot to both largemouth and smallmouth bass at this spot. It’s a diverse fishery that offers surprises in every season.

A word of advice: if you plan on keeping your catch nearby, watch out for the minks. These small but bold critters are quick, clever, and not afraid to snatch a fish twice their size when you’re not looking. They’ve earned a reputation among local anglers for being some of the sneakiest “fishermen” on the pier.

📍 View Au Gres Public Access Boat Ramp on Google Maps

🧭 Located at the end of Main Street in Au Gres, MI—just follow the road until you reach the lake.

River Side Park

River Side Park is a hidden gem in Au Gres—perfect for families and anglers alike. Located just off U.S. 23 next to the bridge, this park offers more than just great fishing access. It’s a well-kept public space with a little bit of everything.

For those with kids, there’s a small playground and a seasonal splash pad to help keep them entertained while you cast a line. A covered pavilion provides shade for lunch breaks or gatherings, and the park includes clean public restrooms and a fish cleaning station—ideal if you decide to keep your catch.

Several docks line the river, offering easy access for fishing without needing a boat. From those docks, I’ve caught (or seen others catch) walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, perch, bluegill, catfish, pike, lake trout, and even the occasional salmon.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for a relaxing place to fish with the whole family nearby—and everything you need just a few steps away.

📍 View River Side Park on Google Maps

🧭 Located just south of the bridge on U.S. 23 in Au Gres, MI—an easy stop whether you’re headed into town or passing through.

Au Gres Riverfront City Park

Au Gres Riverfront City Park is a scenic and versatile spot that's great for both casual fishing and outdoor recreation. Situated along the river and near the city campground, it’s a peaceful place to stop and cast a line—especially if you're targeting bass. Depending on the time of year, you might also catch perch, bluegill, pike, catfish, or even the occasional walleye.

Beyond fishing, the park offers a variety of activities. You'll find a full basketball court, a baseball field, volleyball area, and tennis courts—making it a great place to meet up with friends or enjoy some family fun. Even if you’re not playing sports or fishing, a walk along the river and through the nearby campground offers a relaxing way to take in the local charm.

📍 View Au Gres Riverfront City Park on Google Maps

🧭 Located off US-23 along the river near the Au Gres City Campground—easily accessible and family-friendly.

Au Gres Summer Smash Walleye Tournament

The Au Gres Summer Smash Walleye Tournament is one of the most exciting fishing events in the area, drawing professional anglers, local competitors, and curious spectators alike. Hosted as part of the Michigan Walleye Tour, this high-energy event puts Au Gres on the map each summer as one of the premier walleye fishing destinations in the state.

Whether you're planning to compete or just want to experience the atmosphere, this tournament is worth checking out. The event typically spans a weekend and includes boat launches, live weigh-ins, and lots of local buzz. Even if you’re not fishing, watching the weigh-ins can be thrilling—especially when anglers bring in monster walleyes from Saginaw Bay.

For anglers interested in joining the competition, you can find more details on the official Summer Smash page, including rules, payouts, and past results. If you're ready to enter, registration is quick and easy via their online registration portal.

In addition to the tournament, the event brings added activity to the town—local restaurants, bait shops, and parks are filled with energy and visitors. It’s a perfect weekend to explore Au Gres, whether you’re reeling in big fish or just enjoying the outdoors with friends and family.

🎣 Michigan Fishing Licenses & Regulations

Before casting your line in Au Gres or anywhere in Michigan, ensure you're fishing legally and responsibly. Here's what you need to know:

🪪 Who Needs a License?

Anyone aged 17 or older must have a valid Michigan fishing license to fish in public waters. Anglers under 17 can fish without a license but must adhere to all fishing rules and regulations. State of Michigan | Michigan.gov State of Michigan | Michigan.gov eRegulations

🛒 Where to Buy a License

• Online: Purchase directly through the Michigan DNR eLicense system.

• Mobile App: Use the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app to buy and display your license.

• In-Person: Visit local license agents or DNR Customer Service Centers. mdnr-elicense.comHuron Daily Tribune+5State of Michigan | Michigan.gov+5GovDelivery+5Huron Daily Tribune+5eRegulations+5RBFF+5

📘 Stay Informed on Regulations

Fishing regulations, including season dates, size limits, and species-specific rules, can change annually. Review the latest Michigan Fishing Guide to stay updated. State of Michigan | Michigan.gov

🧼 Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species

To protect Michigan's aquatic ecosystems, always "Clean, Drain, Dry" your equipment after fishing. This practice helps prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels and starry stonewort.