Michigan’s “Approved Species List” is quite extensive, but it is strictly enforced. Under the Michigan Aquaculture Development Act (Act 199), you can only raise species on this list for commercial purposes.
If you want to raise a fish not on this list, you must apply for an Aquaculture Research Permit, which involves much stricter confinement and oversight.
The Approved Species List
Here are the most common species approved for aquaculture in Michigan as of 2026:
| Category | Approved Species (Common Names) |
|---|---|
| Trout & Salmon | Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Atlantic Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Splake. |
| Bass & Sunfish | Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Bluegill, Hybrid Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Redear Sunfish, Rock Bass, Warmouth. |
| Perch & Walleye | Yellow Perch, Walleye, Sauger, Saugeye, White Perch. |
| Catfish & Bullheads | Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Yellow/Black/Brown Bullheads. |
| Pike & Others | Northern Pike, Muskellunge, Tiger Muskie, Lake Sturgeon, Paddlefish, Arctic Grayling, Lake Whitefish, Burbot. |
| Baitfish & Minnows | Fathead Minnow, Golden Shiner, Emerald Shiner, Common Shiner, Creek Chub, Goldfish, Common Carp. |
| Crustaceans/Other | Brine Shrimp, Shrimp (genus Penaeus), Mahi-mahi (saltwater), Haddock, Cod. |
Note on Tilapia: While Tilapia is commonly farmed in Michigan in indoor recirculating systems, it is generally treated under a “perpetuation” rule (it cannot survive Michigan winters if it escapes). Always verify your specific system design with MDARD if choosing non-native tropical species.
Important Restrictions
- Prohibited Species: You are strictly forbidden from possessing or farming anything on Michigan’s Prohibited and Restricted Species list (e.g., Bighead Carp, Silver Carp, or certain invasive plants/snails).
- Genetic Strains: For some species (like certain trout), the MDNR may require you to use specific genetic strains to ensure that if a fish escapes, it doesn’t “pollute” the local wild genetics.
- Stocking Permits: Even if you grow an approved fish, you cannot release it into a pond that has an inlet or outlet to a stream without a Private Forest/Water Stocking Permit from the DNR.
Costs for 2026
- Initial Registration: $100.00
- Annual Renewal: $75.00
- Research Permit (Unlisted Species): $250.00 initial / $100.00 renewal
Would you like me to look up a specific fish to see if it qualifies, or should I find the contact info for a local MSU Extension specialist who can help you with your business plan?