Michigan Department of Natural Resources***NOTE: This layer is no longer actively used by the Michigan DNR. It has been replaced by the inland trout and salmon regulations layer. The inland trout and salmon regulations dataset provides a more complete overview of the state's trout rivers. The blue ribbon trout stream data is now for historical reference only*** Michigan is blessed with an abundance of cold, quality trout waters offering 38,000 plus miles of rivers and streams, including over 12,500 miles of classified trout streams. Remarkably, 868 miles are considered premier top-quality streams, which Michigan classifies as its Blue Ribbon Trout Streams (BRTS). A Blue Ribbon Trout Stream must meet certain standards or criteria. It must be one of Michigan's best trout streams, be able to support excellent stocks of wild resident trout, have the physical characteristics to permit fly casting but be shallow enough to wade, produce diverse insect life and good fly hatches, have earned a reputation for providing an excellent (quality) trout fishing experience, and have excellent water quality. Management of Blue Ribbon Streams by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is directed toward accommodating the needs of trout anglers, maintaining strong stocks of wild resident trout that best suit the character of each stream, maintaining and enhancing trout habitat and the natural stream environment, providing adequate public access and public frontage, and preparing appropriate informational materials on these special Blue Ribbon Trout Streams of Michigan. GIS layer last edited 10/17/2017ArcGIS FeatureLayerhttps://hub.arcgis.com/datasets/f008b72be87648f496f7f956c649e6d9_2engState of Michigan Open Data PortalPublicBlue Ribbon Trout Streams [Michigan]Web servicesMichiganLast Modified: 2026-01-06