fishing boats

In one of the most polluted parts of Lake Michigan, whitefish are thriving. Some people wonder if we should try to replicate that environment elsewhere to save the iconic species. But that could mean doing something untested and controversial.

“The Steelhead” has been used by the Department of Natural Resources to survey fish populations since the 1960s – but the boat wears many hats.

The 65-foot boat has served generations of state researchers from its home port in Charlevoix and in the waters of Lake Michigan.

Recently, a recreational fishing boat on the St. Clair River forced two freighters into a game of chicken by refusing to move out of their path at a...