the grayling fish to the depleted waters of the AuSable River system. While the
grayling eventually did become extinct in Michigan, the Hatchery continued to play
an important role in the conservation of our natural resources.
raising trout for rivers throughout the state of Michigan, and arguably had one of
the best records of all the hatcheries at that time for fish hatched and planted.
In 1926 the Grayling Fish Hatchery was sold to the State of Michigan, under the
premise that the state would double the Hatchery’s capacity and make other
improvements. It continued to serve as a fish hatchery and tourist attraction until
the mid 1960’s. In 1995 the State of Michigan sold the property to Crawford
County.
Since that time the Grayling Recreation Authority has been managing a small
section of the property for the enjoyment of some 17,000 annual visitors.
