Fishing

Do not eat fish caught on the Flint River downstream of Stepping Stone Falls

URGENT: On June 15th, 2022, a fisherman alerted authorities to an oily substance contaminating the Flint River just north of Dort Hwy in the city of Flint. Local, state, and federal authorities responded, and testing tied the spill to Lockhart Chemical Co. This spill is ongoing.


At this time, FRWC does not have a full understanding of the impact of this spill on humans or wildlife. FRWC recommends the public AVOID contact with the Flint River downstream of Stepping Stone Falls in Genesee County, including through the city of Flint, Flushing, and Montrose. Do not kayak, fish, or play in this part of the river until further notice. Do not eat any fish caught on the Flint River downstream of Stepping Stone Falls.


FRWC wants to emphasize that this spill does not affect the Flint River upstream of Stepping Stone Falls, and encourages people to enjoy the river between Mott Lake and Holloway Reservoir, and in Lapeer County. Local lakes are also unaffected.

Interacting with Local Residents and Other River Access Users

  • Drive courteously and within the speed limit, particularly in residential areas, in and surrounding access sites.
  • Park in designated areas, making sure not to block driveways or interfere with traffic.
  • Change clothes discretely.
  • Do not play loud music.
  • Follow the laws and rules of the area that you are using.
  • Consider taking a few minutes to pick up litter left by others.


Interacting with Anglers

  • Stay in the main flow whenever possible while paddling past anglers or while paddling in heavily fished waters.
  • In areas that are being fished, paddle past consistently with minimal splashing or interference.
  • Avoid shouting or being loud.
  • Don’t approach casting anglers.
  • Avoid startling anglers. Pass anglers on highly visible paths down the river and make eye contact with the angler as far upstream as possible.

Interacting with Boaters

  • At put-ins and take-outs (boat launch access sites), behave in a friendly, positive manner toward others and be helpful to those who might need assistance.
  • Allow for spacing upstream and downstream of others, particularly in a rapid, and seek to avoid collisions.
  • When entering a rapid, the upstream craft has the right of way. Those entering the current should yield to those already in it.
  • When exiting the current, avoid eddies that are full, if possible, and take care when entering occupied eddies.
  • When playing, avoid blocking navigation by yielding to oncoming, upstream craft. Exit a play spot after a reasonable time to allow someone else to use it.
  • Always provide assistance to others who are in trouble or who are injured.


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