Imagine reeling in a lake trout that’s been swimming around Lake Michigan since 1985! That’s exactly what happened when an angler caught a 16-pounder with a tag showing it was stocked nearly 40 years ago. These fish are slow growers, but living that long in the wild is wild. The secret? Fish get tagged at hatcheries, helping scientists track their journeys and keep our lakes stocked for future fishing adventures. Who knew your next catch could be a true old-timer? #LakeMichigan #FishingStories #WildlifeConservation #Science